Finally! Our Hebrides tour is only a couple of rehearsal days away. Of course I’m exited to play, see the beautiful parts of Scotland I haven’t visited before, and to bring music everywhere to everyone. But meeting old friends and welcoming new faces is a big bonus.

I can only imagine what our fellow passengers on the 10.33am train to Garelochhead thought of the noisy 40-person orchestra with too much stuff. I think this year’s summer tour is really exciting in many ways: Nevis Ensemble is the first orchestra to tour the Hebrides on this scale and we have a big repertoire list with a really varied programme that I think should suit any taste in music.

But that’s not all! We’re also going Green! Everyone in the orchestra a has been equipped with a reusable water bottle from Scottish Water, a keep cup from Ecoffee cup, a bamboo tooth brush and toilet roll made from recycled materials both from Save Some Green and a nice Nevis Ensemble tote bags, not to mention some of the things we will do to leave a greener footprint on our way through Scotland.

I can only speak for myself, but I’m really happy that we can make a small difference. We’re doing our best to get though all the music, and some if it is already sounding really good. By Monday at lunchtime I’m sure we’ll be ready to play everything from Mozart to Rage Against the Machine and Toto. I hope to see you in the Gibson Hall in Garelochhead, Monday 1pm, and from Tuesday on the islands!