The Homecoming String Band

The Homecoming String Band is a Bluegrass Ceilidh experience like no other.

The band is an energetic celebration of the huge contribution Scotland has made to American Folk Music. They bring some of the best music back over the Atlantic to find its roots – blending Appalachian and Bluegrass tunes and songs with Scottish jigs and reels, and a sprinkling of their favourite music from both the UK and USA folk/roots scene.

Five professional musicians, looking for a fresh sound after years of playing in different bands and musical styles, have brought these influences together to create a unique and uplifting sound. Soaring vocal harmonies, and a tight rhythm section complimented with high octane acoustic guitar, banjo, and fiddle make every gig an exciting occasion. These are players who genuinely love what they’re playing and feel honoured to ‘get the party started’ – whether that’s playing ‘unplugged’ for an outdoor party around a campfire, a traditional wedding ceilidh, or a festival crowd of 5,000. They prefer to play in their full five-piece form but can offer a 3 or4 piece band for smaller events or where budgets are limited. Every player has an experienced ‘substitute’ to give diary flexibility while ensuring no loss of quality in the band’s performance.

A new and refreshing take on the traditional Ceilidh. Classic and modern-day Scottish dances, taught and led by our experienced callers, set to some of the best USA/UK folk music. See below for the current dance list. Old favourites are given a fresh feel by using alternative songs and tunes, while lesser-known dances are made easy through clear teaching and irresistible music.

The band can work with any size of the audience. They play and ‘call’ set dances as well as a varied repertoire of bluegrass, folk, country, and contemporary music in between dances to give everyone a ‘breather’ and create a dynamic atmosphere. Freestyle dancing to songs is highly likely in between the ceilidh numbers – it is amazing how bluegrass and roots music motivates people to stamp, clap and kick up their heels! Perfect for weddings, parties, and festivals. The band members are all seasoned performers who love getting a crowd going. They also have plenty of mellow material for quieter moments, slow waltzes, and the bride and groom’s first dance together.

Ceilidh repertoire

Gay Gordons
Dashing White Sergeant
Strip the Willow (Traditional and Orcadian)
Canadian Barn Dance
Military Two-Step
Virginia Reel
Circassian Circle
The Flying Scotsman
St Bernard’s Waltz
Pride of Erin Walz
Heel-toe Polka
Cumberland Square Eight
Russian Circle Dance
Circles Four
OXO Reel