Line-Up Revealed For Ryder Cup Gig

16 July 2014, 06:00

Jake Bugg, Twin Atlantic and Midge Ure are among a host of acts set to play at a major concert to mark the staging of the Ryder Cup later this year.

The gala will also feature performances by Scottish Ballet, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, National Theatre Scotland and Scottish Opera and will see both the US and European teams taking part in the golf tournament introduced on stage.

Texas, Nina Nesbitt and Eddi Reader add to the line-up at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, with the headline act still to be announced.

The September 24 show is being organised by DF Concerts and produced by Kim Gavin, who created the London 2012 closing ceremony. It will see a number of collaborations between the ballet, theatre, opera and orchestra groups and will also feature some short films building up to the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

Mr Gavin said: "The Ryder Cup is one of the most exciting events in the sporting calendar and to have the opportunity to work on two of the biggest sporting events in the world (Ryder Cup and London 2012 closing ceremony) is a dream come true for me.

"What's really exciting about working on this show is the fusion of live music and culture, plus I'm a huge sports fan too so this ticks all the boxes. It's going to be a really special night.''

Sam McTrusty, singer with Twin Atlantic, is a golf fan and delighted to be involved in the concert.

"Golf has been part of my life longer than music has and in more of a personal way,'' he said.

"But golf has really taught me lots - everything I've learned from golf I've then put into being in a band. You don't stand on the tee and hit the ball straight 330 yards without practising for years before that.

"Honestly, I'm a bit spoilt and I get to play a lot of big shows every year now. But that was a once in a lifetime opportunity.''

Organisers say it will have something for golf, music and art fans and will be a great stage to welcome some of the world's top sportsmen to Scotland.

Scottish Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "The 2014 Ryder Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to see Scotland host one of the biggest sporting events in the world which will also leave behind a lasting legacy for Scotland.

"I'm delighted that the state-of-the-art Hydro Arena will play host to the gala concert and the exciting line up performing during this signature event within the Homecoming Scotland 2014 programme will undoubtedly showcase Scotland on the world's stage.''

Tickets for the concert go on sale on Saturday at 10am.