2027 sees Old Blind Dogs celebrate their 35th anniversary with the release of a brand new album—marking over three decades at the forefront of Scottish traditional music.

Formed in Aberdeen in 1992, Old Blind Dogs emerged as key players in Scotland’s folk revival, forging a distinctive sound that blends dynamic percussion, emotive vocals, driving cittern, soaring, blues-tinged fiddle, and the unmistakable voice of the Great Highland bagpipes. Their music is deeply rooted in tradition, yet enriched by a broad spectrum of influences, always delivered with authenticity, sensitivity, and power.

Like many pioneering folk bands, the Old Blind Dogs lineup has evolved over the years, yet the band’s core musical identity remains as strong as ever. Today’s lineup features original member Jonny Hardie (fiddle, vocals), alongside Aaron Jones (cittern, guitar, vocals), Donald Hay (percussion, vocals), and the exceptional Mike Katz (bagpipes, whistles), formerly of the Battlefield Band.

Renowned for their electrifying live performances, Old Blind Dogs are widely regarded as one of the most exciting acts on the traditional Scottish music scene. Their shows are a vibrant celebration of rhythm, energy, and connection—captivating audiences around the world.

Inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, the band continues to tour extensively across the UK, Europe, and North America, earning rave reviews and standing ovations. With their 35th anniversary on the horizon, Old Blind Dogs remain at the very top of their game—firing on all cylinders and bringing their joyous, uplifting sound to audiences old and new.

“With an affectionate yet playful attitude to tradition, Knucklehead Circus is a joyous, glorious, and thoroughly Scottish release.” ★★★★ Songlines

Old Blind Dogs have been recording and traveling the world as ambassadors of Scottish Traditional Music for 35 years.

They were inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame in 2020 and have been voted Scottish Folk band of the year on two occasions with Aaron Jones also winning Instrumentalist of the year.

Using their vast experience of living, playing and recording Scottish music they can provide a special educational environment for learning about the music and culture of Scotland through instrument workshops, mini concerts with Q and A sessions and historical talks.

We are happy to work with you to create a workshop package tailored to suit your audience, space, budget and interests.

Workshops available:

Scottish Fiddle Workshop with Jonny Hardie (45mins – 1hr)

Scottish Traditional Tunes Accompaniment Workshop with Aaron Jones (45mins – 1hr)

Scottish Traditional Tunes Percussion Workshop including live Bagpipes with Donald Hay and Mike Katz (45mins – 1hr)

Short Concert with Q + A including historical information about the songs and tunes with The Full Band. PA Required. (1hr)

Historical Scottish Music Talk with Jonny Hardie – Includes recorded music or live examples. (45mins)