29 May 2025
As Glasgow gets ready to host its signature 850th celebration event this weekend – Clyde Chorus – dozens of volunteers are gearing up to help the festival hit a high note.
With the stage set for the multi-venue music event marking Glasgow’s 850th birthday and celebrating its UNESCO City of Music status, Glasgow 850 volunteers donning vibrant pink t-shirts and their biggest smiles will be out in force at five venues across the festival’s three days.
The volunteers, who have the unique opportunity to play a key part in the city’s birthday year, are tasked with supporting the smooth running of the programme of events from Thursday 29 – Saturday 31 May, sharing the warmest of welcomes with festival-goers and spreading the word about the year-long Glasgow 850 celebrations.
Yulia Kravchenko came to Scotland from Ukraine in 2022 and moved to Glasgow last summer to study at City of Glasgow College, she said: “Glasgow has such a rich history, and to be even a small part of it, especially through volunteering, is truly meaningful. The 850th anniversary is a chance to reflect on everything the city has achieved and to celebrate the people who make Glasgow what it is – I feel proud to contribute to that legacy.
“I’m looking forward to Clyde Chorus and being a part of something that brings people together through music. I love the energy during musical experiences. Events like Clyde Chorus show how strong, creative, and generous this city truly is. I believe that if each of us gets involved – even just a little – we can build a Glasgow that is welcoming, supportive, and proud, for another 850 years and beyond.
“Through Glasgow 850, I’ve had the chance to explore the city’s culture and history in a way I never imagined – by attending events, meeting new people, and becoming more immersed in the community. Volunteering has also had a huge impact on my mental wellbeing. It’s hard to feel disconnected when you’re part of something bigger than yourself.”
Yulia is one of more than 300 people, aged from 18 - 79, and from all 23 wards of the city registered with the Glasgow 850 volunteer programme, and with Volunteers’ Week approaching, the city will be paying tribute to its inclusive and bustling volunteer community who make an important contribution to events like Clyde Chorus.
Running from Monday 2 - Sunday 8 June, Volunteers’ Week highlights the diversity and unity of volunteer work across the UK, providing a crucial opportunity to thank volunteers and recognise the value of their time, passion and skills.
Glasgow 850 Volunteer Manager Claire Shiel said: “No Glasgow event is complete without the enthusiasm and warmth of the city’s much-loved volunteer community. Our Glasgow 850 volunteers have been popping up at events large and small across the year and Clyde Chorus is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in the biggest celebration so far, showcasing the city’s incredible music credentials. Glasgow 850 is an opportunity for everyone with a connection to Glasgow to leave their mark on this historic occasion and share their love for the city, and our volunteers will be doing just that and leading the way this weekend.”
The packed Clyde Chorus lineup features everything from grassroots gigs to orchestral showcases, family events, electronic performances, and genre-spanning collaborations.
Highlights include Nina Nesbitt at the Pearce Institute, Lucia & The Best Boys at The Savings Bank, and a special Celtic Connections night. Elsewhere, audiences can catch a tea dance with the Lou Hickey Band, a Showcase of up-and-coming talent from Glasgow’s music colleges at SWG3, and performances presented in partnership with Glasgow Mela, Glasgow Jazz Festival, Ando Glaso Collective, Glasgow Gaelic Secondary School, and much more.
Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “As Clyde Chorus kicks off this weekend, there’s a real buzz across the riverside venues. It’s one of the standout highlights of our Glasgow 850 programme and promises to be a true celebration of music, community and Glasgow.
"This event brings together a diverse mix of musicians, performers, bands, and festival showcases, all with a connection to our city and reflecting the rich tapestry of our city’s music scene. Some low cost tickets are still available and there are also free events such as the community choir stage at Govan Cross on Saturday afternoon, to encourage as many people as possible to get involved.”
Clyde Chorus aims to shine a spotlight on Glasgow’s deep musical roots and exciting creative future, with events taking place across iconic venues and unexpected community spaces. With the addition of these new fringe events, the festival continues to champion local talent, celebrate diversity, and bring communities together through the shared language of music.
With some shows already sold out, fans are advised to purchase their tickets soon to avoid disappointment. For full listings and ticket details, visit www.clydechorus.co.uk.
For more information on volunteering and getting involved in Glasgow 850th birthday celebrations, visit glasgow850.com.
