Thursday November 12th 2026
Lord Provost Robert Aldridge presents Aly Bain with the Edinburgh Award (photo by Greg Macvean)
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
One of Scotland’s most celebrated traditional musicians, Aly Bain, has received the prestigious Edinburgh Award in recognition of his contribution to Scottish music and culture.
The Shetland-born fiddler was presented with the honour by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, at a civic reception at the City Chambers on Tuesday, November 10.
With a career spanning more than six decades, Bain has taken Scottish traditional music to audiences around the world while continuing to champion the musical heritage and communities that shaped him.
The Edinburgh Award recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to the capital and brought the city to national and international attention.
Established in 2007, it is awarded annually following nominations from Edinburgh residents, with the recipient selected by the Civic Awards Committee.
Previous recipients have included bestselling authors, human rights activists and internationally recognised sportspeople.
At the ceremony, Bain received an engraved Loving Cup and an official award certificate. His handprints were also unveiled in stone in the City Chambers quadrangle, where they will remain as a lasting tribute.
The evening included a speech by musician and composer Donald Shaw and a specially commissioned piece recited by Edinburgh Makar Michael Pedersen.
The celebrations concluded with an impromptu musical session featuring Bain and some of his friends.
Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said:
“It was a great honour to present Aly Bain with the Edinburgh Award in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to Scottish music and culture.
“For more than six decades, Aly has shared the richness of Scotland’s traditional music with audiences across the world, becoming one of its greatest ambassadors. His talent, passion and commitment have inspired generations of musicians and helped keep our musical traditions alive.
“While his influence is international, his roots remain firmly connected to the traditions and communities that make Scotland’s music so distinctive. His contribution to our cultural heritage is vast, and it is fitting that Edinburgh recognises him with this award.
“I am delighted that Aly’s handprints will now take their place in the City Chambers quadrangle, as a lasting tribute to an outstanding musician and revered figure in Scottish cultural life.”
Accepting the award, Aly Bain said:
“I’m delighted and proud to accept the Edinburgh Award. For the last 60 years I have performed all over the world and been lucky enough at the end of every tour to return home to the most beautiful city of all.”
Edinburgh Award recipients:
2025 Ali Bowden
2024 Mel Young MBE
2023 Nicola Benedetti
2022 Sir Geoff Palmer
2021 Fergus Linehan
2020 Alexander McCall Smith
2019 Ann Budge
2018 Doddie Weir
2017 Sir Timothy O’Shea
2016 Ken Buchanan MBE
2015 Sir Tom Farmer
2014 Thomas Gilzean
2013 Richard Demarco
2012 Dame Elizabeth Blackadder
2011 Professor Peter Higgs
2010 George Kerr CBE
2009 Sir Chris Hoy MBE
2008 JK Rowling OBE
2007 Ian Rankin OBE
