Celtic Connections and is an integral and vibrant part of cultural life in Glasgow, with the economic impact on the city reaching £5.8 million in 2007. The festival actively promotes artistic links and cultural exchange across countries, reinforced by Showcase Scotland which brought 200 music industry delegates from 35 different countries to Scotland looking to book Scottish bands for festivals abroad in 2008. The 2008 festival opened with the Common Ground concert where many of the artists taking part in the event performed together. Donald Shaw, artistic director of the festival, spoke about the future of Celtic Connections as well as the
Dublin City Soul Festival In 2011 Wyvern Lingo won the competition and won a spot at the soul picnic. Another winner of the rising stars competition was Mob Fandango whom also went on to play at the Soul Picnic. Among the 2011 Festival events were Eye Candy, Laugh Your Soul Off and the Grape Vine. In 2014 there will also be a Soul Jam, Gospel Brunches and a City Music Trail. The festival has partnered with Pump Audio, Dublin Tourism, Dublin people, Eircom and Balcony SponTV. Dublin City Soul Festival The Dublin City Soul Festival is an annual soul music festival held each spring