Our Iron Broo Ceilidh Band news pages. We try and blog as much as possible and inform any interested readers of our blog what we are up to. Sometimes we are pretty busy and don’t get time to write much but there is growing pressure in the digital world to inform people regularly and when we are not busy perfecting our ceilidh tunes we will try and fill as much text into our blogosphere as we possibly can. Fit mair can i say aboot it. It says I need 250 words.
Oh wait, two hundred and fifty wirds. or Twa hunner and fifty wurds. Foo mony ways can yi say a phrase to fill oot the text on screen.
I like to ceilidh, you like to ceilidh we all like to ceilidh.
Let’s sing it this time…
No seriously, I’ll do my best to keep posting on the Blog and I’ll ask some of the band to chime in as well as guest bloggers. We have some really funny conversations sometimes and have plenty stories to tell. We are expert on all things Stovies. Few people have imbibed as much Stovie as us. The good, the bad and the runny stuff from the south that would be spat oot in Aberdeenshire. Stovies should only be tatties, beef, ingin’ and butter and gravy drippin’. Nae corned beef, sausages or ither veg.
I think I have my next post sorted…
Confessions of a ceilidh master. Episode 1. A Stovie too far.
Lately i’ve been very busy and have started a build project for a new studio so I can make better music, video and stock more accordion parts. I’m building it myself on a limited budget. I began last year in May clearing the site and building the foundations. I’m about to start on the main building structure now!
Your support is very important to me and I appreciate all of ye!
This studio project is big and will take up much of my time but the effort will be rewarding on many levels.
In the meantime I wanted to share with you a recent video of a commission I accepted to create a tune, via Patreon. It’s called Lord Stobo’s Lament, a Jacobite Air.
If you like to play music the PDF music is available to download for free on CharlieAbel.com and IronBroo.scot. I’ve also attached it below for you convenience.
If you haven’t subscribed to my YouTube Channel please do. It’s free and is a big help to me.
A Heartfelt Thank You from Iron Broo Ceilidh Band for Attending our Christmas Ceilidh on December 23rd, 2023!
Dear friends, dancers, and music lovers, we, the Iron Broo Ceilidh Band, want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of you who joined us at our Christmas Ceilidh on December 23rd, 2023. It was a truly unforgettable night, filled with laughter, dancing, and a shared love for Scottish music. Your presence made this event truly special, and we cannot thank you enough for being a part of it!
Highlights of the Christmas ceilidh – video clips courtesy of Barbara
An Evening of Pure Joy:
Who could have imagined that a humble traditional Scottish Ceilidh band like us could be so fortunate as to have such an incredible gathering of people? Our hearts were warmed by the enthusiastic and lively atmosphere. From the very start, as we struck up our music, we could feel the energy in the room, building up in anticipation for a night of pure joy and merriment.
The Vibrant Ceilidh Dance Floor:
Our main aim as a Ceilidh band is to create an inclusive, welcoming space for all to enjoy the traditional Scottish dances. And oh boy, did you all step up to the dancefloor with such enthusiasm and spirit! We were blown away by the energy and commitment each and every one of you brought to learning the steps and joining in the fun. It was an absolute delight to witness the room come alive with laughter and the sound of dancing feet.
The Magic of the Night:
We firmly believe that music has the power to bring people together, and that’s exactly what happened that evening. The spirit of Christmas and the warmth of the holiday season filled the venue, creating an atmosphere infused with magic and joy. We were humbled by the sense of camaraderie and connection that blossomed among us all. It reminded us of the true essence of the Christmas season – spreading love and happiness and celebrating the joy of being together
A Grateful Appreciation:
We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who made this event so special. First and foremost, we thank our incredible band members who poured their hearts into creating beautiful music. Your talent and dedication shone brightly, and it was an honor to share the stage with each of you.
We’d also like to express our sincere gratitude to the wonderful Beach Ballroom staff who tirelessly worked behind the scenes to ensure the evening ran smoothly. Your commitment and attention to detail did not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for your invaluable contribution. The Stovies and Macaroni were a big hit. ‘The best in the toon’.
Lastly, but certainly not least, a massive thank you goes out to all of you who joined us that night. Your presence, energy, and genuine love for Scottish ceilidh music made this event an absolute joy. Your support and enthusiasm keeps us going and inspire us to continue sharing our passion for Ceilidh music.
Goodbye to 2023 and a happy 2024 to all
As we bid farewell to 2023 and embrace the promises of a new year, let’s carry the memories of the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh in our hearts. We hope the joy, laughter, and connection we experienced during that magical night will stay with you and bring warmth to your days ahead. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for being a part of our journey and for making the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh a truly unforgettable evening. Wishing you all a happy and harmonious holiday season, and we hope to see you again on the dancefloor soon!
