Frequently Asked Questions
We've split our F.A.Q's into two sections. First, general questions about Ceilidh's and secondly more specific questions about booking the right band through Bugg Promotions.Ceilidh's 
What is a Ceilidh dance?Ceilidh dances are traditional Scottish dances, and are often held to celebrate special occasions such as Hogmanay, St Andrew's night, Burns night and of course weddings. However, no particular reason is needed to hold one and they are popular at all sorts of events and functions throughout the year.
What does the word Ceilidh mean?
The word Ceilidh is taken from the Gaelic language and means an informal get together. Although it's now more of a celebration event, the Ceilidh originated in rural communities where neighbours would gather in a cottage and spend long winter nights in storytelling and song. It was a way of passing on traditions and folklore down the generations as well as keeping warm.
What does a Ceilidh dance involve?
A live band with a dance caller with musicians playing the fiddle, accordion, bodhrán/drums, guitar, tin whistle, piano, clàrsach etc.
A selection of dances are held, usually including the most popular (and easy) dances such as The Gay Gordon's, The Dashing White Sergeant and Strip the Willow. Most bands have a set of dances and accompanying tunes which they do regularly, although requests are always welcome!
The dances are held in groups of different sizes (usually from two to ten people in each group) and are generally easy to pick up if you're not familiar with them. A dance caller will walk the audience through each dance at the start of each tune to make sure everyone knows what they're doing.
What is a Dance Caller and why is he/she so important?
The dance caller is a cross between a dance instructor and master of ceremonies, and is very often aware of more than just the obvious. The dance caller walks the audience through each dance, then, when the music starts, calls the figures the first few times through the tune, before letting everyone get on and enjoy it.
You should also find that they have a few tricks up their sleeve to 'persuade' the more reluctant participants up on to the floor, in the full knowledge that some dancers will get things wrong. So an amount of tactical and diplomatic nous is expected of them, if not, even, the injection of the odd bit of humour! Fortunately, all the dance callers which we recommend are more than just dance instructors. That is a basic requirement. They are as much concerned with ensuring that the whole dance runs smoothly and that everyone goes away happy and remembering what a great evening they have had.
What is a Bodhrán?
The Bodhrán is an Irish frame drum ranging from 10" to 26" in diameter, similar to instruments distributed widely across north Africa and the Middle East, and has cognates in Arabic music and Mediterranean musical traditions. A goat skin head is tacked to one side. The other side is open ended for the left hand to be placed against the inside of the drum head to control the pitch. The drum is usually played in a seated position, held vertically on the player's thigh and supported by his or her upper body and arm.
Some claim that its name is derived from the Irish word bodhar, meaning deaf, and that this indicates that it has been known on the island long enough to have acquired the name. However, there are no known references to the instrument prior to the twentieth century, and it was observed in Irish traditional music only in the 1960's during which it was popularised by bands such as The Chieftains and The Dubliners. Previously tambourines were used, and others have suggested this is the origin of the word (from the abbreviation 'bourine').
What is a Clàrsach?
The Clàrsach or Highland harp is Scotland’s oldest musical instrument. There is evidence of the small harp dating back to the 9th century. Harpers accompanied troops into battle until it was superceded by the pipes in the 16th century. Until the middle of the 18th century the harpers had a good position in society as they were employed to entertain clan chiefs and noble families. Today there are more players than at any time since the middle ages and playing the Clàrsach has become very popular again.
Do Ceilidhs and discos go well together?
Yes and this is often the case particularly at weddings.
Anything else I should know?
Dancing in high heels should definitely be avoided, and be prepared to feel a bit dizzy generally. Other than that, a Ceilidh is a guaranteed way to enjoy yourselves and make for a perfect night.
Booking
How far in advance should I book?
Try to book as far in advance as is possible, many of our bands can be booked upto three years in advance for popular dates such as Hogmanay, although it is always worth checking with us. If a particular band is booked already on the date you wanted, we would be happy to recommend a suitable band as an alternative.
Do your bands come with a Dance Caller?
Yes all our bands come with a caller and they are included in our quote for your event or function. The caller in most bands will also be a musician within that band.
How much does a Ceilidh Dance Band cost?
This varies with the band, travelling distance for the band members and any extra requirements you may have.
What technical and other requirements do Ceilidh Bands have?
Is it possible to hear the band or demo before we book?
Certainly, get in touch and we can let you know of upcoming public gigs any of our bands are playing. As a taster we are starting to add mp3 tracks of live performances (including guests!) on the band pages.
What Next?
You can contact Julie by email us or through the online contact form here.
Remember and have as much information prepared as possible, date and times of your function, details of the venue and any other questions or details as you may have.
Thank you.