The Willow Trio

Enchanting clàrsach trio perform new compositions inspired by folklore, classical music, art and extinct species.

The Willow Trio return following the success of their atmospheric Gaelic/Tchaikovsky multi-media piece The Swan of Salen (Eala Shàilean), performed here in May 2024.

Ahead of recording their sophomore album this summer, the Glasgow based clàrsach trio will give one special performance at The Swallow Theatre of their new album from start to finish.

This album consists of new compositions in a maximalist-minimalist style, drawing on folklore, classical music, art and extinct species. It includes a piece by Ollie Hawker composed for the trio (funded by The Marchus Trust).

The trio consists of Maya MacAdam, Sophie Rocks and Romy Wymer. They found each other through the wonders of Instagram, and have been firm friends and creative colleagues ever since. Each has a unique creative voice and musical experience which meld into the distinctive style of the trio.

The trio’s debut EP Oystercatchers was funded by Tasgadh and inspired by Gaelic source material and the wildlife found on the Cowal Peninsula of western Scotland. The trio’s most recent enchanting pop-inspired single Golden Toad explores using clàrsachs in the 21st century, bringing an ancient instrument into the modern era, and features Romy’s groovy bass, Sophie’s beautiful tune playing, and Maya’s bell-like tone on a repeating motif (Harvest Moon Radio).

Their music has been played on BBC Radio 3, record of the week on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Nan Gaidheal, Celtic Music Radio, Radio Skye, plus many more. In 2025 they will be performing at Edinburgh’s International Harp Festival.

"Highly adept composition stylings display a close knowledge of the clarsach and an admirable musicality, deftly paced and mindfully arranged. The performances are similarly impressive." Sandy Power – The Music Files (about Oystercatchers)

"The flexibility of a harp trio is surprising, sounding like a classical chamber group or a ceilidh band or a cinema orchestra as needed." Alex Monaghan, FolkWorld (about The Swan of Salen)

"Gentle, calming and meditative, yet at the same time a demonstration of pure musical strength." Northern Sky Reviews (about Oystercatchers)

Duration: approximately one hour straight through
Recommended Age : suitable for all

Tickets : £12
Available online or telephone 01988 850368