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.
Please note that all the email addresses on this page have been altered to try to limit the effect of spam programs. The @ symbol has been replaced with " AT ". Also note that the web addresses on the page may not act as hyperlinks. You will have to cut and paste them into the address bar of your web browser.
Winter Party
£5
7.30 - 10.00 pm
Contact Leslye Stansfield: 01460 75760
Crewkerne Folk Dance Club
Virtuoso is an overused word, glibly littered around as a description of ability. But when attributed to Lancashire-born, Devon-based musician Phillip Henry it’s spot on.
Henry has made his name as a spellbinding exponent of the slide guitar augmented with show-stopping beatbox harmonica.
www.wegottickets.com/event/439300
£12 adv
8pm
Contact box office: 01225 463362
http://www.chapelarts.org
Winter Party
Bring and share supper
£5
7.30 - 10.00 pm
Contact Leslye Stansfield: 01460 75760
leslyestansfield AT tiscali.co.uk
Crewkerne Folk Dance Club
Trio Fremsley! was formed in 2016 by three multi-instrumentalists who got together to explore the rich diversity of traditional music found in continental Europe and beyond.
Each bring their own musical experiences into the mix:
Paul Chousmer (piano accordion, clarinet), is an accomplished jazz pianist and electronics wizard,
Mike Eaton (hurdy-gurdy, bass, octave mandolin) is an established ceilidh musician,
whilst Chris King’s (acoustic guitar, mandolin) influences lean more towards prog rock.
Trio Fremsley’s style is very much rooted in traditional music, but with some of the improvisatory flair of jazz.
Expect to hear polska, zweifacher, bouree and tunes from the Klezmer tradition, amongst others . . .
£5 only
7.00 pm
Contact Samantha Jane Flounders: 07719949003
samantha-jane- AT hotmail.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/TrioFremsley/
A session for the more capable musician with the emphasis on being entertaining. Great local pub good choice of good beer
8.00 p.m.
Contact Nigel Canter: 07913 854047
nigel.canter AT talk21.com
https://www.facebook.com/theglobeinnweymouth/
Since his departure from folk-rock pioneers Steeleye Span at the end of 2013, legendary fiddle player Peter Knight has turned his full attention to his trio Gigspanner, and in the process has firmly established their burgeoning reputation as one of the most innovative acts on the folk/roots scene.
£14 / £12 concessions
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984 623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
Formed by Grammy-nominated musician and record producer Simon Emmerson, Afro Celt Sound System are a European and African based collective who’ve been a ground-breaking force in music ever since they started. Their acclaimed live performances are energetic and captivating and innovatively combine folk traditions of different cultures to breath-taking effect. They won Best Group in the 2017 Songlines Music Awards.
www.afroceltsoundsystem.org.uk
www.facebook.com/officialafroceltsoundsystem
Doors 7:00 pm
£27.50
All Standing
http://www.cheeseandgrain.com/event/afro-celt-sound-system/
Enjoy a sensational singing weekend with Narthen – Barry Coope, Lester Simpson, Jo Freya and Fi Fraser.
This weekend will focus on polyphonic unaccompanied singing in four part and three part harmony, for which the quartet are best known. Expect to learn some very unusual versions of carols, some unique to this group. The material will include some pieces scored by hat makers, shoe makers, and blacksmiths of old with their incredible fugueing parts but will also include more traditional folk style songs arranged by the group itself. Whilst this will set you up with some fantastic singing material for the festive season it won’t all be about Christmas. There will be other songs too!
www.haremusic.agency/narthen
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/singing-with-narthen/
Barn Dance
Music in the old village style. Dances for all ages and abilities. Light refreshments and BYO
£5 adults, children free
7:30 - 10:00 pm
Contact Janet Rees: 07880 335012
janetlynrees AT hotmail.co.uk
www.maidenoak.co.uk
Barn Dance with interval entertainment spot. Tickets on the door. No Bar - bring your own drink & nibbles!
£5 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.30pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Support from Andy Stone
Fabulous singer-songwriter Anthony John Clark is brilliant solo, but has more fun and widens his range being accompanied by Dave Pegg (Peggy from Fairport Convention). This will be a night of outstanding musical entertainment and humour.
Providing opening support we have our wonderfully talented sound engineer, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and -arranger Andy Stone.
£14 pre-booked, £16 unbooked
8.15 pm (Legion open from 7.00 Concert doors 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Alasdair Roberts, Emily Portman, Lucy Farrell and Rachel Newton are four fine soloists sharing a mutual love of traditional songs, from both sides of the English and Scottish borders, with playful, boundary-defying musicianship.
Since their critically acclaimed debut, At Our Next Meeting, The Furrow Collective has been in demand as a touring band, gigging throughout Europe and performing BBC live sessions. Hot on the heels of two BBC Folk Award nominations, in November 2016 they released their new album, Wild Hog, to huge critical acclaim. Each band member leads a song, moving with ease from jaunty stories of ailing horses to poignant laments and sparsely adorned supernatural ballads.
www.thefurrowcollective.co.uk
Tickets: £17 Full. £16 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=950
If you enjoy listening to acoustic music in a relaxed atmosphere, come along to the Arts Centre bar and have a listen.
If you enjoy playing acoustic music to like-minded people - come along and join in. It doesnt matter what instrument you play - we have guitarists, violinists, flautists, pianists, accordion players, percussionists... and more besides that!
It doesnt matter how good you are - all abilities are welcomed... we all started somewhere!
Theres no charge, but donations are welcomed.
The bar is open throughout the evening for you to moisten your vocal cords!
7.30 pm
Find our page on this website in the About Us section and feel free to join our Facebook group: http://bit.ly/musicClub
http://www.w-a-a.co.uk/e.php?e=883
Laurie Phillips and Laurie Burn will provide an evening of tunes and songs on guitar, bazouki and mandolin, plus some vocals from Karen Burn.
Starting at 7.30pm in the skittle alley, the first part of the evening will be open to “floorsingers”. Sign up in the book on arrival.
At about 8.30pm Jacqui will be providing a bar supper for the interval, only for pre-ordered meals. To pre-order supper contact 01460 281919 or thecrown_inn AT btconnect.com
Laurie Burn laurieguitars AT gmail.com 01460 281033
Launch 'Smallword' Album
Dallahan is one of the most distinct forces in the international folk music scene. Forged in Scotland's traditional music community, but drawing on the traditional music styles of the Balkans and North America, they create an original and seamless musical montage, blending their contemporary influences from jazz, funk, and pop music. Since forming five years ago, they have toured extensively in Europe, North America and represented Britain at the bicentenary British/Nepalese celebrations in Kathmandu, whilst enjoying varied on-stage collaborations with The Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Dougie Maclean, and Nepal's traditional music exponents Kutumba.
www.dallahanmusic.com
£10 adv/312 door
8pm
Contact box office: 01225 463362
bathboxoffice AT bathtoursm.co.uk
http://www.chapelarts.org
Acclaimed local folk musicians, Bonny Sartin (The Yetties) and John Bullock (yStrels Band), will be performing a variety of readings and songs in celebration of Dorset and its rich heritage.