We are already planning our next Christmas ceilidh, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and X.com to find notifications of future ceilidh events. Subscribe to the CharlieAbel YouTube Channel for more music videos and if you click the bell you will get notifications on new uploads.
If you have any photos or footage of the ceilidh please share with us on social media or leave a comment below. A’ the best for 2024. Lang may yer lums reek.
The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than by attending the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh on December 23rd, 2023, at the Star Ballroom Aberdeen? This enchanting event promises an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and camaraderie that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. Here’s why you should mark your calendar and secure your spot for this fantastic holiday celebration.
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1. Experience the Magic of a Ceilidh:
Step into a world of traditional Scottish music and dancing as you experience the magic of a Ceilidh. The Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh brings together the rich cultural heritage of Scotland with the joyful atmosphere of the holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a novice, the ceilidh offers a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy the fun and celebrate the art of traditional dance.
Iron Broo Ceilidh Band
2. Embrace Festive Cheer:
The holiday season is all about spreading joy and happiness, and what better way to do that than by dancing and laughing with friends and family? The Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh provides the perfect opportunity to let loose and embrace the festive cheer. Whether you’re attending with a group or flying solo, you’ll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere of merriment and goodwill.
3. Live Music That Moves Your Soul:
The heart and soul of any ceilidh lies in its music, and the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh will not disappoint. Prepare to be swept away by the lively tunes of traditional Scottish instruments like the fiddle, accordion, mandolin, Irish Banjo and songs. The captivating melodies will inspire you to hit the dance floor and twirl to the rhythm of the music.
4. Create Lasting Memories:
Attending the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories. From the energetic dances to the heartwarming moments shared with loved ones, the memories you make at this event will become cherished stories you’ll recount for years to come. Capture the essence of the holiday spirit and the joy of togetherness in a single night.
5. Celebrate Local Culture:
The Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, providing a unique window into the traditions that have shaped the nation. This event is a chance to appreciate the artistry and history of Scottish music and dance, while also fostering a sense of community and belonging.
6. Dress to Impress: – optional 🙂
Don’t miss the opportunity to dress up and look your best for this special occasion. Pull out your finest tartan, kilts, and elegant dresses, and step into the Star Ballroom with a sense of style and sophistication that befits the grandeur of the event.
7. Build Connections:
The Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh is not just about dancing; it’s also about connecting with others who share your enthusiasm for culture, music, and celebration. Forge new friendships, strengthen existing bonds, and revel in the unity that comes from being part of a joyful gathering.
Conclusion:
As the holiday season approaches, the Iron Broo Christmas Ceilidh on December 23rd, 2023, at the Star Ballroom Aberdeen presents a magical opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Scottish culture, music, and dance. From the lively music that will set your feet tapping to the warm camaraderie that fills the air, this event promises an evening of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enchanting celebration and create cherished experiences that will stay with you long after the festivities come to an end. Book your tickets, mark your calendar, and get ready to dance the night away in a celebration like no other!
Don’t forget you get some of the finest Stovies and Macaroni & Cheese around from the Beach Ballroom’s chef and catering team.
THE HITCHED WEDDING AWARDS 2023 RECOGNISE WEDDING PROFESSIONALS AFTER A RECORD YEAR OF WEDDINGS
Iron Broo Ceilidh Band won the Hitched.co.uk Wedding Awards 2023 and has been proclaimed one of the best wedding professionals in the UK.
This year marks the second edition of the prestigious Hitched Wedding Awards. Over 18,000 wedding vendors registered on the Hitched.co.uk platform were given equal chances of winning. 2022 saw a boom in weddings after the pandemic; this year’s edition serves as a tribute to the hard work we’ve seen in the industry. Iron Broo Ceilidh Band is one of the Hitched Wedding Awards 2023 winners in the Wedding Music and DJs category, making them one of the most recommended professionals by newlyweds on Hitched.co.uk.
Aberdeen , 24 of January of 2023.
Iron Broo Ceilidh Band, and thousands of other wedding professionals in the United Kingdom have just completed an unprecedented year for the industry – 2022 was the year of the ‘wedding boom’ following hundreds of thousands of delayed celebrations. Hitched.co.uk, a leading wedding planning platform and part of The Knot Worldwide group, has announced the winners of the second annual Hitched Wedding Awards.
These awards are based on reviews by couples who married in the past year. Iron Broo Ceilidh Band has won a Hitched Wedding Award in the Wedding Music and DJs category.
Iron Broo Ceilidh Band, received a total of 13 reviews on their online storefront on Hitched.co.uk and a rating of 5.0 out of 5.0 determined by the couples who planned their weddings with them. As of today, they have received a badge on their Hitched listing, which recognises them as winners of the Hitched Wedding Awards 2023. This badge will serve as a marker of quality to the thousands of couples who use Hitched to book their wedding vendors.
