Here is a complete listing from the Somerset and Dorset Folk Diary. To receive regular updates to this listing, along with other news items, please subscribe.
Regular events, such as music sessions and dance clubs are listed separately here.
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Nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and winning ‘Best Album’ in 2015 at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards this iconic duo are not to be missed. The good Doctor Martin Carthy and his twice Mercury nominated daughter Eliza Carthy, join forces to perform an eclectic range of songs and tunes from their vast family repertoire, drawing from the traditional canon as well as selections from a more contemporary songbook.
Since their Topic Records album release, The Elephant, in 2014, this duo format has gone from strength to strength, allowing each artist to showcase their unique individual musical talents, as well as highlighting their symbiotic bond, with instinctive and sensitive arrangements and accompaniment for each other.
Bar opens 6:30 P.M.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Advance £22.00
On the door £26.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/martin-carthy-eliza-carthy-2/
Westcountry folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Seth Lakeman is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of his album Kitty Jay in 2024.
Seth was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 2005 for Kitty Jay. His thrilling solo performance of the eponymous title track on live television won him unanimous praise and started him on an incredible solo journey which has included record deals, 11 album releases (including 6 Top 40), BBC Radio 2 playlisted singles, a clutch of awards and touring all over the world.
He was delighted to be asked in late 2022 to record on Van Morrison’s new album ‘Moving On Skiffle’ which was released in 2023 and he also collaborated with Public Service Broadcasting that year. He has previously worked and toured extensively with Robert Plant (Led Zeppelin) with his band the Sensational Space Shifters.
Seth released his latest and 11th studio album Make Your Mark in November 2021 and in 2023 Seth released the ten-track album ‘The Somerset Sessions’ which features original, unreleased session recordings with Seth featuring Ethan Johns and other guest musicians in Frome. In between shows this year Seth has been writing and recording new music.
www.sethlakeman.co.uk
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £26.00
On the door £30.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/seth-lakeman/
Born with a beautiful sound but no name, Lev’s Violin was valued as worthless. Although its origins remained a mystery, many tales were attached to Lev’s Violin, some true and some wonderfully untrue...
Old and worn by its travels, Lev's Violin eventually broke a few years ago, and the instrument became the subject of a book by Helena Attlee, Lev’s Violin: An Italian Adventure, which reached many thousands of listeners when it was broadcast as BBC Radio 4’s Book of the Week. The violin has since been through an extensive restoration and, having passed through the hands of countless musicians, travelled continents and played the music of many cultures, it is now in the possession of Greg Lawson.
An acclaimed violinist, composer and conductor who has held principal and leading positions in most of the orchestras in Scotland, Greg Lawson is joined by former Moishe’s Bagel bandmate and accordionist Phil Alexander for this special tour. Follow the journey of Lev’s Violin and hear some of the music from its past, from Bach and Arvo Part to Armenian and Macedonian music and Klezmer.
Running time: 90mins + interval
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.
£12.50, £6 u18s, £30 fam
7.30 pm
Contact Steve & Fran Rock: 07399 954381
frocks100 AT gmail.com
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/levs-violin
Born with a beautiful sound but no name, Lev’s Violin was valued as worthless. Although its origins remained a mystery, many tales were attached to Lev’s Violin, some true and some wonderfully untrue...
Old and worn by its travels, Lev's Violin eventually broke a few years ago, and the instrument became the subject of a book by Helena Attlee, Lev’s Violin: An Italian Adventure, which reached many thousands of listeners when it was broadcast as BBC Radio 4’s Book of the Week. The violin has since been through an extensive restoration and, having passed through the hands of countless musicians, travelled continents and played the music of many cultures, it is now in the possession of Greg Lawson.
An acclaimed violinist, composer and conductor who has held principal and leading positions in most of the orchestras in Scotland, Greg Lawson is joined by former Moishe’s Bagel bandmate and accordionist Phil Alexander for this special tour. Follow the journey of Lev’s Violin and hear some of the music from its past, from Bach and Arvo Part to Armenian and Macedonian music and Klezmer.
Running time: 90mins + interval
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.
£13, £7 u18s
7.30 pm
Contact Mark Sexton: 01308 897649
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/levs-violin
Chard Folk Dance group
The evening is £4.00 per person and includes a cuppa and piece of cake.
7.30 - 9.30 pm
For further information please contact Elaine Drewer on 01460 65109
Shanties and Songs of the Sea
We are dropping our anchor at the White Hart at 7:30 for a fun evening of shanties and songs of the seas, till the tide turns Huzzah
Free
7.30 pm
Contact Michael Worth: 07817 939623
mikeihw51 AT gmail.com
Banding Together summer weekends provide advanced and fluent English concertina players with the opportunity to join with others of similar proficiency to play as a big concertina band. The music is varied and challenging but help with preparation is provided. The result is an electrifying big band sound!
This winter weekend is altogether a more relaxed affair. It is a Christmas House Party for concertina bandits – English system players addicted to concertina band – with repertoire focusing on seasonal music. Festive fun and games will form an integral part of the weekend.
Unlike the summer weekend, the music will not be outrageously complicated but attention to detail, our hallmark, will not be compromised. Participants will still be expected to come well prepared and “band ready”, having spent time working on the music. Dots and resource materials are all emailed in advance.
Bandits finding the summer weekend too advanced might find this a more comfortable level.
Who is it for?
English Concertina players who are fluent and confident on their instrument and read notation accurately. Preparation is essential. Music, together with audio files and practice guidance, is provided in advance. It is open to any English system concertina player who meets these criteria.
The Team
Banding Together weekends are organised by Junction 25 Concertina Band.
Music for Banding Together is sourced, arranged and led by J25 director Claire Wren.
For details and booking of this partnership event please contact:
Claire Wren: bandingtogetherwithj25 AT gmail.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/j25-banding-together-christmas-house-party-2024/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Born with a beautiful sound but no name, Lev’s Violin was valued as worthless. Although its origins remained a mystery, many tales were attached to Lev’s Violin, some true and some wonderfully untrue...
Old and worn by its travels, Lev's Violin eventually broke a few years ago, and the instrument became the subject of a book by Helena Attlee, Lev’s Violin: An Italian Adventure, which reached many thousands of listeners when it was broadcast as BBC Radio 4’s Book of the Week. The violin has since been through an extensive restoration and, having passed through the hands of countless musicians, travelled continents and played the music of many cultures, it is now in the possession of Greg Lawson.
An acclaimed violinist, composer and conductor who has held principal and leading positions in most of the orchestras in Scotland, Greg Lawson is joined by former Moishe’s Bagel bandmate and accordionist Phil Alexander for this special tour. Follow the journey of Lev’s Violin and hear some of the music from its past, from Bach and Arvo Part to Armenian and Macedonian music and Klezmer.
Running time: 90mins + interval
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.
£12.50, £6 u18s
7.30 pm
Contact Jacquie Walton : 07968 633834
jacquie.walton AT outlook.com
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/levs-violin
The Ridgeway Singers & Band invite you to join them for an evening of West Gallery carols, Dorset songs, dance tunes, local poems and stories to celebrate the coming of midwinter and the festive season.
Formed by Artsreach as part of the South Dorset Ridgeway project, the group specialises in Dorset music old and new, in the tradition made famous by Thomas Hardy in Under the Greenwood Tree. Singers are accompanied by musicians playing string and woodwind instruments, and the concerts evoke old-fashioned country Christmases when the entertainment was local and home-made.
The group's leaders are renowned serpent player and Mellstock Band member Phil Humphries, and popular actor and folk musician Tim Laycock.
New to the repertoire are William Finney’s Anthem for Christmas Day from a manuscript book found at a car boot sale in Bridport, and a setting by Phil of William Barnes’s Poem Rustic Childhood, and arrangements for the band of more tunes by the late Nick Dunckley.
Tickets via wbsite, ticketsource, or phone 01305 262159
Adults £12; Under-18s £6
7.30pm
Contact Debs Coombes: 01305 262159
debscoombes AT outlook.com
https://ridgewaysingersandband.org/
Christmas Carol Concert by Candlelight
A unique venue is this beautiful little Dorset church complete with stalls for much of the audience but additional very limited seating.
Admission by donations, to include mulled cider and mince pies
7pm
Contact Graham: 01963 210632
stanchesterquire.org
Award-winning singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, James Kirby, has built a loyal international fan base over recent years, selling out venues and captivating audiences worldwide with his mellow voice and distinctive percussive guitar playing.
Blending elements of folk, pop, blues, indie rock and piano, his compositions range from fast and furious to heartfelt and melodic, with James finding new and unorthodox techniques to make music from every part of the acoustic guitar.
www.jameskirbymusic.com
Tickets: £18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/james-kirby/
Born with a beautiful sound but no name, Lev’s Violin was valued as worthless. Although its origins remained a mystery, many tales were attached to Lev’s Violin, some true and some wonderfully untrue...
Old and worn by its travels, Lev's Violin eventually broke a few years ago, and the instrument became the subject of a book by Helena Attlee, Lev’s Violin: An Italian Adventure, which reached many thousands of listeners when it was broadcast as BBC Radio 4’s Book of the Week. The violin has since been through an extensive restoration and, having passed through the hands of countless musicians, travelled continents and played the music of many cultures, it is now in the possession of Greg Lawson.
An acclaimed violinist, composer and conductor who has held principal and leading positions in most of the orchestras in Scotland, Greg Lawson is joined by former Moishe’s Bagel bandmate and accordionist Phil Alexander for this special tour. Follow the journey of Lev’s Violin and hear some of the music from its past, from Bach and Arvo Part to Armenian and Macedonian music and Klezmer.
Running time: 90mins + interval
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.
£12.50
7.30 pm
Contact John Head: 01935 873555
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/levs-violin
+ support from The Schmoozenbergs
For nearly two decades this band have brought their array of foot-stomping folk tunes to audiences across the globe. A quintet with a well-stocked armoury of stringed instruments– guitar, fiddle, double bass - with the added energy of flute and drums and a bagful of joint-jumping tunes, these fine musicians create a real dynamic which is inherent in both their furious dance medleys as well as their thoughtfully arranged original pieces.
Putting the groove into a selection of traditional and original European Folk music dating from the medieval times to present day, it’s difficult – nay, impossible – for your limbs to remain stationary when you’re within earshot of them in full flight. The fact that they often play with a knowing wink shouldn’t obscure their impeccable technique, and unique musicianship that raises the roof in every corner of the world they have visited.
Having performed all across the globe the band are renowned for their rousing festival performances and unique small venue tours where floors have had to be reinforced and air conditioning installed in winter, you wont be disappointed!
The Schmoozenbergs
Conjuring up the mood of 1930s Paris, fused with flavours of Eastern Europe and a liberal sprinkling of high energy folk, The Schmoozenbergs’ uplifting music will put a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Influenced by a cocktail of musical traditions, from Gypsy jazz to Klezmer, Celtic, Balkan, Bristolian and beyond, they bring you a barrage of energetic and playful original compositions, bursting with
irresistibly bouncy rhythms and tantalizing melodies.
Based in Bristol, the band formed in 2012, and have been delighting audiences at venues and festivals around the UK for the past decade. Their new album ‘Mouse’ was released in March 2024.
THIS IS A 14+ EVENT. THOSE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN, ID IS REQUIRED AT THE DOOR. ACCEPTED FORMS OF ID INCLUDE A VALID PASSPORT, A PHOTO DRIVING LICENCE AND A PROOF OF AGE CARD SUCH AS A PASS CARD FROM THE NATIONAL PROOF OF AGE STANDARDS SCHEME. THOSE UNDER THE AGE OF 16 WILL BE DECLINED ENTRY AND REFUNDS WILL NOT BE OFFERED.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £19.00
On the door £23.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/sheelanagig/
Christmas Carol Concert
Admission by donations
3pm - 5pm approx.
Contact Olive : 01460 30539
stanchesterquire.org
Are you looking for an opportunity to take some time away from the December hullabaloo? Then look no further than our Festive Retreat – a chance to sing, make music, craft, relax, walk and generally enjoy the festive surroundings of Halsway Manor decked for Christmas.
