Isla Ferguson

An Edinburgh native, Isla started playing violin at the age of ten, and quickly developed her love of Scottish music through fiddle classes at the Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin. As a teenager she was taught by Edinburgh’s Yla Steven, and as a member of the Lothian Schools’ Strathspey and Reel Society, competed at many events throughout Scotland.

Her interest in the music and folklore of Scotland inspired her to study at the School of Scottish Studies, earning a masters degree in Scottish Ethnology. While at university Isla discovered the social benefits of playing fiddle, making many long-lasting friendships through the univeristy’s Folk Society. Her ceilidh band, Off Centre, was formed with some of these friends, and they now play for ceilidhs for a variety of occasions around Edinburgh and further afield. She also plays around the country with the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.

Isla has continued to work and volunteer for the Edinburgh Youth Gaitherin since graduating, and also worked for some time in Edinburgh’s fabulous Coda Music, enjoying using her knowledge of folk music to advise locals and visitors alike. She is now undertaking post-graduate study to become a primary school teacher.

No teaching at the moment.