Shetland Fiddle Society
Learn it. Play it. Keep it alive — the Shetland fiddle tradition, passed hand to hand in Lerwick.
Come to a sessionWho we are
A living tradition, not a museum piece
The Shetland fiddle has a voice all its own — shaped by Norse and Scottish folk music and carried through generations of island players. We gather every week in Lerwick to keep that sound alive, whatever your level.
Whether you've never held a bow or you've been playing reels for forty years, there's a seat for you. We share tunes, swap stories, and make sure the old style keeps finding new hands.
From the tune desk
Notes, tune breakdowns and travel diaries from the society.
HebCelt 2025: what we played and who we met
Twelve members made the trip to Stornoway. Here's how the sessions went and which tunes came back with us.
15 June 2026
The Norse influence on Shetland fiddling: an introduction
Why does Shetland fiddle music sound different? The answer goes back to the 15th century and a lot of Norwegian fishermen.
14 June 2026
Choosing your first fiddle for traditional music
You don't need to spend a lot, but you do need to know what to avoid. Advice from our experienced players.
13 June 2026
What members get
Beyond the reading, here's what being part of the society means.
From the sessions
Players, fiddles and the odd festival stage.
Pull up a chair and play
New players are always welcome at our weekly Lerwick sessions. Bring a fiddle — or just bring your ears.