The flexible programme might include options such as:
Sing and play traditional folk carols in harmony
Learn some great new folk tunes and creative things to do with them
A spot of seasonal crafting with tree decorations to take home
An introduction to Dartmoor step dancing and playing for dancing
Optional walks in the beautiful Quantock Hills, weather permitting
A storytelling session
Each session includes something for instrumentalists and non-instrumentalists, so we’ll keep you entertained – however, if you’re looking for some time out, that’s OK too! We hope to see you there and will light the fire in anticipation!
All are welcome – guided sessions will mainly cater for singers and instrumentalists, all instruments, all abilities, but you are also welcome to use this time as a getaway if you would prefer.
There will be a range of parts, notation parts in all clefs and keys available. We will work both by ear and with dots. We want this week to be fun for all, with guidance and support to help you develop your musicality, at whatever level you’re at.
The Team
Matt Norman is a performer, teacher, composer, arranger, workshop leader and conductor.
He predominantly works with traditional English music, steeped in the traditions of Devon and Dartmoor. He is also blues and classical musician, and a Dartmoor Step Dance Champion!
As a multi-instrumentalist, Matt plays mandolin, fiddle, mandola, banjos, piano and also sings. He performs solo and in bands including Gadarene and A New Vintage ceilidh band, and regularly deps in other line-ups. He’s also a singer and choir-leader.
Matt’s extensive teaching experience includes working in community and festival settings with all ages and abilities. He has a relaxed, fun and accessible approach to learning, tailored very much to the group. He has a broad expertise embracing mixed-instrument ensembles, choral and voice work, instrument specific tuition (mandolin, fiddle, banjo), and also step dancing.
Laurel Swift is a musician and composer, an inspiring instigator of creative new projects and performances rooted in the folk arts. She plays double bass and clog dances with Gadarene and plays fiddle with The Gloworms among other people. Laurel is currently absorbed in Travelling with Thomas, a project to write a folk musical in public, inviting people to come on the journey and see inside the artistic process!
Laurel co-created and performed ‘Under her Skin’ with Debs Newbold. Laurel loves to dance and has choreographed for theatre and film and directed national touring dance productions for Morris Offspring. She also teaches folk music, with particular focus on helping people find their own ownership of our shared traditions through creative approaches to variation, ensemble skills and simply having a good time!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/festive-retreat/
Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their shared love of English traditional folk tunes and songs with their fine voices and expertly played acoustic instruments. Audiences can look forward to a fresh, uplifting and poignant evening.
Their festive concerts are a beautiful and heart-warming antidote to the materiality that can be a feature of the Christmas season. The duo perform captivating traditional Christmas carols and tunes from England and beyond.
Concerts at other times of the year include music from the duo’s debut album, Needle Pin, Needle Pin, released in early 2020 and featuring songs from the Oxfordshire area which they have researched and arranged. Many of the songs were originally sung by lace-making factory girls to keep time whilst crafting lace and to add enjoyment to their work; the album title makes reference to a line from one of such songs. Beautifully in synergy with the handmade nature of the source songs, the CD comes as a limited edition, hand-stamped, entirely handmade album.
Although followers of British folk music will be familiar with Jackie and John from their other high calibre bands, this collaboration began quite innocently and spontaneously when the pair first started playing together for fun during guest spots at Nettlebed Folk Club in Henley-on-Thames. Recognising the potential, they began working together on material from their native county of Oxfordshire.
JACKIE OATES
Jackie is a folk singer, song-writer and musician. A central figure in English traditional music, Jackie is regarded as one of the country’s best loved folk performers. Her 8th solo studio album, Gracious Wings, took flight in September 2022, receiving acclaim from the music press both within and beyond the folk genre. In the 14 years since her iconic coming of age album Hyperboreans Jackie has continued to build her large and varied following, write her own material, include surprising covers into her albums and breathe new life into the traditional gems she unearths. Jackie collaborates with a diverse array of artists and commissions, seeking new and surprising artistic corners to illuminate with her voice, research and musicianship.
www.jackieoates.co.uk
JOHN SPIERS
John Spiers, better known in folk circles as Squeezy, is one of the leading melodeon players of his generation. Well known for his partnership with Jon Boden as well as being a member of Bellowhead, the most successful folk band in recent history. John was also a member of Eliza Carthy’s band, featuring on her 2002 Mercury nominated album, Anglicana. He now plays with Peter Knight, fiddle player from Steeleye Span and is also a member of the Gigspanner Big Band. Mixing infectious dance tunes with incredibly sensitive and moving slow airs on a mind-boggling range of different squeezeboxes, John’s solo shows are a mixture of traditional material and his own more intricate compositions.
www.johnspiers.co.uk
YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2tXGy3JLiVthFo-eZrdiA7Ysb7wfC9Bl
Bandcamp: https://jackieoatesandjohnspiers.bandcamp.com/
Facebook (Jackie): www.facebook.com/jackieoatesmusic
Facebook (John): https://www.facebook.com/squeezyjohn
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £17.00
Advance: £15.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/jackie-oates-john-spiers/
Once again Athelhampton House plays host to a seasonal celebration of words and music from and about Dorset, performed in the stunning Christmassy-lit Tudor Great Hall, in what is quickly becoming an annual tradition.
Local actor and folk singer Alastair Braidwood is joined by his mentor, esteemed and respected singer and folk musician Tim Laycock, for an evening full of festive cheer, including humorous stories read and acted, traditional songs and carols to be sung along to, poems recited, and folk tunes to get your foot tapping. Previous years’ performances by these energetic and knowledgeable entertainers were highly enjoyed by packed houses, and we look forward to it being so again this time. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Athelhampton's Coach House will open for pre-booked supper at 6pm.
£16
7.30pm, doors from 7pm.
Phone: 01305 848363
https://www.athelhampton.com/events-1/welcome-or-welcome-not-wednesday-11th-december-2024
Ahoy there—local group The Chantry Buoys sing traditional sea shanties and other well known songs. Join them for a fun sing-along with local drinks, old seafaring melodies, and maritime frolics.
Based in Colyton, they sing traditional sea shanties, and other well known songs. They have performed at many Sea Shanty festivals, including Falmouth, Teignmouth, and recently performed on Lyme’s Marine Parade, to close Lifeboat week.
Sea shanties were work songs, set to a rhythm for working, to reduce the monotony of undertaking repetitive tasks aboard ship. But they were also Foc’sle songs, which were storytelling verses to be listened to at leisure, to remind sailors of home and these helped to keep alive traditions and record local events and people.
Bar opens 7:30 P.M.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Free entry - no tickets
https://www.marinetheatre.com/the-shanty-sessions-34/
Ahoy there—local group The Chantry Buoys sing traditional sea shanties and other well known songs. Join them for a fun sing-along with local drinks, old seafaring melodies, and maritime frolics.
Based in Colyton, they sing traditional sea shanties, and other well known songs. They have performed at many Sea Shanty festivals, including Falmouth, Teignmouth, and recently performed on Lyme’s Marine Parade, to close Lifeboat week.
Sea shanties were work songs, set to a rhythm for working, to reduce the monotony of undertaking repetitive tasks aboard ship. But they were also Foc’sle songs, which were storytelling verses to be listened to at leisure, to remind sailors of home and these helped to keep alive traditions and record local events and people.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Free entry - no tickets
https://www.marinetheatre.com/the-shanty-sessions-35/
Dorchester-based actor and folk singer Alastair Braidwood is joined by his mentor, esteemed and respected singer and folk musician Tim Laycock, for an evening full of festive cheer, including humorous stories read and acted, traditional songs and carols to be sung along to, poems recited, and folk tunes to tap your foot to. After the success of their May Day show at MED earlier this year, these energetic and knowledgeable entertainers are returning with a Christmas offering, with words and music from Dorset and beyond all to do with the traditional Christmas known to Thomas Hardy and William Barnes.
£13
7pm, doors from 6.30pm.
Phone: 01202 882533
https://museumofeastdorset.co.uk/project/welcome-or-welcome-not-a-christmas-performance/
Admission by donations
7pm
Contact Liz Murdoch
elizabethmurdoch AT outlook.com
stanchesterquire.org
Shanties and Songs of the Sea
We are sailing into Sherborne for an evening of Shanties and songs of the seas,come along for a bit of fun we come alongside at 2 bells of the Last Dog watch Huzzah
Free
7.00 pm
Contact Michael Worth: 07817 939623
mikeihw51 AT gmail.com
We’re slipping a new course under the tree for Christmas 2024!
William Lyons and Richard Thomas from The City Musick will be heading to Halsway Manor for the very first time, bringing with them all the joys of the festive season during the Renaissance. We can’t promise a Boar’s Head bedecked with bay and rosemary, but plenty of other music delights will be on offer.
Intended for players of renaissance wind, brass and strings, this course will celebrate the huge variety of sounds and styles of Christmas music heard during the Christmas season in renaissance Europe. We will look at the splendors of music written by Giovanni Gabrieli and co. in the churches and courts of Venice, and of the music written by Germanic composers including Hans Leo Hassler and Michael Praetorius for grand festive occasions in German court and city. There will also be chances to explore smaller scale repertoire from the British Isles, France, and Spain, much of which had its origins in traditional song and dance.
We’re offering you the chance to gain a greater knowledge of renaissance Christmas music while enjoying communal music-making on historic instruments. The Christmas tree will be decorated and the fire lit – a perfect December treat.
Who is it for?
This Renaissance music course is for players of the cornett, shawm, dulcian, sackbut, any members of the violin family, and viol players. You might play more than one of those instruments – that’s OK too! If you play an instrument not listed above but are keen to take part, please get in touch so that we can advise.
You should consider yourself to be working at an intermediate to advanced level, be a strong sight reader, and be prepared to look at repertoire in advance if necessary. We will send you a timetable in advance, with any sheet music that the tutors provide. You will need to be able to read music for this course.
The majority of the weekend will focus on whole-group teaching and learning, with some opportunity for smaller group work, both tutor- and self-led. You’ll be able to work on and improve your existing skills and techniques, while learning new repertoire, and perhaps working on some that you’re already more familiar with.
The Tutors
William Lyons is artistic director of the acclaimed ensemble The City Musick. As a player, he has performed with leading historical performance ensembles for over thirty years. He has featured as a specialist session musician on the soundtracks of such iconic films as the Harry Potter series and The Hobbit, as well as several Wes Anderson creations. He is also a composer for theatre and film, including for many productions as composer and musical director at The Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London from 1998 to 2015. Most recently he has worked as historical consultant and composer on major films including Emma, and Mary, Queen of Scots. In 2019 he won the Crystal Pines award for Best Original Score for his work on the Oscar winning The Favourite. In the world of academia William is a Leverhulme Research Fellow, and a professor at the Royal College of Music. Published works include a chapter on theatre musicians in early modern London and articles for the Chanter journal. William is currently writing his PhD on theatre musicians in Shakespeare’s London.
Richard Thomas studied at the University of Wales, the Royal Academy of Music and the Schola Cantorum, Switzerland. Richard was a band member at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London for many years, and plays regularly with ensembles directed by Sir John Elliot Gardiner, Sir Roger Norrington, Trevor Pinnock, Harry Christophers and Paul McCreesh, touring throughout Europe as well as to North & South America, Asia, and Australia. An interest in period instrument performance began at university and eventually led to the formation of the acclaimed sackbut and cornett ensemble QuintEssential in 1993. Richard is also a founder member of The City Musick and the 19th century saxhorn quintet, The Prince Regent’s Band. Richard teaches natural trumpet and cornetto at the Royal College of Music, the University of Birmingham, and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and at the Dartington International Summer School for several years.
The City Musick was formed by William Lyons to explore the diverse repertoire of civic and court wind bands in early modern Europe and is now firmly established as the premier renaissance wind band in the UK. The City Musick made their BBC Proms debut in 2012 with a performance of Venetian music in collaboration with the vocal ensemble I Fagiolini. The Decca recording of this and that of the Striggio Mass, also involving the ensemble, have both met with great critical acclaim. The ongoing collaboration with I Fagiolini continues, with a recording of the magnificent Benevoli Missa Tu es Petrus released in 2023 and the next in the sequence of works by this sorely neglected composer being recorded in 2024. Their recording of music of the London Waits, The Topping Tooters of the Town received unanimous critical praise. The new project by the ensemble: The Count & The Duke – A Renaissance Big Band was premiered at the Stour Festival and York Early Music Festival in 2023 and is a gloriously varied programme featuring a band of twenty shawms, dulcians, recorders, sackbuts, crumhorns, racketts, cornetts, trumpets, keyboards, strings and percussion!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/city-musick-festive-renaissaince-music/
Dorchester-based actor and folk singer Alastair Braidwood is joined by his mentor, esteemed and respected singer and folk musician Tim Laycock, for an evening full of festive cheer, including humorous stories read and acted, traditional songs and carols to be sung along to, poems recited, and folk tunes to tap your foot to.
