THE Fair City hosted its first shinty match in more than a decade as the Royal National Mod 2022 got into the swing of things.
The nine-day event in Perth turned its focus to piping and sport yesterday, after an opening ceremony the previous night.
Junior piping competitions saw under-18s compete for national recognition, with a senior piping event also getting under way.
For this year’s Mod, An Comunn Gaidhealach partnered with The Competing Pipers Association, The Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming and the Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust to support its piping competitions, with senior piping competitions graded for the first time.
Competitions for the fiddle and accordion were running throughout the day too.
Meanwhile, Mod Shinty Cup competitions began at North Inch playing fields – the first time Perth has hosted the sport for 11 years – with football taking place elsewhere.
Shona MacLennan, ceannard, Bord na Gaidhlig, said: “I have no doubt that the days ahead will showcase an array of talent in many forms. It is great to see senior piping competitions being graded for the first time and also to see camanachd being played again in Perth after a lengthy absence.”
Perth Concert Hall last night hosted Our Language, Our Music, which put a spotlight on Perthshire’s traditional music scene.
Among those performing were Margaret Bennett, Patsy Reid, Pete Clark, Ross Ainslie and Ali Hutton, and The Tayside Young Fiddlers.
James Graham, chief executive officer of An Comunn Gaidhealach, said: “The procession and concert were a truly unforgettable start to this year’s event, and encompassed everything the Mod promotes and celebrates – Gaelic music, culture and community.
“I think it’s safe to say everyone enjoyed themselves immensely and the artists who performed at our opening concert were incredible. Yesterday, we got things in full swing with the piping competitions and sports cups.
“There’s lots happening and the atmosphere in the city is great; we have received such a warm welcome from the people of Perth.”
In today’s proceedings, the annual Mod Church Service will take place at 3pm at St John’s Kirk, and will be broadcast on BBC Radio nan Gaidheal.
Lewis singer-songwriter Norrie MacIver and vocalist Anne Bennett will join local Gaelic choirs for an evening of Celtic Praise at St Matthew’s Church.
