Common Ground Scotland is an arts organisation, mainly associated with folk music and what we call 'the traditional arts'. We work on the premise that Music and the Arts can be the common ground on which we can explore other issues that effect us as citizens. The wider interest and 'our dialogue' has added an extra dimension to our interest in the arts. It has been fun, challenging, educational - and we have met lots of interesting people.

One of our main activities is an annual Summer School for The Traditional Arts. It is much more than a series of workshops, or masterclasses, or concerts, or dances, or festival - although it will be all of these and more. Typically tutors, performers and participants come from several different countries giving people the opportunity to learn about their cultures both on their home ground and as visitors from a related tradition. Naturally, being based in Scotland there is always a strong focus on Scottish traditions.

Some people will see Common Ground as a festival, though it will be more relaxed and less pressured than the normal hectic routine of a festival. Others may see it as a real learning opportunity or a source of inspiration for the long winter nights of practice on their instrument. Others may see it as a great holiday with plenty of interesting things on the menu. Others will see it as a place to make friendships that span national and cultural divides. However you view it, it will be an opportunity to meet people with similar interests and to share a wonderful week where music and the arts will be the 'Common Ground'.