Marking the 250th Anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, the newly established Centre for Robert Burns Studies at The University of Glasgow is hosting a three day conference from 15 to 17 January celebrating all aspects of Robert Burns life and works. Robert Burns 1759 to 2009 includes seven plenary presentations from major academics and seminar papers from over 60 additional scholars, academics and Burns enthusiasts. Subjects include Music, Bawdry, Translation, America and Europe, to highlight only a few. This academic schedule boasts an ambitious partnership with Scots language publisher Itchy Coo Education which is organising a competetion for young people and children throughout Scotland encouraging interest in Robert Burns through writing and drawing. Jurors, children and young people will attend two special events during the conference to hear their winning writing being performed and see a display of their artwork. The entertainment programme features Sheena Wellington singing the Merry Muses and the world premiere performance of the Lament of Mary Queen of Scot, with music commissioned specially by the Chancellor of the University of Glasgow for this major anniversary and event, written by James MacMillian, Scotland's foremost composer and performed by the Haydn Trio Eisenstadt. The conference will close with a Burns Supper.