A major new concert celebrating music inspired by the Inverness Castle Experience will take place at Eden Court on Tuesday 31 March 2026.
Spirit of the Highlands is a one night musical event bringing together some of Scotland’s most respected musicians to explore the stories, atmosphere and transformation of Inverness Castle Experience through newly commissioned music and live performance.
Rooted in place and community, the concert reflects the Castle Experience’s ambition to present Highland heritage as living, contemporary culture rather than something frozen in the past.
At the centre of the programme is the world premiere of River, a newly commissioned work by Caithness composer James Ross, acclaimed Gaelic singer Julie Fowlis and writer Colin Macdonald.
The piece has been created in response to the work of community stitchers who produced the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands, now on display at the Inverness Castle Experience, and draws on the people, landscapes and stories woven into the artwork.
The evening will also feature a high energy Castle Cèilidh led by musicians closely connected to the project.
Performers include Anna Massie, Gary Innes, Bruce MacGregor, Lauren MacColl, Hamish Napier, Su a Lee, Joseph Peach, Brian Ó hEadhra and Fionnag NicChoinnich, alongside special guests, in what organisers describe as a vibrant celebration of Highland music at its best.
The concert forms part of a wider cultural moment for Inverness following the opening of the Castle Experience as a major new visitor attraction and highlights the depth and influence of Highland musicians within Scotland’s cultural landscape.
Bryan Beattie, former Creative Director of the Inverness Castle Experience and producer of the concert, said:
“This concert offers the chance to experience the Castle in a completely different way, not through exhibition or interpretation, but through music created by artists who helped shape its unique voice.
“It’ll be a brilliant night, and a real showcase for the area’s musical talent.
“It’s a terrific lineup, and a reminder of just how significant Highland musicians are in Scotland”
John West, Director of Culture and Learning at High Life Highland, said:
“From the outset, the Inverness Castle Experience was about connecting people with stories in new ways.
“Spirit of the Highlands does exactly that, drawing on the Castle, the Tapestry, and the people behind it to inspire live music and performance.
“Working alongside Eden Court, another vital Highland cultural venue this concert brings people together and reflects a shared commitment to contemporary culture rooted in place.”
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EVENT DETAILS
Spirit of the Highlands: Music Inspired by the Inverness Castle Experience
Eden Court, Inverness
Tuesday 31 March 2026 | 7:30pm
