About the Scottish Society of Middle Tennessee

The Scottish Society of Middle Tennessee is a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, appreciation and enjoyment of Scottish heritage, traditions and culture.

The Society hosts events throughout the year including a Burns Supper, lectures, a Potluck Picnic and a St. Andrew Dinner. The Toby Parrish Scholarship Program raises money to help in the education of Scottish arts and culture. The Society cooperates with other organizations throughout the Middle Tennessee area in other events, such as the Kirkin’ of the Tartan.

Membership in the SSMT is open to individuals and families who are interested in Scottish heritage, history, culture and traditions. Members participate in a wide variety of events throughout the year.

AFFILIATED GROUPS:

The following groups are affiliated with the Scottish Society of Middle Tennessee. These groups support one another and the local Scottish community as a whole. While the SSMT is geared towards everything Scottish, these groups are activity specific. Therefore, if you are interested in music or dance, these groups offer instruction in bagpipes, drumming, Highland dance, Scottish Country Dance and Scottish Step Dance. It is not necessary to be a member of the Scottish Society of Middle Tennessee to participate in any of these groups. If their names are underlined, click to connect to their website for more information.

The Nashville Pipes and Drums
The Nashville Pipes and Drums were organized in 1984 and are led by Pipe Major Jay Dawson. The band, which includes bagpipers, side drummers, tenor drummers and bass drummer, wear the Ancient Hunting Robertson tartan in honor of James Robertson, founder of Nashville. In December 1996, the NP&D played the Amy Grant Christmas concert to open the Gaylord Entertainment Center in Nashville. For lessons or performers, please see their web page.

The Tennessee Scots Pipe Band
The Tennessee Scots Pipe Band was formed in 1996 with pipers and drummers who are well experienced and champions in their fields. It is led by Pipe Major Jim Drury. They wear the Fraser of Lovat tartan. The band has recently played for the Sons of the Confederate Veterans, the dedication of the Belle Meade Horse statues, and the opening ceremonies for Fan Fair.

Glengarry Highland Dancers
Highland Dancing was and is an athletic event. Scottish dances, such as the Highland fling and the Ghillie Calum (Sword Dance), are so vigorous that one must be in top physical shape to perform them. A number of our dancers have successfully competed in Canada and Scotland at International Competitions and have taken honors in competition at Highland Games all over the United States including National Championship and North American Championship honors.

Nashville Hamilton Scottish Country Dancers
Scottish Country Dancing is the social dancing of Scotland and kin to English Country Dance, modern Contra Dance and American Square Dancing. Most Scottish games include dances as part of the program. The group meets most Friday nights at the Green Hills YMCA. New dancers are always welcome. Instruction is part of the evening and you do not need a partner to participate. Our group also features Scottish Step Dancing and instruction. For information or performers, please see their web page.