These shows host a predominance of tartan, bagpipes, highland dancing and songs of hills and heather - essentially the image many tourists have of Scotland. They follow a successful recipe made famous by the television series 'The White Heather Club' broadcast in the 1960s. Another popular form in Scotland is Highland Dancing which is essentially a solo or group performance. There are hundreds if not thousands of SCD societies throughout the world. SCD goers tend to prefer music played to a strict tempo - bands such as the world famous Jimmy Shand, Jim Johnstone, John Ellis to name but a few.
Bands invariably comprise of two accordions, fiddle, piano, bass and drums.
These bands also perform at the vibrant ' Accordion and Fiddle Club ' scene throughout Scotland. Increasing in popularity is the ' Ceilidh Dance ' a version where formality goes out of the window. A dance caller shouts out instructions to experienced dancers and beginners alike. The main objective is enjoyment, getting the dance steps wrong is almost irrelevant. The folk circuit is where many Scots would look for a cultural night out.