£10 to include light supper. BYO drink & glasses
7.30pm doors open 7pm
Contact Mary or Graham: 01935 872742 or 01963 210632
friendsofholnest AT gmail.com
www.friendsofholnestchurch.wordpress.com
London based singer Ranjana Ghatak has worked nationally and internationally as both an artist and composer. Commissioned by the Commonwealth Games to write a piece for the Big Big Sing Project in Glasgow 2014, Ranjana also recorded on Gareth Malone’s Christmas album alongside the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Singing in Sanskrit, Bengali, Hindi and English, Ranjana takes inspiration from Indian Classical music, mystic poetry and her own writing, performing new material written by herself and songs composed to mystic poets such as Kabir and Meera Bai. Touring following the release of her debut album, she shares the stage with Mercury nominated bass player Liran Donin and in demand guitarist Jack Ross. This trio have spent the last 2 years exploring and performing in several venues including Kew Gardens, Saffron Walden, Bath International Festival, Barbican foyer and Wigmore Hall. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
Indian Singing Workshop
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.ranjanaghatak.co.uk
7:30pm
Tickets: 01300 345455. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Narthen are Barry Coope and Lester Simpson of Coope Boyes and Simpson, Jo Freya of Blowzabella/Moirai and Fi Fraser of The Old Fashioned/Polka Works.
You can catch the quartet in performances all year-round; however, they are best known for their scintillating Christmas shows, a seasonal mix of songs and tunes that reflect the whole of Christmas and the winter season. Wonderful four part harmony Yorkshire carols are mixed with songs showing the less reverential and more humorous side of Christmas. All delivered in four part harmony – often with instrumental accompaniment – to touch your heart, engage your intellect and wow your ears.
As many people now say: ‘Christmas starts with you’.
8pm–10pm
£12
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/narthen/
!!! CANCELLED !!!
The Quire will be performing their Christmas Concert of carols and readings collected from the South West of England.
£7 in advance, £8 on the door, includes mulled wine and mince pies.
7:30 pm
Contact Victoria 01935 or Chris 01935 477880
marymagsbarwick AT gmail.com
Led by Gareth Kiddier and Linda Game (The English Contra Dance Band), you’ll explore all aspects of playing in a dance band: from putting a band together, deciding on a repertoire, creating a set list, working on stage with callers and technology, using light and shade in dances, and – most importantly – having fun.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/playing-music-for-dancing/
Monthly workshop led by Laurel Swift to learn tunes, chords, harmonies and arrangements. Suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments. Notation and audio supplied.
£12 on the door / £10 when paid in advance via the website
1.30pm - 4.30pm
Contact Julia Catovsky: 01935 817905
jcatovsky AT gmail.com
www.laurelswift.co.uk
London based singer Ranjana Ghatak has worked nationally and internationally as both an artist and composer. Commissioned by the Commonwealth Games to write a piece for the Big Big Sing Project in Glasgow 2014, Ranjana also recorded on Gareth Malone’s Christmas album alongside the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Singing in Sanskrit, Bengali, Hindi and English, Ranjana takes inspiration from Indian Classical music, mystic poetry and her own writing, performing new material written by herself and songs composed to mystic poets such as Kabir and Meera Bai. Touring following the release of her debut album, she shares the stage with Mercury nominated bass player Liran Donin and in demand guitarist Jack Ross. This trio have spent the last 2 years exploring and performing in several venues including Kew Gardens, Saffron Walden, Bath International Festival, Barbican foyer and Wigmore Hall. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.ranjanaghatak.co.uk
7:30pm
Tickets: 01305 871035. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Indian Singing Workshop
Join Ranjana for an introduction to Indian Singing at Buckland Newton on Sunday 18 November, 4:30pm-6pm. Learn the names of the notes, and a variety of time cycles, before learning a traditional Indian song. No experience necessary. Places limited; contact 01300 345455 to book.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.ranjanaghatak.co.uk
Join Sam Patten & The Arquebus Folk Trio for an afternoon of folk songs, foot stomping fiddle tunes, banter and a buffet. The perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
£8 including a finger buffet
2.30 - 4.30 pm
Contact Box Office: 01935 824064
http://www.sampatten.co.uk/
All welcome to this mainly English session. The last one was mainly Dorset and you can't really improve on that (my opinion!) Many thanks to all those who came.
5:00 - 8.30 pm
Contact Colin and Ruth Thompson: 01300 321396
fiddler AT casterbridge.net
Following the extraordinary reaction to their haunting cathedral tour Sanctuary, Show of Hands return to the theatre and concert circuit on a quest to reveal a fuller sound for the trio’s bold new studio album.
Joint Venture features intriguing collaborations with the likes of Afro Celt Sound System’s Johnny Kalsi, and folk/reggae band Edward the Second. Steve, Miranda and Phil will each play an opening set of three solo spots before being joined by Cormac Byrne, legendary percussionist of Seth Lakeman Band fame.
Please note due to the nature of this event there may be some occasions during the show when some patrons choose to stand.
Tickets: £26
Concessions: £24.50
Footlights/Groups 10+: Discount Applies
A £1 ticket levy is included in all stated ticket prices.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=document_general_info&cPath=14&products_id=951
Periodically, the pairing of two acts, each with their own unique identity, produces an electrifying force that is even greater than the impressive sum of its parts.
As a trio, Gigspanner, formed by multi-award winning fiddle player Peter Knight (ex-Steeleye Span), has built a massive reputation for dismantling traditional music and song and "reshaping it in fascinating ways" fRoots
BBC Folk Award winners (Best Duo) Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin are described The Guardian as being "Subtle, bravely original...a combination of virtuosity, intensity and charisma"
Their appearances together as the Gigspanner Big Band are a rare but highly sought after affair, thanks to performances of dazzling musicianship and arresting chemistry.
£19 (early bird) to £23 (on the door)
7.30pm
Contact Marine Theatre: 01297 442138
http://www.marinetheatre.com/music-gigspanner-wednesday-21-november/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We have been dancing for almost 50 years.
We meet on alternate Thursdays.
£2.50 members £3.50 guests. New members and guests always welcome.
For more details contact Elaine 01460 65909
Bound by lifelong friendship and a love of Cornwall’s stirring songs of the sea, this most convivial choral collective will showcase a fresh haul of old favourites as well as new songs from their latest album Sole Mates - their seventh since they were ‘discovered’ singing on the Platt on the harbour at Port Isaac on Cornwall’s rugged Atlantic coast.
