Biography

Glaswegian Aidan Crosbie comes from a musical background, with both brother and cousins playing Scottish and Irish traditional music to a high level. Aidan started playing traditional music at the age of six when he joined Comhaltas, playing banjo, whistle and drums. Playing with his sibling and cousins in professional bands and groups around Scotland, Aidan quickly developed confidence performing at school, charity events and festivals including prestigious events such as Celtic Connections.

Aidan regularly enters music competitions, in 2004 coming second and in 2007 winning the All Britain Fleadh for both banjo and drums.

Aidan is considered to be a very talented young musician. He plays with excellent technique combined with a musicality and maturity beyond his years. He is dedicated to his music making and this dedication and enjoyment shines through his playing.  His aim is to study for a degree in traditional music at the RSAMD and already has the talent and drive to blossom into a very fine Scottish musician.

How the Award Helped

The Dewar Arts Awards enabled Aidan to buy a professional banjo of the quality he set his heart on.

Since the Award

Aidan writes, “Since receiving the Daughter of Dewar Award, my musicianship has improved enormously – I have benefited from top class tutoring, I enjoy my banjo playing much more, and am delighted at the positive feedback I receive.”

Since buying a new banjo, Aidan has had much success in competitions. In 2009 he won first place at the Glasgow and Scottish Fleadh’s in solo, duet and trio categories and also in duet and trio in the All Britain Fleadh, all of which qualified him to compete in the All Ireland Fleadh in August 2009.