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Talented Scottish accordionist and singer Calum MacPhail had already begun his musical journey at
the tender age of seven. Raised in Fort William and later moving to Inverness, Calum's upbringing
was steeped in the rich cultural traditions of the Highland region. Utterly engrossed by the local
music scene, the youngster honed his craft learning from some of Scotland’s most esteemed
accordionists, setting the stage for a remarkable musical career.


With an unwavering passion for music and a dream of playing professionally, Calum co-founded the
acclaimed trad folk band Hò-rò in 2014 at age 16. After winning the MG Alba Scots Trad Music
Awards Up & Coming Band of the Year in 2017, the band’s infectious melodies continue to captivate
listeners worldwide as the seven-piece tours regularly across the UK and Europe. Most recently, in
August 2023, they embarked on a tour of China, sharing their unique blend of Scottish and Irish
influences with audiences across the globe. Calum has released three critically acclaimed albums
with Hò-rò, showcasing his talent and boundless creativity.


Calum also clinched the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2021 Original Work of the Year for 7
Years Old, a poignant song reflecting on parental addiction, a topic which resonates deeply with him.
The release raised £2000 for Mikeysline, an Inverness-based suicide prevention hotline aiding
struggling youth, underlining the musician's heartfelt commitment to mental health support.
In 2022, Calum boldly embarked on another solo venture, assembling a five-piece band to support
his vision for combining Celtic music with country pop. The culmination of this work saw the release
of his debut solo album At Last... in April 2023, a testament to his musical prowess and artistic

evolution. The album soared to success, marked by the chart-topping single Oh My Darlin' on the
iTunes Country Charts which only solidified Calum's status as a promising figure within Scotland’s
thriving music scene.


His live performances continue to electrify audiences, from the packed tents of Belladrum's
grassroots stage in 2023, to sold-out shows at Eden Court in March 2024, and Calum’s music remains
in high demand, with a busy summer schedule of festivals and shows spanning Scotland’s towns and
cities this year.


Calum also remains an integral part of Highland Fire Ceilidh, a renowned wedding and function band,
further showcasing his versatility on stage. Whether delivering heartfelt ballads or igniting lively
sessions in local pubs, Calum's passion for music shines through, leaving a lasting impression on
audiences far and wide.


As his star continues to rise, Calum MacPhail's musical journey is a testament to his perseverance,
creativity and the enduring power of his Highland musical heritage.

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"Calum MacPhail is a brilliant young player with the world quite literally at his fingertips. Alongside his natural talent, his hard work and determination will make him destined to succeed"

- Gary Innes

BBC TAKE THE FLOOR/MANRAN

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