Royal National Mòd welcomes changes to premier competitions

The Royal National Mòd has announced important changes to three of its flagship singing competitions: the Gold Medal, Traditional Gold Medal and Silver Pendant.

In a move aimed at fostering greater participation and support for competitors, the Mòd will no longer combine marks from the morning qualifiers with the evening’s finals score to determine overall placings.Marks from the morning qualifiers will not be carried over into the finals, however, they will continue to be a compulsory part of the overall competitions, determining which singers advance to the finals.

The changes are designed to promote fairness, maintain the integrity of the competitions, and encourage continued participation among singers, underlining event organisers An Comunn Gàidhealach’s commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring all participants have a positive, motivating experience at the Mòd.These prestigious contests, which have been running for generations, are widely recognised as the highest accolades in the Gaelic vocal world. With just one male and female winner for each competition awarded annually, the competitions are hard-fought and considered a mark of excellence, with many renowned Gaelic singers tracing the origins of their careers to success at the Mòd.

The events are one of many which play a central role in celebrating and sustaining Gaelic language, culture and song, offering a platform where outstanding vocal talent is discovered and celebrated.

Peigi MacLennan, Chief Executive Officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “We recognise and embrace our responsibility to foster an encouraging, supportive and inclusive environment for all singers, particularly the next generation. By removing the practice of carrying marks from qualifiers through to finals at these flagship competitions, our aim is to reduce undue pressure and ensure participating in the Mòd is a rewarding experience for all.

“We want singers to feel valued and motivated to develop their talents and return to compete. Our focus remains firmly on nurturing confidence and enjoyment, while maintaining the exceptional standards required to gain success at the very highest level.”

The Royal National Mòd is now in its 133^rd year and serves as the nation’s leading festival for Gaelic language, culture, sport and the arts.

In addition to a packed schedule of competitions, a bustling fringe programme brings concerts, cèilidhs, workshops, talks, and sessions to venues across the host location.

The Mòd consistently delivers economic and cultural benefits to its host communities, championing and uplifting the Gaelic language in contemporary Scotland.

The Royal National Mòd returns to Glasgow in 2026, from 9  – 17 October. Competition entries close Sunday 31 May. Visit https://enter.ancomunn.co.uk.