On Saturday, the Royal National Mod kicked off in Dunoon, west of Glasgow. I have blogged extensively about this event a year ago, when I made about 90 recordings of musical performances.
The Mod is a competitive showcase of Gaelic culture, in sport, music, prose and poetry. Individuals as well as groups from various parts of the Gaidhaeltachd [the Gaelic speaking world] compete against each other to be awarded a prize. Winners participate in a final concert at the end of each day. Being a Mod winner is very prestigious, and carries international recognition. The event is held annually in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Next year it will be held at Fort William, 100 miles north of Glasgow. In 2008, the Mod has been pencilled in for Falkirk, just outside Glasgow.
I really want to stress that the ages of the participants is anything from 5 upwards. It is heart-warming to see a tiny six-year old, standing up on a podium in front of 800 people, singing a tongue-twisting song.
To get a flavour, I'd like to link to my Mod Blog from 2005, as well as to the website which carries all the recordings from the event.
Royal National Mod blog 2005
Recordings from the Mod
This was the one you went to last year, I remember they wouldn't let you take photos of the kids. Hope you have a good time this year! Jeannette xx
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