Planning an event

The Band has recorded twice for BBC Radio Scotland's Scottish Country Dance Programme 'Take the Floor'. Past appearances have also included the Scottish Fiddle Festival, Celtic Connections, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Assembly Rooms. We can adapt to most sizes of function and have a large repertoire of lesser-known country dances from all over Britain as well as the ceilidh favourites.

The Bella MacNab Charter

We've prepared a short guide to help you (and us) make the best of your event:

Where do we play?

Organised dances, festivals, corporate entertainment events, weddings and other functions, and fundraising benefit events. We need a venue with a suitable dance floor, preferably with a raised stage.

What band do you get?

A four or five piece band, permed from our roster of three fiddles, guitar, piano and bass. Dave also calls the dances so don't worry if your guests don't know them!

What dances do we know?

All the ceilidh and country dance favourites (eg Dashing White Sergeant, Strip The Willow, Eightsome Reel, Canadian Barn Dance) plus many less popular or unique dances (eg My Love She's But A Lassie Yet, Daniel's Delight, The Flowers of Edinburgh) - see our sample Dance Card.

How long do we play for?

We recommend a maximum of 3 hours total dancing time for most occasions with around 200 people or less. In a typical evening we'd play from 8.30pm-midnight with a half-hour break, eg for a buffet.

How much do we charge?

Usually around £500-600 for an evening, negotiable depending on the distance from Edinburgh city centre. We would request extra travel expenses for events more than an hour away and accommodation for those requiring an overnight stay.