Your Caller
Crackin’ ceilidhs in australia
His warm, welcoming style creates a relaxed space where even the shyest dancers feel at home, while his expert calling keeps the seasoned ceilidh-goers on their toes. Graeme’s infectious enthusiasm ensures the whole night is filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of dancing. No matter your experience, he’ll make sure you have an unforgettable time on the floor!
YOUR CALLER
GRAeme “The Scotsman” McColgan
Whilst Graeme took part in the obligatory school ceilidh dances as a child, his love for ceilidh really beagan age 16 when he landed a position at Crieff Hydro Hotel, Scotland’s leading leisure hotel.
Graeme spent 3 years learning from some of the best callers and bands in Perthshire and eventually ran the department teaching ceilidh to people from all over the world.
Since then, Graeme has called ceilidhs all over the world from small intimate weddings in Scotland to opening the Australian Celtic Festival in Glen Innes with over 500 dancers. Graeme is the driving force behind Ceilidh Connections and is the main caller and vocalist at all events and weddings.
Get to know Graeme
I’ve always had ceilidhs in my blood! Growing up, I was surrounded by the tradition, and my journey kicked off at Crieff Hydro Hotel, where I was lucky enough to learn from some brilliant callers.
But the real magic came from meeting new folk and helping beginners—many of whom didn’t speak a word of English—learn the dances. The joy on their faces as they picked it up was what really hooked me, and I’ve never looked back since.
It’s a job all about connection, and that’s what keeps me passionate about it every single day.
One of my most unforgettable moments was calling the opening ceilidh at the Australian Celtic Festival in 2023.
It was one of my first big ceilidhs down under, and a real honour to be part of such a prestigious event. With over 500 folk and massive screens showing the action to the crowd, the atmosphere was pure magic.
Leading such a big, energetic group was exhilarating, and it’s a moment I’ll treasure for the rest of my days!
Och, that’s an easy one – it’s got to be the Orcadian Strip the Willow! It’s a cracker of a dance that gets everyone stuck in, with plenty of swinging and twirling. It’s dead easy to teach, so even the bairns or beginners can get the hang of it. And let’s face it, there’s always a bit o’ glorious chaos by the end of the night – that’s what makes it special! It’s the perfect way to round off a ceilidh, full of fun and a wee bit o' madness!
Kerrie Hides
Graeme is an absolutely awesome Ceilidh performer. His passion and talent will get everyone birling on the dance floor. Highly recommended!
Sally Carter
Wow! I had so much fun! I’ve always felt I was no good at dancing but Graeme’s instructions were so clear, I knew exactly what to do and was on the floor for every dance. Can’t wait for the next Ceilidh!
Jackie Barnes
I’ve had the pleasure of being in the audience multiple times to see Graeme McColgan (The Scotsman) perform; solo, in his trio “The Stovies”, as well as taking part in his Ceilidh events. Each and every time, Graeme gives 200% to his performance, with so much attention to detail, audience participation, and a genuine desire to have attendees leave at the end with a warm sense of community belonging and that they’ve joined in something truly special.
I’ve also hired Graeme to perform at events, and found him to be extremely organised, professional, super easy to deal with, and committed to providing a musical/cultural experience that warms the heart and puts a grin on your face (and occasional tears of joy in your eyes!).
Cannot recommend Graeme and his Ceilidh Connections suite of products more highly!
Jessica Grulovic
Graeme is a pleasure to work with. He provides an extremely professional and personalised service that made our event the smash hit of the year. All staff and patrons thoroughly enjoyed the event, and we’d highly recommend Ceilidh Connections to anyone/any venue who wants a fantastic time.
MPFG Fundraiser
Ceilidh Connections were a fabulous organisation to help us engage the community at two annual fundraisers. Their organisation and seamless transition to and from the venue, they way they hosted their dances and provided entertainment was outstanding. We can’t recommend Graeme and his business enough. Who knew that Ceilidh dancing could be so fun!
Terese Tanner
Wildly entertaining, brimming with talent, all heart and kilt! Being in the audience at one of Graeme’s gigs is like going on a journey through the Scottish landscape with yer best mate! and maybe with a scotch in hand
Lucy Neary
Graeme is so so talented both musically and performance wise (as they are not always the same thing). With a great repertoire as well as readiness to do requests for my parents wedding he has a great presence
Get in Touch
If you’re planning a ceilidh, barn dance, wedding, party or just want to chat we’d love to hear from you.
You can call Graeme on 0476 565 062, send an email to bookings@thescotsmanmusic.com or fill in an enquiry form.
