Discover Your Perfect Stay

Scots join the dots online - Scottish Sunday

Scots Lawyer Joins Madonna's World Tour

By Elizabeth McMeekin

The Scots lawyer who piped at Stella McCartney's wedding last year has been asked to accompany Madonna on her forthcoming Re-invention world tour. Lorne Cousin, a rural property lawyer at the Edinburgh-based legal firm Turcan Connell, flew to Los Angeles last week where the rest of the show’s performers are preparing for the five-month tour.

The concerts, which kick off in LA on May 24, are scheduled for 48 venues across the US, Britain, and France, with sell-out gigs at London's Earls Court and Wembley Arena, as well as Madison Square Gardens in New York.

A Talented Musician

Lorne Cousin is no stranger to glittering events. Last August he piped at Stella McCartney's wedding to Alasdhair Willis on the Isle of Bute. Cousin, who specializes in the sale of estates and country houses, is known for his exceptional talent as a solo piper and has regularly competed in major piping gatherings across Scotland for many years.

In addition to competing, Cousin also plays with the Kintyre Piping Society at their recitals. Renowned piper William McCallum recognizes Cousin's skill, stating, "He's always been a great little player, ever since he was a boy... He is a very good player."

Bagpipes in Mainstream Music

Piping is starting to become more popular in mainstream music, according to leading Scots piper Lindsay Davidson. New technology has allowed bagpipes to play alongside other musical instruments in large concerts without tuning problems. Davidson believes that bagpipes are easily incorporated into big pop productions, such as Madonna's tour, as they can be interchanged with electric guitars and complement the overall sound of the show.

Hotels to Consider During Madonna's World Tour

London

If you are attending Madonna's concerts in London, there are several hotels near the venues that you might consider. The Royal Garden Hotel, located in Kensington, offers luxurious accommodation and stunning views of Kensington Gardens. Another option is The Landmark London, a five-star hotel in Marylebone, known for its grand Victorian architecture.

New York

For those attending Madonna's performance at Madison Square Garden in New York, The Plaza Hotel is a popular choice. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, this iconic hotel offers elegance, lavish amenities, and easy access to other attractions in the city.

Los Angeles

If you plan to attend the opening show in Los Angeles, The Beverly Hills Hotel is an excellent option. This legendary hotel has hosted numerous celebrities throughout its history and offers a glamorous and luxurious experience for guests.

Remember to book your accommodations well in advance, as Madonna's concerts are expected to attract large crowds, and hotels may fill up quickly.

Manchester

Edinburgh

Brighton

Liverpool

Nottingham

Bath

Torquay

Cardiff

Stratford-upon-Avon

Exeter

Harrogate

Scarborough

Southampton

Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)

Richmond (Greater London)

Richmond (North Yorkshire)

Whitby

Norwich