These energetic and knowledgeable entertainers are bringing their Christmas offering to Sherborne, with words and music from Dorset and beyond all to do with the traditional Christmas known to Thomas Hardy and William Barnes. A homely treat for the season!
Bar available.
£15
7.30pm, doors from 7pm.
Phone: 01305 848363
https://thelittleboxoffice.com/aps/event/view/204473
Christmas, as they say, starts with St. Agnes Fountain. Presenting carols with a curve.
Since their first get together, to record the eponymous St Agnes Fountain album in 2001, the quartet; David Hughes, Fairport Convention’s Chris Leslie and multi award winning duo Chris While and Julie Matthews, have brought
musical invention and laughter to the star-dust atmosphere of the season.
In 2020, David decided to leave the band and very sadly died last year.
There will never been another quite like him, he was simply a one off. His vision to create traditional Christmas carols with a curve led to the creation of St Agnes Fountain, he was our founding father but he was so much more
than that. His unique style of rhythm, of hearing and playing a groove, his satirical wit and sartorial style, his dead pan presence on stage, his beautiful turn of a lyrical phrase.
One thing we can say without any doubt is that David wouldn’t have wanted to rest in peace, he would want to be putting on his fedora, tapping his foot out to some insane syncopated rhythm and leading us all in a celebration of a life of love, laughter and mirth.
Chris, Chris and Julie intend to do just that, keeping the Christmas Aggie spirit alive and touring as a trio celebrating 23 years together with some new material, those old Aggie classics and a doff of the fedora to David.
www.stagnesfountain.net
Tickets: £23.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/st-agnes-fountain/
Cord of 3 comprises one of our Fivehead floorsingers, Keith Ovenden, along with vocalists Becky and Abi. The band were formed in 2022 and their name comes from the Book of Ecclesiastes 4:12 “a cord of 3 cannot easily be broken”
All members of a Church Worship Band in Yeovil, Cord of 3 perform an eclectic mix of folk, roots and contemporary songs with exquisite 3-part harmonies, accompanied on guitar/harmonica/bazouki by Keith, with Becky playing flute, sax and recorders.
The Coffee Bar opens from 7.00pm beforehand and during the interval, offering fresh filter coffee or tea. We will also have a range of soft drinks and snacks for sale (NB for cash only). You are welcome to bring your own refreshments, but please note that there is a no-alcohol policy in the church building.
Music starts at 7.30pm with the first hour open to anyone who wants to sing or play. Floorsingers are invited to arrive early to sign up in the book on the evening, but as space is often limited you are welcome to email beforehand to book a slot. We try to ensure that everyone gets at least one song, but we operate a first come/first served policy.
Our guest artists perform from about 9.00pm and we finish music at 10.00pm. Our Folk Nights are free to enter, but please remember to come prepared with cash to make a generous donation to our guests performers.
For more information contact Laurie Burn laurieguitars AT gmail.com 07854 750545
Christian Garrick – violin, darbuka
Eddie Hession – accordion
Kelly Cantlon – double bass
Adrian Zolotuhin – guitar, saz, balalaika, domra
Refreshingly unconventional and snappily attired boutique orchestra the BCO redeliver gypsy and folk-flavoured music in their own fresh and in a surprising way. From Balkan and Russian traditional pieces to artful distillations of the Romantic masterpieces to Gaelic folk anthems their infectious music will get into your bloodstream and stay there forever.
With 15 albums to their name the Budapest Café Orchestra was established in 2009 by British composer and violinist, Christian Garrick, and led by him have won legions of fans with their magical and infectious performances. A small but impeccably formed ensemble of just four players, the BCO combines violin, guitar, accordion, double bass, saz & balalaika to dazzling effect, creating an awesome aural alchemy normally only characteristic of far larger ensembles.
£19.50
7.30pm
Contact Box Office: 01749 834483
boxoffice AT cedarshallwells.co.uk
cedarshallwells.co.uk
On our performers night The David Hall hands over its professional stage and outstanding acoustics to budding artists of all genres.
Petherton Arts Trust is trying this new evening as a way of encouraging more local performers of all genres to come and perform on a professional stage and to attract more people in the audience.
It’s a great evening full of extraordinary skill, talent and variety – and it doesn’t cost the earth – just £2 audience and £1 performers to cover the cost of heating and lighting the hall.
All types of performance welcome – The David Hall has had music, comedy, poetry, dance…. All have the opportunity to deliver for 10 – 15 minutes with full PA and lighting system.
So, if you’re a performer, then get in touch with Chris and book a spot
07715 501157
or
email xxxfolk AT chriswatts.org- without the xx’s
These evenings are becoming increasingly popular and there is a danger that we won’t be able to accommodate everyone.
Do please book ahead rather than, as previously, just turning up and expecting to get a spot. It doesn’t matter if you’re a musician. poet, juggler or …… well, any kind of performer basically. Just be entertaining !
7:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Suggested donation:
Just £1 for performers and £2 Audience.
Please pay on the door.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/acoustic-night-2024-730pm-donations-only/2024-12-15/
Dance workshop for beginners 6-7pm
Main Dance 7-9.30pm
live acoustic houseband
all welcome, no experience necessary
tea and coffee available
free parking in town centre car parks
£4 at the door
6.00 - 9.30 pm
Contact Rainer: 07957 211879
rainer.wittlin AT outlook.com
balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne
The Ridgeway Singers & Band invite you to join them for a matinee afternoon of West Gallery carols, Dorset songs, dance tunes, local poems and stories to celebrate the coming of midwinter and the festive season.
Formed by Artsreach as part of the South Dorset Ridgeway project, the group specialises in Dorset music old and new, in the tradition made famous by Thomas Hardy in Under the Greenwood Tree. Singers are accompanied by musicians playing string and woodwind instruments, and the concerts evoke old-fashioned country Christmases when the entertainment was local and home-made.
The group's leaders are renowned serpent player and Mellstock Band member Phil Humphries, and popular actor and folk musician Tim Laycock.
New to the repertoire are William Finney’s Anthem for Christmas Day from a manuscript book found at a car boot sale in Bridport, and a setting by Phil of William Barnes’s poem Rustic Childhood, and arrangements for the band of more tunes by the late Nick Dunckley.
Tickets via website, Ticketsource, or phone 01305 262159
Refreshments available
Adults £12, Under 18s £6
4.00 - 6.00 pm
Contact Debs Coombes: 07710 461647
debscoombes AT outlook.com
www.ridgewaysingersandband.org
Monday 16th December
====================
Christmas dance night
Theme wear something Christmassy
£1.50
8.00 - 10.15 pm
Contact Robert Blackborow : 07909 586636
robertblack458 AT gmail.com
Winter Wonderband are – Saul Rose on melodeon (Faustus, War Horse, Eliza Carthy) & Maclaine Colston on hammered dulcimer (Pressgang, Eliza Carthy) joined by Beth Porter (SpellSongs, Bookshop Band) on Cello and Jennifer Crook (Cythara, Broken Road) on harp and guitar.
With spellbinding vocal harmonies backed by this beautiful combination of instruments, they sing of wintery tales and festive times, both traditional and original.
Their debut album will be released ahead of this tour, in autumn 2024.
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
£16.00 Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/winter-wonderband-2/
The Ridgeway Singers & Band invite you to join them for an evening of West Gallery carols, Dorset songs, dance tunes, local poems and stories to celebrate the coming of midwinter and the festive season.
Formed by Artsreach as part of the South Dorset Ridgeway project, the group specialises in Dorset music old and new, in the tradition made famous by Thomas Hardy in Under the Greenwood Tree. Singers are accompanied by musicians playing string and woodwind instruments, and the concerts evoke old-fashioned country Christmases when the entertainment was local and home-made.
The group's leaders are renowned serpent player and Mellstock Band member Phil Humphries, and popular actor and folk musician Tim Laycock.
New to the repertoire are William Finney’s Anthem for Christmas Day from a manuscript book found at a car boot sale in Bridport, and a setting by Phil of William Barnes’s poem Rustic Childhood, and arrangements for the band of more tunes by the late Nick Dunckley.
Tickets via wbsite, Ticketsource, or phone 01305 262159
Adults £12, Under 18s £6
7.30pm
Contact Deborah Coombes
debscoombes AT outlook.com
www.ridgewaysingersandband.org
Chard Folk Dance group
Starts at 6.30. Please bring a plate of food to share with fellow dancers before we start dancing!
The evening is £4.00 per person and includes a cuppa and piece of cake.
Dancing until 9.30 pm
For further information please contact Elaine Drewer on 01460 65109
Have yourself a Very Halsway Christmas! Come and start your Christmas celebrations at Halsway Manor, where we’ll be hosting our very first ‘Festive Festival’ in the run up to the big day.
Your host will be Gareth Kiddier, and joining him over the course of the weekend will be three bands who bring with them a veritable smörgåsbord of talent and a goodly heap of festive sparkle. Each group will be bringing their Christmas tour show to Halsway, one performance on every evening of your stay, as well as leading workshops with guests during the days.
Our Festive Festival bands are…
Friday evening
The Winter Wonderband are Saul Rose (Faustus, War Horse, Eliza Carthy) on melodeon & Maclaine Colston (Pressgang, Eliza Carthy) on hammered dulcimer, joined by Beth Porter (SpellSongs, Bookshop Band) on Cello and Jennifer Crook (Cythara, Broken Road) on harp and guitar. With spellbinding vocal harmonies backed by this beautiful combination of instruments, they sing of wintery tales and festive times, both traditional and original. Their debut album will be released ahead of this tour, in autumn 2024.
The Wonderband will be leading workshops on Saturday morning.
Saturday evening
Rosie Hood (vocals, tenor guitar, baritone ukulele, fiddle), Nicola Beazley (fiddle, 5-string fiddle, vocals), Rosie Butler-Hall (fiddle, 5-string fiddle, vocals) and Robyn Wallace (melodeon, percussion, vocals) are The Rosie Hood Band.
In November 2023, they released their first album, A Seed Of Gold, and they’ll be bringing us gems from this, alongside other delights, including some special festive treats.
Rosie, Nicola, Rosie and Robyn will be leading workshops on Sunday morning.
Sunday evening
Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their shared love of English traditional folk tunes and songs with their fine voices and expertly played acoustic instruments. Their festive concerts are a beautiful and heart-warming antidote to the materiality that can be a feature of the Christmas season. The duo perform captivating traditional Christmas carols and tunes from England and beyond.
Jackie and John will be leading workshops on Sunday afternoon.
In addition to all that, we’ll be putting on our usual great meals, including a Christmas dinner, lighting the fires and encouraging you to enjoy yourselves! Bring your voices and instruments, and don’t forget your walking boots. Games and quizzes will be available as well, in case there’s even a single moment for some extra entertainment. More information about the workshops will be available soon, but we’re hoping to offer a little something for everyone – singing, harmony, instrumental ensembles, dance, maybe even some craft…
Who is it for?
Everyone who would like a short pre-Christmas break at Halsway Manor, complete with great gigs, interesting and entertaining workshops, and a break from the washing up!
If you’ve always fancied our Christmas House Party but like to be at home on the 25th, this is your chance to experience all the magic of a Halsway Christmas but still getting back in time to put out the carrot for Rudolph…
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/a-very-halsway-christmas/
Barn dance
The hall is on the left when travelling north. The only street light along the main road is on the hall. Roadside parking.
All are welcome, no experience necessary. We enjoy an evening with live music and a caller who will guide you through all the dances. You don't need to bring a partner. No refreshments other than water provided, feel free to bring your own.
Do come along have some fun and laughter.
£7.50 under 16 free
Start time: 7.15 for 7.30
Finish time: 9.30
Contact Sally Condon: 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their shared love of English traditional folk tunes and songs with their fine voices and expertly played acoustic instruments. Audiences can look forward to a heart-warming evening celebrating the traditions of Christmas.
