Haddo has always been a place with close links to the arts.  Several members of the family were, and are, talented artists themselves, and the estate has been a retreat and inspiration for actors, painters and musicians.

The actor Philip Kemble was often a guest of the 4th Earl of Aberdeen and his favourite seat (complete with inscription) can still be found in the park. The 4th Earl also commissioned James Giles to paint a collection of watercolours of Aberdeenshire castles which are displayed in the house.

Over the past 70 years, Haddo has been best known for its music. The Haddo House Choral Society, was founded by the 4th Marquess and his wife June, herself a trained musician. Since then the Society has consistently produced concerts and operas of a high standard, working with professional orchestras, singers and conductors and is the oldest society in Scotland to still produce an independent professional opera using its own chorus.

The Haddo House Choral Society is the oldest society in Scotland to still produce an independent professional opera using its own chorus

As well as the Choral Society, there is also a group of popular youth choirs; Haddo Children's Voices, and the Haddo Boys' and Girls' Voices. 

Gifted amateurs take part in the wide range of productions including those from HHCOS as well as musical shows from the Haddo Youth Music Theatre and the Haddo Children's Theatre.

All the HHCOS groups operate a 'no audition' policy. If you would like to join a choir, or find out more about music at Haddo then you can visit the HHCOS website at www.hhcos.org.uk.

Haddo also hosts the annual Haddo Arts Festival in October, attracting top names for concerts, opera, exhibitions and workshops. This year’s Festival will open on 3rd October.