Business Details
20 Years
experience
Premier Scottish Ceilidh Band for Weddings & Events
HotScotch Ceilidh Band, based in Edinburgh, has been delivering exceptional Scottish ceilidh music since 2006. Our trio of professional musicians specialises in creating vibrant, inclusive dance experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations across Scotland, the UK, and internationally. With a repertoire spanning traditional Scottish tunes and modern adaptations, our performances feature clear dance calling to ensure guests of all experience levels can participate. We pride ourselves on adaptability, having performed at venues ranging from historic castles to luxury hotels and even aboard superyachts. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our extensive client testimonials, which highlight our ability to engage audiences and tailor events to specific needs.The bands founder, Paul Chamberlain, brings award-winning accordion expertise and a passion for preserving Scottish musical heritage. Our musicians combined experience in global performances ensures a dynamic, memorable experience for every event. We offer additional services including professional disco packages to extend celebrations beyond ceilidh dancing. Regular participation in high-profile events like Edinburghs Hogmanay and St Andrews Day celebrations underscores our reputation as a trusted, sought-after act. Our dedication to client satisfaction is evident in our seamless booking process and personalised event planning support.
Services
Ceilidh Band
Wedding Entertainment
Corporate Events
Jazz Trio
Disco Package
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We have performed at 1,000+ events since 2006 across Scotland, the UK, and internationally
- Our dance caller ensures guests of all experience levels can participate confidently
- Award-winning accordionist Paul Chamberlain brings world championship expertise
- We adapt seamlessly to event timing changes, as demonstrated at recent Edinburgh weddings
- Clients praise our ability to engage diverse international audiences, from Japanese to Brazilian guests
What people say
Fantastic performance
Best ceilidh I've ever attended
Guests loved it
Dance caller was brilliant
Made our wedding unforgettable
Services
Ceilidh Band
Our ceilidh band delivers authentic Scottish dance music with a modern twist. Featuring accordion, fiddle, and drums, we create energetic performances tailored to weddings and events. Clients benefit from our professional dance caller who guides guests through traditional steps, ensuring an inclusive experience for all ages and skill levels.
Wedding Entertainment
Specialising in wedding ceilidhs, we transform receptions into memorable celebrations. Our package includes expert dance instruction, adaptable setlists, and seamless integration with venue requirements. With experience at prestigious locations like Edinburgh Castle, we ensure smooth execution even when faced with schedule changes or unexpected challenges.
Corporate Events
We provide high-energy entertainment for corporate functions, including team-building ceilidh sessions. Our performances foster inclusive participation and cultural engagement, perfect for conferences, award ceremonies, and networking events. Clients appreciate our ability to tailor music selection to international audiences while maintaining Scottish authenticity.
Jazz Trio
Our jazz trio offers sophisticated saxophone, piano, and drum performances for cocktail hours or dinner accompaniment. This versatile ensemble provides a contrasting musical experience to our ceilidh band while maintaining the same high performance standards. Ideal for creating ambiance before transitioning to evening dancing.
Disco Package
Our professional disco service extends celebrations beyond ceilidh hours. Featuring modern lighting and extensive music libraries, we cater to diverse tastes with curated playlists and live DJ interaction. Clients value the flexibility to submit personal track requests while benefiting from our expertise in reading dancefloor energy.
People
Paul Chamberlain
Accordion & Dance Caller
Award-winning accordionist and founder of HotScotch Ceilidh Band. World championship finalist with a Masters in Music from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Specialises in blending traditional Scottish music with contemporary energy while ensuring clear dance instruction.
Michael Haywood
Fiddle
Virtuoso fiddle and saxophone player with international performance experience. Holds an honours degree in folk music and has collaborated with BBC Radio Scotland. Combines technical mastery with engaging stage presence to enhance the ceilidh atmosphere.
Jim Walker
Drums
Canadian-born Scottish percussion specialist with expertise in pipe band drumming and kit work. Brings rhythmic innovation to traditional formats through years of experience touring with renowned Celtic acts like Ceolbeg and Ally Bain.
Questions
What areas do you cover for ceilidh bookings?
We perform across Scotland, the UK, and internationally. Recent bookings include Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and overseas weddings in Greece, Italy, and Monaco.
Can you accommodate special music requests?
Yes, our disco package allows playlist submissions and live requests. We also incorporate specific ceilidh dances when possible to personalise your event.
How do you handle guests unfamiliar with ceilidh dancing?
Our professional dance caller provides clear, patient instruction throughout. Most guests learn steps quickly, with many first-timers becoming enthusiastic participants by evening's end.
What's included in your wedding ceilidh package?
Our standard package includes 2.5 hours of live ceilidh music, dance calling, and a disco service until midnight. We also offer pre-event planning support and flexible timing adjustments.
Do you provide lighting for evening events?
Yes, our disco package includes professional lighting setup to enhance atmosphere and ensure safe dancing during evening celebrations.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 6-12 months ahead for peak dates. However, we can accommodate last-minute bookings when availability permits, with occasional openings for mid-week events.