7.30
£16
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk
Winter Wonderband are Saul Rose on melodeon (Faustus, War Horse, Eliza Carthy) & Maclaine Colston on hammered dulcimer (Pressgang, Eliza Carthy) joined by Beth Porter (SpellSongs, Bookshop Band) on Cello and Jennifer Crook (Cythara, Broken Road) on harp and guitar.
With spellbinding vocal harmonies backed by this beautiful combination of instruments, they sing of wintery tales and festive times, both traditional and original. Their debut album will be released ahead of this tour, in autumn 2024.
8pm–9:30pm
All tickets: £15
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-the-winter-wonderband/
Second night added due to popular demand!
Bring your family & friends for a glorious night of fire cooked feasting, live music & cocktails under the mistletoe.
Our venue will be in an amazing grain store near Pimperne converted into a gorgeous Christmas knees up!
Tickets are £50 per person and includes a signature cocktail, a wonderful fire cooked supper and live music.
Drinks will be available to guests throughout the night at our bar offering a range of cocktails, wines, beers and non alcoholic drinks.
It will be a celebration of the season using amazing local produce with live blues & folk music from Stompin’ Dave.
7 pm
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/flamesandfeasts/1430629
Contact DAVID ALLEN
doctorstomp AT yahoo.co.uk
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/flamesandfeasts/1430629
A Horizon Folk Award nominee, Rosie Hood is known for her powerful, clear vocals and captivating performances combining poetic writing with honest interpretations of traditional English songs. In her ‘Classy’ (MOJO) 4-piece, Rosie is joined by fiddle-player Nicola Beazley, melodeon-player & percussionist Robyn Wallace and fiddle-player Rosie Butler-Hall.
The instrumentalists bring dynamic lift and drive, expanding Rosie’s vision to re-work traditional songs and bring unheard stories to life. ‘To me, the story is always the most important thing, that’s the ‘Seed Of Gold’ within a song’ explains Rosie. The band released their debut album, Seed of Gold, in November 2023.
8pm–9:30pm
All tickets: £15
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-the-rosie-hood-band/
Popup Restaurant
Flames & Feasts present Stompin' Dave. Bring your family & friends for a glorious night of fire cooked feasting, live music & cocktails under the mistletoe.
Our venue will be in an amazing grain store near Pimperne converted into a gorgeous Christmas knees up!
Tickets are £50 per person and includes a signature cocktail, a wonderful fire cooked supper and live music.
Drinks will be available to guests throughout the night at our bar offering a range of cocktails, wines, beers and non alcoholic drinks.
It will be a celebration of the season using amazing local produce with live blues & folk music from Stompin’ Dave.
7 pm
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/flamesandfeasts/1430629
Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their shared love of English traditional folk tunes and songs with their fine voices and expertly played acoustic instruments. Audiences can look forward to a fresh, uplifting and poignant evening. Their festive concerts are a beautiful and heart-warming antidote to the materiality that can be a feature of the Christmas season. The duo perform captivating traditional Christmas carols and tunes from England and beyond.
Although followers of British folk music will be familiar with Jackie and John from their other high-calibre bands, this collaboration began quite innocently and spontaneously when the pair first started playing together for fun during guest spots at Nettlebed Folk Club in Henley-on-Thames. Recognising the potential, they began working together on material from their native county of Oxfordshire.
8pm–9:30pm
All tickets: £15
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-jackie-oates-john-spiers/
Celebrate the New Year in style – folk style that is! See out the Old Year and bring in the New with dancing, singing, music and games in the glorious setting of Halsway Manor.
With good food, good music and a packed programme of activities for musicians and dancers, plus with workshops and evening dances. There will be plenty of activities to keep you entertained, or room by the fire to relax with a good book. If the weather is fair, optional walks will be arranged, and you can expect playing sessions too; pack your walking boots and instruments.
Enjoy the Manor is its festive finery and see in the New Year with good company!
An enjoyable New Year break for anyone who wants to enjoys folk music and dancing, and a ‘Country House’ style New Year!
The team for 2024 will be led by Bridget Flett, with music provided by Rod & Francis Stradling as the house band. Rod and Frances have an energetic style, with a broad variety of repertoire that covers all styles of English and Scottish dancing and much more. Bridget will be assisted by Anne & Fritjof Koerber, Jane Thomas, and Beverley Tapper.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/new-year-house-party-2024/
The Crooked Furrow band have been around forever! Formed in the mid 1980s as a Wurzels tribute band, hence the name, the only remaining founding member is Mark the accordion player.
We eventually moved from Wurzels music to more mainstream and Irish Folk and noticed people dancing to some of the lovely Irish Folk tunes.
Current line up is accordion, fiddle/flute and caller, playing bass guitar and occasional banjo.
Tickets £17.50 Full. No concessions
8.30 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/new-years-eve-celebration-ceilidh/
Join us for the GreenMatthews Midwinter Getaway – a relaxing weekend of fun and festivities in the sumptuous surroundings of Halsway Manor with hosts Chris Green and Sophie Matthews.
GreenMatthews are well-known for their touring Christmas shows such as A Brief History of Christmas, A Christmas Carol and Midwinter Revels.
This weekend holiday is an opportunity to get up close and personal with Chris and Sophie and enjoy a weekend of music and merrymaking.
The Midwinter Getaway is very much about fun and relaxation, rather than Halsway’s usual intensive workshop-type weekends. With good food and good company, the house is the perfect place to gather with old friends and meet new ones. Free time will be an important part of the weekend, giving you the opportunity to explore the surrounding area or simply relax by the log fire with a glass of something warming.
If you play an instrument (to any level) then please do bring it along. If you don’t play, bring a voice, and if you’re not comfortable with either, please bring an appreciative pair of ears or a pair of dancing feet. There’ll be feasting, drinking, carolling and storytelling as well as a wintry walk across the beautiful Quantock Hills (the oldest area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK).
The GreenMatthews Midwinter Getaway is for anyone who fancies a relaxing weekend at the Manor without the pressure of an intense timetable. You can recover from Christmas, recharge for the New Year, or simply enjoy a welcome break with good company.
Chris Green and Sophie Matthews are modern-day balladeers, specialising in telling stories through song.
GreenMatthews are firm believers in the age-old power of narrative song to delight contemporary audiences. Taking their cue from ancient troubadour tradition, they are 21st-century wandering players. They tour throughout the UK and Europe. Their music and tales are rooted in the past, but their performances are entirely of the 21st century – immediate and accessible to modern audiences.
Born into a musical family in Coventry, Chris began playing guitar at the age of eight and piano from the age of nine, and plays most things with fretted strings or keys. Largely self-taught, he’s worked in a variety of musical genres including folk, theatre and early music. He’s a regular musician at Shakespeare’s Globe and was also one of the musicians on BBC’s Poldark, appearing in series 1 and 2.
He also writes and composes, having adapted The Wind in the Willows (2017), and A Christmas Carol: In Concert (2018). His solo album Switched-On Playford, fuses 17th-century dance music with electronica, using a blend of early instruments, synths and loops. His latest commission from English Heritage is a live score for the 1922 silent film Nosferatu which will be touring in Autumn 2023.
www.chrisgreenmusic.co.uk
Sophie began playing flute at the age of ten but is known best as one of the foremost players of the English border bagpipe in the UK. She plays a variety of early woodwind instruments such as shawm, rauschpfeife and recorder. She’s one of a handful of British players of the baroque musette, an 18th century French bagpipe similar to the Northumbrian smallpipes. Sophie is a superb interpreter of narrative song with a clear, pure and unaffected soprano voice. When not touring with GreenMatthews, Sophie is an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society, lecturing on Music in Art. Sophie also makes instruments (she made her own baroque oboe) and works with respected luthier Tony Millyard on his flutes. As a musician Sophie plays with The Oxford Waits as well as the early music collective Piva.
www.sophiematthewsmusic.co.uk
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/greenmatthews-midwinter-getaway-2025/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Taking their cue from ancient troubadour tradition, GreenMatthews are 21st-century wandering players – touring their self-created shows extensively throughout the UK and Europe. Although their music and tales are rooted in the past, the performance and humour is entirely of the 21st century, immediate and accessible to modern audiences.
This concert sees GreenMatthews playing through their extensive back catalogue, with some old favourites, a few surprises and maybe the odd request!
8pm–10pm
£12 Concession £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-greenmatthews-2025/
Our popular Klezmer weekend course returns, now as a long weekend, with Susi Evans, Szilvia Csaranko, Indra Buraczewska and Flora Curzon at the helm to inspire you to explore this celebratory, soulful and melodic music from nineteenth century Jewish Eastern Europe.
Learn some great tunes and gain knowledge of the modes, ornamentation, rhythms and accompaniment that give klezmer its unique flavour. Play in an orchestra led by four of Europe’s top klezmer specialists, join a small ensemble where you can develop your arrangement skills and learn tips and tricks on your instrument to play music in a klezmer style. There will also be an informal tutors’ concert and plenty of opportunity for jamming in the bar!
We’ve added an extra night to our Klezmer music course to give you a bit more time to work with the tutors and play together. Sunday will now be a full day of workshops instead of ending after cream tea. Although we ask that you check out by 10am on Monday morning, you may leave earlier if necessary.
This is a course for all* instrumentalists from all musical backgrounds. We welcome people who are new to klezmer, but you will need a good grasp of your instrument in order to participate. The course will be taught by ear as well as using the dots and there will be opportunities to develop both of these skills. We aim to set a pace that is right for everybody, and we will sometimes divide the group by instrument or level of experience.
If you’ve taken part in the course before, you’d be welcome back as the majority of the material covered will be new, and you’ll have the chance to build on your existing skills and techniques. The majority of your time will be spent working with a tutor in a small group, with some opportunity to play as a whole group.
*For diatonic instruments such as whistles and diatonic accordions, the klezmer modes can present a bit of a challenge. Please contact us if you’re not sure.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-klezmer-weekend-2025/
Join us for a night of Klezmer! The celebratory and soulful music of 19th Century Eastern Jewish Music.
With four fabulous musicians who are at Halsway Manor teaching musicians on their Klezmer course the modes, melodies, rhythms, and ornamentation that give Klezmer its unique flavour.
Susi, Szilvia, Indra and Flora are all exceptional musicians who are passionate about the tradition of klezmer music. Susi and Szilvia perform internationally and are in demand as teachers at the major klezmer festivals such as Yiddish Summer Weimar, Klezfest London, Yiddish New York and KlezKanada. They are also the authors of the Klezmer Playbook and founders of the KlezmerPlaybook CLUB where they regularly have up to 100 participants attending their online workshops.
8pm–10pm
£12 Concession £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-klezmer-2025/
2025 sees Richard return to his favourite venues, not least to South Petherton. He loves driving there from his home not too far away without touching a cursed motorway and he looks forward to seeing familiar faces
with a new show including a few from his Isambard Kingdom Brunel musical.
www.richarddigance.com
Tickets: £18.50 Full.
£17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Halsway is excited to offer a new masterclass of steps, patterns, music and manners, not forgetting that all-important ballroom etiquette. Join dance teacher and caller Georgia Delve for the midweek Halsway Winter Regency Retreat. As an extended, more challenging version of the weekend Regency Assembly, this longer residential course is a chance to immerse yourself for an in-depth study week looking at specific dancing masters, exploring Georgian period dances from around the world, and learning some of the more complex and unusual dances from the Regency era.
Aimed at more experienced Regency country dancers, this Monday evening to Friday morning course will allow more focus time for revisiting and building up repertoire as a group throughout the week. Each day will follow a rough pattern including a morning warm up with step revision followed by a focused session on a specific subject; Cotillions, Quadrilles, country dances, dancing masters, international dance fashions. Each afternoon will be either an optional workshop or downtime to rest, explore the library or enjoy the local area. The evenings will consist of various themed mini-balls (costumes welcome!) to share and celebrate the day’s achievements together
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/regency-retreat-2025/
We’re delighted to be working with Leveret – three of England’s finest folk musicians – again to offer this intensive weekend exploring ensemble playing, aimed exclusively at young adults, aged 18 to 30(ish) looking for folk music development.
