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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This is a first time visit to The David Hall for Milly Riquelme and her band so we’re looking forward to a mixture of authentic Cuban melodies, Bossa Nova and up-beat Latin grooves.
Milly has been a musical director and pianist with Cuban Salsa and Latin bands in Havana since 2006. She has collaborated with other well-known Cuban Musicians, such as Nicolas Sirgado and Mayito Ribera; pillars of the popular Cuban and Latin Jazz in Cuba.
La Cubana Band will be joinng Milly for her performance during the show. Come and join us, especially if you love to salsa!
Tickets: £14. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/milly-riquelme-with-love-from-cuba/
A Saturday evening gig from our International line-up of tutors for our Harpas Festival Weekend! See and hear the Nyckelharpa – a traditional Swedish ‘keyed fiddle’ – in the hands of three of Europe’s finest exponents of the instrument – Vicki Swan, Torbjörn Näsbom and Gabi Maas.
8pm–9:30pm
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-harpas-at-halsway/
Would you like to learn some of the old Christmas Carols from the South West of England? Then come along and join the Stanchester Quire. The need to read music is not necessary as we lean everything by ear, all you need is enthusiasm and a packed lunch, tea and coffee is provided. We learn these carols with a view to singing them at our season of public performances during December, though participation is not compulsory.Newcomers will be made very welcome!
This is the first practice session of the season. See our website for detail of the others.
If you can't make the first session, don't worry, you can still come to the later ones
£10, New members, first session free
10:30 registration and tea/coffee. 11:00 start
Contact Phil George: 07778 119663
stanchesterquire2 AT gmail.com
stanchesterquire.org
Born in Spain, raised in Chicago, holding dual Irish and American citizenship and now settled in rural England, she brings the eclecticism of her background to her “captivating, unorthodox songwriting” (PopMatters) and choice of material, spanning genres and defying categorisation.
All this is abundantly demonstrated by her new live album and video series The St Buryan Sessions — but needs to be savoured in person to be fully appreciated.
Not long after her arrival in Cornwall, Sarah struck up a friendship with a fellow mum outside the gates of her children’s school. That fellow mum turned out to be Zoë Pollock, writer and performer of 1991 UK Top 5 hit single “Sunshine On A Rainy Day,” and the pair soon found themselves co-writing songs for an album released in 2008 under the band name Mama. Entitled Crow Coyote Buffalo, it was lauded by MOJO’s Colin Irwin as “a pleasingly maverick mix,” by Siobhán Long in The Irish Times as “Janis Joplin’s freewheeling spirit crossed with Joni Mitchell's lyrical density” and by Spiral Earth’s Iain Hazlewood as “Two pagan goddesses channelling the ghost of Jim Morrison.”
£12.50 (wegottickets.com/event/625305)
Start time: 8.00p.m. (Doors 7.30p.m.)
Contact Simon Sturt: 07767 344303
s.sturt AT live.co.uk
MC this month will be The Somerset Storyteller Martin Horler with exciting news of a competition at the October meeting to celebrate the Club's Birthday!
£5 in the hat if you can afford it
7.30 - 9.30 p.m.
Contact Colin Emmett: 01275 332735
mendipstorycircle AT gmail.com
www.mendipstorycircle.com
Few singers are as celebrated and revered as Cara Dillon. Known for her captivating live performances she seldom fails to leave audiences spellbound. Cara’s breadth of appeal stems from an acclaimed career that includes being signed to legendary indie record label Rough Trade, providing the title track and narration for a Disney film, appearing with Symphony Orchestras in England, Scotland, Ireland and beyond, with contemporary superstars such as Ed Sheeran, Ellie Goulding, and Sam Smith citing her as an influence. And yet her most successful record to date comprises traditional Irish folk songs released on her own label. As Mojo magazine says, Cara Dillon has “quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice”. In this special performance Cara is joined by the acclaimed musician and producer Sam Lakeman.
Ahead of an official release in 2024, this autumn sees Cara unveiling “Coming Home”, her first new material in almost six years, in which she effortlessly blurs the lines between spoken word and song to stunning effect. She brings to life profoundly personal memories of her native Co. Derry and the people, places, and customs she holds closest to her heart; revealing a freedom to express herself within the tiniest of details and life’s larger mysteries with resonance to the wider world. Skilfully interspersed with songs from her catalogue throughout the set, join Cara and her band as she shares this truly unique and inspiring collection accompanied by original music written by Sam Lakeman. This will be a very special opportunity to experience a revealing and emotive performance by this internationally acclaimed singer – and not one to miss!
Bar opens 6:30 P.M.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Advance £28.00
On the door £35.00
10% off for members
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.
https://www.marinetheatre.com/cara-dillon-3/
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
North Devon duo Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll share a love of traditional English fiddle music and also compose their own tunes. This years guest tutor is Grace Smith.
Workshops include technique, expression and repertoire (using our extensive folk library) and there will be plenty of time to play together and receive some individual help. This is an intensive weekend of workshops for fiddle players of all ages who can play folk dance tunes up to tempo either from the music provided, or by ear. Some music will be supplied in advance. Other tunes will be chosen at the event in response to participants’ requests – a Saturday afternoon ‘Open Space’ session offers a chance for workshops on areas requested by course participants, and for individual tuition.
An intensive weekend for fiddle players of all ages and abilities – with the exception of complete beginners. You’ll need a basic grasp of your instrument and to be able to play either from the music provided or to pick up tunes quickly by ear.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/autumn-fiddle-weekend-2024/
Jon Boden is best known is the lead singer of the progressive Folk juggernaut Bellowhead who have sold 250,000 albums, had seven singles playlisted on Radio 2 and sold out hundreds venues including The Royal Albert Hall. Alongside Bellowhead Jon has continued his development as one of the foremost names in English Folk music.
Solo, Jon performs the self-penned songs of Songs From The Floodplain, Painted Lady, Afterglow and Rose In June, material from Bellowhead, Spiers & Boden, and his A Folk Song A Day project in which he recorded 365 Folk songs in one year, as well as music from his most recent album Last Mile Home (Hudson Records) and more.
Tickets: £23. No concessions
www.jonboden.com
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/jon-boden/
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
7.30 - 10,00 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Hobsons Choice Band & Sweet Coppin Clog Dancers present a fun Ceilidh in memory of Ginny Ebdon, our accordionist & to raise vital funds for St Margaret's Hospice.
Free Entry, suggested donation £10. Bring a plate to share, your own drink and your dancing shoes!!
