WHO WE ARE
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the BIT Collective is to catalyse progressive and intersectional structural change in the Scottish Folk and Traditional Music community.
OUR OBJECTIVE
The objective of BIT Collective is to support, platform and advocate for projects by women, non-binary, and trans musicians, or by their clear allies.
ACTIVITES
Focusing on the Folk and Traditional music scene in Scotland, The BIT Collective will:
Research equity and inequality issues
Discuss inequality issues
Educate the public, organisations and individuals about inequality issues
Address equity and equality issues through the media
Inspire progressive action towards intersectional gender equality
In this way, our vision is to increase the recognition, achievement, safety and enjoyment of an ever more diverse set of people in the Scottish Folk and Traditional music scene.
PAST PROJECTS
WORKSHOPS
We have organised a series of discussions and workshops for arts practitioners to develop skill and confidence and increase inclusivity.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATION
A sold out performance featuring top all female bands (all proceeds to Glasgow Women’s Aid).
CELTIC CONNECTIONS PANEL DISCUSSION
Panel discussion with industry officials and performers, which was also live streamed for those not able to attend.
CONCERTS
We have previously programmed two online concerts featuring talented musicians across Scotland.
SCOTS FIDDLE FESTIVAL PANEL DISCUSSION
Panel discussion of female performers at the Scots Fiddle Festival accompanied by The BIT Collective representatives.
CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS EVENT
A well-attended full day event of discussions followed by a curated open mic of 20 female and non-binary performers at the Centre for Contemporary Arts in Glasgow.
FAQ’s
WHAT IS THE BIT COLLECTIVE?
The BIT Collective is a Scottish-based organisation dedicated to promoting progressive and intersectional structural change within the Scottish folk and traditional music community. We focus on supporting, platforming, and advocating for projects led by women, non-binary, and trans musicians, as well as their allies.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
The BIT Collective offers various in-person events, online events and community meet-ups that are accessible to individuals in Scotland and beyond. You can also read our reports, access resources, and get guidance and support on our website. Join our mailing list or follow our social media accounts can keep you updated on upcoming events and our latest reports.
WHAT KIND OF EVENTS DOES THE BIT COLLECTIVE ORGANISE?
The BIT Collective host a range of events, often in response to what is going on in the community. Typically these include panel discussions, industry presentations, gigs, and community meet-ups. Topics have covered “Ethnic Diversity in Scottish Traditional Music”, “Queer Voices in Folk”, and “Gender Diversity in Piping”.
HOW DOES THE BIT COLLECTIVE SUPPORT MARGINALISED GROUPS IN THE TRADITIONAL MUSIC SCENE?
Through initiatives like Safe Space Folk, The BIT Collective provides confidential signposting and resources for individuals facing sexism, harassment, or abuse in the music industry. We also conduct research on equity and inequality issues, facilitate co-learning sessions for the public and organisations, and create practical resources to support people to make change.
CAN ORGANISATIONS BECOME MEMBERS OF THE BIT COLLECTIVE?
We do not currently have a formal membership process but we would love to hear from you to discuss partnership opportunities. In the meantime, we recommend signing up to the KeyChange initiative.
WHO ARE THE INDIVIDUALS BEHIND THE BIT COLLECTIVE?
The BIT Collective is led by a dedicated team of musicians and professionals deeply embedded in the Scottish traditional music scene. For individual profiles, check out our Team page.