1st to 31st January 2005 - 'Turner Exhibition'. The National Gallery of Scotland are exhibiting a collection of Turner's water colours. The paintings were bequeathed by Henry Vaughan. The exhibition includes works spanning many years of Turner's career from the 1790's through to his colourful works of Continental Europe of the 1830's. The Gallery can be found at The Mound, (Princes Street), Edinburgh. For further information visit their website www.nationalgalleries.org or send an e-mail to enquiries@nationalgalleries.org

5th January 2005 -' Royal Scottish National Orchestra'. The RSNO are performing a 'Viennesse Concert' at the City Hall, Perth. The music will include favourite polkas, waltzes and marches from the Struass family. Ticket prices start at £7.50 per person. For further information and details of the full programme why not visit their website at www.rsno.org.uk or e-mail tickets@perththeatre.co.uk

20th to 22nd January 2005 - 'The Steamie'. Performed at the Aberdeen Arts Centre, Aberdeen. This production is set in a 1950's Glasgow public wash house or 'Steamie' as it was known locally. While the washing is being done four women cry, laugh and sing their way through the last working day of the year. For further information contact 01224 641122 or visit their web site on www.abdnboxoffice.com

29th January 2005 - 'Bothy Ballads Champion of Champions'. This is being held in the Elgin Town Hall from 7.30pm. The first half is made up of a concert featuring singers having fun, followed by 'The Completion Proper' in the second half. This will involve each Balladeer singing a ballad of his/her choice. The winner will be awarded the coveted Macallan Porridge Bowl. The event is sponsored by 'Macallan' Whisky. Tickets are available in advance from Cafe Ecosse, High Street Elgin. Adults £6, Concessions £5 from 4th January 2005, or email ianmorr@tiscali.co.uk.

On and aroound 25th January 2005 - 'Burns' Supper'. At this time of the year, in every nook and cranny of Scotland, you will find people celebrating the life and work of Scotland's national bard, Rabbie Burns, who died at the age of 37 in 1796. The Suppers consist of a main course of Haggis, Mashed tatties and neaps (turnip) washed down with drams of whisky. Formal Suppers also involve various speaches for example Adressing the Haggis, The Immortal Memory (story of Burns' life) and Toast to the Lassies plus more.... For details of events in your local area consult local press.