Donations on Door
7.30 pm (Doors open at 7pm) finishes by 11.00
Contact Sarah Patten: 07443 530293
sarahlpatten AT gmail.com
www.hobsonschoice.org.uk
Track Dogs are four international “madrileños” (Garrett Wall, Dave Mooney, Howard Brown &Robbie K. Jones) 2 Irishmen, an Englishman and an American. Based in Spain, the band name comes from the dark subterranean world of New York’s subway system. However, there is nothing dark or subterranean about the sound of Track Dogs.
Their style is a dynamic joyous fusion of Folk, Latino, Americana & Bluegrass played on multiple acoustic instruments–and a trumpet! … overlaid with delicious four-part vocal harmonies. Their new album, Blind Summits & Hidden Dips, entered the Official Folk Charts at number 22, and has managed to make Track Dogs pack even more punch.
They have achieved grandeur in the sound that they’ve been cultivating over more than 100 songs in their recording career. Well-established in Spain and increasingly popular in the UK, they are surprising music lovers everywhere with “Sun-shiny songs thriving on dark themes behind irresistible rhythms.”
After a fortuitous invitation to the Costa del Folk Festival in Ibiza they teamed up with Firebrand Music in the UK who also represent folk legends Show of Hands with whom in 2022, they toured the UK and released a 23-track live album, “Dog Show Sessions” culminating in a fabulous guest appearance at the Royal Albert Hall.
Track Dogs are finally getting the recognition they richly deserve.
www.trackdogsmusic.com
Please note this is an 18+ event, and the venue is accessed by stairs with no lift. If you have any enquiries please email thetreehouse AT cheeseandgrain.com
£20 ADVANCE + BOOKING FEE
All Standing - 18+ Show
7:30 pm
https://www.cheeseandgrain.com/events/track-dogs/
We're back after our summer break! Bring a partner, an instrument, or just yourself and enjoy some Euro tunes and dances.
As ever, musicians are welcome to join the scratch band, novice dancers are invited to learn some basic steps at the workshop before the main Bal, and old friends who already know the steps can help at the workshop, or just come for the Bal.
Kitchen facilities and hot drinks are available, but bring your own drinks and nibbles. There are a pub and a convenience shop opposite.
Adults: £6, teenagers: £4, 12-and-unders: free.
Workshop: 7pm, Bal: 8pm
Finish time: 10.30pm
Contact Alastair Braidwood: 07510 282652
eurobalwessex AT gmail.com
Original and traditional songs and tunes accompanied on melodeon and guitar with rare lyrical skill and sensitivity. Issy & David marry beautiful melodies and captivating stories that draw the listener right in, making them one of the most engaging duos on the folk scene today.
www.issyemeney.co.uk
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.
https://www.facebook.com/people/Fivehead-Folk-Nights/61560754772660/
laurieguitars AT gmail.com
Grace Smith Trio
Wielding the distinct voices of fiddle, concertina and double bass, the Grace Smith Trio
brings together three likeminded musicians to create one dynamic and expressive musical dialogue. Acclaimed fiddle and viola player Grace Smith is joined by Sam Partridge (Concertina, Electric Guitar) and Bevan Morris (Double Bass) in this innovative ensemble, which offers a fresh take on folk.
Archie Churchill-Moss
Widely regarded as one of the best players of English traditional music, Archie has worked as a session musician for some of the UK’s top folk acts (Cara Dillon, Eliza Carthy, Blair Dunlop, Jim Moray) and producers (Andy Bell, Ed Harcourt), as well as performing with the trio, ‘Moore, Moss, Rutter’ - the outfit which saw him receive the coveted BBC radio 2 folk award in 2011.
7:45pm
Tickets: £15 (incl £1 cmsn)
https://www.strodetheatre.org.uk/whats-on/view/grace-smith-trio-archie-churchill-moss/
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
Unreserved Seating
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.
https://www.marinetheatre.com/martin-carthy-eliza-carthy/
New for 2024!
This new course is an accordion weekend for advanced players working at Level 4, and will offer those players the chance to work at a faster pace or cover trickier repertoire in a more intense way, alongside other players of a similar level.
If you consider yourself to be working at Level 1 to Level 3, please take a look at the Summer Accordion Weekend in July.
Halsway favourite Murray Grainger will be leading this new course, bringing with him in-depth sessions on technique, repertoire and interpretation. Numbers will be limited to give you maximum contact time, with opportunities for 1:1 support if requested.
There will be a chance for participants to perform in Saturday night’s informal sharing event too, so bring along what you’ve been working on during the year for an opportunity to practise your stagecraft and performance skills.
This course is for Advanced accordion players.
You’ll need to be able to read music fluently. The workshops will be taught at a fast pace and you’ll need to be confident in your playing, both alone and as part of a small group.
Murray Grainger is one of Britain’s most influential and innovative accordionists. Whether working with the finest orchestras, pushing the boundaries with traditional projects or teaching around the UK, Murray is at the forefront of the British accordion scene. Murray trained in the classical accordion at The Royal Academy of Music. He has been a tutor in both classical and folk accordion at Chetham’s School of Music, on Newcastle University’s Folk and Traditional Music course, and as the Director of Education for Young Musicians Stornoway. He has been a regular tutor on Halsway Manor’s Accordion Weekend.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/advanced-piano-accordion-weekend/
A course for folk musicians – with a special emphasis on harpists – who want to learn how to improvise, create harmonies, counter melodies and accompaniments.
This is a course for musicians who wish to develop their arranging skills through ensemble playing. Players of all instruments welcome, but this course caters particularly well for harpists under the dedicated tuition of Moira Gutteridge.
Part of the time the group will be split in two and part of the time there will be opportunity to work in smaller groups, allowing for focused tuition with Moira for the harpists, while all other musicians work with Peter.
You’ll also practise tunes for dancing with guidance from Madeleine on bringing the music and dancers together.
Moira and Peter cater for players of most instruments, and all levels of experience, although the week is not intended for complete beginners. It is however ok to be a novice when it comes to ensemble playing and arrangement. Music is available in advance and will be emailed to you nearer the time
Moira Gutteridge plays fiddle, keyboard and harp along with Peter in their band Dampier’s Round, playing at dances throughout the country. She and Peter run a village folk band for all ages and abilities, and with a wide range of instruments.
Peter Gutteridge plays guitar, bass guitar, mandolin and flute.