Tickets: £26
A £1 ticket levy is included in all stated ticket prices.
https://www.octagon-theatre.co.uk/whats-on/music/fishermans-friends-2018/6418
Led by the award-winning jazz violinist and composer Christian Garrick, the Budapest Café Orchestra put their own spin on traditional folk & gypsy flavoured music from across the world. Raucous, toe-tapping Balkan and Russian numbers are combined with jazz and swing inflections whilst Klezmer, Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czardas are awarded fresh treatments before they give way to a disarmingly beautiful arsenal of ballads. Following the release of their 9th album ‘Sultan’s House Party’, BCO are back on the road with another fantastically exciting and musically impressive show - early booking is highly advised! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
7:30pm
Tickets: 01935 83784. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Seth Lakeman takes a break from the Robert Plant musical juggernaut in Autumn 2018 to release his ninth studio album ‘The Well Worn Path’ and head out on tour around the UK with a new band line-up.
The charismatic singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist found time at the beginning of the year, in between charging around the globe with Robert Plant and his band, the Sensational Space Shifters, to record his new studio album The Well Worn Path.
It’s a return to a no-nonsense, organic, classic folk-rock approach with hints of Fairport Convention, Neil Young, Nick Cave and Billy Bragg – plus Lakeman’s trademark foot-stomping, fiddle bow-shredding and soaring vocals.
www.sethlakeman.co.uk
£22 Advance / £26.50 Doors
Door 7pm
All standing
http://www.cheeseandgrain.com/event/seth-lakeman/
A session with dancing.
Everyone welcome to play, sing, dance, watch, listen...
It's not a performance, it really is a session.
8.00 pm start
The 16th Annual Zesty Contra House Party is an exhilarating and popular weekend designed to extend your dance horizons! Bring your instruments too if you fancy joining the band for a session or two.
Contra dancing is a development of the English country dances taken up by the French at the end of the 17th Century which were then exported back to England and subsequently travelled with the early settlers to America. The resurgence of interest in recent years has led to a more contemporary “zesty” contra style.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/15th-annual-zesty-contra-weekend/
Led by the award-winning jazz violinist and composer Christian Garrick, the Budapest Café Orchestra put their own spin on traditional folk & gypsy flavoured music from across the world. Raucous, toe-tapping Balkan and Russian numbers are combined with jazz and swing inflections whilst Klezmer, Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czardas are awarded fresh treatments before they give way to a disarmingly beautiful arsenal of ballads. Following the release of their 9th album ‘Sultan’s House Party’, BCO are back on the road with another fantastically exciting and musically impressive show - early booking is highly advised! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
7:30pm
Tickets: 01747 840057. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Powerful Celtic undertones and intoxicating tribal rhythms
After winning International Artist of the Year at the Australian Celtic Music Awards in 2017 the band completed a 3 week tour in Australia this May supported by the UK Arts Council.
Roving Crows push the boundaries of the Celtic Folk genre and play with genuine passion, energy and soul – a must see live act.
www.rovingcrows.com
www.facebook.com/rovingcrows
www.youtube.com/therovingcrows
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £14.00
Advance: £12.00
The Cafe is open this evening, last orders at 6.30pm
https://chapelarts.org/events/roving-crows-3/
Beverly is well known as a guitarist, fiddler, mandolin player and singer who has had a long career working with an extensive array of the best and most creative of contemporary old-time artists and string bands. Her collaborations include backing up fiddlers Bruce Molsky, Rafe Stefanini, Tara Nevins and Brad Leftwich, singing with Irish musicians Mick Moloney and John Doyle, and with bluegrass great Laurie Lewis, and performing in a duet with Alice Gerrard. She achieved international regard as a part of a highly acclaimed old-time music duet act with Carl Jones. In addition to her extensive ensemble work, she now performs as a solo artist, and has begun bringing her original songs and tunes to her performance repertoire.
This event is a supper club, with dinner served from 6pm, and the concert starting at 7:30pm. For information or tickets, contact info AT bistrolottefrome.co.uk and 01373 300 646, or kate AT katelissauer.com
https://bistrolottefrome.co.uk
If you want to attend the concert but not the meal, contact Kate directly. Tickets for the concert only are £12/£10.
Jaywalkers have been delighting audiences for over 10 years; taking their exciting, inventive and virtuosic brand of Americana up, down and around the UK and Europe. These three outstanding musicians have developed a tight bond, demonstrated through their well-crafted, tasteful arrangements and ability to bounce ideas around the stage. The combination of powerhouse bass, flame-fingered mandolin, blistering fiddle and three-part harmony pack a punch as fiery as Jay’s lead vocals and make a fuller sound than expected from an acoustic trio.
Doors: 8pm | Start: 8:30pm
Tickets £8 available from
https://bathfolkfestival.org/ticket/jaywalkers/
Blazin’ Fiddles are one of the world’s most prolific fiddle groups. Celebrating their 20th year in 2018 – and with the release of their ninth album, The Key, in November 2017 – no other band has quite managed to capture the excitement, passion and sensitivity of Scottish music all at once.
With a “Blazers” performance comes the rare opportunity to hear regional expressions, from Scotland’s highlands and islands, and the individual style of each fiddler – Inverness’ Bruce MacGregor, Shetlander Jenna Reid, Nairn’s Rua Macmillan, and Orcadian Kristan Harvey – in a blend of ensemble and solo sets. Fiddles and bows come alight atop guitar and piano from Anna Massie and Angus Lyon, delivering a musically intoxicating evening for all.
www.blazinfiddles.com
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=953
Winner of BBC Folk Awards for best newcomer and best traditional track, Jackie Oates is a name synonymous with the reinvigoration of English folk music, beguiling audiences with a delicate balance of tradition and reinvention.
Her mellifluous voice and imaginatively plaintive fiddle style has won her several BBC Folk Awards during a 10-year recording career that began as a member of the emerging Unthanks and has continued with five acclaimed solo albums. Collaborations with Alasdair Roberts, Belinda O’Hooley and her brother Jim Moray on material that’s ranged from traditional ballads to eerie lullabies and rich contemporary songs, Jackie has earned fans beyond the folk scene she grew up in.
Tickets £16 (students £12) from Box Office 01202-413600.
8pm (bar 7pm).
www.bournemouthfolkclub.com
Chris Wood is an uncompromising guitarist and singer whose music reveals his love for the unofficial history of the English speaking people.
With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables.
On stage Chris has the air of a craftsman who no longer needs to be precious about his art. Without any apparent effort he reaches deep into an enviable repertoire of songs before revealing another gem.
With support
Bar opens 6:30 P.M., starts 7:30 P.M.
