Song portal launch marks start of World Gaelic Week

A new Gaelic song portal has been launched to mark the beginning of World Gaelic Week.

The portal - within the Tobar na Dualchais (TAD)/Kist o Riches website - includes more than 700 songs, audio recordings, lyrics, and biographical information about the singers and composers, providing a "rich and accessible" resource.

The songs were formerly available on the BBC's Bliadhna nan Òran/Year of Songs website but the move will see a complete refresh and more songs added.

TAD director Floraidh Forrest said bringing the material into the website ensured that - with the support of project partners the University of Edinburgh - song files could be preserved for many years to come.

Margaret Mary Murray, head of Gaelic services and inclusion at the BBC, said they were "delighted" the material had found a new home.

"This will enable audiences to discover, rediscover and explore this fabulous resource," she added.

TAD received funding from the Scottish government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Maoin nan Ealan Gàidhlig, and the Gaelic Language Promotion Trust towards the development costs.

Seachdain na Gàidhlig - World Gaelic Week - sees the language celebrated around the globe and runs until 1 March.

Hundreds of events and activities will take place as part of a worldwide initiative, promoting Gaelic language and culture.