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Meeting 26 May 2026

The BIT Collective: Responding to Research on Abuse and Harassment in the Scottish Traditional Music and Folk Scene

An evening of presentations and discussion in response to recent research on abuse and harassment in Scotland's traditional music and folk scene. Open to all MU members based in Scotland.

A photograph of a female folk musician on stage.
Date Tuesday, 26 May 2026
Time 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location Glasgow
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A photograph of a female folk musician on stage.

General enquiries:

Find out more:

Scottish Music Centre, 100 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1NQ

About the event

The BIT Collective invites key stakeholders from across the Scottish traditional music and folk scene to come together for an important evening of discussion and action. This event will focus on responding to recent research on abuse and harassment in the traditional music and folk scene, with the aim of improving safety, inclusion, and accountability across the sector.

The event is open to stakeholders from across the Scottish traditional music and folk scene, including event and festival organisers, venues, creative arts organisations and collectives, session hosts, band managers, tutors, and educators.

The evening will begin with a series of short presentations exploring key findings from the research, delivered by key representatives from the BIT Collective, the University of Glasgow, SMIA, and the National Piping Centre.

Following this, attendees will take part in facilitated group discussions led by members of the BIT Collective. These sessions will focus on four key areas:

  • Sector standards and accountability
  • Events, festivals, venues, and organisations
  • Practitioners, education, and culture change
  • Equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) in the wider traditional arts sector

This event is designed to support the implementation of practical changes around safeguarding, gender equity, and broader inclusion, helping to create a safer and more accessible environment for everyone involved in the trad and folk community.

We strongly encourage those in positions of responsibility or influence to attend, or to ensure their organisation is represented.

How to attend

Book your free place online using the button below. 

Accessibility

The main office entrance is accessible via the Stage Door at 87 Albion Street. 

Accessible access for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility can be pre-arranged. Please contact bitcollectiveevents@gmail.com or contact the venue directly on info@scottishmusiccentre.com if you have any accessibility requirements. 

On-street parking for blue-badge holders is available on Albion Street, Bell Street, and Candleriggs.

Accessible toilet facilities are also available on-site.

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