FARA dazzles in an exclusive St Magnus Cathedral concert for NorthLink customers

Monday 19th August 2024

Serco NorthLink Ferries’ customers were spellbound by Orkney’s own fiddle-led folk band FARA as the band illuminated St Magnus Cathedral during a free concert on Friday evening.

In July NorthLink offered customers the opportunity to get their hands on 400 complimentary tickets. On Friday, 9th August 2024, attendees were treated to a mesmerising concert set against the striking backdrop of the rose-red St Magnus Cathedral.

Concert-goers queue outside St Magnus Cathedral for the NorthLink FARA concert
Concert-goers queue outside St Magnus Cathedral for the NorthLink FARA concert photo © Copyright Thibault Gras

The concert was part of Serco NorthLink Ferries’ destination marketing campaign, aimed at inviting adventure seekers to explore hidden aspects of Orkney and Shetland. The band’s performance showcased traditional Orcadian music with a modern twist, and the acoustics of the Cathedral were perfect for FARA’s soaring vocals and flawless fiddle playing.

Speaking after the concert, E-Marketing Manager, Magnus Dixon, said: “This unforgettable concert from the incredible FARA was a way for NorthLink Ferries to show our gratitude to our loyal customers. The band certainly cast their magic spell over us all, and we had a very special night here in this historic place. On behalf of the company, I would like to thank all who joined us, as well as the band, sound technicians and Cathedral staff.”

Inside St Magnus Cathedral, during the FARA concert
Inside St Magnus Cathedral, during the FARA concert photo © Copyright Thibault Gras

FARA is comprised of Orcadians Jeana Leslie, Kristan Harvey and Catriona Price along with Highland pianist Rory Matheson.

FARA’s Jeana Leslie said: “It was an absolute honour to be chosen by NorthLink to perform in this special concert, and where better than the St Magnus Cathedral!  It is such a beautiful setting – with so much history.  It was FARA’s first time performing as a band in the Cathedral, so to have it sold out was amazing!  A big thanks to NorthLink for the platform, the Cathedral for being so accommodating and to everyone who attended and made the evening so enjoyable.”

Header image: FARA playing during their concert in St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney photo © Copyright Thibault Gras