Singers from across the Scottish Borders will come together in Kelso on Sunday 28 June for the world premiere of Water Colours, a newly commissioned song cycle.
The project has been inspired by the River Tweed - its landscapes, history, people, and culture - and will be performed by the recently created Tweed River Singers, bringing together voices of all ages and experiences for a landmark celebration of music-making in the region.
The work itself has been composed by Scottish guitarist and composer Ross Milligan, whose music is deeply rooted in landscape and place. The seven-song cycle traces the journey of the River Tweed from source to sea, weaving together vivid musical storytelling that reflects its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural identity.
Since rehearsals began in January, singers have travelled from across the Borders to take part, forming a vibrant and welcoming ensemble united by a shared enthusiasm for music and community.
The premiere will also feature young singers and instrumentalists, adding further energy and colour to the performance, with music ranging from rhythmic and joyful passages to moments of reflection and drama.
Tickets available to book now
The performance will take place from 3-4pm at the Old Parish Church, The Butts, Kelso TD5 7DH.
Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite
All proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the Tweed River Singers and Borders Young Musicians.
Robert Marshall, Project Lead
“This project celebrates all that is good about music: bringing people together. The music tells both a musical and literary story about the place in which we live and that we all love.”
Ross Milligan, Composer
“Having grown up in the Borders, I have a lifelong connection to its rivers, landscapes, wildlife and natural beauty. The landscape, especially its rivers, has been a constant source of inspiration in my work.”
The establishment of the Tweed River Singers choir has been a multi-partner collaboration involving Scottish Borders Council’s Instrumental Music Service as well as the Youth Music Initiative, Borders Young Musicians and the wider community. The project has been made possible through funding from Destination Tweed.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning
“This is a unique and extremely exciting initiative that has brought together singers of all ages and experiences to form the Tweed River Singers. Their collaboration has allowed them to create a new song cycle that will be performed at the premiere.
“Everyone working on the project has been delighted by the response, from the inspiring music developed by Ross Milligan to the enthusiasm and commitment of the choir members, as well as the wider engagement and support provided by the partners.
“Not only is it a fantastic example of what can be achieved through collaboration, the commissioning of new work for a community choir is an important development for the cultural life of the Scottish Borders. The world premiere this June promises to be a special and memorable celebration of our rich heritage, landscape and stories.”
More information
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