The Royal Highland Show has bid farewell to a key figure in its success as John Douglas steps down from his role as musical director after more than two decades of unforgettable performances.
John, a former PE teacher with a deep love for music, took on the role in 2000, bringing his passion and expertise to one of Scotland’s most iconic events.
When he first started, the music was performed from a bandstand behind Ingliston House, but thanks to his vision, the music programme grew into one of the show’s most popular features.
What began as a modest setup soon expanded to a mobile stage on the west of the showground, giving showgoers the perfect place to enjoy the music while basking in the sunshine and grabbing a bite to eat.
For over 25 years, John has run Music Scotland International, a business dedicated to delivering entertainment both in Scotland and abroad. The company works extensively with cruise ships, providing musical programmes for a wide range of international clients.
But it was his role at the Royal Highland Show that would leave a lasting legacy in the heart of Scotland’s agricultural community.
The role of musical director involved curating and managing the musical programme for the event, which has grown into a key aspect of the show. John’s work was a behind-the-scenes feat of coordination - securing performers, liaising with artists, and ensuring the musical offering complemented the spirit of the show.
“Coordinating all the participants and getting everyone to the showground on time can be quite a stressful task,” John admits, reflecting on the challenge of organising up to seven hours of live music each day, which included marching bands, church services, and performances in the main ring.
John was always eager to push the boundaries of the musical programme, striving to create a diverse mix that appealed to all attendees.
“One of the key challenges was ensuring we selected a diverse range of music that would appeal to everyone, while also staying true to the tradition and heritage that the event represents,” he shares. “It was important to strike a balance between modern and traditional pieces to cater to all tastes.”
Among his proudest achievements was organising the musical performance for the 200th Anniversary of the Royal Highland Show, which included a captivating mix of opera singers, pipe bands, and 50 Highland dancers - an event that went down in history as a massive hit.
Another standout moment came in 2023 when he organised the opening ceremony for the Golden Shears (World Shearing Championship) at the show. Notably, his work with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers proved a crowd favourite, with the group’s electrifying performance attracting such a large crowd that the police had to monitor the situation to ensure safety.
John’s legacy is also defined by his commitment to showcasing local talent. Each year, as the show was hosted by a particular region, John made it a priority to feature performers from that area. Though challenging at times, particularly when the region was more remote, he always found a way to include regional artists in the musical programme.
After 24 years in the role, John felt it was time to step down. “In view of various changes, I decided it was time to step down,” he explains.
His departure marks the end of an era, but John has no plans of disappearing entirely. This year, for the first time in decades, he will enjoy the Royal Highland Show purely as a visitor, which he’s looking forward to with great anticipation.
Reflecting on his tenure, John says: “It was a tremendous honour to serve as the director of music at the Royal Highland Show. Coming from a farming background myself, the event has always held a special place in my heart. I’m incredibly proud to have had the opportunity to hold that position for 24 years.”
One of his personal highlights was the diversity of the music he was able to showcase. “There is something for everyone at the Highland Show, which absolutely applies to the music programme,” John says.
From school groups to professional musicians, John was passionate about providing a stage for performers from all walks of life. “Throughout the event, there could be as many as 150 musicians performing on-site on any given day. It was always a fantastic mix of talent that helped bring the show to life.”
In closing, John expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Royal Highland Agricultural Society and the thousands of visitors who attended the show over the years.
“Their unwavering support and the invaluable advice they provided have meant a great deal and played a crucial role in helping us improve and grow each year.”
As John steps down, the Royal Highland Show will surely miss his musical vision, but his contribution has undoubtedly helped shape it into the grand event it is today. The melodies of his efforts will continue to resonate with those who have attended the show, and his legacy will forever be part of the show’s music-filled history.
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