The Clarty Cloot Ceilidh Band was formed around 1996 by a group of Scottish Borders musicians and friends. After a few flirtations with different names, including "The Random Note Band", they found themselves forever branded as the Clarty Cloot Ceilidh Band. And so the legend began...

What's in a name?

"Clarty cloot" means "dirty cloth" in the Scots tongue.

What kind of name is that for a band?

What does it say about us?!

In the Scotch mists of time, Sandy was approached to provide a band for the re-opening of the re-furbished Peebles Drill Hall. When the phone rang, Sandy was reading a book of Scottish ceilidh dances (he had already completed the Edinburgh Telephone Directory). Sandy accepted the booking and the caller asked for the name of the band.

Sandy reacted quickly. His book was opened at the page titled “A Clarty Cloot”, a dance which represents the milkmaids wringing-out the clarty cloot which is used for cleaning the cow’s udder before milking. This was explained to the caller….a banner was produced for the gig…and the rest is history.

Except…this book Sandy says he had…said he loaned it to someone…and it has never turned up since. Neither has the dance. The rest of the band just wonder….

So, if anyone has knowledge of the dance “A Clarty Cloot” and can pass this on to us with the directions and steps…and even suggest the music…we’ll be very grateful. So grateful…there’s a prize. A copy of our first CD (if we ever make one) and tickets to the next Clarty Cloot ceilidh dance!

Who's in the band?

It's a big band with a big sound! Our traditional "massed fiddle" sound has had many old timers reminiscing about the good old days, and, along with the distinctive flute and guitar, means that a Clarty Cloot Ceilidh is a memorable musical experience. Added to that, we always have a dance caller to lead the dancing, so you are guaranteed a memorable dancing experience too.

Not only are therefour musicians now playing in the Clarty Cloot Band, but over the years others have given us a loan of their talents before moving on to different things, so a huge thanks to them.

Here is the current line-up:

Fiddlers

Ian - fiddle

Ian took up the fiddle in Shetland when he found himself with a lot of spare time and a borrowed fiddle. He has never returned the fiddle and, although has less spare time these days, likes nothing better than a session in the Pilot Inn (Berwick) or a gig with the Clarty Cloot.

Eric - fiddle

Started playing the fiddle after rescuing an old family heirloom from behind the wardrobe (there was a fiddle beside the heirloom). Learned a Scottish reel (Far Frae Hame) and after that there was no stopping. Also plays guitar, whistle and smallpipes when not in the band.


Wind and Airs


Martin - flute

Martin started out on the guitar but couldn't get the embouchure right. A massive repository of tunes, including a grand collection of his own compositions, Martin is at the centre of the band's repertoire.


Rhythm and Fill


Liz - guitar and mandolin

Liz's driving rhythm is what keeps the rest of the band in time. Jazz chords and lovely progressions - you fiddlers, watch this right hand! Lovely mandolin too, when asked.

Calling the Tune


A band's caller is the key to the audience - and the band - enjoying the dancing. We have three very experienced callers who take it in turns, and one of them will be at your dance to teach the dances, organise the sets, and keep you and your guests on your feet!

They will also make sure that any requests in advance for new dances or special items for the programme can be researched and included.