A Week to remember- Winter School 2026

In February, 130 dancers gathered in wintry Pitlochry for five memorable days of dancing, friendship, and fun at RSCDS Winter School 2026.

The week began with a warm welcome reception and social dance, where Winter School Director Ian Robertson greeted attendees and introduced the talented team of teachers and musicians. This year, we were especially pleased to welcome over 50 first-time participants, joining many returning dancers who have made this event a cherished annual tradition.

One of the unique features of Winter School is the opportunity to learn from a different teacher and musician each day, offering a rich variety of teaching styles, insights, and musical interpretation. Our 2026 teaching team included Rachel Shankland, Samuele Graziani, Alasdair Brown, and Raphaëlle Orgeret, while music throughout the week was provided by Ian Robertson, David Oswald, Màrtainn Skene, and Mo Rutherford.

Afternoons offered a diverse programme of activities to suit all interests. Highlights included an engaging talk by RSCDS member and Scottish Tartans Authority trustee Malcolm Ferris Lay, who shared fascinating insights into the Scottish Register of Tartans and its database of over 13,000 designs. Attendees enjoyed viewing tartan samples and a remarkable collection of sgian dubhs, along with a lively Q&A session—complete with the classic question of what is worn under a kilt!

On Tuesday, participants stepped back in time during a special session, Dance to the Old Sounds. Ian Robertson (fiddle) and Màrtainn Skene (cello), joined by Muriel Johnstone, explored the sound and style of Scottish dance music before the advent of the modern band. With its softer, lighter character, this historic musical style offered a fresh perspective, encouraging dancers to listen closely and respond to the music in new ways. The session concluded with much-loved dances such as Sleepy Maggie, Hamilton House, and Monymusk, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Midweek brought a delightful whisky tasting, hosted by Ewan McIlwraith of the renowned independent merchant Robertsons of Pitlochry. Guests sampled three carefully selected whiskies while learning about their history, character, and flavour profiles from an expert in the field.

For those keen to explore the outdoors, a walking quiz around Pitlochry—devised by our Winter School Director—offered fresh air, local sights, and a touch of friendly competition, culminating in a closely contested tie-breaker at Wednesday evening’s ceilidh.

Our home for the week, the beautiful Atholl Palace Hotel, provided the perfect setting for a fully residential experience. Attendees enjoyed delicious three-course dinners overlooking the scenic grounds, followed each evening by lively social dancing in the Atholl Suite.

Wednesday evening featured a special musical showcase from our talented musicians, before giving way to an energetic ceilidh that had everyone on the dance floor.

The week concluded in spectacular style with a formal Ball at Blair Castle. Guests were welcomed by an Atholl Piper who played the Grand March led by Chair, Gary Coull. Dancing began with the Round Reel of Eight. Dressed in their finest, dancers enjoyed a truly magical evening in an unforgettable historic setting.

Each night ended on a relaxed note with informal soirées in the Atholl Palace bar and lounge, where conversations and laughter continued beside the warmth of the fire.

We look forward to welcoming you back to Winter School in 2027. Keep an eye on our website for further details—we hope you can join us!

Warm wishes,
The DST Team