Teenage Bagpiper Ruby Darbyshire Rocks the Barrowlands with The Charlatans

A youthful musician from Dumfries, Ruby Darbyshire, experienced a dream come true when she recently took the stage alongside The Charlatans for two consecutive sold-out shows at the iconic Barrowlands venue.

From Busking to the Big Stage

Ruby, at just 17 years old, has come a long way from her days busking on the streets of Dumfries. Her commitment to music has now found her sharing the spotlight with the famed band, even featuring her playing the bagpipes. Ruby performed her soon-to-be-released single 'Caller Unknown' before the Glasgow concerts, captivating the audience with her skill on the pipes during the track 'Oh! Vanity'.

A Star in the Making

Ruby's rise to the stage was propelled by the unexpected opportunity to perform at Kendal Calling Festival, which caught the attention of Tim Burgess, lead singer of The Charlatans. Thanks to Burgess's initiative, the 'Help Us Help Bands' project, Ruby's single was professionally produced. Furthermore, her remarkable performance on the bagpipes at the Barrowlands led to the single being aired on BBC Radio 6, marking a significant milestone in the young artist's career.

Passionate About Piping

Ruby's passion for music, especially the bagpipes, was nurtured from the age of eight under the tutelage of Jim McConnachie of the Corberry Park Pipers. Her talent has been showcased in a variety of events, from Remembrance Day ceremonies to Burns suppers. With a penchant for both rock and traditional styles, Ruby's musicianship on the bagpipes has opened doors to new and exciting opportunities in her path.

A Family Affair

Ruby's achievements in music are celebrated by her family. Her father, Brian Darbyshire, reflects on her journey with pride, sharing how Ruby's combination of traditional piping with rock music is both thrilling and a testament to her hometown of Dumfries. Her early morning rise to hear her single debut on the radio is just one example of her dedication to her craft.

musician, performance, debut