Last year’s awards were special, but this year’s edition holds even more value. In the words of José Melo, Vice President of Sales for Europe at Hitched.co.uk, “After two very difficult years of the pandemic for the sector, where professionals had to halt their activity and suffered great losses, this year we can finally talk about an edition where weddings were celebrated big.
Iron Broo Ceilidh at YWE wedding exhibition 2023
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“The professionals have worked long hours, without weekends off and have extended the season during practically all of 2022. Therefore, above and beyond individual recognition, the celebration of the Wedding Awards 2023 seeks to serve as a tribute to all those professionals and businesses that gave everything to make the recovery of the industry a reality.”
In addition to the annual objective of recognising the excellent service offered by wedding professionals in the United Kingdom, we have also added the objective of highlighting the incredible work of the professionals during and after the pandemic.
This year, with the boom in weddings, these awards were based on over 8.5 million couple reviews globally across The Knot Worldwide, a number that is growing continuously. With over 18,000 wedding businesses listed in the Hitched directory, the quality of service and level of customer satisfaction delivered by the winners cannot be underestimated. This is why the Hitched Wedding Awards is based entirely on reviews from real couples, who enlisted these professionals to help plan their weddings. This is precisely why ”This award has become an industry reference and a guarantee for couples planning their wedding every year,” Melo says.
The Wedding Awards include the following categories: Wedding Venues, Photographers, Videography, Music and DJs, Cars and Travel, Stationery, Favours, Decoration Hire, Mobile Bar Services, Photo Booth, Marquee & Tipi Hire, Speechwriting Services, Wedding Entertainment, Wedding Planners, Wedding Cakes, Catering, Bridal Shops & Jewellery, Groomswear Shops, Beauty, Hair & Makeup, Celebrants, Toastmasters, Honeymoons, Something Different and Others, and can be found in the complete list of winners here: https://www.hitched.co.uk/wedding-awards
About Hitched.co.uk
Hitched.co.uk is a leading UK wedding planning destination from the global wedding group, The Knot Worldwide, with a simple mission: to help people plan the happiest day of their lives with help from the best professionals. With their international presence, The Knot Worldwide has created the largest wedding community and online marketplace for wedding planning on a global scale. Their extensive database showcases over 700,000 wedding professionals and offers couples planning tools to prepare their guest list, manage their budget, find their suppliers, and more. The Knot Worldwide operates in 16 countries across different domains, including Bodas.net, WeddingWire.com, TheKnot.com, Matrimonio.com, Mariages.net, Casamentos.pt, Bodas.com.mx, Casamentos.com.br, Matrimonio.com.co, Matrimonios.cl, Casamientos.com.ar, Matrimonio.com.pe, Hitched.co.uk, Hitched.ie, Casamiento.com.uy, WeddingWire.ca and WeddingWire.in.
Celebrate in true Scottish Ceilidh style with friends, family or colleagues.
Join us again this year for another fantastic Christmas Ceilidh at the Star Ballroom, upstairs at the Beach Ballroom. Our first post pandemic Christmas ceilidh. We are looking forward to it!
All welcome!
Join us on Saturday the 17th of December for a ‘cracker’ of a Christmas Ceilidh. A great way to de-stress and wind down from the pre-Christmas stress and get into the right frame of mind for the holidays.
We have again chosen the iconic Star Ballroom, upstairs at the Beach Ballroom in Aberdeen for our 2022 Christmas ceilidh as we love the venue. It’s intimate and has a lovely view over the North Sea on a winter night, and we know from experience that the Chef makes some of the best Stovies and Macaroni in town. Enough to keep Santa satisfied and left with a warm glow.
We will be calling the dances, so no experience necessary. Works parties and Families welcome.
Various ceilidh tickets available with discounted rates for families, OAP and students.
Doors open 7.30pm Dancing from 8 pm – Stovies or Macaroni included during the half time break – Band finish 11.30pm. The bar will close at midnight.
Here’s taster of our Christmas ceilidh with some clips from 2018.
I remember my Grandpa singing this song. He used to say he ‘remembered a’ the words bit neen o’ the notes’.
The audio will be available online shortly. For now you can watch the video. If you are a Patron then you get the high definition audio track sent to you via email. Check the last ‘Patron only post’ for info.
Hibakusha – is a word of Japanese origin: 被爆者 or 被曝者; lit.
“person affected by a bomb” or
“person affected by exposure to radioactivity.”
Patrons can download the digital album artwork and the full master audio wav file. In advance of it being released online in 2-3 weeks from now. I’ve just posted the video on YouTube you can see above.