During their first decade together, Leveret’s captivating interaction and intimate presentation style charmed audiences, helping the trio build a loyal following, and demonstrating the enduring appeal and endless potential of the folk tune.
All three are experienced teachers and workshop leaders, sharing a commitment to developing the next generation of folk musicians, and Leveret are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all participants both during and outside workshops.
You’ll be a competent musician with a good knowledge of your instrument; the weekend will focus on general music-making skills rather than instrument-specific technique, so you’ll need to have a sufficient grasp of your instrument to get involved. You’ll be happy to learn by ear, with a desire to build confidence, develop musical ideas, and experience playing in ensembles. There will be some degree of spontaneity during the weekend, both musically and organisationally, so you’ll need to be prepared to go with the flow.
Because of the time limitations inherent in running a weekend course, you will be asked to do a little preparatory work in the run up to the weekend, to make sure everyone arrives ready to start.
Participant numbers will be limited and we anticipate this weekend will be popular so don’t miss you chance!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/leveret-18-30s-2025/
The hall is on the left when travelling north. The only street light along the main road is on the hall. Roadside parking.
All are welcome, no experience necessary. We enjoy an evening with live music and a caller who will guide you through all the dances. You don't need to bring a partner. No refreshments other than water provided, feel free to bring your own.
Do come along have some fun and laughter.
£7.50
Start time: 7.15 for 7.30pm
Finish time: 9.30pm
Contact Sally Condon: 0i300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Martin Harley has been making music and touring the world for over two decades. His sound has never been more down to earth.
Exploring Roots, Blues and slide guitar in a style The Guardian referred to as ‘Spellbinding’, Harley has released nine albums to date, four recorded on home soil and four across the Atlantic in Texas and Nashville.
www.martinharley.com
£21.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Winter Warmer is a fun and friendly folk break to get your year off to a great start! Expect a range of activities – all optional – including dances, dance workshops, music workshops, games, quizzes, singing, craft activities, and hopefully a walk or two, depending on the weather.
You’ll be guided by the Winter Warmer team: Sue Irving is your host for the event and will lead some fun and games to keep everyone relaxed and entertained; Madeleine Smith – well-known to many as a friendly and knowledgeable caller – will lead the dancing, assisted by David Capron; and musicians Dampiers’ Round (Peter & Moira Gutteridge) will be back, leading music for dancing and also offering workshops for musicians. There will also be opportunities for anyone attending to call a dance or run an activity, if they so wish.
There will be a range of activities to keep you entertained including daily music and dance workshops, plus afternoon activities and walks for those who want to get out into the fresh air. Dances every evening, with the option for you to play in the band or call a dance should you so wish, before retiring to the bar to enjoy the convivial relaxed atmosphere of the manor.
This break begins with an introductory meeting in the bar at 5pm, before dinner at 6.30pm, which is followed by the Welcome Dance.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/winter-warmer-2025/
This year High Grange brings its sell-out Burns night to the Marine Theatre, and this time there's a Celidh! The annual Scottish knees-up is a great excuse to dance away the January blues. Enjoy a fantastic Scottish haggis feast provided by Edinburgh-born Sara and Luke from High Grange Devon (bringing their award-winning Feast and BBQ Fire School experience) followed by a traditional Cèilidh (Scottish dance).
On the birthday of Scotland’s national poet Rabbie Burns, Burns Night is an opportunity to have a kilt-raising, whiskey-filled good time in celebration. Even if you’re not in the big guy’s motherland for the day, join us for plenty of food, booze and partying.
Whether you choose to come along to both the Supper and the Ceildih, or just turn up to dance at the Ceilidh this promises to be fantastic evening.
THE SUPPER
High Grange is an award-winning BBQ Feast and Fire School venue nestled in its own woodland in the Blackdown Hills, but this time they are bringing their barbecues to the Marine Theatre! As with every year at their sold-out Burns Feasts, High Grange will offer fire-pit canapes while guests gather and listen to the sound of the bagpipes from piper Ben, before being seated at the communal tables for Luke’s home-made haggis, with neeps and tatties of course, and finishing with a lovely Cranachan pudding. Everything is cooked outside over fire. Sara is a Scot and we do this the traditional way – with the haggis piped in before the Ode To A Haggis and a whisky toast!
We will also be making a vegetarian haggis. Please note if you are a vegetarian when booking. We sadly cannot cater for other dietary requirements at this event.
THE CEILIDH
Céilidh is derived from the Gaelic word to visit, and is linked with a time when house parties would host guests with entertainment ranging from telling stories and singing songs based on local folklore.
Over time the céilidh evolved into a structured step dance which requires a caller to shout out actions.
What to expect on Burns Night…… Rejig (the band) will be calling dances throughout the evening so even if you’ve never done Scottish Country Dancing before you’ll be instructed how! Sara has asked for all the traditional ones – the Gay Gordons, Strip the Willow, Reel of the 51st and the Eightsome Reel, Dashing White Sergeant and many more all of which are easy to pick up. Rejig will also be singing some well known Burns songs in between….. you will be needing your dancing shoes for sure.
Rejig are a Devon-based 5 piece band playing an exciting blend of Scottish, Irish and self penned tunes, they have extensive experience of Burns Night ceilidhs and are a continuum of the long lived band, Jiggerypipery, “we realised after legendary piper James Robertson retired that there was still a place for the big sound we had, particularly at special occasions”…like Burns Night!
Piper Ben Scott is also Edinburgh-born. He’s an award-winning solo piper and also in a number of Pipe Bands including the prestigious National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland. He has performed in many venues and at many Burns nights, and has travelled the world playing the bagpipes to audiences all over Europe and America.
THE EVENING’S PROGRAMME
7pm – Diners arrive, with fire-pit canapes served to the sounds of the bagpipes!
7.45pm – Diners will be seated at communal tables before the haggis is piped on and the Burns Supper is served.
9pm – Ceilidh guests arrive for a ceilidh led by renowned Burns night aficionados Rejiig, with a caller to lead everyone through the most popular Scottish dances.
Those who have tickets for both the supper and the céilidh will need to arrive at 7 p.m.
Those who have ticket for the céilidh alone will need to arrive at 9 p.m.
High Grange Website – www.highgrangedevon.com
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 7:00 P.M.
Advance: supper & céilidh £46.00
Advance: céilidh £16.00
On the door: céilidh £19.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/burns-night/
Ben & Dom are a singing duo from south London. Ben takes the high notes and Dom takes the low notes (most of the time). The intricate blend of their harmonies comes from a close friendship and shared love of singing together. They weave their voices around songs old and new, performing original material alongside new interpretations of folk songs. Their lyrics touch on friendship, nature and what it means for two men to sing together in this modern day.
The duo has taken its songs and singing around the UK, collecting festival appearances and completing a 20-date tour in 2022 to promote their debut album ‘His Head Lies Heavy’. (‘..incredibly well-crafted & beautiful’ – Folk London). They’ve opened for Tom Robinson, The Young Uns and regularly collaborate with friends & singers who share their love of voice & harmony.
Their debut EP ‘Shoulder’ (2021), written during the Covid-19 pandemic was well received by audiences and industry, (“Precision a cappella singing” – Tom Robinson, “An impressive debut” – Folking) with their songs featured on BBC 6Music & Radio 3 playlists.
www.benanddom.com
8pm–9:30pm
£12 Full-time student: £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-ben-dom/
Reg Meuross and Boo Hewerdine are delighted to be returning to Halsway Manor in Somerset to run a second songwriting retreat together
This retreat is a wonderful opportunity for songwriters of all levels to forget about the rest of the world and immerse themselves in their writing amongst like-minded people, and well-supported by Reg and Boo and founder of Company of Song / music manager / artist mentor Katie Whitehouse.
The programme includes group and individual tasks to stretch and challenge, opportunities to collaborate, a chance to play songs to Reg and Boo for feedback (song clinics), song sharing with the group, Q&A sessions, space to write brand new songs, time to relax at the bar, and to enjoy good food and good fun.
As well as running workshops and song clinics throughout the three days Reg and Boo will perform a live gig on Thursday night (free for retreat participants and tickets available soon for the public).
Songwriters of all levels are welcome.
Partnership Event
To apply https://bit.ly/WinterSongwriting2025BooReg
or contact Katie Whitehouse info AT companyofsong.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/winter-songwriting-with-reg-meuross-boo-hewerdine-2025/
Recorders AT Plymouth are back for their annual visit to Halsway Manor, offering an opportunity to explore the huge diversity of recorder orchestra repertoire. The recorder orchestra will be led by a professional conductor to enable players to develop their playing to a better standard, in a supportive environment with convivial company!
Players must be confident ensemble players, able to play both C and F instruments and ideally including bass; in a recorder orchestra there are many more basses, greats and contras, than small instruments. This course is not suitable for beginners or for descant-only players.
Helen Hooker the conductor for the orchestral sessions studied recorder at Trinity and has many years of experience of teaching and conducting. The non orchestral sessions will be conducted by Steve Marshall who is a prolific composer and arranger of recorder music. Steve has conducted many groups of recorder players on a variety of courses.
P Partnership Event
For more information and to book please contact Jan Epps:
Tel - 01752 417093
Email - jan.epps57 AT gmail.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/recorder-orchestra-weekend-2025/
The Mumford & Sons Story recreates the incredible tale of the floor-stomping folk-rock band that in 2009, took the world by storm.
Four musicians come together in tweed waistcoats, skinny jeans and bushy beards to celebrate the best of Mumford & Sons’ iconic music and their explosive rise to fame.
£28.50
7.30 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/awake-my-soul-the-mumford-and-sons-story/
One of Scotland 's premier traditional bands. Their diverse repertoire spans the centuries with fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, and original ballads and lullabies. They have that unique combination of traditional melodies, driving rhythmic accompaniment, and rich vocals that make their performances unforgettable. Over the years the Tannies have been international trailblazers for Scottish music, and their tight harmonies and powerful, inventive arrangements have won them fans from beyond the folk and Celtic music scenes.
In 2018 they released their 18th recording, Òrach (“Golden” in Gaelic) to celebrate their 50th anniversary, and in 2019 they were nominated for Folk Band of the Year and Album of the Year in Scotland. In 2021 they have been joined by exciting piper and fiddle player Iain MacGillivray, who is also Scotland’s youngest Clan leader. Iain, a fluent Gaelic speaker, has worked on such exciting productions as Outlander and Men in Kilts, and has performed for a huge list of stars and dignitaries in recent years.
s they head back out on the road they are firmly established as one of the premier groups on the concert stage – from reflective ballads to foot-stomping reels and jigs, the variety and range of the material they perform is matched only by their enthusiasm and lively Celtic spirits.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £15.00
On the door £19.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/the-tannahill-weavers/
Dive into the fantastic world of folk harp playing! We’re delighted to welcome back Steph West and Stacey Blythe, with Halsway newcomer Fidelma Hanrahan, to lead a weekend of harp workshops and sessions in our annual weekend dedicated to harp playing in a folk context.
Using a range of repertoire we’ll explore the music, arrangements and techniques for playing the harp in traditional music, and there’ll be classes for players of all levels.
There will be a tutors’ concert on Saturday evening and plenty of time for informal playing and socialising!
Who is it for?
Anyone who either plays harp already, or is interested in getting started. Our Folk Harp Weekend will require more advanced players to work by ear, with music provided at the end.
For players of any level
For complete beginners, and those who have taken a beginners course but want a refresher. Working on basic technique, making a great sound and learning how to play in comfort. We work slowly and carefully with more individual attention.
Steph West is providing harp hire again for anyone who does not have their own instrument yet. This will need to be booked in advance so let us know at the time of booking if you wish to reserve one of these.
More advanced sessions for players who can already perform a simple tune. We’ll work steadily and calmly on building your skills and include some technique work if needed.
There will also be options for more advanced players who want something more challenging.
www.stephwest.co.uk
Harp hire: £TBC (usually £20-£30)
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-folk-harp-weekend-2025/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
On instruments from Guitar to Nyckelharpa, Violin to Cittern, Griselda and Louis bring tunes from all parts of Europe and beyond, as well as original songs.
