Ryan Young Duo Concert and Fiddle Workshop

Workshop 2:30 - 5:00 pm, concert 7:30 pm

After Ryan Young and David Foley’s scintillating performance at our fund-raiser to celebrate Creative Response’s 30th anniversary last year, inviting Ryan back was a nailed-on certainty. This time, we will have the bonus of hearing his wonderfully expressive fiddle playing in the beautiful acoustic setting of our favourite venue, St Mary’s Church Guildford.

In the past year, after overcoming a career-threatening health problem, Ryan released his much anticipated second album ‘Just a Second’ (awarded 5 stars by The Scotsman) and embarked on a hectic schedule of tours covering the UK, Europe, North America and Australia. He ended a successful 2023 with the exciting announcement that he will be recording his next album with the legendary Irish fiddler Martin Hayes.

Acoustic concert 7:30 pm

Ryan has gained international acclaim for his captivating fiddle interpretations. His fiddle artistry is characterised by fresh melodic innovations, an infectious rhythmic energy, and an impressive range of dynamics and precision. His signature sound takes the audience on an emotional and adventurous journey with each performance. Ryan will be accompanied by a guitarist who will be announced soon.

Scottish fiddle workshop 2:30 - 5:00 pm

Ryan is an inspiring and sympathetic teacher. He will be leading an afternoon workshop for fiddle players, giving an insight into how he breathes new life into age-old and sometimes forgotten melodies through his unique approach. The workshop is suitable for violin / fiddle players with a good basic knowledge of how to play your instrument. The workshop will involve working by ear (sheet music can be provided if requested).

“He has created his own unique way of playing and is finding great emotional depth in his native Scottish Music. Ryan Young is an up and coming musician who is gaining more and more well deserved recognition. I feel that he has the potential to make a very significant contribution to the Scottish tradition.” – Martin Hayes

'....Being a fiddler myself I have heard many, many up and coming fiddlers from Scotland, but I am blown away by this singular musician. Ryan, I feel, is a musician with a great gift. He has followed down a path that is his alone with the music. His playing is unique and soulful. I’ve heard him in concert and can only liken the experience to being lifted and taken on a journey. His playing is at once moving and thrilling, and he sweeps the audience along with him.' - Liz Caroll