£14 advance / £16.50 on the door. 10% off for Theatre Friends
Online via http://www.marinetheatre.com/music-chris-wood-saturday-24-november/
In person: Lyme Regis and Bridport Tourist Information centres
Over the phone: 01297 442138
Booking Fee may apply
Led by the award-winning jazz violinist and composer Christian Garrick, the Budapest Café Orchestra put their own spin on traditional folk & gypsy flavoured music from across the world. Raucous, toe-tapping Balkan and Russian numbers are combined with jazz and swing inflections whilst Klezmer, Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czardas are awarded fresh treatments before they give way to a disarmingly beautiful arsenal of ballads. Following the release of their 9th album ‘Sultan’s House Party’, BCO are back on the road with another fantastically exciting and musically impressive show - early booking is highly advised! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
7:30pm
Ticket: 07590 352219. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Rooted folk music by three Flemish brothers
Ward, Hartwin, and Koen have known each other for a very long time! The three brothers have been playing together for more than 20 years. Formerly in the forest and in the attic, today on stage. Little has changed in the concept; playfully create their own imaginary world in which no rules apply and it is blissful.
Through the years the brothers managed to create their own sound with their innovative instrumental folk; a musical identity that is hard to link with traditional music from any region, but which still feels familiar to many. The many foreign concerts in the whole of Europe and Canada do not lie.
But Trio Dhoore's music is also appreciated in Flanders. The song "Endless Dancing" from their latest album 'Momentum' can be heard regularly on Radio 1. In 2017 the brothers performed "MainStage" during Dranouter Festival and they made their "entrance" in the Flemish art centers.
£14 / £12 concessions
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
Tatterdemalion, the Band of the New Hardy Players, play tunes for dancing from the Hardy and Ben Rose collections. A band of colour, energy and vivacity.
Angela Laycock will call dances from her broad repertoire.
Ticket price includes a pasty served. There will also be a bar and a raffle.
The evening is in aid of three local students raising funds for their gap year project with Camps International.
Tickets also available from Cerne Abbas Stores.
£10 adult/£2.50 child/£22 family
Doors open at 6.30pm
Contact Liz Scott: 07932 026560
lizscott708 AT gmail.com
‘Fire in the Telling’, how to put your passion for storytelling into your performance! Sharon Jacksties returns to Halsway Manor to teach a skills-based intermediate storytelling course for those who already have some storytelling experience, and who wish to improve their performance practice.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/fire-in-the-telling/
Since his departure from folk-rock pioneers Steeleye Span at the end of 2013, legendary fiddle player Peter Knight has turned his full attention to his trio Gigspanner, and in the process has firmly established their burgeoning reputation as one of the most innovative acts on the folk/roots scene.
A glance at the band's Guestbook page offers an insight into the emotional impact their performances exert..."spellbinding" "sublime" "blown away" "inspired" and "magical" are familiar themes.
7.30
Tickets £15
www.gigspanner.com
http://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
Led by the award-winning jazz violinist and composer Christian Garrick, the Budapest Café Orchestra put their own spin on traditional folk & gypsy flavoured music from across the world. Raucous, toe-tapping Balkan and Russian numbers are combined with jazz and swing inflections whilst Klezmer, Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czardas are awarded fresh treatments before they give way to a disarmingly beautiful arsenal of ballads. Following the release of their 9th album ‘Sultan’s House Party’, BCO are back on the road with another fantastically exciting and musically impressive show - early booking is highly advised! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
4.00 pm
Tickets: 01725 517500. £12, £6 u18s, £30 fam
Enjoy a home-cooked supper, before cosying round the fire for an evening of tale-spinning led by Sharon Jacksties.
Sharon Jacksties has been telling traditional tales of wonder and delight for over 25 years. Working here and abroad, she has been happy telling stories to all ages in venues that vary from bus shelters to the National Theatre. She shares stories from all over the world, some of which have never been heard on these islands before. Sharon is also the author of ‘Somerset Folk Tales’, Somerset being her adopted county, and is co-director of The Summerlands Storytelling Festival.
Joining Sharon will be students from her ‘Fire in the Telling’ course, so come and listen to a variety of voices telling world wide traditional tales.
6pm–9:30pm
£15 supper and stories
£5 stories only (8pm start approx)
Please note that supper MUST be booked in advance. All diets can be catered for, please notify us when booking.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/a-storytelling-supper-2/
The FB Pocket Orchestra takes its listeners back to the hot jazz,blues, ragtime & popular dances of the 1920/30s & earlier.
The members originally began playing together in various FB Music & Media projects and officially began playing as The FB Pocket Orchestra in 2012.
8.00 pm
Contact Richard & Lesley Quayle: 07884 364516
mail AT draxfolk.org.uk
www.draxfolk.org.uk
Faustus are delighted to announce their UK ’Cotton Lords’ Tour, during which they will be presenting new tracks from the ongoing Cotton Famine Poetry project.
For the last few months Faustus have been sifting through publications and journals of the 19th Century Lancashire Cotton Famine period, as part of a project based at the University of Exeter to archive, preserve, and rehabilitate the poetry of this distressing chapter of working-class history. As featured on BBC Radio 4, they have set some of the texts to new music, soon to be released on CD.
More information and recordings can be found at http://cottonfaminepoetry.exeter.ac.uk/
£14 adv/£15 door
8pm
Contact box office: 01225 463362
bathboxoffice AT bathtourism.co.uk
http://www.chapelarts.org
For 15 years Jim Moray has been at the forefront of a new movement in English traditional music. His debut album Sweet England changed the sound of folk song and won a brace of awards for its innovative melding of orchestration and electronica. Subsequent albums embraced everything from grime to Johnny Marr-esque guitar pop, but at their heart was always Jim’s unmistakeable soulful and yearning voice; singing old songs in a new way.
www.jimmoray.co.uk
www.facebook.com/jimmoray
www.twitter.com/jimmoray
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £16.00
Advance: £14.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/jim-moray-2/
Faustus are delighted to announce their UK ’Cotton Lords’ Tour, during which they will be presenting new tracks from the ongoing Cotton Famine Poetry project.
For the last few months Faustus have been sifting through publications and journals of the 19th Century Lancashire Cotton Famine period, as part of a project based at the University of Exeter to archive, preserve, and rehabilitate the poetry of this distressing chapter of working-class history. As featured on BBC Radio 4, they have set some of the texts to new music, soon to be released on CD.
More information and recordings can be found at http://cottonfaminepoetry.exeter.ac.uk/
£10adv
7.30pm
Phone: 01458 447223
http://www.wegottickets.com/event/442551
Delve into the wonderful world of klezmer with members of the London Klezmer Quartet. Ilana Cravitz (violin), Susi Evans (clarinet and accordion) and Indra Buraczewska (double bass & vocals) will take you deep into freylekhs, bulgars, zhoks, khosidls and terkishers, looking at the modes, ornamentation and rhythms that characterise traditional Eastern European Jewish folk music. Play in a klezmer band, be part of the ever-growing Halsway Klezmer Kapelye (big band), and learn steps for the dances that the music traditionally accompanies. Reading music is not essential as we’ll be working by ear quite a bit, but we will also look at interpreting written music. All instruments are welcome. For players of grade 4 and above or equivalent.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/klezmer-music-weekend/
Faustus: Paul Sartin (Belowhead, Belshazzar’s Feast), Saul Rose (Waterson:Carthy, Whapweazel) and Benji Kirkpatrick (Seth Lakeman Band, Bellow Head). This is the final concert of their UK ‘Cotton Lords’ Tour and will feature new tracks from their ongoing Cotton Famine Poetry project.