Both Moira & Peter have extensive teaching experience, and together have organised and run music workshops at festivals and folk camps and at Halsway Manor on many occasions.
www.DampiersRound.co.uk
Madeleine Smith is a caller, clog dancer and teacher, sought after for her extensive knowledge of dancing and the folk tradition. She plays recorder, piano and Celtic harp, and is equally at home helping musicians improve their playing as she leading dances. Madeleine sings in a community choir and plays for Towersey Morris. She is also a recipient of the EFDSS Gold Badge.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/beyond-the-tune/
Catch the Folk infused singer songwriter Lizzy Hardingham along with Pillow Fite with their catchy alt-rock instrumentals and folky ballads in this exciting all in one show!
Lizzy Hardingham performs songs that “drive straight to the heart, giving audiences a chance for genuine connection and empathy”. Think Joni Mitchell, Sandy Denny and KT Tunstall all wrapped into one.
As a trans non-binary fronted band, Pillow Fite strive to represent queer experiences both on and off stage, and work hard to perform in safe and inclusive spaces.
£15.00
7.45 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
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: £15 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Our Guitar Study Week is an intensive and enjoyable guitar-school for steel-string acoustic guitarists, led by three fantastic tutors – Tristan Seume, Charlotte Carrivick, and David Delarre. You’ll have the opportunity to spend a day with each of the tutors in workshops aiming to develop your technique, skills and repertoire – and provide for an enjoyable course of guitar playing in the manor.
The course will help you to develop your skills and confidence, with options to explore finger style, flat-picking, alternative and open tunings, arranging tunes and song accompaniment, chord vocabulary, and useful theory too. Whole group, smaller group and one-to-one teaching, to leave you enthused and inspired! There will be down-time too, for you to practise, jam, socialise and spend quality time with your instrument.
This course is aimed at acoustic guitarists (steel-strung) of an intermediate level and above, it’s not really suitable for beginners.
As a guide, to get the most from the course you’ll need a grasp of the following topics:
All common open major and minor chords
Familiarity with one or two moveable barre chord shapes
Some basic fingerpicking ability
Steady, even strumming rhythm in 4/4 time
Beyond this, enthusiasm is much more important than skill level; we only ask that you join in to the best of your ability. This week is all about helping you develop your playing, whatever your current level of ability, and sending you away with the inspiration and tools to continue to improve.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/guitar-study-week-2024/
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
A weekend of mainly English style dance for experienced dancers. This year’s guest caller is Frances Oates from Cornwall accompanied by Dampier’s Round (Moira and Peter Gutteridge). There will be workshops from Barrie Bullimore, Rob Dawson and Laura Hodges.
For those staying on on the Sunday night there will be a Ceilidh in the evening.
The weekend is aimed at experienced dancers who enjoy traditional English style dancing, to improve on technique and working together.
The Team
Rob Dawson hosts, with house party callers (Barrie Bullimore and Laura Hodges), guest caller Frances Oates plus band Dampier’s Round (Moira and Peter Gutteridge).
To book please contact Rob at halswayharvest AT gmail.com
Please note: our partners set their own course prices, which may differ from our in-house courses.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-harvest-weekend-sept2024/
To see it live is to truly feel it – Dominie Hooper, long-time session musician, collaborator and multi-instrumentalist, takes flight in the centre of a stage wrapped in musical alchemy with bandmate mainstays Twm Dylan, Phil Self and Dave Hamblett.
With a debut album in the works for next year, it’s a good time to catch Dominie Hooper live. Her unexpectedly joyful stage presence makes you feel in the company of an old friend, and the on-stage connection undeniable.
Prepare for a hug and a punch in the gut. This exhilarating new voice is bound to make waves in the world of alt-folk and beyond.
£14.00
7.45 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/dominie-hooper/
Join us for what is fast becoming a local tradition as Dorset ceilidh band Tatterdemalion return with their Big Dorset Michaelmas Ceilidh. As before there will be a special hour-long session for young families and caller Teresa Williams will teach the steps, so no experience is necessary. Nor is a partner; there’ll always be someone to take your hand. A great way to meet up with friends again after the busy summer. A treat for those who enjoy the simpler things in life, such as fine company, good music, and energetic dancing!
£3 Kiddies Keilidh (accompanying adults go free) / Main ceilidh: £13/£7 under-18s and low waged
5.30pm Kiddies Keilidh
7.30pm Michaelmas Ceilidh
Phone: 01305 266926
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2024/08/01/fri-27-september-the-big-dorset-michaelmas-ceilidh/
Born in Essex, raised by the Devon seaside, and making his bones in the bars and clubs of Liverpool, John Smith has performed at festivals and concert halls around the world, released six studio albums and is currently hard at work on album #7, having barely paused for breath during his eighteen-year tenure as a full-time independent touring musician.
Steeped in the lineage of British Folk and American guitar music, Smith has evolved and pioneered a transatlantic blend of guitar techniques. His deeply romantic and vivid song-writing combined with his innovative guitar work having won him a loyal following.
His career began opening for Folk greats including John Martyn, Davy Graham and John Renbourn, who called him “the future of folk music.” He has since opened for Iron and Wine, Patty Griffin and Ben Howard, and guested with artists such as Jackson Browne, Martin Carthy, Roseanne Cash, Jarvis Cocker and Rodney Crowell.
http://johnsmithjohnsmith.com
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/john-smith/
Evening of Shanties, other Sea Songs and Hornpipes performed by Cornish vocal quartet Fore Sail. Interval music by Local band the Four Foot Four. Includes light supper and a tot of rum (or lime juice) on arrival
Adults £10, Children (under 12) £5
7.30 pm
Contact Trevor Ryder: 07773 397208
rydert36 AT outlook.com
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/2024-09-29/
Our American Contra Dance weeks are tremendously popular and often sell well out in advance so we really do encourage early booking! Our Autumn dance week is led by a great American caller Diane Silver, with music by the fantastic Will Allen, Rowan Pigott and Gareth Kiddier. Dance workshops take place each morning with fun optional outings and activities in the afternoons. There is usually a musicians’ workshop Wednesday tea-time, so bring instruments too. Dances every evening, all in the lovely setting of Halsway Manor!
Dancers of all levels of experience; newcomers to Contra are welcome (though some related dance experience would be useful), with plenty to challenge more experienced dancers too!
The Team
Diane Silver – Caller
Diane will transport you to contra dance heaven in no time with her careful attention to dancers’ pace and progress, her ability to think on her feet and her clear, efficient teaching of higher-level dances. Attend even one contra dance session with Diane Silver and you will see why we invited her down!
