Haltadans

Haltadans has been a Shetland Folk Festival favourite for years, winning over audiences with their compelling performances. This year, they have been nominated for Scottish Folk Band of the Year at the prestigious MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2024, a testament to their status as a standout force in the Scottish folk scene. VOTING CLOSES ON SUNDAY 10th November!

Boasting some of Shetland’s finest folk musicians, Haltadans formed in 2012 to breathe new life into long-forgotten tunes from the archives of the Shetland fiddle tradition. Today, they are one of Shetland’s most celebrated and in-demand bands, known for their vibrant performances that blend traditional roots with contemporary flair. Featuring Maurice Henderson, Ewen Thomson, Ella Robertson, and Lois Nicol on fiddles, with Grant Nicol on guitar and John Clark on bass, Haltadans embodies the essence of Shetland’s rich musical culture.

The bands name Haltadans is an ancient stone circle on the Island of Fetlar where the Trows are known to gather. The two stones in the middle of the circle are said to be a fiddler and his wife who were turned to stone as the Trows danced around them, struck by the first rays of the sun.

Haltadans approaches both traditional and modern compositions with intricate harmonies, lively arrangements, and a sensitivity that respects their roots while exploring new musical ground. Their layered sound features fired-up dance tunes and carefully crafted original pieces, delivering stylish and engaging performances.

The band has enthralled audiences far and wide, performing at festivals such as Norway’s Halkær Kro Festival, and Orkney Folk Festival, and making their Scottish Mainland debut at the Scots Fiddle Festival in Edinburgh in 2023. Their EP ‘Haltadans’ and album ‘Light Ida Lum,’ showcase their captivating sound.

REMINDER REMINDER!

*Haltadans is nominated for Scottish Folk Band of the Year at the 2024 MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards with voting closing on 10th November. The awards will take place at the Inverness Leisure Centre on St. Andrew's Day, Saturday, November 30, 2024. The ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC ALBA.*