More information at http://cottonfaminepoetry.exeter.ac.uk/
£10
8pm. Doors open 7.30pm
Contact Kay Williamson : 01458 448694
faywilliamson46 AT hotmail.com
http://comptondundon.com/?page_id=5284
The Quire will be performing their Christmas Concert of carols and readings collected from the South west of England.
£8
7:30 pm
Contact David Baldwin: 01963 548533
baldwindavid67 AT gmail.com
Your pre-Christmas treat, a return of Derby duo Doug Eunson and Sarah Matthews, teamed with Ray Goodswen's calling. Expect great music played on melodian, hurdy-gurdy, fiddle or viola - not to be missed!
All welcome, dances will be walked and talked through and called throughout.
Bring & Share (finger food) supper, and your own beer (The Woodman Inn is just opposite).
On street parking or use town car parks.
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, under 17's £4. (can be bought on line, see website)
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact Monty Crook
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
A ‘Chance to Dance’ Event
With the fiddle leading the charge, Noble Jacks are out to take no prisoners as they come on with their high-energy footstompin’ rhythms which have taken crowds by storm across the UK.
Noble Jacks have been touring relentlessly, stompin’ their way round the British music scene with ‘sold out’ headline events promoting their debut album, 'What the Hammer', as well as shows at major festivals, including Glastonbury, Cambridge Folk Festival and Beautiful Days, to name a few.
www.noblejacks.com
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=955
Award winning Jazz guitarist Martin Taylor teams up with acoustic and slide guitar virtuoso Martin Simpson. The pair shares the stage throughout the performance – adding to each other’s songs and instrumental pieces, taking them to new areas of creative inspiration.
This is an unmissable evening with two guitar playing legends working in harmony.
£12 advance, £14.50 door. 10% discount for Theatre Friends
Bar opens 6 P.M., starts 7 P.M.
Unreserved seating
Tickets:
Online: via http://www.marinetheatre.com/music-martin-taylor-and-martin-simpson-saturday-1-december/
In person: Lyme Regis and Bridport Tourist Information centres
Over the phone: 01297 442138
Booking Fee may apply
It’s Christmas Day in the Long House!
Join Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies, as they shelter from a Viking winter, huddled around the roaring fire beneath the rafters of the Great Hall.
Jez’s annual Christmas tour has become quite a tradition in recent years, striking out from their native North East England to entertain audiences across the whole of the UK.
This year, the band once again invites special guest, Benny Graham, to join them on a journey across the Great North Sea, to share the songs and tales of the Northlands.
Part folk concert, part music-hall revue. Sing along, laugh along, and drive the cold winter away.
Watch out! The long ships are sailing up the Tyne!
This fabulous seasonal show is brought to you by Wessex Acoustic Folk Club, www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
£16 (Concessions available)
7.30pm
Contact Shaftesbury Arts Centre Box Office: 01747 854321
www.shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk
Packed full of polyphonic a capella carols and other gorgeous seasonal songs and tunes, this show reflects all aspects of the winter season, from the beautiful carols of north Yorkshire, Derbyshire and beyond, to the irreverent nature of certain aspects of Christmas and the winter season.
Featuring Barry Coope and Lester Simpson of Coope Boyes and Simpson, Jo Freya of Blowzabella and Fi Fraser of The Old Fashioned/ Polka Works, the quartet are known for their sumptuous four part harmonies, but include piano, accordion, fiddle, soprano sax, ukulele and whistles in this heartwarming show for Christmas. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.haremusic.agency/narthen
7:30pm
Tickets: 01308 897421. £10, £7 u18s, £28 fam
Christmas Concert.
3pm
The London Klezmer Quartet is a dynamic group of performers whose deep understanding of klezmer, the celebratory and soulful music of Eastern European Jews, is reflected in exuberant, passionate and accomplished performances that captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The group plays old and new traditional material guaranteed to move audiences from toe-tapping to tears and back again in moments.
8pm–10pm
£12
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/london-klezmer-quartet-2/
Packed full of polyphonic a capella carols and other gorgeous seasonal songs and tunes, this show reflects all aspects of the winter season, from the beautiful carols of north Yorkshire, Derbyshire and beyond, to the irreverent nature of certain aspects of Christmas and the winter season.
Featuring Barry Coope and Lester Simpson of Coope Boyes and Simpson, Jo Freya of Blowzabella and Fi Fraser of The Old Fashioned/ Polka Works, the quartet are known for their sumptuous four part harmonies, but include piano, accordion, fiddle, soprano sax, ukulele and whistles in this heartwarming show for Christmas. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.haremusic.agency/narthen
7:45pm
Tickets: 01258 840066. £10, £7 u18s, £28 fam
Award winning Jazz guitarist Martin Taylor teams up with acoustic and slide guitar virtuoso Martin Simpson. The pair shares the stage throughout the performance – adding to each other’s songs and instrumental pieces, and taking them to sublime new heights. This is an unmissable evening with two guitar playing legends working in harmony.
7pm–9pm
£20
B&B available, £35 per person, must be booked in advance. Please contact the office on 01984 618274 ext 1 / office AT halswaymanor.org.uk to make a reservation.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/martin-taylor-martin-simpson/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We have been dancing for almost 50 years.
We meet on alternate Thursdays.
£2.50 members £3.50 guests. New members and guests always welcome.
For more details contact Elaine 01460 65909
Join ‘one of British Folk's mightiest combinations' (MOJO), O'Hooley & Tidow, for an evening of beautifully performed original, contemporary, and traditional winter songs from their latest album 'WinterFolk Vol 1', produced with BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner Ben Walker.
Nominated this year for the fourth time in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, and described by the Guardian as ‘exceptional songwriters’, Belinda and Heidi’s powerful, deeply moving, and soulful performances are infused with an honesty and empathy that will disarm the hardest of hearts.
£12 / £10 concessions
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member, David Hughes, Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 16 years.
www.stagnesfountain.co.uk
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=957
Shillingstone English Barn Dance Club
Now regular 1st Fridays
7.30 for 7.45
£6.00 (first visit free!) accompanied under 16s free, non-dancers £1.00
No bar but BYO if you wish.
Jenny and Ian Edlin - 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Get your baubles on and let your hair down for a night of seasonal singing and frivolity.
