The Royal National Mòd

When it comes to Gaelic culture, the Mòd is the ultimate convergence of all things Celtic and a yearly celebration of Scotland's indigenous language. Music, poetry, arts and sport captures the imagination and brings together a growing Gaelic community to commemorate long-held traditions.

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Primarily taking the form of competitions for various performances, the winners are awarded medals and the opportunity to perform at the winners' Ceilidh's held every evening. Unfolding over eight days, there is plenty of chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the Gaelic language and better understand its history and current resurgence in wider Scottish life. 

Over 130 years since the first ever Royal National Mòd, in this special episode with Coinneach MacLeod and Nati Galloway, we take you into the heart of the Mòd as it takes place in its birthplace, Oban, in 2024. Diving into competitions and in conversation with some of the biggest names around town, we hear from; 

  • Innes MacQueen (Local organiser) 
  • James Graham (Chief exec. of An Comunn Gàidhealach) 
  • Emma 'Scalpay' MacLeod (singer) 
  • John Joe Macneil (Barra choir conductor, singer, composer and head of Ceolas) 
  • Mary Ann Kennedy (Musician, Broadcaster and Co-curator of Jessie MacLachlan exhibition) 
  • Cynthian Knight (Singer and New York mod winner) 
  • Joy Dunlop (Broadcaster and singer) 
  • Alice MacMillan and Ryan Johnston (Gold medal winners 2024) 
  • Cathy MacDonald (Broadcaster) 

Tlachd! 

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