Unique tartan created for Scottish Eurovision choir as they compete for first time in contest

A very special tartan has been designed to be worn by the Scottish choir entering the Eurovision Choir Contest this August.

Performing in the competition for the first time, Scotland will don their special tartan as they compete in the contest in Gothenburg, Sweden on August 3.

The male members of the choir will be wearing kilts made of the specially commissioned tartan, which has been named Euro Alba, combining the name of the choir – Alba, and the competition – Eurovision.

The traditional material, specially commissioned by The House of Edgar, comprises colours which relate to the culture and diversity of Scotland.

The base shade is blue as a nod to the long-established identity of the country, with additions of deep purples and ruby reds to capture the country’s rich flora and fauna.

There are also splashes of orange to provide a joyful and more contemporary twist.

The 33 choir members will be led by BBC weather presenter Joy Dunlop and will be performing a Gaelic song with both traditional and modern influences, specially arranged by Sìleas Sinclair.

Ms Dunlop said: “I am so proud to be conducting Scotland’s debut entry at Eurovision and that the Gaelic language and our rich choral tradition will be seen and heard by millions across the world, maybe for the first time.”

Featuring singers from across Scotland, the choir will also compete against leading groups from Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Wales and returning champions Slovenia for a place in the final three and ultimately, the crown.

For months, the choir has been rehearsing their vocals and choreography and Ms Dunlop has also been on a journey around Europe in preparation for the show.

She continued: “The highlight was being in Tel Aviv to see the Netherlands win this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

“The experience really inspired me, and we are now ready to wow the judges and take Eurovision by storm.”

A documentary following Joy and the choir will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Thursday, August 1 at 8.30pm.

The live show, with Gaelic commentary from Tony Kearney, will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Saturday, August 3 at 7.30pm.