£15
7.30 pm
Contact Colin Bowen: 01963 240282
bowencolin AT hotmail.com
hvh.chessck.co.uk
Since emerging in 2016, Hannah and Ben have been defying all conventions of style, genre and compartmentalisation. A touch of ‘Americana’, yet quintessentially English. Traditional, yet Contemporary, with their individual writing style.
Playful and instinctive, they make music with such panache and natural chemistry it makes perfect sense.
www.hannahbenmusic.com
£17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Eliza is coming to BFC as part of the launch tour for her new solo album.
She is a world class musician, singer and songwriter having worked with many household names in her career.
With a love for crossing musical boundaries and bringing together musicians and music from all over the world – Eliza is passionate about the binding qualities that cross-cultural music-making has to offer. Tours and collaborations have taken Eliza all over Africa, North and South America, throughout Europe, Scandinavia, India, Japan and Australia, her solo adventure promises great things.
Free venue parking
7.30 (Doors at 7.00)
Tickets are £15.00 in advance or £20.00 on the door.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eliza-marshall-in-concert-tickets-1078234962799
Join us for a delightful evening of folk and traditional music performed on the harp.
Tutors of the Halsway Manor Harp Weekend – Steph West, Stacey Blythe and Fidelma Hanrahan perform traditional music from three corners of the UK – England, Scotland and Wales. Enjoy an evening concert, a drink in the bar and an opportunity to see the manor.
Steph West Harpist and singer Steph works as a performer, teacher and workshop leader. She embraces both English and Irish trad styles, working with artists and organisations in both fields.
Steph currently plays with the English Harp Project, celebrating English folk tunes on the harp through concerts and workshops.
The only harpist with 9.5 fingers, Steph works within the integrated/disabled arts world as a performer with the British Paraorchestra and RNS Moves, and has mentored for Open Up Music who are pioneering the National Open Youth Orchestra.
www.stephwest.co.uk
Stacey Blythe is a Composer, performer, and multi instrumentalist who has performed all over the UK and America. She is a regular composer for the Welsh National Opera’s max department (new opera ‘9 stories high’ is coming soon!). She also performs with Ffynnon and Elfen duo. She has toured and recorded as a composer and performer with many different artists (Maria Hayes), poets (including Patrick Jones), musicians (Dylan Fowler, Julie Murphy, Meredith Monk) and storytellers including Nick Hennessey.
Steph and Stacey will be joined by Fidelma Hanrahan.
Full Price £12
Concession £6
8.00 pm
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-harp-concert-2025/
We’re really excited to be joining up with Chris Dyer, Tom Evans, and members of the Third Beat Dance Collective for a music and dance course exploring the folk cultures of the Nordic countries.
For dancers, the main focus will be Swedish polska, but there will also be chances to learn other popular dances such as vals, schottis and slängpolska.
Musicians will explore the rich repertoire of Swedish dance music and will venture into other repertoires including Danish, Norwegian and Finnish. As well as learning tunes and styles, you’ll be looking at elements of the Nordic style, like traditional second voicing and harmonies, and learning how to play for the dancing. During evening dances, musicians will be offered the chance to play solo/in groups/with tutors in short slots.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/nordic-music-and-dance-2025/
This is the 9th PIVA Real Roots! course at Halsway, where you will be exploring the world of late 16th-century popular music, as heard in both court and country. Having ventured around Italy, Germany and Flanders, this year the focus will be on music from England, so expect Holborne, Dowland, Weelkes, Byrd (as well as the ever popular Anon!) and many more.
The core of the programme will consist of playing in a mixture of large and small ensembles, as well as a range of other options each day, including a focus on ensemble techniques, ornamentation and will hopefully also include some vocal sessions. PIVA will be aiming to enhance your knowledge of this snapshot of English music history through exploration and practice, as well as offering you opportunities to improve your small ensemble skills, in an approachable and enjoyable way.
You’ll be focusing on new repertoire, while building on and practising your pre-existing technique and skills. You’ll spend the majority of the time being guided by the tutors in small groups, with some time guided as a whole group and self-led in small groups. We’ll send you a timetable in advance and have sheet music ready for you when you arrive.
Please note: in order to get the most out of the long weekend, the first session for this course starts at 2pm, and sessions continue into Sunday evening. You’ll be able to check in to your rooms in the first break on Friday afternoon.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/piva-real-roots-2025/
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Join us for an evening performance of historic folk music with PIVA the Renaissance Collective. Discover the Real Roots! of folk music from the late 16th century. PIVA play popular traditional music and instruments of the time as heard in both court and country.
PIVA musicians have wide and diverse musical backgrounds and between them they have experience in playing renaissance, classical, and roots music. They bring all of these diverse musical influences together and fuse them with their knowledge of renaissance music and instruments.
8pm–9:30pm
Full price £12
Concession £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-piva-2025/
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Singers of all abilities are invited to join Hilary James this Spring and enjoy the pleasure of group singing as you discover the potential of your own voice. Explore the wealth of songs within the British folk traditions and beyond: from ballads to blues, sea songs to lullabies, comic ditties and more.
You’ll be working largely ‘by ear’ with simple improvised vocal harmonies but for the more experienced, written parts for some songs will be available. As well as singing acappella, there will be the opportunity to work with mandolin-backing from Simon Mayor’s Spring Mandolins.
Workshops will take place each morning, with afternoons free for personal practice, exploring the local area, delving into the library, or impromptu ensemble work.
Halsway Manor will be hosting this workshop alongside Simon Mayor’s mandolin course.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/spring-sing/
Join Simon Mayor, possibly this country’s finest mandolin player, for Spring Mandolins, an extended chance to work on techniques, musicianship, and an eclectic range of repertoire. Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Spring Sing.
Workshops will take place each morning, with afternoons free for personal practice, exploring the local area, delving into the library, or impromptu ensemble work.
Halsway Manor will be hosting this workshop alongside Hilary James’s course for singers.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayor-spring-mandolins/
An illustrious, witty and virtuosic collective playing everything from beautiful folk ballads to Carolan, Vivaldi, hot-swing fiddle, tangos and rags… and a comic ditty or two!
Featuring mandolins, mandola, mandocello, mandobass, violin, violoncello, classical guitar and voices.
‘Wicked and wonderful’ BBC Radio 3
‘Wit and sparkle from the eclectic, virtuosic quartet.’
BBC Radio 2
‘A stunning acoustic tour de force, played by a quartet at the top of its game.’
Sing Out!
Simon Mayor: mandolin, guitar, fiddle, voice
‘One of the world’s leading mandolinists’ (BBC Radio 3), as well as a fine fiddle player, guitarist, composer and wit, Simon’s many-faceted career two nights at Wembley Arena as soloist with the BBC Concert Orchestra, his own series on BBC Radio 2, an album in the Classic FM Top Ten chart, causing mayhem at a Canadian humour festival, having a song featured on The Simpsons, and, most memorably, a trip through the square window on BBC TV’s iconic Play School!
Florence Petit: mandocello and violoncello
An innovative and exciting young violoncellist, and the recipient of a diverse host of awards, Florence has appeared many times on BBC Radio 3, and is in huge demand in the world of baroque music. She joins the Mandolinquents adding the mandocello to her armoury.
Elias Sibley: guitar, mandolin, mandola, ukulele
Given his consummate skill as a classical guitarist, it’s easy to overlook Elias’ other talents. He’s one of the finest finger-style ukulele players of his generation, and an authority on classic banjo (pre-bluegrass styles of ragtime and early jazz). Going back a few tears, Elias was a young musical prodigy feted for his fine mandolin playing Now, after a long absence he’s been tempted to pick up the instrjument again by Simon…. Vivaldi’s Double Mandolin Concerto beckons!
Hilary James: voice, mandobass, guitar
Hilary has recorded six solo albums, including collections of Scottish, English and Irish folksongs, traditional blues and occasional forays into French chansons, Berlioz and Irving Berlin. She has featured on Radio 4 (Woman’s Hour), Radio 3 (In Tune), Radio 2 (top ten playlist) and Classic FM, as well as stations from Los Angeles to Latvia. As well as her fine singing she plays guitar on anything from Vivaldi to an Irish jig. She also has an unlikely taste in bass instruments, most famous amongst them is her mighty mandobass!
8pm–9:30pm
Full price: £12
Full-time student: £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-the-mandolinquents/
Our popular Bagpipe workshop weekend returns in 2025, running alongside the Hurdy Gurdy Weekend, in a frenzy of reeds, drones and buzzing things! Our thanks to the Bagpipe Society for their support of our bagpipe events.
You’ll need to select your level (beginner or intermediate/advanced) and will be working with the same tutor over the whole weekend. Outside the workshops, there will be plenty of opportunity to socialise with the other tutors and participants not in your group.
For an extra £65, participants can stay until Monday morning, including supper and B&B. Please enquire when booking.
Who is it for?
Beginners’ Course with David: This is a course for complete beginners. You will be finding out how the instrument works, posture, tuning, basic techniques, and simple repertoire to enjoy when learning to play. Most of the learning will be by ear with music scores provided to support our learning. We will aim to have a bit of fun too!
Instruments will be available for course participants to borrow. You will need to let us know when booking if you’ll require a loan instrument.
Intermediate/Advanced Course with Isabelle: This workshop is dedicated to everybody who wants to make music out of the bag! There’ll be a focus on technique – rappels, vibratos and other finger gymnastics – but musicality will be the main aim.
The Team
We’re sorry to say that Rémi Decker can’t join us in February but delighted that David Faulkner is able to take his place on the team.
David Faulkner has been playing pipes for over 25 years with groups such as the Eel Grinders and Jon Swayne’s Zephyrus, and performs regularly as a duet with accordionist Steve Turner. He has toured in Europe, Canada and America and taught piping courses in the UK and abroad and has worked as a community musician for nearly 20 years.
Isabelle Blô trained as a classical percussionist specialising in traditional music & dance from central France . A multi-instrumentalist Isabelle plays the French bagpipes, the hurdy-gurdy, the diatonic accordion and the chromatic accordion. She has also organised music & dance masterclasses in France, Great-Britain, Belgium and Switzerland.
www.bagpipesociety.org.uk
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/bagpipe-weekend-2025/
Guaranteed to be one of Halsway’s noisiest weekends, this popular Hurdy-Gurdy Weekend runs alongside our Bagpipe Weekend with masterclasses, workshops, sessions and a Saturday night concert/dance. A frenzy of reeds, drones and buzzing things! Early booking advised.
This course is for players of the hurdy-gurdy who already have their own instrument.
The weekend is hosted by Claire Dugué, hurdy-gurdy maker and repairer, and she’ll be available to help people get the most out of their instruments with tips for maintenance. Our international tutor team includes:
Ariel Ninas and Clémence Oppin (Intermediate/Advanced Hurdy Gurdy Workshop – one group each)
Jon Loomes (Beginner Hurdy Gurdy Workshop).
Each tutor will dedicate themselves to a specific group for the full weekend allowing for maximum learning and progression. You will need to decide which tutor you wish to work with and tell us when booking; numbers in each group are limited. Because course places are limited, we aren’t able to take bookings from those not wishing to fully participate in one of the workshop groups (unless you’re coming as the friend or partner of a participant, and sharing a room).
For an extra £65, participants can stay until Monday morning, including supper and B&B. Please enquire when booking.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/hurdy-gurdy-weekend-2025/
Barn dance
The hall is on the left when travelling north. The only street light along the main road is on the hall. Roadside parking.
All are welcome, no experience necessary. We enjoy an evening with live music and a caller who will guide you through all the dances. You don't need to bring a partner. No refreshments other than water provided, feel free to bring your own.
Do come along have some fun and laughter.
£7.50 under 16 free
Start time: 7.15 for 7.30
Finish time: 9.30
Contact Sally Condon: 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Join us for perhaps the most vibrant gig of the year at Halsway Manor. More pipes and gurdies than you can shake a stick at! Tutors of international reknown are coming to Halsway to lead the popular Pipes and Gurdies weekend. You can experience their magic at this concert performance.
Our International tutor team includes gurdy players Ariel Ninas, Clémence Oppin and Jon Loomes and pipers Isabelle Blô and David Falkner.