Musicians
Will Allen is an expert button accordionist, melodeon player and fiddler based in the southeast of England. He has an enormous repertoire of dance tunes from England, Ireland, Scotland and many other western countries. Will also composes his own music and teaches people of all abilities to play and understand traditional music and dance.
Rowan Pigott is a folk fiddler, traditional singer, writer and tune collector who grew up in the foothills of the Burren on the west coast of Ireland, surrounded by traditional music.
Gareth Kiddier is a keyboard wizard and a beloved Halsway regular, playing for many dance events at the manor, and hosting some of our festive getaways.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/autumn-american-contra-dance-week2024/
Ahoy there— we have a special performance for you this month as we are joined by Admiral's Secret a vibrant sea shanty group consisting of three talented singers from across the South West. Join them for a fun sing-along with local drinks, old seafaring melodies, and maritime frolics.
The group aim to entertain audiences with a delightful mix of traditional sea shanties and modern maritime songs. Their performances are filled with rich harmonies and a sense of fun that captivates listeners of all ages. With a repertoire that includes timeless classics and contemporary sea-themed tunes. Admiral’s Secret brings the spirit of the sea to life.
Whether on a grand stage or in a cozy pub, Admiral’s Secret are on a mission to keep the tradition of sea shanties alive and to share the joy and camaraderie of these songs with new generations.
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-36/
Join England’s first storyteller Laureate, Taffy Thomas MBE and a hand-picked team of guests for a weekend of workshops, performances and presentations to stir the heart and feed the soul.
This year for the 2024 Tales in Trust weekend Taffy Thomas and his team present ‘All the Stories between the Sun and the Moon’.
Stories know not borders or boundaries and travel the world from tongue to ear. Your leaders for this weekend have toured places here and around the world enriching their repertoire wherever they met traditional performers. This weekend gives them the chance to share these riches and skills. The weekend is suitable for storytellers and traditional performers of whatever experience, those who would like to include storytelling in their work or anyone who just wants to relax and listen.
It will also feature the popular Storyteller’s Supper event on the Saturday evening.
Tellers of all levels of experience, and those who just want to listen. Bring stories to share, instruments if you play one, or just come as audience: “If speaking was more important that listening, we’d have two tongues and one ear”.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/tales-in-trust-stories-have-legs/
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
After the release of their album Overground – which spent 4 weeks on the UK Folk albums chart – Police Dog Hogan returned to steady touring, with dates taking them across the UK. The band also spent much of 2023 in the studio, releasing regular new singles to streaming platforms beginning with the stunning Just Breathe in April – each track produced (with the band) by George Murphy, who also produced Overground. 2024 sees plans already advanced for an autumn tour and a new album.
Police Dog Hogan combine guitar, fiddle, banjo, trumpet and accordion with bass and drums to create a driving country-folk sound that has earned them a large live following. They’ve played dozens of festivals, many of them repeatedly, including Glastonbury, Cropredy, Cornbury, Kendall Calling, Black Deer and the Sidmouth Folk Festival.
In 2020 the band released a charity Christmas single, My First Christmas Alone, along with a video. That song helped to raise over £50k for the charity Crisis and reached No1 in the iTunes country charts.
Police Dog Hogan are: James Studholme (guitar vocals), Eddie Bishop (fiddle, mandolin), Tim Dowling (banjo, steel guitar), Emily Norris (trumpet), Shahen Galichian (accordion, piano), Don Bowen (bass), Alistair Hamer (drums)
£21.50
7.30pm
Contact Box Office: 01749 834483
boxoffice AT cedarshallwells.co.uk
cedarshallwells.co.uk
Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the west country’s award winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands.
With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs from his contemporaries.
All are songs and music of memory and significance sung in the subtle and melodic Phil Beer style and interjected with musings and amusings to an almost personal audience. It is a treat of past and current favourites from one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit.
7:30pm
Tickets: £17 (incl £1 cmsn)
https://www.strodetheatre.org.uk/whats-on/view/phil-beer/
A ‘Chance to Dance’ Event
With the fiddle leading the charge, Noble Jacks are out to take no prisoners with their high-energy footstompin’ rhythms, which have taken crowds by storm across the UK and beyond. Nominated Live Act Of The Year 2023 by the Americana Music Association UK, Noble Jacks are considered by many to be the finest purveyors of Folk-influenced Americana.
Noble Jacks’ debut album What the Hammer released to much acclaim. A fiddle driven thrill ride, the band set out to capture the raw energy of their notoriously hectic live shows. Achieving radio play internationally, including support from BBC Introducing and Radio Caroline, the riotous album has become a firm fan favourite.
Hailed as the finest purveyors of Folk-influenced Americana, look out as Noble Jacks take the liveliest show around.
www.noblejacks.com
Tickets: £17 Full. £16 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/noble-jacks-a-chance-to-dance-event/
A regular evening of music and song at Halsway Manor.
Halsway Manor open their doors to all on the first Sunday evening of each month for an evening of folk and acoustic music. Singers and musicians of all abilities are invited. If you are curious about folk music and just want to listen with a drink from the bar, you are also welcome.
There has been a Sunday Club meeting at Halsway Manor for many years.
This ‘Sunday Club’ for musicians and singers is informal and relaxed. We have a folk theme, but really all types of acoustic music, song and poetry are welcome. The evening generally combines some playing together with individual spots. We don’t frown on you having your words or music in front of you, and certainly encourage beginners.
Just come along, or give Roger Phipps a call on 01278 671685 if you would like to find out more.
Halsway Music and Song Club is held 8pm on the 1st Sunday of each month (with the exception of an August break for Sidmouth Folk Festival).
8pm–10pm
Free, but donations welcome.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/sunday-club-2/2024-10-06/
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
Evocative and distinctive, folk duo Suthering transport audiences with their exquisite vocal harmonies and their message of hope during hard times.
Soaring above the cascading piano and delicate, fingerstyle guitar, it’s the duo’s beautifully matched voices and their fresh approach to folk which make their traditional and self-penned songs stand out.
£16.50
7.45 pm
Contact Hannah Harrison: 01823 704041
marketing AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/suthering/
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
7.30 - 10.00 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Evocative and distinctive, folk duo Suthering transport audiences with their exquisite vocal harmonies and their message of hope during hard times.
