Traditional Music Forum names new director

The Traditional Music Forum (TMF) has appointed Brian Ó hEadhra as its new director, bringing decades of experience as a musician, educator, project manager and publisher. 

Raised in Newfoundland and Dublin, Brian is now based in Inverness and is a renowned Gaelic and English-language musician. 

He has performed solo and as part of Brian Ó hEadhra and Fionnag NicChoinnich, as well as McKerron Brechin Ó hEadhra, earning a nomination for Gaelic Singer of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards in 2019.

His organisational experience spans the arts, heritage and Gaelic language sectors, including 14 years as partnerships and development manager for Bòrd na Gàidhlig. 

He was also Scotland’s first Gaelic arts and culture officer with Creative Scotland, where he championed Gaelic arts at local, national, and international levels.

Brian said: “I am honoured to take on the role of director of the TMF. 

“Scotland’s traditional music is a vital part of our cultural identity, and I look forward to working with our members and fellow TRACS forums to ensure it thrives in communities, schools, and stages across the country and beyond.”

David Francis, retiring director of the TMF, added: “I am delighted to be handing over the reins to Brian Ó hEadhra. 

“He has a wealth of knowledge and experience of Scotland’s traditional music and the arts, and is committed to supporting the development of the diverse and culturally significant traditional music community.”

Founded in 2008, TMF advocates for traditional music as a vital part of Scottish culture. It is part of TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland), which brings together the Traditional Music Forum, the Traditional Dance Forum of Scotland and the Scottish Storytelling Forum.

Based at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, TMF embraces flexible working, allowing Brian to join the team from Inverness, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Dr Jo Miller, chair of the TMF, added: “In Brian Ó hEadhra, the Traditional Music Forum has found a new director who is passionate about traditional music, language and culture in Scotland. 

“His appointment is key to ensuring traditional arts continue to inspire and engage people of all ages.”

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