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The largest sheet music publisher of traditional music in Scotland will be playing a celebration jig this year as it begins an ambitious expansion programme.

Taigh na Teud Music Publishers has run a successful international mail order business from Breakish on the Isle of Skye since 1985 and has been looking for innovative ways to expand using the internet.

The company was keen to explore the demand for a  range of virtual online Scottish traditional music lessons, having recently produced a selection of instructional DVDs.

Christine Martin, founder of Taigh na Teud has been working with staff at Napier University's School of Computing over the last eight months. The University has played a key role in developing the project and making use of specialist knowledge including audiovisual and information technology expertise.

The contact was made possible after Christine got in touch with HI Links which is funded by the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and UHI to encourage businesses in the Highlands and Islands to work with academics.

The project was originally aimed at young people living in remote areas without access to tuition. Christine said: "Given that the web is a world wide resource, we quickly realised that if we implemented the system appropriately, we could target a much wider audience - from those of other nationalities interested in Scottish musical traditions to those who are keen to keep in touch with their native culture."

To explore ways to deliver tutoring online combined with the printed book of lessons they produce, Taigh na Teud will now offer a complete package for music lovers and those interested in learning about the various elements of traditional music and instruments. The new website can be viewed at www.playscottishmusic.com or by the link from their existing website www.scotlandsmusic.com

Napier University lecturer Alistair Lawson has been supervising the project. As well as the necessary technical expertise, he has family connections with Skye, a keen interest in traditional Scottish music and Gaelic culture.

Alistair Lawson said: "Through the partnership we have helped the company increase its turnover by applying best practice in digital media and software engineering to create an effective e-commerce capability."

Taigh na Teud has had an associate working directly with them at their premises in Skye until the project was completed. Felix Ruthenberg from Germany worked with the company for the eight months and was also a full-time member of staff at Napier University.
The project is being assisted by the Business Transformation Partnership programme– a two year pilot project funded by the Scottish Government and HIE. Boosting the company's own investment, HIE has committed £22,500 to take the project forward.

David Pringle, development manager at HIE based in Portree, said: "To maximise the use of existing materials and reach new customers, Taigh na Teud is now using e-business and new technologies to foster the teaching and learning of traditional musical instruments. The creative industries sector makes an important contribution to the economy of the Highlands and Islands and HIE is delighted to fund this project in partnership with the Business Transformation Project."