Soaring above the cascading piano and delicate, fingerstyle guitar, it’s the duo’s beautifully matched voices and their fresh approach to folk which make their traditional and self-penned songs stand out.
£17.00
7.45 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/suthering/
The singer songwriter sits at the heart of music. They are the storytellers, the dreamers, the recorders of history, the peoples champions. Our Song Writer’s Circle features three artists at the centre of the new wave of contemporary songwriting. Anna Renae, Craig Joiner & Jack Francis.
Anna Renae’s album 'Skin' was released in March 2020, and her follow-up EP 'Speaking Her Mind' was released in October 2021. Anna's music has received glowing reviews and has attained radio play around the world, including many plays on BBC Introducing.
Craig Joiner released his latest album, “A Kind Of Calm”. Songs written by Craig have also been recorded by artistes as diverse as Bonnie Tyler and Steps and featured in major Hollywood movies, A Nightmare on Elm Street, 102 Dalmatians and Jack Reacher among them.
Jack Francis, Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jack Francis’ second album ‘Early Retirement’ is another example of his impressive work. Shining a spotlight on Francis’ unique brand of Soulful Folk, ‘Early Retirement’ explores a broad range of influences, touching on great British, Irish and American song writing.
Come join us for a night of music and storytelling at St Andrews Church, Kinson.
£16.96
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bfc-presents-songwriters-circle-tickets-949990867257
Julie July Band is a British folk-rock band performing original music inspired by the folk, rock, and blues movement of the 60s and 70s but with a contemporary 21st century twist.
With over a decade of gigging and recording experience, they make their debut performance at Taunton Brewhouse celebrating their new album Flight of Fancy, together with songs from their critically acclaimed albums Lady of the First Light and Wonderland, plus a selection of Sandy Denny favourites.
£20.00 - £24.00
7.45 pm
Contact Hannah Harrison: 01823 704041
marketing AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/julie-july-band/
Electro Folk pioneers The Drystones are bringing a night of big bad beats for badass barn dancing to The David Hall. All you have to do is leave your preconceptions of Folk at the door and maybe bring some sequins…
For their Vulpus tour, the ‘indecently talented’ duo of Alex Garden (fiddle) and Ford Collier (guitar, whistle) are joining forces with ‘percussion maestro’ Evan Carson (Sam Kelly and the Lost Boys, iamthemorning).
Whether you’re more at home in a crusty tavern or a sweaty disco, a Drystones show is the place for you.
www.thedrystones.co.uk
Tickets: £17 Full. £16 Under 25s
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-drystones-2/
Julie July Band is a British folk-rock band performing original music inspired by the folk, rock, and blues movement of the 60s and 70s but with a contemporary 21st century twist.
With over a decade of gigging and recording experience, they make their debut performance at Taunton Brewhouse celebrating their new album Flight of Fancy, together with songs from their critically acclaimed albums Lady of the First Light and Wonderland, plus a selection of Sandy Denny favourites.
From £20.50
7.45 pm
Phone: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/events/julie-july-band/
It’s all about folk song, and it’s all in good company! Whether you want a good sing in the bar, to hear and share new songs, to improve your voice or to create songs of your own, this is the weekend for you.
Bob & Gill Berry host this all singing weekend, with special guests TBC.
Singers of all ages (teenagers to pensioners) and abilities are welcome to join the fun, in the comfortable and relaxed surroundings of Halsway Manor. ‘Singin’ in the Bar’ (with everyone having a chance to lead chorus songs or share their favourites – if they want to) when the bar is open, opportunities to explore songs and individual singing in between, learn how to look after your voice and performance, or have a ramble around the glorious countryside – it’s up to you! You’re welcome to bring accompanying instruments if you wish. The extensive folk library will also be open throughout the weekend should you wish to delve into the collection.
Arrival is from 4pm on Friday, with dinner at 6.30pm followed by the first singing session at 8pm. The course includes a Leaders’ Concert at 5pm on Sunday, followed by a buffet supper. Sunday night B&B is available for anyone wishing to stay on for a survivors’ song session.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/give-voice2024/
The band who have changed the face of folk music over their fifty five years together, Steeleye Span's new album Green Man Collection brings together recent tracks with new versions of three classics.
As ever performing a selection of songs from across the years and firm fan favourites.
Tickets: £29.50
Concessions: £28
Footlights: Discount applies
A £1.50 ticket levy is included in all stated ticket prices.
All bookings are subject to a £2 transaction Fee.
https://www.westlandsyeovil.co.uk/whats-on/music/steeleye-span/
Somerset based guitarist, David Mitchell, invites you to attend the launch of his debut solo album, 'Contours'.
The evening will feature a collection of stunning classical, traditional and contemporary folk tunes performed sensitively on classical guitar.
David Mitchell describes his guitar playing as “Folk-Classical fingerstyle”, combining these genres to create a beautiful and unique take on some well known pieces and traditional folk tunes as well as performing his own original compositions.
In addition to being a talented musician, David trained as a luthier at Newark and Sherwood College and uses a Classical Guitar that he crafted himself.
David has enjoyed performing solo guitar at a range of lovely venues including Downend Folk & Roots, Banbury Folk Club, The Amadeus, Wessex Acoustic Folk Club, Fivehead Folk & Acoustic Music Night, VegFest Bristol as well as many other public and private events.
This concert marks the release of 'Coutours' and copies of the CD will be available for purchase at the event.
Website: https://www.davidmitchellmusician.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidmitchellmusician
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ AT dmitchellmusician
Doors: 7pm
Music from: 7:30pm
Light refreshments will be on sale at this concert.
While we encourage young people to come along and enjoy the music we do ask that all under 16s are accompanied by a responsible adult.
The concert will take place in the Andrew Room on the 1st floor, there is access by both stairs & lift and disabled toilet facilities on the ground floor.
https://www.crewkernemuseum.co.uk/
In advance: £10 (plus booking fee) / On the door: £13
Contact David Mitchell
folkyowlsevents AT gmail.com
https://wegottickets.com/event/631545#
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
Uniquely captivating band Lady Maisery return with their first studio album in six years. The combined vocal and multi-instrumental talents of Hazel Askew, Hannah James and Rowan Rheingans (individually three of the most accomplished and adventurous artists in modern Folk) transmute to form a unified voice, carrying stories of sisterhood, human struggle, the joy of living and the vitality of music.
Frequent festival headliners, Lady Maisery have for over a decade enraptured audiences throughout the UK and Europe. Their return to the live stage has been eagerly awaited.
