THE legacy of Eamonn Nugent was further cemented recently as his album, The Waiting Room, took the top prize of Album of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards ceremony in Inverness.
Held on St Andrew’s Day, the awards showcased the exceptional talent and achievements within the trad music scene in 2024 as Inverness Leisure was transformed into a glittering hub of celebration bursting with talent from across Scotland.
Attended by more than 1000 musicians and industry supporters and hundreds of trad fans, and watched live on BBC ALBA by thousands more, the 22nd edition of the awards saw 116 nominees whittled down to 26 winners, selected by 25,000 members of the public and a panel of expert judges.
Organised by Hands Up For Trad and launched in 2003, The Trad Awards, or ‘Na Trads,’ celebrate musicians, bands, and industry professionals who have made significant contributions to Scotland’s cultural heritage.
It’s the first time in a decade that it has been held in Inverness and the event represents the ambition, passion and determination of all those who have enriched Scotland’s vibrant musical landscape over the last year.
And nobody represents those values more than the late Eamonn Nugent, who not only recorded the album while undergoing treatment for an aggressive brain tumour, but also decided that proceeds from its sale would go towards supporting medical research into brain tumours.
Eamonn’s award was collected on his behalf by his friends and family (above), including his cousin and fellow musician, Sarah Markey, who paid tribute to his incredible creativity and love of music in what was a moving moment for all in attendance.
“For those of you who know Eamonn and his music, you’ll know that this is a richly deserved award and for those who are yet to discover his music, this award may well be the vehicle to you discovering it,” Sarah said. “Just over two years ago, Eamonn was diagnosed with a Grade-4 Glioblastoma brain tumour and he used every moment since then to fight his own battle and raise awareness and funds for brain tumour charities in both the UK and Ireland through a range of fundraising events, discussions and the project to release this album, which he poured his heart and soul into.
“Sadly, Eamonn lost his life on October 31 at the age of 31 though, so we are proud that his music has been immortalised in this album.”
She continued: “We are honoured to be here to accept this award on behalf of Eamonn’s wife Sarah, his parents Joe and Therese and sister Ciara who are unable to attend this evening as it’s his month’s mind this weekend.
“Also a big thank you to Simon and everyone at Hands Up For Trad for organising such an important event and a huge thank you to everyone who voted for this album. Thousands have already been raised for brain tumour research and all proceeds from any future sales will continue to support this cause.
“Eamonn we love you and we miss you so much and we’re so proud to be your family, and even though this is a very difficult time, we know you are watching over us all and in your own words: ‘It’s all good.’”
On the night, an outstanding lineup delighted Inverness audiences including the Hebridean-born and Highland-based singer and musician Julie Fowlis, whose award-winning talent is recognised the world over; Skipinnish who rounded off their 25th anniversary year in a fitting fashion and BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2024 Calum McIlroy.
The inimitable duo of Laura Wilkie and Ian Carr also took to the stage, while Aberdeenshire folk star Ellie Beaton and Scott Gardiner performed a stunning tribute to bothy ballad legend Joe Aitken. Young local talent in the form of Highland Young Musicians and Arc Fiddlers put on a fantastic display and party-starters An Dannsa Dub had everyone on their feet as they closed out the night.
“When you look around the Trad Awards, what you see is resilience in action,” Scots Trad Music Awards organiser Simon Thoumire said. “Despite not knowing what tomorrow brings, our sector continues to innovate, to create, to find new ways forward. This spirit of determination is supported by crucial partnerships. We are incredibly grateful to our hosts in Inverness for their warm hospitality and all those who made coming back to the capital of the Highlands possible.
“To our audiences, artists, nominees and sponsors—thank you. Your support for these awards allows us to promote the strength, creativity and ingenuity of our traditional music and highlight the positive impact it has on the lives of so many.
“This year, more than ever, we celebrate not just excellence, but resilience. Not just tradition, but innovation. Not just where we’ve been, but where we’re going—together.”
Presented by Alistair Heather and Mary Ann Kennedy, the awards were broadcast live on BBC ALBA and can be watched back on BBC iPlayer or via bbc.co.uk/alba. For more information visit www.scotstradmusicawards.com
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