Celtic Connections music festival with 'sprinkling of intangible magic' reveals 2027 line up

The Glasgow festival - which covers music from folk to world, orchestral and electronic music - will welcome musicians from over 20 countries for its 34th edition in 2027.

Irish accordionist Sharon Shannon will play the O2 Academy with her Big Band and a line up of special guests, including Geldof, with Irish folk-rock giants The Saw Doctors taking on one of their biggest headline gigs during next year’s event.

Meanwhile, Come Together for Beatlemania – Roaming Roots Revue this year presents The Beatles: When I’m 64, where guest singers will take on some of the best-loved tracks from the band’s back catalogue, backed by the Lonesome Fire Band and RCS Orchestra.

Scottish folk star Karine Polwart, who has received critical acclaim for her Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh-inspired piece Windblown, is to take over Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for two nights for Curiosity Cabinet - a showcase of storytelling and melodies, all in response to objects housed within the historic gallery.

Meanwhile, Scottish folk legend Archie Fisher will be remembered at City Halls, while acts who have been influenced by the songwriting of Joni Mitchell will come together to share their favourite of her material at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

And 50 years on from his death, legendary Glasgow folk singer Matt McGinn will be honoured at the Tron Theatre, a few miles from the Calton area of Glasgow where he grew up, and Georgia Rose Lucas presents a special 80th anniversary tribute to her mum, British folk-rock pioneer Sandy Denny.

Celtic Connections creative director Donald Shaw, who will mark 21 years at the helm of the festival, said: “January is all about embracing musical exploration, uncovering something new that takes you by surprise, and getting out and about regardless of the dark nights. This festival believes in great music, excellent company and the power of connection. That spirit of discovery and optimism runs right through the 2027 programme, with artists people will know and love, new names, unique collaborations and shows that simply won’t happen anywhere else.

“For 18 days, Celtic Connections will be a meeting place for cultures, ideas and a sprinkling of intangible magic, so come and get curious, we promise you won’t regret it.”

The festival will once again take over Glasgow International Arena for one all-seated show and a blended standing and seated gig. Friday night will see Irish folk-rock giants The Saw Doctors take on one of their biggest headline gigs in the city to date, while Saturday night will welcome Indian composer AR Rahman for a spectacular orchestral collaboration, Rangreza, with British talents Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa. It will be the first time the show that bridges the gap between Western and Indian classical music has been performed in the UK outside of London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life and convenor for culture, sport and international relations for Glasgow City Council, said: “Celtic Connections is one of Scotland’s most popular festivals and a shining example of the strength, diversity and global appeal of Glasgow’s iconic music scene.

“It’s a source of great pride for Glasgow that thousands of visitors make their way to our UNESCO City of Music each year to experience the thrilling sights and sounds of Celtic Connections and be part of the festival’s legendary audiences. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and returning festivalgoers to another spectacular celebration of folk, roots and world music in 2027.”

Celtic Connections will run from 14 to 31 January.