Join Acapella foursome No Direction, Anne-Louise Richards and Sally Ironmonger in an evening of top entertainment.
£5
8.15 pm (Legion open from 7.00 Concert doors 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Around 40 singers and 10 musicians – come and experience our vibrant and joyous sound.
Celebrate Christmas with the Ridgeway Singers and Band’s mix of carols that were sung in Dorset in the past and newly composed pieces in the same tradition. West Gallery music is lively and joyous. Mulled wine and mince pies available.
Tickets £8, Under 18 £6: phone 01305 262159
On Angels Wings
This is a joint concert to raise funds for roof repairs. The church has obtained special permission from Michael Morpurgo to use extracts from "On Angels Wings" and the Quire will include some Longburton carols in their performance.
A truly "one-off" event!
£10, children free
7pm
Contact Antony & Alyson Edwards: 01963 210561
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member, David Hughes, Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 16 years.
www.stagnesfountain.co.uk
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=956
Roving Crows are an award winning original celtic folk fusion band - innovative, funky and energetic. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com/event/436734. Cash only bar. Free off-road parking.
£12 advance / £15 on door
6.45 pm
Contact Helen Leary: 01963 350 980
hlleary AT hotmail.co.uk
www.caryfordhall.co.uk
Multi-instrumentalist Simon Swarbrick will be accompanying Ken & Lucy Watkins and Angela Heron Watkins for a night of quality acoustic music. From contemporary and traditional folk, to country, blues and jazz standards, the band promises a wide range of songs and tunes, 3-part vocal harmonies and instrumental arrangements, delivered with humour and relaxed informality. Booking essential.
Pay what you think the performance was worth at the end. Feel free to bring your own drinks/glasses and mince pies for the band!
8.00pm (7.30pm doors)
Contact Watkins & Swarbrick: Box Office 01305 837299
songsfromthehalls234 AT gmail.com
https://soundcloud.com/watkinswarbrickband
The Quire will be performing their Christmas Concert of carols and readings collected from the South West of England.
6:30 pm
Phone: 07813 089002
upton.eddie AT gmail.com
St Agnes Fountain are about to embark on their 15th consecutive sell-out Christmas tour. Since their first get together, to record the eponymous St Agnes Fountain album in 2001, the quartet of founder, David Hughes; Fairport Convention's Chris Leslie and 2009's BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Best Duo, Chris While and Julie Matthews, have brought musical invention and laughter to the star-dust atmosphere of the season.
"The Aggies" recorded have their album again combining new versions of classic Christmas carols, original compositions and one or two fun surprises. Although the albums accompany the putting up of a thousand Christmas trees throughout Britain, it is, without question, their magical live performances that have endeared them to an ever-growing audience.
With their sparkling musicianship, humour and heartful renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes both original and those you know so well (or thought you did). Christmas, as they say, starts with St Agnes Fountain.
Tickets £20 (students £18) from Box Office 01202-413600.
7.15pm (bar 6.15pm).
www.bournemouthfolkclub.com
With their roots in the South Dorset Ridgeway and inspired by the rich sources of locally collected folk songs and West Gallery carols, the Ridgeway Singers and Band led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present, including works from the Puddletown, Durweston and Hinton St Mary manuscripts together with newly composed carols in the Dorset tradition. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.ridgewaysingersandband.wordpress.com
4:00pm
Tickets 01929 400790. £8, £5 u18s
Carols by Candlelight in aid of Christian Aid
4pm
Led by Matt Norman, enjoy a morning workshop learning old English Carols in traditional harmony – including some which are local to us!
The singing of traditional carols dates back to the seventeenth Century, well before the Victorian Christmas which we know today. These traditional carols are characterised by simple, robust harmonies and catchy tunes. The tradition still survives in the area around Sheffield, and in Cornwall, Exmoor and Somerset.
10.00 am – 12.00 noon
£8 adults
£3 children & students under 18. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/folk-carol-singing-workshop/
A traditional sing-along carol concert – with a folk twist!
Expect a selection of traditional carols and seasonal songs and readings, with guest performers and plenty of chances for you to join the singing.
3pm–4pm
Donations welcome!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-carol-concert/
Performing the very best, and often unfamiliar, sacred, secular and consort music, Cantamus present a programme for the advent season drawn from nearly 500 years of music. From Palestrina’s Matin responsory ‘I look from afar’, two rarely heard pieces in Spanish by Zespedes and Cereols, beautiful arrangements of the Coventry Carol, Cherry Tree Carol and The Seven Joys of Mary, Quem Vidistis Pastores by Dering, and Bach’s majestic Wachet Auf, to later works including carols by Richard Lloyd, John Rutter and John Tavener. There is also a new arrangement of Righteous Joseph by Cantamus musical director Malcolm Knowles. Expect a joyous celebration of the festive season. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.cantamus-dorset.org
7:30pm
Tickets: 01258 881235. £10, £5 u18s
All welcome!
We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the school in the dark it is about 300 yards south of the Piddle Inn with a hump back bridge into the car park.
£6 under 16 free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
With a double bass made out of scrap metal, heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw, and foot-stomping fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms, The Churchfitters are a folk group like no other! Packed with a mouthwatering selection of favourites from their regular repertoire, interlaced with traditional and original festive songs and Christmas carols, see in Christmas with a bang and a paper hat-full of surprises, novelties and jokes in this festive feast of a Christmas Cracker! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.churchfitters.com
7:30pm
Tickets: 01300 321394. £10, £6 u18s
Around 40 singers and 10 musicians – come and experience our vibrant and joyous sound.
Celebrate Christmas with the Ridgeway Singers and Band’s mix of carols that were sung in Dorset in the past and newly composed pieces in the same tradition. West Gallery music is lively and joyous. Mulled wine and mince pies available.
Tickets £8, Under 18 £6: phone 01305 262159
The Quire will be performing their Christmas Concert of carols and readings collected from the South West of England.
£8
7:30 pm
Phone: 01935 822287
stanchesterquire1 AT gmail.com
On tour with a Christmas-themed show that mixes traditional Folk music, seasonal material, their usual touch of Classical and Jazz with a bit of Pop and Music Hall, all topped off with lashings of wry humour. Together, Paul Sartin (of Bellowhead and Faustus) and Paul Hutchinson (of Hoover The Dog) wow audiences across the UK with their eclectic and eccentric mix of tunes and ‘between songs chat’ that always sends audiences home with smiles on their faces.
www.belshazzarsfeast.com
Tickets: £15 Full. £14 Concessions.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=958
Somersets best-loved blue grass band are back at the Arts Centre.
Honest all-acoustic music featuring fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin and double bass. Some classics, some covers, and many self-penned, there is something for everyone.
