Doors Open: 7:30pm

Starts: 8pm

Finishes (approx.): 10pm

Routes is a string quartet with a difference; made up of traditional folk musicians, Routes writes and performs a combination of contemporary compositions and innovative arrangements of traditional music. The ensemble bridges the gap between classical and folk music; exploring the vast textures, tones and intimate musical qualities which are characteristic of a string quartet, but with a folksy, rootsy accent. The quartet’s music is an exquisite blend of folk, classical and fiddle traditions, featuring evocative arrangements of folk tunes and stunning original compositions.

The Routes Quartet is made up of the classic string quartet instrumentation of cello (Rufus Huggan), viola (Emma Tomlinson), and two fiddles (David Lombardi and Madeleine Stewart). With a love of Scottish music, Routes bring different approaches from classical, blues and Scandinavian influences to combine with their original compositions and arrangements of existing tunes. Routes were formed out of the thriving Glasgow session scene from a group of instrumentalists with a wide range of tastes and expertise. After the release of their first album, Windrose (2017), Routes played a 24-date sold out tour across the UK and Ireland which led to a ‘Folk Band of the Year’ nomination in the BBC ALBA Scots. Trad. Music Awards 2017. Launching their second album, Arche (2023), to a sold-out performance at Celtic Connections was very special to the band as it was where the entire process began.

Routes have collaborated with artists in live, improvised ‘Routes Sessions’ to give a platform for soloists to experiment with a live string quartet. Artists include Tim Edey, Amy Papiransky and Fraser Fifield. Routes include educational work in their output working with Trad. and classical students on string craft, composing for strings in Trad. and arranging music for strings. Routes have been inspired by Dreamers Circus, The Fretless and Martyn Bennett.

‘Arche’ is the new album from The Routes Quartet. Produced by Greg Lawson, David Donaldson and The Routes Quartet. The album features improvised soundscapes in-amongst brand new compositions. The unique approach to record a Trad. string quartet live was captured on film by filmographer Paul Jennings. The film, ‘Routes: Concept. Creation. Capture.’ explores Routes’ process, creative decisions and was released in March 2024.

'Scots string quartet with a true folk music understanding' Tim Woodall, Songlines Magazine

'Different and exceptional in approach and scope.' Tim Carroll, Folkwords

'Profound learning in both the Celtic traditions and Classical music has left this group respectful of their roots yet complex in their composition.' Marty Cullen, BBC Radio Ulster