As part of the #InvestInCulture campaign, we’re highlighting the voices of creatives across Scotland’s music sector. Below, Fergus McCreadie shares his journey and reflects on the vital role arts funding has played in his career:
“From the early days of my journey in playing music right up until present day, funding for the arts has always been a constant presence. It’s hard to imagine what creativity in Scotland would be like without it. From education, to performance, to writing, to recording, this funding is a vital component of what is an incredibly industrious and productive scene.
I got my start in music at the Fife Youth Jazz Orchestra, which was led and still is today by Richard Michael (BEM). This was originally funded by Fife Council, but when the funding was cut in 2011, Creative Scotland funding played a huge part in the orchestra being able to continue. Not only was this hugely important to me, but the orchestra has been incredibly important in producing many musicians in Scotland, including Ewan Hastie (BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022) and Helena Kay. I was also a part of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland at this time, and took part in nation-wide tours with the orchestra, a vital experience that was also made possible with Creative Scotland funding.
Fast-forwarding to the beginning of my professional career, I was able to make my first album on Edition Records with the help of Creative Scotland funding, which allowed myself and the band members not just the opportunity to record the music but also to have a period of developing the music. The next album we recorded, Forest Floor, won both The Scottish Album of the Year award and Best Album at The Scottish Jazz Awards. These organisations also exist through the support of Creative Scotland, and provide key opportunities and exposure not just to who should win but also to everyone who is nominated and to the wider scene.
To my mind it is absolutely imperative that we continue to support the arts as much as we can in Scotland. We have the capacity and the talent to produce truly world-class art, and so our funding and government support should reflect this.”
The Importance of Sustained Funding for Culture
Fergus McCreadie’s story underlines the impact of sustained arts funding in Scotland. From nurturing talent at the grassroots level to supporting world-class creative achievements, funding is vital to ensuring Scotland’s cultural sector continues to thrive.
The #InvestInCulture campaign calls on the Scottish Government to honour its commitment to increasing investment by ‘at least’ £100 million annually by 2028/29, including an incremental increase of £25 million next year.
Get Involved with the #InvestInCulture Campaign
The #InvestInCulture campaign calls on everyone who values the arts to help advocate for long-term, sustainable investment by:
- Sharing your story: Post about how music or other cultural experiences have impacted your life using #InvestInCulture.
- Writing to your MSP: Visit the Culture Counts website to access a template letter and find your MSP’s contact details.
- Spreading the word: Share the #InvestInCulture campaign graphic on your social media channels (available to download here).
Join the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA)
Sign up as an SMIA member and join our mailing list to stay informed about the #InvestInCulture campaign and our wider work to strengthen, empower, and unite Scotland’s music industry.
As a member, you’ll receive regular updates and access to opportunities that support Scotland’s cultural sector.