SMG (the Scots Music Group), is a community music organisation based in Edinburgh, teaching traditional Scottish music. It was started as part of the Adult Learning Project, but the music activities grew so quickly that it soon became an independent entity. The SMG is responsible for thousands of people getting involved in grass roots music, and countless offshoot groups, sessions and festivals.

I've been with SMG for more than 25 years, teaching classes in mandolin and whistle, workshops and, currently, two long-established mixed instrument classes:

• SMG Morning Mixed Instrument Class

  I started this daytime class in 2006 with the aim of introducing learning musicians to the the joy of playing with other instruments. It's a relaxed, welcoming and friendly group with a common passion for music. Click here for further details.

• SMG Slow Session Class

  This class was started in 2005 to help people take the first steps twowards playing in sessions. In addition to learning tunes, we explore playing with others, constructing sets, and (a tiny amount of) theory. Since the class's formation, I have also run slow sessions in pubs around Edinburgh. Click here for further details.