Tickets: £17. No concessions
www.ladymaisery.com
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/lady-maisery/
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: £15 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
New Album Preview Tour!
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.
£26.00
7.00pm
https://www.strodetheatre.org.uk/whats-on/view/gigspanner-big-band/
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
Once again we will be putting on our concert, "The Shout" to raise money for the RNLI.
We will have readings and shanties which will tell the story of the RNLI from its beginnings in 1824 to the present day when it celebrates 200 years of saving lives.
We are being hosted by Wareham RNLI fundraising committee and we will be performing in the lovely church of Lady St Mary in Wareham on Sunday 20th October at 7.30pm.
Tickets are available from WeGotTickets using the following link:
https://www.wegottickets.com/event/631316
Doors will open at 7pm and refreshments and free local parking will be available.
We hope to see you there.
£10
7.30pm
Contact David Blakeley: 07923 020946
wareham.whalers AT gmail.com
http://www.wareham-whalers.org.uk/
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
Join Jane Harris and Pip Wright, guest tutor from Cornwall, for the second Songways singing weekend at Halsway. A joyous weekend learning and singing harmony songs from a wide range of traditions, including their own original compositions. Jane and Pip both play the fiddle and have a special musical bond, bringing much joy to all their music-making.
A chance to dance, play and/or listen to live music on the Friday evening – easy Cornish dances (with Jane and Pip on fiddles – if you play an instrument you are welcome to join the band).
Special Saturday evening gig by Rolling Harmony, a vibrant vocal group of choir leaders and singers from the South West, delighted to be performing again at Halsway following their sell-out gig last year. Glorious music and gorgeous vocal harmonies, rooted in English and American harmony singing traditions.
For more information and to book, please visit songways.co.uk
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/songways-singing-weekend-2024/
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 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 14 albums already 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.
www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
Tickets: £20 Full. £19 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/christian-garrick-the-budapest-cafe-orchestra/
8pm–9:30pm
Rolling Harmony is delighted to be returning to Halsway after their sell-out gig last year.
Rolling Harmony is a vibrant vocal group of choir leaders and singers from the South West created by Jane Harris, Director of Songways.
They delight audiences with their lively and eclectic performances – glorious music and gorgeous vocal harmonies, rooted in English and American harmony singing traditions.
Songs with captivating rhythms, compelling lyrics and interweaving vocal lines. A rich blend of voices with instrumentals for some songs including fiddle and guitar. There’s something for everyone…
For more information and to book, please visit songways.co.uk
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-rolling-harmony-2/
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/2024-10-27/
A rare opportunity to see Tim van Eyken perform in the South West. Tim sings mainly traditional English Folk songs. He plays Melodion and Guitar. He was voted Young Folk Musician of the year in 1990. In 2008 he was invited to join the National Theatre as Song man in their production of War Horse. A founder member of Dr Faustus he went on to join Waterson Carthy and formed his own band with Nancy Kerr, Pete Flood, Oliver Knight and Colin Fletcher.
£12 ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL.
Doors 7 for 7.30 Start
Contact Meg Rose: 07877 206124
Meg.rose AT btinternet.com
Folk rock legends
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century, with 2024 being their 57th anniversary.
During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance.
This year’s Autumn Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new.
Fairport Convention have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted their ground-breaking album Liege & Lief ‘The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time’.
Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.
The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and vocals.
7.30 pm
£32.00
https://www.electricpalace.org.uk/events/event/fairport-convention/
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century, with 2024 being their 57th anniversary.
During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance.
This year’s Autumn Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new.
Fairport Convention have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted their ground-breaking album Liege & Lief ‘The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time’.
Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.
The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and vocals.
7.30 pm
£32
https://www.electricpalace.org.uk/events/event/fairport-convention/
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
Founded in 2020 by Musical Director Mark Hewitt, Lyme Bay Moonrakers is a vocal group of 20 men and women from the Lyme Regis area. The group sing mainly unaccompanied songs of the sea, in bold, new musical arrangements. Folksongs, ballads and shanties, as well as new original songs, feature in their pop-up performances and yearly theatre shows. You can find them singing in 19th century-style costume, supporting local events in Lyme Regis such as the Fossil Festival, the RNLI, the Lyme Regis Boat Building Academy, the Lyme Regis Gig Club and many more. Their first cd ‘Songs for the Wellerman’ was released in 2022.
Join us for an evening of shanties and other songs of the sea, including ‘The Pull of the Tide’- a new film by Rob Jayne, charting a local family’s story of a young lad’s rite of passage from boy to man upon the sea. The film is accompanied by new songs composed by Mark Hewitt with words by Corinne Reed.
Tickets: £12
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/lyme-bay-moonrakers-the-pull-of-the-tide/
Christina Alden & Alex Patterson are multi-instrumentalists and songwriters from Norwich. Their music is rich with intertwining harmony, sensitive accomplished musicianship and a creative song-writing style that is both delicate and moving. Deeply inspired by the world around them, they have a keen environmental eye to craft stories with the natural world at its heart, reflecting on the relationship between humans and the wild.
They have enjoyed touring extensively in the UK and Europe; including a twenty-three-date concert hall tour with Show of Hands (including Union Chapel and St David’s Hall Cardiff), a show at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for Celtic Connections, headline and main stage performances at some of the UK’s most prestigious folk festivals and performances in Norway, Belgium, France and Ireland. They have written and self-released four albums, composed music for a BBC Radio 4 documentary series and have had over a million streams on Spotify.
£14
7.30pm
Contact Box Office: 01749 834483
boxoffice AT cedarshallwells.co.uk
cedarshallwells.co.uk
A night of passionate rhythms of Flamenco music.
The intense sounds of hand clapping, foot stomping, singing and exquisite guitar playing will transport you for one night to Andalucia – the heart of Flamenco. Dancer Aneta Skut is accompanied on this occasion by the finest Flamenco musicians Cuffy Cuthbertson (guitar) and Kostka Garcia (vocals/percussion).
Tickets: £16. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/noche-flamenca/
Christina Alden & Alex Patterson are multi-instrumentalists and songwriters from Norwich. Their music is rich with intertwining harmony, sensitive accomplished musicianship and a creative song-writing style that is both delicate and moving. Deeply inspired by the world around them, they have a keen environmental eye to craft stories with the natural world at its heart, reflecting on the relationship between humans and the wild.