7.30 pm
For ticket info see: http://www.thunderbridgebluegrass.uk
Direct Event Link
http://www.w-a-a.co.uk/e.php?e=879
Christmas Special
Fabulous four-part harmonies and multi-instrumental accompaniment
Starting at 7.30pm in the skittle alley, the first part of the evening will be open to “floorsingers”. Sign up in the book on arrival.
At about 8.30pm Jacqui will be providing a bar supper for the interval, only for pre-ordered meals. To pre-order supper contact 01460 281919 or thecrown_inn AT btconnect.com
Laurie Burn laurieguitars AT gmail.com 01460 281033
With a double bass made out of scrap metal, heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw, and foot-stomping fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms, The Churchfitters are a folk group like no other! Packed with a mouthwatering selection of favourites from their regular repertoire, interlaced with traditional and original festive songs and Christmas carols, see in Christmas with a bang and a paper hat-full of surprises, novelties and jokes in this festive feast of a Christmas Cracker! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.churchfitters.com
7:30pm
Tickets: 01258 861621. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Join the Mellstock Band to celebrate a traditional West Country Christmas! We’ve an afternoon workshop for musicians and singers to explore West Gallery Carols, followed by a chance to see the Mellstock Band’s latest Christmas concert ‘Leaves of Life’ at 8pm. You can also book for dinner!
West Gallery Carols Workshop: Sat 15 Dec / 2pm
A workshop for musicians & singers.
In most parts of England, from the mid 1700s onwards, groups of singers and instrumentalists played and sang in the gallery of their village church and went round the parish at Christmas to sing carols. Mixing powerful voices, strings and wind instruments, with vigorous rhythms, soaring counterpoint and strange harmonies, this is the sound of the pre-Victorian rural Christmas!
Musicians & singers are invited to join Dave Townsend & The Mellstock Band in an energetic and fun workshop to explore the carols and songs from the old West Gallery bands. Don’t worry if you can’t read music or have never sung in a choir – we’ll go through all the parts and think about the best style for singing this vibrant tradition. Bring melody and bass instruments as well, so that we can re-create the sound of the church bands.These are songs for everyone, wherever convivial and warm-hearted music is appreciated.
The Mellstock Band: The Leaves of Life: Sat 15 Dec / 8pm
A West Country Christmas Concert
Christmas Music from English Tradition – Carols and Revels from Farmstead, Manor, Alehouse and Street with tales and poems by Thomas Hardy, William Barnes, John Clare, Charles Dickens and others. A costume performance with early & modern instruments.
In The Leaves of Life The Mellstock Band celebrates the customs of Wintertime in rural England, exploring beliefs and superstitions, and drawing on seasonal ballads and folk carols as well as West Gallery carols and village dance music. The symbolism of trees combines with tales of shepherds and their sheep, winter-time feasting and strange visitations, presented with merry and majestic tunes, songs of love and laughter, carols and original harmonies.
2pm–10pm
Workshop, dinner and Concert: £40
Dinner & Concert: £25
Workshop only: £15
Concert only: £12
Advance booking is strongly recommended, and is essential for meals.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mellstock-band-a-west-country-christmas/
With their roots in the South Dorset Ridgeway and inspired by the rich sources of locally collected folk songs and West Gallery carols, the Ridgeway Singers and Band led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present, including works from the Puddletown, Durweston and Hinton St Mary manuscripts together with newly composed carols in the Dorset tradition. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.ridgewaysingersandband.wordpress.com
4:00pm
Tickets: 01305 264060. £8, £5 u18s, £22 fam
With a double bass made out of scrap metal, heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw, and foot-stomping fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms, The Churchfitters are a folk group like no other! Packed with a mouthwatering selection of favourites from their regular repertoire, interlaced with traditional and original festive songs and Christmas carols, see in Christmas with a bang and a paper hat-full of surprises, novelties and jokes in this festive feast of a Christmas Cracker! Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.churchfitters.com
7:30pm
Tickets: 01305 853783. £10, £7.50 u18s, £30 fam
Christmas Concert
1pm
Cara Dillon, possessed of one of the most celebrated folk voices to have come out of Ireland, will be touring her Christmas show “Upon A Winter’s Night” for a third year running this December (2018). The overwhelming success of previous tours cementing this magical and memorable festive experience as a firm tradition for many years to come.
7:00 pm
£25
All seated
http://www.cheeseandgrain.com/event/cara-dillon-upon-a-winters-night/
Acclaimed musicians Chris Green and Sophie Matthews (with special guest Jude Rees) present a festive romp through 600 years of Christmas music, songs and carols.
Beginning in the Middle Ages and ending in the 20th century, ‘A Brief History of Christmas’ is a whistle-stop tour of the origins of our midwinter festivities. Featuring long-forgotten songs and tales as well as some familiar and well-loved carols, ‘A Brief History of Christmas‘ is a show guaranteed to delight the hearts of young and old.
The show takes in 600 years of music – featuring music and songs played on archaic instruments such as cittern, shawm and rauschpfeife, as well as more familiar instruments such as guitar, flute, oboe and accordion. and all helped along by GreenMatthews‘ trademark wit and humour.
‘A Brief History of Christmas‘ is the perfect show for anyone looking to recapture the simple Yuletide delights of fellowship, laughter and good cheer.
£12.50
7:30pm
Contact Museum of Somerset: 01823 255088
museumofsomerset AT swheritage.org.uk
https://swheritage.org.uk/events/a-brief-history-of-christmas/
The Quire will be performing their Christmas Concert of carols and readings collected from the South West of England.
Retiring collection
7:30 pm
Contact Alison Suter: 01935 864408
leosca4 AT gmail.com
Chard Folk Dance Club
We have been dancing for almost 50 years.
We meet on alternate Thursdays.
£2.50 members £3.50 guests. New members and guests always welcome.
For more details contact Elaine 01460 65909
Barn Dance with interval entertainment. Tickets on the door. No Bar - so bring your own drinks & nibbles!
£5 adults 32.50 children
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Multi-instrumentalist Simon Swarbrick will be accompanying Ken & Lucy Watkins and Angela Heron Watkins for a night of quality acoustic music. From contemporary and traditional folk, to country, blues and jazz standards, the band promises a wide range of songs and tunes, 3-part vocal harmonies and instrumental arrangements, delivered with humour and relaxed informality. Booking essential.
Pay what you think the performance was worth at the end. Bar.
8.00pm (7.30pm doors)
Contact Watkins & Swarbrick: Box Office 01305 837299
songsfromthehalls234 AT gmail.com
https://soundcloud.com/watkinswarbrickband
If you enjoy listening to acoustic music in a relaxed atmosphere, come along to the Arts Centre bar and have a listen.
If you enjoy playing acoustic music to like-minded people - come along and join in. It doesnt matter what instrument you play - we have guitarists, violinists, flautists, pianists, accordion players, percussionists... and more besides that!