8pm–9:30pm
Full price £12
Concession £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-pipes-and-gurdies-2025/
Americana to some, Folk to others, The Black Feathers have those qualities in expansive quantity. Sian Chandler’s soaring, dramatic, melodious but powerful
voice is a perfect counterpoint to Ray Hughes’ piquant vocals and his sparkling and occasionally spicy guitar motifs. This is a duo who love what they play and play what they love with panache, humour, delight and rather
a lot of commentary on the downside of being a human.
www.theblackfeather.com
£17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
A weekend event for The Madding Crowd who research and perform the church and secular music of the English village bands and choirs in the period 1660 to 1861.
Who’s it For?
The Madding Crowd and friends, all lovers of West Gallery music.
The Madding Crowd is one of the largest and longest established of the revival groups specialising in West Gallery music. They meet each week, just as the old gallery bands and choirs did. The group was founded in 1975 to lead a village evensong, and we have given carol concerts every year since 1977, summer concerts since 1979, harvest concerts since 1989, and have led the singing at many church services, baptisms, weddings and harvest festivals. We have broadcast on radio and television several times, including the Songs of Praise programme shown in 1990, and in “Going the Rounds” on BBC Radio 4 in December 2003. We also provided music for a television programme about Isaac Watts, shown on the PAX channel in North America. In the 1990s we created an early 19th century village wedding and celebration for English Heritage Special Events at various locations in the South of England.
If you’d like to find out more, head to the website www.maddingcrowd.org
Partnership Event
For more details please contact:
info AT maddingcrowd.org
Please note: our partners set their own course prices, which may differ from our in-house courses.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/madding-crowd-2025/
Exquisite Folk from one of the country’s most exciting duos.
Partners in life and in music, dynamic Devon-based Folk duo Harbottle & Jonas are one of the most exciting acts on the UK circuit today, combining a love of the richness of traditional Folk with their own original and powerful songwriting. Dave and Freya have developed a distinct and compelling signature sound, blending concertina, harmonium, banjo, stomp box, acoustic guitar and cittern with their beautiful and closely intertwined vocal harmonies.
£18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Duos come and duos go, and some nurture and fine tune their art and watch it grow into something totally original and captivating.
For over a quarter of a century, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal.
From their early days in folk supergroup “Equation” through to their new album, Almost A Sunset, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music.
£22.00
7.30 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/kathryn-roberts-sean-lakeman/
Duos come and duos go, and some nurture and fine tune their art and watch it grow into something totally original and captivating.
For over a quarter of a century Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal.
From their early days in folk supergroup ‘Equation ‘ through to their new album, Almost A Sunset, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music.
2024 sees them release ’The Collection’. 18 of their most loved songs compiled into one seamless album.
BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Duo – 2016 & 2013
www.kathrynrobertsandseanlakeman.com
www.facebook.com/kathrynrobertsandseanlakeman
https://x.com/kathryn_sean
www.soundcloud.com/kathryn-roberts
www.youtube.com/user/KathrynSean
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £20.00
Advance: £19.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/kathryn-roberts-sean-lakeman-4/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Virtuoso players of Classical Guitar and Violin, Dom and Oscar bring us a wide variety of repertoire from different genres.
£15
7.30 pm
Contact Colin Hugh Bowen: 01963 240282
bowencolin AT hotmail.com
hvh.chessck.co.uk
In this concert, Wareham Whalers will explore some of the many words and phrases that originated at sea, on board sailing ships and have found their way into common everyday English usage. Through readings and songs, and in their usual lighthearted fashion, Whalers will share many of these with you including expressions such as touch and go and gone for a burton.
As usual, funds raised by the concert will contribute to our charities which this year are the RNLI and the PLANETS cancer support.
£10
7.30pm
Contact Durlston Country Park: 01929 424443
wareham.whalers AT gmail.com
http://www.wareham-whalers.org.uk/
Spiers & Boden first rocketed onto the music scene in 2001, quickly winning a clutch of BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and going on to form and front the extraordinarily successful folk big band Bellowhead, which sold out The Royal Albert Hall several times, provides the theme tune for Radio 4’s The Archers and were recently heard on the soundtrack of BBC 1’s ‘Beyond Paradise’.
The much-loved duo reformed in 2021 after a seven-year hiatus, arriving with a brand new album ‘Fallow Ground’ which went on to reach number 3 in September ‘21’s Official Folk Albums Chart and was a Mojo magazine top 10 folk album of 2021.
7.30 pm
£ 7.00 - £ 23.00
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/spiers-boden/
The new record from this reunited pair of uber-experienced folk musicians, came out in November 2023. Kith and Kin (the title a nod towards their own enduring friendship and expanding families) is a collection of the favourite tunes and songs from their ‘perfectly balanced’ live set. With the timeless combination of fiddle and box, James and Saul have been making music together for a long time now and re-launch their live act after time focusing energies on their young families. Born out of friendship, the duo intertwine seamlessly; dancing around the tunes between the notes, finding space and air breathing life into the music they create together.
James Delarre (Fiddle)
A veteran and founding member of the critically acclaimed Topette!!, Mawkin, and Mawkin:Causley, James Delarre has established himself as a stalwart of the English traditional music scene. As a fiddle player he is in high demand and has worked with some of the country’s top musicians and groups including, Eliza Carthy, Bombay Bicycle Club, Jim Moray, Jim Causley, Saul Rose, appearances with Bellowhead and Jools Holland as well as work as a musician on Tv and film. His filmography includes Peaky Blinders, Far from the Madding Crowd, Tulip Fever and My Cousin Rachel, to name but a few.
Saul Rose (Vocals & Melodeon)
Saul Rose is a renowned English folk melodeon player and singer. A long-time member of Waterson:Carthy, winning two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards with ‘Broken Ground’ and forming a duo with Eliza Carthy. Double album ‘Red Rice’ was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 1998. Saul played on numerous albums, including Jackie Oates’ ‘Hyperboreans’, Norma Waterson and Eliza Carthy’s album ‘The Gift’ and soundtracks for the films ‘Morris – A Life With Bells On’ and ‘Far From The Madding Crowd’. Nominated for the Musician of The Year award in the 2010 BBC Folk Awards, during 2011 he took the part of Songman in West End play War Horse. Now part of band Whapweasel and a duo with Maclaine Colsten, Saul was also a member of Faustus and a founder member of Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band.
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/jamesdelarresaulrose
Bandcamp: https://saulrosejamesdelarre.bandcamp.com/album/cabin-fever
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLhV24riYLs
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesDelarreAndSaulRose
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £17.00
Advance: £15.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/james-delarre-saul-rose/
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
In the wake of his departure from Steeleye Span, Peter Knight
turned his full attention to the Gigspanner Trio and established
their reputation as one of the most genuinely ground-breaking
forces on the British Folk scene.
www.gigspanner.com
8.00 pm
£23.50. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
The hall is on the left when travelling north. The only street light along the main road is on the hall. Roadside parking.
All are welcome, no experience necessary. We enjoy an evening with live music and a caller who will guide you through all the dances. You don't need to bring a partner. No refreshments other than water provided, feel free to bring your own.
Do come along have some fun and laughter.
£7.50
Start time: 7.15 for 7.30pm
Finish time: 9.30pm
Contact Sally Condon: 0i300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Mad Dog Mcrea blend a unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. In constant demand and having played just about every festival and two-bit, jibe-arsed dive in Christendom, Mad Dog Mcrea are, in every sense of the word, a live, band.
Matched with the unshakable dedication of their massive and “loyal-to-the-hilt”, fan base – Mad Dog Mcrea are more than just a very popular, festival act – with five albums under their belts, they are serious and acclaimed recording artists too. December 2019 saw Mad Dog Mcrea released a 5-track EP titled ‘It’s a Sign’.
The famous purple happy bus is fired up and ready for action, and there’s room for you – jump aboard!
SUPPORT ARTIST TO BE ANNOUNCED.
THIS EVENT IS FOR AGES 18 AND OVER. ID IS REQUIRED AT THE DOOR. THOSE UNDER 18 WILL BE DECLINED ENTRY AND REFUNDS WILL NOT BE OFFERED. ACCEPTED FORMS OF ID INCLUDE A VALID PASSPORT, A PHOTO DRIVING LICENCE AND A PROOF OF AGE CARD SUCH AS A PASS CARD FROM THE NATIONAL PROOF OF AGE STANDARDS SCHEME.
ENTRY POLICY:
The Marine Theatre operates a zero tolerance policy to drugs.
Anyone found with illegal drugs will be banned and reported to the police.
Only people aged 18 and over will be admitted to this event.
Customers are required to present their ID on entry.
Management reserve the right to refuse entry.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £21.00
On the door £24.00
10% off for members
Standing
Book online at any time, at the Lyme Regis Bookshop and Bridport Tourist Information Centre during normal opening hours, the Marine on Monday and Friday mornings 10 – 1, and over the phone on 01308 424901. The displayed price includes a £1 restoration levy.
Booking fee may apply
https://www.marinetheatre.com/mad-dog-mcrea-3/
Josienne Clarke is a Radio 2 Folk Award-winning artist, an Indie-Folk singer, songwriter and producer who draws on traditional British Folk inspirations. Blessed with a voice of crystalline beauty and clarity that has often been
compared to Sandy Denny, Josienne is now bringing Sandy’s songs to life again, this time with an all-star, four-piece band of Folk legends.
www.josienneclarke.com
8.00 pm
£21.50. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com
To round off our season, Martin Clarke and Will Allen, two outstanding young folk musicians on Fiddles and Melodeon, maybe a bit of banjo…
£15
7.30 pm
Contact Colin Hugh Bowen: 01963 240282
bowencolin AT hotmail.com
hvh.chessck.co.uk
Kris Drever originally comes from Hrossey in the Orkney Islands. Over the years, he has taught himself to be a songwriter, guitarist and singer of note (and sometimes many notes).
As well as creating award-winning original songs and instrumental pieces with the trio Lau, he has had a fruitful solo career exploring the cracks between
classic and modern songwriting and the traditional music that he comes from.
www.krisdrever.com
£19.50 Full. £18.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Legends of Irish music & song, The FUREYS are renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’, ‘The Green fields of France’, ‘The old man’, ‘Red rose café’, ‘From Clare to here’, ‘Her father didn’t like me anyway’, ‘Leaving Nancy’, ‘Steal away’ etc
The oldest of the brothers, Eddie Furey left home in 1966 and travelled to Scotland at the time of the great folk revival where with his brother Finbar, he met and shared accommodation with then unknown folk singers Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty, Tam Harvey and Alex Campbell.
In 1972, Gerry Rafferty wrote ‘Her father didn’t like me anyway’ for Eddie. BBC Radio 1 presenter, the late John Peel made it his single of the year.
They are particularly proud of their UK chart success with songs such as I Will Love You and When You Were Sweet Sixteen, which in turn helped bring Irish folk and traditional music to a completely new audience. The band made their Top of the Pops debut in 1981.
Eddie Furey recalls how “many musicians have told us we influenced them after hearing a record from their parents or grandparents’ collection”. Dave Stewart of The Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on the guitar while still a teenager. Eddie would return the compliment by joining Dave on stage in Paris for a jam during the latter’s wedding to Bananarama’s Siobhan Fahey.
Their emotive songs stir many emotions, tears and laughter, sadness and joy.
Tickets: £25
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/the-fureys-2025/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Roving Crows are an Irish Folk Rock band who deliver the goods with unbounded amounts of riotous energy and banter. Paul O’Neill (guitar and lead vocals); Caitlin Barrett (fiddle & vocals); Laurence Aldridge (drums & vocals) and Jim Smith (bass & vocals). Their passion and energy on stage is infectious, never failing to deliver a great time with their vibrant live show!
www.rovingcrows.com
£18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
A radically fresh, boundary-pushing take on traditional songs.
Anglo/Irish folk band The Haar brings the formidable singing talent of All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner Molly Donnery combined with three of the most exciting instrumentalists on the folk and traditional music scene in Cormàc Byrne (Show of Hands/Seth Lakeman), Adam Summerhayes, and Murray Grainger (both of the FATEA award-winning The Ciderhouse Rebellion).
Known for taking a familiar tune and turning it into something breathtakingly fresh and ambitious, this band of high level improvisers produce ever-changing musical soundscapes, while Molly lets her sublime vocals flow to stunning effect.
Latest album ‘Where Old Ghosts Meet’ received multiple rave reviews and has paved the way for outstanding festival appearances at Shrewsbury, Beardy Folk, and at other prestigious stages during their successful UK tours.