They have enjoyed touring extensively in the UK and Europe; including a twenty-three-date concert hall tour with Show of Hands (including Union Chapel and St David’s Hall Cardiff), a show at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for Celtic Connections, headline and main stage performances at some of the UK’s most prestigious folk festivals and performances in Norway, Belgium, France and Ireland. They have written and self-released four albums, composed music for a BBC Radio 4 documentary series and have had over a million streams on Spotify.
£15.50
7.30pm
Contact Box Office: 01749 834483
boxoffice AT cedarshallwells.co.uk
cedarshallwells.co.uk
Traditional Celtic music at its best! With fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, haunting ballads and a good dose of humour, and joined by Scotland’s youngest Clan leader on bagpipes and fiddle, the variety and range of the material they perform is matched only by their enthusiasm and lively Celtic spirits.
“Formed from a Paisley pub session in 1968, seminal trailblazers the Tannahill Weavers now also rank as national treasures.”
-Glasgow Celtic Connections 2018
www.tannahillweavers.co.uk
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions
7.30 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-tannahill-weavers/
A regular evening of music and song at Halsway Manor.
Halsway Manor open their doors to all on the first Sunday evening of each month for an evening of folk and acoustic music. Singers and musicians of all abilities are invited. If you are curious about folk music and just want to listen with a drink from the bar, you are also welcome.
There has been a Sunday Club meeting at Halsway Manor for many years.
This ‘Sunday Club’ for musicians and singers is informal and relaxed. We have a folk theme, but really all types of acoustic music, song and poetry are welcome. The evening generally combines some playing together with individual spots. We don’t frown on you having your words or music in front of you, and certainly encourage beginners.
Just come along, or give Roger Phipps a call on 01278 671685 if you would like to find out more.
Halsway Music and Song Club is held 8pm on the 1st Sunday of each month (with the exception of an August break for Sidmouth Folk Festival).
8pm–10pm
Free, but donations welcome.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/sunday-club-2/2024-10-06/
With a professional conductor and aimed at a more advanced level of playing, being able to play a bass recorder of some description is essential. All participants are expected to frequently change instruments through the course to give everyone the opportunity to play a variety of recorders. This course will focus on cannons and fugues.
Who’s it For?
Because of the challenging nature of the repertoire, all course participants should have a very good sense of rhythm and be experienced ensemble players. Ideally you should also play both F and C instruments, including tenor AND bass. Being able to play a bass recorder of some description is essential.
The Team
This partnership event is organised by Recorders for All, an entirely voluntary, not-for-profit organisation with Pam Smith as musical director and Jan Epps as secretary and administrator. For more information go to the Recorders for All website http://www.recordersforall.org.uk
For more information and to book please contact Jan Epps:
Tel - 01752 417093
Email - jan.epps57 AT gmail.com
We are pleased to welcome TradTöchter to Halsway Manor. Vivien Zeller and Ursula Suchanek present a guided tour of traditional music, beautiful melodies, groovy tunes and breath-taking dances from Germany. There will be spotlights on various instrumental aspects such as working on second voices, harmonies and danceable accompaniments, playing together as an ensemble and of course some dancing. All instruments welcome.
Who is it for?
Instrumentalists of all levels of experience welcome. You need to be comfortable with your instrument to get the best from this workshop. Intermediate level recommended.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/german-weekend/
One of the world’s most prolific fiddle groups, the band formed for a one-off tour of the Scottish Highlands in 1999 and are still raising roofs far and wide well over two decades later. Encompassing a rare and virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and island voices, with ensemble and solo-led sets both backed by powerhouse guitar and piano, the Blazers pack all the power, passion and sensitivity of Scotland’s traditional music, into a single show.
The four-fiddle frontline of Inverness’ Bruce MacGregor, Shetlander Jenna Reid, Nairn’s Rua Macmillan, and Orkney’s Kristan Harvey ignites atop second-to-none accompaniment from Anna Massie and Angus Lyon. Whatever the hall – whether of the Highland village or Royal Albert variety – they’ll turn it into the liveliest and warmest of hootenannies, setting the hearts of their audience alight.
THIS IS A SEATED AND STANDING EVENT.
Bar opens 6:30 P.M.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Seated £21.00
Standing £21.00
On the door £25.00
10% off for members
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
A ‘Chance to Dance’ Event
Plus Special Guests
21 YEARS WILD…
With a fiery helter-skelter blend of influences from East and West, 3 Daft Monkeys inject a unique wildness into their music, producing a symphonious cacophony of styles, Silvery vocal melodies soar above percussive global beats and rhythms, while passionate fiddle-driven tunes weave around animated guitar and bass, all presented with outstanding musicianship in their famously theatrical live performances.
This multi-award-winning live act continues to deliver dynamic, rampageous,
powerful performances of their completely original songs with an endless energy and enthusiasm! With 21 years of International festival experience in hand, 3 Daft Monkeys certainly know how to work a festival crowd, and are guaranteed to whip an audience into a frenzy of emotions with every performance.
www.3daftmonkeys.co.uk
Tickets: £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/3-daft-monkeys-a-chance-to-dance-event/
Originally from the South West Chris now lives in Iceland. We are lucky to be able to invite him to perform in Crewkerne on a rare visit to the UK.
Chris is a fine singer of mainly Traditional English Folk Songs. He is a master of his trade, narrates a story well with inventive guitar accompaniments.
£12 ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Doors 7.00 for a 7.30 start.
Contact Meg Rose: 07877 206124
Meg.rose AT btinternet.com
www.chrisfoster-iceland.com
A social dance week for more experienced dancers; enjoy dancing in a happy, friendly atmosphere working together as a team to get the greatest possible satisfaction from your dancing. There will be a selection of workshops and evening dances, looking at dances from both sides of the pond.
Who is it for?
The event is designed for dancers of an intermediate and experienced level.
The Team
Rosemary Hunt leads the course; she regularly calls at festivals in UK, and has been a guest caller at events in the USA, Holland and Belgium.
This year Rosemary is supported by Brian Stanton and Liam Binley, and a workshop with Liesbeth Krijgsman will bring an international flavour. The band is Orion’s Ring, well known for their lovely sound and their supportive ‘lifting’ playing, allowing the dancers to enjoy the dances to the full.
For more information and booking, contact Rosemary Hunt: rosemaryashunt AT icloud.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mostly-english-dance-week-2024/
Contra dancing originated in New England as an evolution of the English and European country dances that the early settlers had taken with them to America. It is usually danced in two long lines with your partner opposite, or ‘contrary’, to you. In the 1980s, a more ‘zesty’ form of contra emerged, with the emphasis on high-energy dancing, smooth flowing transitions, and lots of interaction with neighbouring dancers. Contra dancing is still evolving, with new dances continually being written in this style.