I wrote and recorded this music when a friend asked me to play at a CND event in Aberdeen on the 7th of August 2021. The event was to remember the Atomic bombings of August 6th and 9th, 1945 on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
It was the first time the world had seen the use of such weapons used on a civilian population, and if there’s any hope for humanity, it must be the last time.
When Ronnie Watt (9th dan) OBE ORS heard I was playing at the CND event, he asked me to write a piece of music on behalf of the Scottish Samurai.
On the 7th of August 2021 – At lunchtime, a small crowd had gathered outside the Marischal College in Aberdeen to show their respects.
There were messages read out from Japan, from Hiroshima, and MSPs and activists took turns to say their pieces, and musicians and poets entertained with tasteful music and prose between the speeches. Free food was on offer from ‘Food not Bombs’.
The following is a copy of my short introduction speech on that day before playing the music for the first time.
“I was asked to say a few words on behalf of Ronnie Watt (9th Dan).
Ronnie founded the Scottish Samurai awards and is a world-famous Karate master here in Aberdeen for those who don’t know. Over the years, Ronnie has had a great connection with Japan, and through his work with Karate and the Samurai Awards, he has made many friends in Japan, in Nagasaki, in the atomic bomb museum and other places. Ronnie has earned himself the nickname, the second Scottish Samurai, after Thomas Blake Glover.
Unfortunately, Ronnie could not be here today as he is busy teaching Karate. But when Ronnie heard CND had asked me to play here, he asked me to write a piece of music to commemorate this event on behalf of The Order of The Scottish Samurai. In celebration of the friendship between our nations and the hope we never see another bomb.
It’s sad to think that some 75 years later, after the initial blasts, which killed over 210,000, there have subsequently been as many as half a million deaths due to radiation poisoning that still affects even unborn children to this day. It remains a gross injustice that the innocent pay the price of war and even more so when future generations not yet born also pay the price.
I admit I find it challenging to write music for such a tragic subject.
So I have tried to arrange a piece that will remember the “Hibakusha” That’s the Japanese name for the people who survive the atomic bomb and have to live with the after-effects of radiation exposure. It’s a name also used for the survivors of Fukushima. “
I have been quiet lately, but that usually means I’ve been busy. Look what arrived this afternoon!
Thanks to you guys and your help and support, I’ve completed another CD that will be released shortly. I want to thank you all. You’ve helped make this happen.
Special thanks to Fred Wilkinson, who also appears on tracks 10 and 12, which we previously released together as ‘Iron Broo’ Digital singles for the Doric Film Festival 2019 and 2021.
Fred and I will be working on an Iron Broo album together shortly.
Please send me your postal address to my email charlieabel@ironbroo.co.uk so I may send you all personally, my small group of Patrons an advance pre-release copy of the new CD before it goes out for release.
You’ll notice your ‘shout out’ on the sleeve notes 🙂
There’s a new single in the pipeline and once again the digital gnomes are hard at work processing it for worldwide distribution on your favourite platforms.
Your support is hugely important to me. Spiritually, creatively and financially.
I would like you to have an advance copy of not just the single, but the high definition master file.
The same file used in super audio discs or on ‘Mastered for iTunes’ libraries.
It’s digital in 24 Bit and 96kz, and is not currently available anywhere else. If you have a fancy audio system you’ll really notice the difference.
If you’d like me to send you a digital copy get in touch and I’ll send you a personal link.
email me at charlieabel@ironbroo.scot
The track should be released in the next few weeks and I’m pleased to say it’s getting featured on Scots Radio by Frieda Morrison.
I’ll post a public YouTube video as well and if you can share it that would great!
I’m excited to let you know I’m about to release a new single, it’s called Jellyfish. It will be available to download or stream from the usual networks in the few weeks as the digital gnomes are a bit behind due to Corona. However, before the wider world hears it, I have given the YouTube Channel the first exclusive in full preview. So anyone can listen to it from today onwards there.
In July I visited the Acquario Di Genova. Italy’s largest aquarium. It’s an awe-inspiring place with lots of sea creatures. The Jellyfish I found to be quite mesmerising.
Especially the way the aquarium used lighting in the tanks to show off their colourful jelly structures.
I had taken some film footage using my mobile phone, and this is the footage I used to make the video. The Jellyfish were the inspiration to make a film with an instrumental piece. I was thinking of something new age and then minor chord progressions came out. Then after that, one morning, the lyrics appeared.
I recorded and wrote the entire thing in my studio, and created the video too. You could say this track is ‘100% pure Charlie!’
But because I had some small funds from my generous Patrons, I was able to get the mastering done in California by a fancy mastering studio and pay for the digital distribution and publishing.
If you watch right to the end, you’ll see that I have credited you guys for your support. Thanks for your help, it means a lot to me to know that you are there.
