Gemma McGregor’s Pilgrim’s Path: A Musical Journey comes to Dunblane

Concert 3.30pm in Cathedral  (refreshments in Hall from 3pm)

Gemma McGregor has created a new work based around the story of St Magnus. It follows points on the Magnus Way – a pilgrimage route in Orkney which leads to St Magnus Cathedral and where the relics of Magnus are to be found. The sounds heard on this 58-mile path across Orkney, walked by pilgrims in the 12th century, are the inspiration for this suite of six pieces, premiered at the 2025 St. Magnus Festival. The titles of the pieces are inspired by Orcadian poet George Mackay Brown and the music is interspersed with the spoken word. 

Art Workshop 2pm to 3.15pm, Cathedral Hall 

This relaxed, family-friendly drawing workshop with Orla Stevens invites people of all ages to explore responding to the music of ‘The Pilgrims Path’ through drawing and mark-making, with the inspirations behind the music guiding creative responses. Using a recording of the music by Nordic Viola, we’ll listen for elements such as sea and landscape atmospheres, birdsong, ancient chant, and the ringing of church bells, noticing the feelings, images and stories they evoke. These will be the starting points for both abstract marks and more recognisable imagery.

This workshopis open to all ages and stages of artists. Maximum 20 – phone 01786 825448 to book a place. No experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to have a go! All materials are provided. Admission by donation.