Rhodri Davies and Mark Elvins return in 2024 to lead you through some of the best of these contras, new and old! Music will be provided by Mollie Koenigsberger and Ali Messer. With two evening dances, morning workshops, as well as open mic and musicians workshops, this is a “not to be missed” weekend for both new and experienced contra dancers.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/zesty-contra-2024/
Raised in the East Yorkshire flatlands on the fringes of Hull, Katie Spencer’s landscape has always been that of open skies and widening rivers. Industry still shapes the city here. The people, as with the land, are moulded by tides and stark horizons. Stand in the same place for long enough and you can watch the sun rise over the North Sea and then sink into crop fields, glowing auburn in late-summer sun. It is this sense of space and movement that flows through Katie Spencer’s music.
The song-writing, and most notably her guitar playing stems from a time when the steel-stringed instrument was truly finding its voice. Artists like Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and perhaps most evidently Michael Chapman, flow into her sound, carrying with them the warmth and idealism of the early 70’s Folk and song-writer movements.
Tickets: £16 Full. £15 Concessions
www.katiespencer.net
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/katie-spencer/
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
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: £15 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Come and discover Medieval music with Mary Mohan and Jude Rees.
Delve into the world of Medieval manuscripts, dance tunes, beautiful sacred music and more. This course takes a “no rules” approach, allowing musicians from every discipline to explore this diverse and surprising genre. Want to play a cantiga on violin, clarinet and bass concertina? No problem! Or have a collection of unusual historic instruments you want to dust off and use? Bring them along!
With a mix of whole course sessions, smaller ensemble groups and specialist workshops, Mary and Jude work together to educate and inspire, providing a fun and safe environment for you to learn and enjoy yourself.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/page-to-performance-medieval-music/
Indie-folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke is often said to draw on traditional British folk inspirations, but is a thoroughly modern, multifaceted artist who follows her own compass.
Josienne is blessed with a voice of crystalline beauty and clarity that has been compared to Sandy Denny. She has extensive touring experience, having been a Rough Trade-signed, Radio 2 Folk Award-winning artist and has also been hand-picked as main tour support for folk legend Richard Thompson.
As well as being a guitarist and vocalist of alarmingly good quality, Josienne’s dark wit also acts as compelling counterpoint to her own twilit, low-key and intimate compositions when playing live.
7:45mp
Tickets: £16 incl. £1cms
https://www.strodetheatre.org.uk/whats-on/view/josienne-clarke/
Celebrating 20 Years of Bellowhead
In 2004, Bellowhead burst onto the British folk scene like nothing before or since. Famously conjured up by duo Spiers & Boden whilst sitting in a traffic jam, they roped in friends, and friends of friends until the big band was born. In their early years Bellowhead played to hundreds of thousands of people at festivals and on tour and were regularly lauded as “One of the country’s greatest live outfits.” They recorded 5 studio albums (selling over a quarter of a million copies), were the proud recipients of 2 x silver discs and won a staggering 8 x BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
2024 marks Bellowhead’s 20th Anniversary, it’s also 20 years since the release of their debut 5 track E.P.Onymous and 10 years since the release of their Top 20 studio album Revival which featured favourites including Gosport Nancy and Roll Alabama.
The band say “The reunion tour in 2022 meant such a lot to all of us after such a difficult time, and seemed to bring so much joy to our fans, that we thought we'd probably best do it again!
Tickets: £27.50 / £35.00 / £45.00 (plus booking fees)
Please note under 18 to be accompanied by an adult.
7:30pm
https://www.bathforum.co.uk/Publisher/Article.aspx?ID=676272
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
7.30 - 10.00 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
An opportunity to see world renowned multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer share the Blues roots of his musical life. Supported by his long-time collaborator Miranda Sykes on Bass guitar and Sian Monaghan on percussion, they will confidently guide you through the music of Blind Willie Johnson, The Rev Gary Davis, Davy Graham, and John Mayall.
Phil will introduce the music of the Great British Blues interpreters and pioneers with it, all whilst giving it that inimitable Phil Beer ‘twist’. Following the success of his 2020 album ‘The Blues Hour’, the Phil Beer Trio’s ‘Blues and Beyond…’ Tour promises three great musicians at the top of their game, combining effortlessly to create an evening of songs and random anecdotes from an extraordinary life in music, this time from the Bluesy side of the street.
www.philbeer.co.uk
Tickets: £22.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/phil-beer-trio/
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/2024-11-24/
We are delighted to welcome back Anne Niepold and Andy Cutting to teach this extended course (please note earlier start and later finish) at Halsway Manor for advanced, and advanced-intermediate level D/G melodeon players.
This will be an intensive week of skills-based learning focusing on your development as a musician, discovering new ways to interpret and play, and to make the music your own. You need to be open to trying new things, and to be prepared to work hard – it will be intensive but also an enjoyable and rewarding week, with time to relax in the evenings and enjoy informal sessions.
The group – limited to approximately 20 students – will be split in two by the tutors at the start of the course; you’ll spend roughly the same amount of time with each tutor. This will be done according to ability level; if you are coming with friends this may mean you will be working in different groups, but there’s plenty of informal time to meet, chat and play with others.
Arrival is from noon on Monday, with lunch at 1pm, and work begins after lunch! The course ends with lunch on Friday.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/melodeon-study-week-anne-niepold-and-andy-cutting/
We’re delighted to welcome Narthen back to Halsway for a joyous sixth weekend of polyphonic unaccompanied singing in four part harmony, with a tutor to lead each section of the choir. Narthen are Jo Freya, Fi Fraser, Sarah Matthews, and Doug Eunson.
The weekend will explore some of the beautiful Yorkshire and Derbyshire carols and other festive fair, for which Narthen are so well known. We have a fantastic array of songs for you as always and we are particularly excited about it being a more ‘festive celebration’, being that little bit nearer to Christmas. Mince pies will be welcome, but be warned, the puritans who banned Christmas once termed them “Relics of the whores of Babylon”!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/christmas-carols-with-narthen/
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
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/
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/
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
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
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/
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
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
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
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
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
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
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk
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
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
7.15 for 7.30 - 9.15
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
jenny_harrison_1123 AT yahoo.co.uk