Scottish dance music is very popular all over the world and the vast number of Caledonian Societies, branches of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, St. Andrews Societies and Burns Clubs ensure that the music is kept alive with an enthusiastic audience. There are lots of ceilidh bands in Scotland as well as round the world, but many societies choose to bring out bands from Scotland for their events.

The members of HotScotch have performed for societies around the world in countries such as America, Canada, Russia, France, Greece, Poland, Italy and Bahrain. Many Scottish Dance Bands are invited to play for events abroad and it is a delight to bring the music to them.

Traditionally, a Scottish Dance Band would consist of two Accordions, Fiddle, Piano, Drums and Double Bass. However, for most functions this is reduced to a trio or quartet to make it economically viable. For special functions and broadcasts, a full band can be provided.

With the addition of midi, the bass side of the accordion can be programmed to produce a high quality Double Bass and Piano combination thereby still providing a full sound.

Scottish Dance Bands originally played for Scottish Country Dancing which was popularised in the 20^th Century by the RSCDS and Jean Milligan who co-founded the organisation.

The catalogue of dances is vast and new ones are constantly being written. The RSCDS branches provide dance classes and run functions, but for non-dancers, the popular ceilidh dances like the Gay Gordons, Dashing White Sergeant, Strip the Willow, Canadian Barn Dance are great fun and can be taught on the night by the band’s caller.