Expect a magical evening of stunning, made-in-the-moment renditions of some of the world’s most incredible songs.
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
£16.00 Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/the-haar/
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
A spellbinding collaboration between two musical powerhouses. Dublin native Aoife Ní Bhriain is one of Ireland’s foremost Traditional fiddle players and a Classical violinist of international stature who commands both the Classical world and her Irish traditional heritage. From across the Irish Sea and the west coast of Wales, harpist Catrin Finch has also built an impressive Classical career and ventured into uncharted musical territory, most notably through her award-winning international collaborations.
www.catrinfinch.com
£22.50 Full. £21.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
The hall is on the left when travelling north. The only street light along the main road is on the hall. Roadside parking.
All are welcome, no experience necessary. We enjoy an evening with live music and a caller who will guide you through all the dances. You don't need to bring a partner. No refreshments other than water provided, feel free to bring your own.
Do come along have some fun and laughter.
£7.50
Start time: 7.15 for 7.30pm
Finish time: 9.30pm
Contact Sally Condon: 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
The Magpie Arc is a cross-border band featuring acclaimed musicians
Nancy Kerr, Findlay Napier, Tom Wright, Alex Hunter, and UK folk legend Martin Simpson on electric guitar. Formed to blend their songwriting and musicianship into a fresh take on the British folk/rock sound of the ‘60s and ‘70s, the band quickly gained recognition for its unique mix of Folk, Rock, Country, and Prog-Rock elements.
www.themagpiearc.com
£25 Full. £24 Concessions
7.30 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
The Magpie Arc is a cross-border band featuring acclaimed musicians Nancy Kerr, Findlay Napier, Tom Wright, Alex Hunter, and UK folk legend Martin Simpson on electric guitar.
Formed to blend their songwriting and musicianship into a fresh take on the British folk/rock sound of the ’60s and ’70s, the band quickly gained recognition for its unique mix of folk, rock, country, and prog-rock elements.
Their debut album, Glamour In The Grey (2022), spent 12 months on the UK Official Folk Chart, debuting at number 9 and Mojo magazine compared it to Fairport Convention’s ground-breaking 1969 release, calling it “Liege and Lief-affirming” with “an elemental racket.”
Expect excellent songs, lush harmonies, scything electric guitars, gorgeous fiddle lines and rock solid bass and drums.
www.themagpiearc.com
www.facebook.com/TheMagpieArc/
X (formerly known as you know what) – AT themagpiearc
Instagram – AT themagpiearc
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £22.00
Advance: £20.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/an-evening-with-the-magpie-arc/
Album Launch of Turnstone
The Gigspanner Big Band are a unique force in British folk music...
Their high-energy, virtuosic performances appeal equally to traditionalists and to those looking for something more experimental, and they have garnered praise from publications as varied as fRoots, The Telegraph and The Wire, where they were described as ‘melodically folk-rooted yet open and innovative beyond the constraints of genre’.
Beginning life as a trio - with legendary Steeleye Span fiddle player Peter Knight being joined by percussionist Sacha Trochet and guitarist Roger Flack - the line-up has been expanded to form the Gigspanner Big Band, with acclaimed multi-instrumental duo Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin - BBC Folk Awards 'Best Duo') and Bellowhead co-founder and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers, joining the fray. As collaborations go, it doesn't get much more mouth-watering than this.
While Peter Knight, as part of Steeleye Span’s classic 1970s line-up, helped invent a brand of folk rock that is still influential today, John Spiers has had an equally profound impact on the landscape of traditional music over the last two decades.
Characterised by riotous inventiveness, technically gifted individual playing and subtle collaborative interaction, this coming together of several of the biggest names on the folk-roots scene, combines a deep knowledge of roots traditions with a ceaselessly boundary pushing approach. Taking self-penned material along with music rooted in the British Isles and beyond, with the flick of a bow, a finely chosen chord or slip of a beat, they produce richly atmospheric arrangements layered within a wealth of subliminal musical influences.
£27.00
7.30pm
https://bathboxoffice.org.uk/venues/christ-church
Legendary Irish Folk music band Dervish, are one of Ireland’s best known traditional bands and are described by the BBC as “an icon of Irish music”.
Dervish have a line-up which includes some of Ireland’s finest traditional musicians, fronted by one of the country’s best-known singers, Cathy
Jordan. Regarded by many as the most distinctive voice and finest front-woman in Irish traditional music today – the instrumental line-up of fiddle, flute, bouzouki, mandola, bodhran and accordion draw from seemingly limitless depths of talent, finesse, subtlety and fiery energy.
www.dervish.ie
£26. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Direct from the West End and riding high on the success of world tours, Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of the Dubliners brings the ultimate feel-good Irish show to a theatre near you.
In partnership with Tourism Ireland and in association with legendary Irish pub O’Donoghues, we invite you to join a talented cast of seasoned musicians dedicated to bringing the music of this iconic group back to life.
Steeped in song, story and revelry, this spectacular tale celebrates The Dubliners, Ireland’s favourite musical sons in authentic style. This critically-acclaimed production spans half a century, invoking the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, John Sheahan, Ciaran Bourke and Jim McCann.
Come join us for an unforgettable night out and see why lifelong Dubliner devotees and new fans alike are singing high praise for this amazing production direct from the West End.
£30.50
7.30 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/seven-drunken-nights/
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Evening
A 'Micro' Barn Dance evening. Usual easy and fun dances, friendly atmosphere, but no bar. BYO if you wish. No need to come with a partner.
£7.50
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Taking audiences by storm, SALTLINES is a compelling Prose and Music collaboration between bestselling author Raynor Winn (The Salt Path) and The Gigspanner Big Band, a top tier lineup which features some of the most influential names on the British folk scene.
Saltlines has a powerful originality which is compelling and transporting in equal measure.
By weaving reimagined folk music from the south-west, and original prose written and narrated for the
production by Raynor Winn, it reaches into the rich and visceral history of the South West Coast to celebrate the area’s landscape, social and natural history and enduring traditions.
It is an unmissable experience for anyone with a love of lyrical writing and inspiring music, and
those who value the social and natural history of Britain’s rural landscape, and the common threads that bind its fragile communities and wildlife.
Its impact on audiences has been a powerful one…
Beginning life as a trio formed by legendary Steeleye Span fiddle player Peter Knight, the line-up has
been expanded to form the Gigspanner Big Band, with acclaimed multi-instrumental
duo Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin) and Bellowhead co-founder and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers, joining the fray.
£29.50
7.30pm
https://cedarshallwells.co.uk/events/saltlines-the-gigspanner-big-band-and-raynor-winn/
Saltlines has a powerful originality which is compelling and transporting in equal measure.
By weaving reimagined folk music from the south-west, and original prose written and narrated for the
production by Raynor Winn, it reaches into the rich and visceral history of the South West Coast to celebrate the area’s landscape, social and natural history and enduring traditions.
It is an unmissable experience for anyone with a love of lyrical writing and inspiring music, and
those who value the social and natural history of Britain’s rural landscape, and the common threads that bind its fragile communities and wildlife.
Its impact on audiences has been a powerful one…
Beginning life as a trio formed by legendary Steeleye Span fiddle player Peter Knight, the line-up has
been expanded to form the Gigspanner Big Band, with acclaimed multi-instrumental
duo Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin) and Bellowhead co-founder and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers, joining the fray.
£30/£28
7.30pm
Phone: Box Office: 01305 266926
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2024/11/18/sun-4-may-saltlines/
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Daphne’s Flight are an exceptional force in British music. Chris While, Helen
Watson, Julie Matthews, Melanie Harrold and Miranda Sykes are among the
UK’s most-loved and respected artists individually, but when they join forces on stage something magical happens. Imagine, if you can, the instrumental
sparkle and songwriting creds of The Traveling Wilburys combined with the
striking vocal prowess of Sweet Honey in The Rock. Then add the warmth and
down-to-earth humour of The Derry Girls and you’ll be somewhere in Daphne’s
territory. They create a unique sound and energy which unites singer-songwriter, Folk, Blues and more.
£20.50 Full. £19.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Singer and guitarist, Jack Badcock is a hugely experienced performer, having toured throughout Europe, North America, Asia and Australia, predominantly as frontman and founding member of his multi-award winning, internationally renowned world-folk band ‘Dallahan’. He is a critically acclaimed solo artist and has also performed or recorded with Rura, Siobhan Miller, Adam Holmes, Dougie MacLean and The Royal Scottish National Orchestra among many others and was a finalist in the BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year Award. His career has seen him perform at some of the world’s most prestigious folk music events including Tønder Festival (DK), Festival Ortigueira (ES), Celtic Connections, (SCO) Woodford Folk Festival (AUS), Milwaukee Irish Fest (USA), Festival Dranouter (BE) and countless others.
Raised in Co. Kilkenny, Ireland and later Yorkshire, England, before moving to Scotland as a teenager, Jack has a split national identity shared between the three countries. At eighteen, in Edinburgh, he formed a partnership with multi-instrumentalist Ciaran Ryan, touring the UK, Germany and Denmark. The duo would go on to form Dallahan in 2013, which rapidly became one of Scotland’s busiest international folk bands. To date the band have recorded four critically acclaimed albums, earned several awards and many nominations and toured extensively on four continents.
Having previously sung mostly original interpretations of traditional songs, In 2020, Jack began writing original songs, initially incorporating them into Dallahan’s music before beginning to write and release solo recordings. In 2021, Jack released his debut solo EP, The Driftwood Project. Funded by Creative Scotland, the EP was drip-released throughout the year and showcased a plethora of musical influences and outlooks, featuring a large lineup of some of Scotland’s most accomplished instrumentalists from the jazz, classical and folk worlds. It was nominated for Original Work of the Year (Sponsored by PRS) at the BBC Scots Trad Music Awards 2021. He was then invited to write, arrange and perform the prestigious New Voices commission at Celtic Connections 2022 with a show of all-new original material with a six-piece band.
Jack Badcock is a singer whose solo material reveals an astute songcraft exploring enormously wide ranging subjects delivered with a musical sensitivity clearly influenced by American folk, funk and soul music as much as the traditional music of Britain and Ireland and all served with a healthy dose of storytelling and humour.
Website: www.jackbadcock.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/JackBadcockMusic
Instagram: www.instagram.com/JackBadcockMusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZEC5eIFq5kRQGFTRj5S1t?si=XoIbJUFMS2ainPcFRkBJqg
Youtube: www.youtube.com/JackBadcockMusic
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £13.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/jack-badcock-dallahan/
Hobsons Choice are delighted to bring you an evening of guaranteed laughter, fun and frolics with some great music to dance along to. This lively fiddle led band has been entertaining Folk throughout the south west for many years
and continue to bring joyful memories for all occasions.
Sarah will be bouncing around on bass guitar whilst calling dances and says “If you can walk, you can barn dance, so come along and have some fun whilst supporting The Great David Hall”.
www.hobsonschoice.org.uk
£12.50 Full. £11.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Kip Winter and Dave Wilson bring a sense of intimacy to every venue, blending superb, often hard-hitting original songs, stunning harmonies and musicianship with sometimes hilarious humour and tales of life on the road. Kip (vocals, accordion, guitar, flute) “simply has a voice to die for” ( John Roffey, Maverick Magazine), whilst Dave (vocals, guitar and banjo) is now rightly recognized as being amongst the top tier of British songwriters, with his songs sung in Folk clubs across the UK and beyond. Together, their voices are sublime.
£17. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
This is, as always, a day of free entertainment for all ages and will include music and dance performances, workshops, stalls and much, much more!
FREE EVENT
Entertainment will take place all day, throughout the village. Key venues
will include The David Hall, the Market Square, the Blake Hall, St Peter and
St Paul Church and the Brewers Arms.
www.pethertonfolkfest.co.uk
Hailing from Merseyside, Contemporary five-piece acoustic Roots combo Elbow
Jane blend acoustic Folk instrumentation with a fresh exciting sound and energy. Bouzouki, mandolins, guitars, piano and percussion are complemented by expressive vocals and stunning harmonies - likened by some to `Crosby
Stills & Nash’. They’ll make you laugh; they’ll make you cry and leave you shouting for more.
www.elbowjane.com
£19.50 Full. £18.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com