Harem Scarem are a dynamic foursome comprising fiddles, accordions, guitar, banjo, flute as well as luscious harmonious vocals. They create a very expressive developed sound heavily influenced by their native tradition, but not pinned down by it. The majority of the Harem Scarem set are original compositions, these a consolidation of each members skill and individuality.

Originally formed in 2001 from the late night session scene in Edinburgh, Harem Scarem rapidly established a notorious reputation for exceptional musical dexterity and debauchery. For the following years they toured extensively, attended many international festivals including the prestigious Celtic Colours in Cape Breton, earned themselves a 'Tap Water Award' for best band at the Edinburgh Fringe and released two albums to great acclaim. In 2006, with help from the Scottish Arts Council's Tune Up scheme, Harem Scarem embarked on a collaborative journey with the marvelous master wordsmith Will Oldham AKA 'Bonnie Prince Billy'. They, along with drummer extraordinaire Alex Nielson, played a sold out tour round Scotland and Ireland.

Sarah McFadyen

Hailing for Hoy, Orkney, Sarah puts her own stamp on Orcadian Swing Fiddle. Since moving to Edinburgh in '94 she has been involved in the session scene, collaborating with varied musicians. Sarah has recorded two albums and toured extensively with Scottish pop band Aberfeldy; plays with fellow Orcadian Kris Drever; as part of "The Nuggets" with songwriter and guitarist Sandy Wright; and alongside Eilidh she plays with The Squashy Bag Dance Band and The Highfield Dance Band.
At present Sarah is working on a commission for Distil Showcase in collaboration with The Tolbooth Arts Centre, Stirling.

Eilidh Shaw

Eilidh was brought up in Taynuilt, on the West Coast of Scotland. The youngest of a musical family, she began her career in her parents' dance band, a popular choice for high society balls and other aristocratic functions. She attended Aonghas Grant's famous summer school for several years, and was presented with his coveted 'red tassle' at the tender age of 12. Since then Eilidh has toured all over the world and recorded on over 40 albums. She now plays with Harem Scarem, The Poozies, The Unusual Suspects, Keep It Up, The Squashy Bag Dance Band, and The Highfield Dance Band.

Ross Martin

Ross Martin comes from Arisaig. He's been playing the guitar since before he was born, where he was taught by the formidable Jimi Hendrix. Not content with progressively rocking the world, he turned to traditional music where the pay is better and the women are phenomenal. He can usually be found in one of the more ‘high end’ drinking establishments with a girl on each arm or impressing the masses with his chainsaw juggling – phew!

Inge Thomson

Originally from Shetland's remotest community of Fair Isle, Inge Thomson was born into a musical family. After the glamourous life as a student nurse, Inge lauched her musical career with Shetland folkpopsters Drop The Box, a few years of rigorous touring ensued. Inge has since been involved in numerous recording projects, notably with The Broken Family Band, Jim Sutherland's Cold Weather Dancing and Sharon King. Inge currently plays with the award winning master wordsmith Karine Polwart and is one head of the genre defying musical monster The Green Machine.