Whether you are looking to sharpen your competitive edge, master a new instrument, or trace the shared rhythmic roots of step dance, these sessions provide a rare, behind-the-scenes look into the discipline and passion that drive traditional arts at the highest level.

Learn@Live! Friday
Discover the raw energy and percussive rhythm of traditional Scottish step dance in this comprehensive, two-part masterclass. Led by the dynamic Sophie Stephenson, this extended session is designed as a continuous journey. 

Part 1 | 12:30–13:15 : Warm-Up & Introduction to Step Dance Open to all ages and experience levels, this welcoming opening segment introduces the foundational rhythms of strathspey, jig, and reel steps in a relaxed, supportive environment. Includes a full physical warm-up and a fascinating look into the shared roots of Scottish and Cape Breton step dance traditions.
Part 2 | 13:15–14:00 : Intermediate to Advanced Sequences. Flowing directly on from the introductory workshop, this segment shifts focus toward more intricate step patterns and sophisticated rhythmic structures. Dancers with prior experience (or brave beginners wishing to stay on) will work on building longer sequences, developing new motifs, and exploring the art of dynamics and improvisation.

Your ticket grants entry to both parts across the entire 90-minute block. Attendees are welcome to participate in the first half and stay to watch or try the second half as the choreography evolves. 

What to bring: Please wear hard-soled shoes suitable for dancing and bring a bottle of water.

Please ensure you have Friday Festival Site Ticket or Week Pass before purchasing tickets for this event.

If you have a Friday ticket, click "Skip to More Tickets" at the bottom of the ticket screen to see Lunchtime Recital Series ticket.

The Venue

The centre serves as a national and international centre of excellence for the great Highland Bagpipe and its music. The Festival Site with the Centre Stage and Bothy Tent, as well as our food and drink tents will be on outside the Centre on McPhater Street. Ticket information is available here

Accessibility

The National Piping Centre and Pipers' Tryst restaurant has step access at both doors.

There is a lift available from the side of the building to all floors.

There are accessible toilets on the ground floor and 1st floor of the building.

During Piping Live! access is through the ramped entrance to the Festival Site, with ramp access into the Bothy where there is a bar.

There is also step free access to the lift access, which will be staffed by volunteers to assist you to your floor.

There is also an accessible toilet next to The Bothy.

You can see full access information at Euan's Guide here