Pianodrome announces Fringe line-up for 2026
The ‘upcycled amphitheatre’ will bring the Fringe to its new venue in Bruntstfield
Pianodrome has been making the most of its new permanent venue in Bruntsfield, programming a regular flow of intriguing gigs from both the grassroots and national stages. It’s now expanding further with a Fringe programme which features independent musicians from the worlds of folk, jazz, trad, indie rock and more. Taking place from Wednesday 5–Sunday 30 August, tickets for all shows are available now.
Aiming to bring ‘the original spirit of the Fringe’ to Bruntsfield, grassroots performances include Dara Dubh & Harry Higgs, who’ll provide a pop-skewed variation on folk music, aided by Dubh’s unique interpretation of harp-playing; the celebrated singer-songwriter Karine Polwart, who’ll be joined by jazz pianist Dave Milligan; emerging soul singer Kohla; Burnt Paw, a singer-songwriter and artist who’s long been a fixture on Edinburgh’s local scene; and stalwart contemporary folk musician Kris Drever.
As well as musical performances, the venue will host a workshop on piano dismantling, a life drawing session, a songwriter’s round with Eve Simpson, a ‘streetpiano party’ from busker Vroni, an array of free lunchtime concerts, and a live radio-style performance of Golden Beryl unearthed from archives.
A representative from Pianodrome told us: ‘It’s been eight years since the Pianodrome’s debut pop-up at the Botanics during the Fringe. Since then, we’ve appeared in all sorts of locations – warehouses, the Old Royal High School and even an ex-Debenhams at Ocean Terminal.
‘Now, finally, the Pianodrome has a place to call home – the St Oswald’s centre in Bruntsfield is a beautiful ex-church which, like our pianos, is being repurposed for the benefit of our community.
‘This August we’re celebrating our first year in this incredible space with a bonanza of live music, family friendly events and drop-in activities throughout August. May it be the first of many!’
While most events during Edinburgh Festival season take place in the centre of the city, many more have flourished in its neighbouring areas. In Leith, the local bars Leith Depot and Leith FAB Cricket Club will host a variety of performance and music events, including Lost Map’s Howlin’ Fringe. North Berwick’s Fringe By The Sea has grown in stature every year since its inception in 2008, while Jupiter Artland continues to host special Edinburgh Art Festival parties at its Bonnington House location.
Pianodrome Fringe, Pianodrome Bruntsfield, Wednesday 5–Sunday 30 August.