GLITZ

Play Reel

Meet The Band

About Glitz

Glitz Band is an award winning musical group and function band based in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Contact us
The function band was founded in 2012 by Mairi Newberry, a renowned Scottish drummer who had a dream of starting a band that would shape the Scottish music scene.

Originally an all-female band, over the years, Glitz Band has become a sought-after function band, providing entertainment to businesses such as Clan, DC Thompson, Eastern Western Motor Group, Deloitte, Repsol, and the Royal Air Force, just to name a few.

The group won Live Entertainment Provider Of the Year 2025/2026 in the Scottish Prestige awards.
Early days
Who would’ve thought a single email could spark a transatlantic ripple effect — one powerful enough to inspire the formation of a band?

That’s exactly what happened when Mairi Newberry reached out to Kimberly Thompson, best known as Beyoncé’s drummer, with a simple musical question. The response?

An unexpected invitation to New York City would ultimately set Mairi on a path to start her own band.
A One-Stop Shop Function Band
Today in 2025, Glitz Band is raising the game. Together with its partners, the band now offers a full-scale event production service, making it easier for clients to plan unforgettable experiences with seamless entertainment, professional sound and lighting, and a performance that brings every event to life.
Mairi Gillanders-Newberry – Founder, Drummer & Creative Leader of Glitz

Also known for:

  • Started Glitz Band in 2012
  • Tracking Drums Programme Sessions For Shakatak 
  • Mentored by Kimberly Thompson

Mairi is the driving pulse behind Glitz: the musician who shaped its sound and the person who ensures every performance delivers the energy, polish and professionalism clients love.

With experience that spans live shows, studio work and touring, she brings a depth of musical knowledge that translates directly into a seamless, high-impact experience for you and your guests.

What Mairi brings to every event:

  • A lifetime of performance experience, having entered the professional scene at just 12 years old.
  • Advanced musical training through TSB Rock School, music college and DrumTech London — ensuring technical excellence and reliable musicianship.
  • The confidence of performing on major stages, including the Royal Albert Hall.
  • Studio-quality precision from professional drum tracking work, including projects with Shakatak.
  • Tour-tested adaptability from European theatre productions.
  • A collaborative spirit — contributing to nationwide events such as the NHS Drumathon.
  • A distinctive playing style combining groove, energy and finesse, supporting the dynamic sound Glitz is known for.

Why this matters for your event

Mairi founded Glitz in 2012 and has shaped it into a premium showband focused on creating memorable experiences. From the earliest days as an all-female band to the current nationally recognised line-up, her vision has always been centred on:

  • high-energy performance

  • genuine connection with audiences

  • a smooth, stress-free booking experience

  • a band that feels personable and professional on and off stage

Her leadership ensures the team deliver entertainment that is not only musically outstanding but tailored to your celebration, your guests and your atmosphere.

Mairi credits the band’s success to the talented musicians she works with — a team she is proud to lead and one that is committed to making your event unforgettable.

Lewis Davie – Guitarist

Other Roles: Musical Director

Also known for:

  • Professional Cruise Musician
Bogdan Bratis – Keyboard Player & Lead Singer

Other Roles: Vice President of Marketing, Music Producer

Also known for:

  • 2013 Romanian X Factor Finalist
  • Bratis Solo Project
  • Southampton Solent University First Class BA Degree in Popular Music Production
  • Popular Music Producer of the Year – Southampton Solent University
  • Founder of Saspod
Megan Wright – Lead Vocalist

Also known for:

  • Acting
  • Graduated from Drama School
  • Performing at Aberdeen Arts Centre
  • Professional Cruise Musician
Ailsa Black – Lead Vocalist

Also known for:

  • Alisa Black Solo Project
  • First Class in Popular Music
  • Musicianship Award
Claire Wallis – Lead Vocalist

Also known for:

  • Study Musical Theatre at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
  • Performed with John Barrowman & Susan Boyle
  • Performed at The Albert hall, Caird Hall, Usher hall, SECC Armadillo
  • Olivier Awards In Theatre Royal Drury Lane
BOOKING
ENQUIRY →