It doesnt matter how good you are - all abilities are welcomed... we all started somewhere!
Theres no charge, but donations are welcomed.
The bar is open throughout the evening for you to moisten your vocal cords!
7.30 pm
Find our page on this website in the About Us section and feel free to join our Facebook group: http://bit.ly/musicClub
http://www.w-a-a.co.uk/e.php?e=884
6pm–11pm
Dinner & dancing: £15
Dancing only (8pm approx): £5
A dinner-dance, folk style! Enjoy a delicious home-cooked supper followed by light-hearted country dancing. All welcome, including those new to country dance. Ivan Aitken (caller) leads the dancing with musicians Gareth Kiddier & Linda Game – better known as The English Contra Dance Band.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/country-christmas-dinner-folk-dance/
Come and enjoy the Christmas celebrations at Halsway Manor in the company of Ivan Aitken, your MC and Caller, supported by Gareth Kiddier (piano) and Linda Game (fiddle), better known as The English Contra Dance Band! Ivan has a very relaxed style of calling all types of dance including contra and squares and the entire period of English dance from then until now. Between the dances there will be opportunities to sing, to enjoy winter walks, to take part in music workshops (all instruments!), and to relax and catch-up with friends old and new. All this, and the wonderful Halsway atmosphere, great food and a roaring log fire.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/christmas-house-party-3/
Session with step dancing
Boxing day afternoon session, hosted by SomerStep
All musicians and step dancers (and anyone else!) welcome.
Play, dance or listen!
3.00 - 6.00 pm
Contact Steve Cunio: 07811 680534
http://www.themildmayarms.co.uk
Join us for an enjoyable folk dancing Hogmanay break with a great team at the helm.
With optional walks and playing sessions; pack your walking boots and instruments along with your dancing shoes.
Enjoy the Manor is its festive finery and dance-in the New Year with great music and good company!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/new-year-house-party-2/
Bring in 2019 in style with music and dance at The David Hall.
Tickets: £17 includes a light supper. No concessions.
Early booking essential by Friday 15 December. No tickets available on the night.
http://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=959
The Tithe Barn Trust’s traditional fundraising family barn dance with the flutes and fiddles of Fougere Rouge. Always great fun. Bring and share American supper. Bar.
£12 (£30 family)
8.00 pm
There will be some barn dancing (musicians and callers welcome).
There might be the odd song or two!
There will be a glass of bubbly at midnight.
Please bring some food to share and your own booze.
8.30 'till late
contact Steve Cunio
steve AT cunio.co.uk
Indoor camping is available for the hardy. We'll even cook you breakfast! But please let us know if you want to stay overnight so we can have enough food!
Now regular 1st Fridays
Good band and caller tba - this site will be updated
7.30 for 7.45
£6.00 (first visit free!) accompanied under 16s free, non-dancers £1.00
No bar but BYO if you wish.
Jenny and Ian Edlin - 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
A great start to the year with the ever popular Jigs teamed with festival caller Mike. Shake off the post Christmas/New Year blues and get dancing!
The usual bring and share supper and you own beer (The Woodman Inn is just opposite).
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, under 17's £4. (can be bought on line, see website)
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact Monty Crook: 01308 423 442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
A night of Old Time with this young duo on tour from the States
www.thelocalhoneys.com
http://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/
Christmas Concert
6pm
Barn Dance
Music in the old village style. Dances for all ages and abilities. Light refreshments and BYO.
£5 adults, children free
7:30 - 10:00 pm
Contact Janet Rees: 07880 335012
janetlynrees AT hotmail.co.uk
www.maidenoak.co.uk
A concert to celebrate the life and work of the poet, Cicely Fox Smith through her writings and poems, and the shanties she collected.
7.30pm
£5
Bar Available
For tickets contact:
David wareham.whalers AT gmail.com
Mobile: 07923020946
A 2 night residential folk dance workshop with a trip out to Exmoor's hidden Snowdrop Valley. All meals included.
from £270.00 per person
Contact Antony Brunt: 01643821425
hotel AT yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
www.yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
Now regular 1st Fridays
Good band and caller tba - this site will be updated
7.30 for 7.45
£6.00 (first visit free!) accompanied under 16s free, non-dancers £1.00
No bar but BYO if you wish.
Jenny and Ian Edlin - 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
A new Alistair Gillies duo, Skillicorne, with a welcome return of Nick Walden (at the time of posting this, both recently seen performing at various dances at Sidmouth Folk Festival).
Bring and Share supper and your own beer,
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, under 17's £4. (can be bought on line, see website)
7.30pm - 11.00pm
Contact Monty Crook: 01308 423 442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Kimmeridge Keilidh - Barn Dance
All welcome to our regular dances in Kimmeridge. Interval spot as well to give you a breather! No bar, so bring your own drinks & nibbles.
£5 adults £2.50 children - tickets on the door
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
This excellent and acclaimed trio are coming to Nailsea as part of a high profile national tour. Expect a treasure trove of gorgeous tunes, razor sharp grooves and sublime playing.
Michael McGoldrick (flute, whistles and uillean pipes) has won countless All Ireland Championships and for many years has played in the legendary Capercaille band. John McCusker (fiddle) is one of Scotland most accomplished and versatile musicians, having played in countless line ups including the Battlefield Band. John Doyle is a powerful and versatile guitarist from Dublin regarded as being in a class of his own, with his use of awesome and inspirational rhythms.
8pm
£14
http://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/
Now regular 1st Fridays
Good band and caller tba - this site will be updated
7.30 for 7.45
£6.00 (first visit free!) accompanied under 16s free, non-dancers £1.00
No bar but BYO if you wish.
Jenny and Ian Edlin - 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
We loved having the Oxford Nags in Jan 2018; this line-up, including the popuLar Gareth Kiddier - social dance director at Sidmouth Folk Festival - really got the hall buzzing. Jane is always a pleasure to dance to and called several great dance evenings at Sidmouth's 2018 Folk Festival.
Bring & Share supper and your own beer.
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, under 17's £4. (can be bought on line, see website)
7.30pm - 11.00pm
Contact Monty Crook: 01308 423 442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Kimmeridge Keilidh - Barn Dance
All welcome to our regular dances in Kimmeridge. Interval spot as well to give you a breather! No bar, so bring your own drinks & nibbles.
£5 adults £2.50 children - tickets on the door
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Now regular 1st Fridays
Good band and caller tba - this site will be updated
7.30 for 7.45
£6.00 (first visit free!) accompanied under 16s free, non-dancers £1.00
No bar but BYO if you wish.
Jenny and Ian Edlin - 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Kimmeridge Keilidh - Barn Dance
All welcome to our regular dances in Kimmeridge. Interval spot as well to give you a breather! No bar, so bring your own drinks & nibbles.
£5 adults £2.50 children - tickets on the door
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm