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.
We are delighted that the tutors of the Halsway DG Melodeon Weekend will be treating us to a wonderful evening concert of folk music.
Hailed the smiliest man in folk by Radio 2’s Mark Radcliffe, Dave Gray is an enthusiastic and experienced melodeon player and educator. A graduate of the Newcastle University Folk and Traditional Music degree, he began working on the multi-award winning musical ‘Beyond the End of the Road’ in 2018, and has been performing with Katie Doherty ever since, alongside fellow Navigator Grace Smith. Dave is also one third of French dance band ‘Cri du Canard’. In addition to regular private teaching he continues to work as a mentor for Ethno music camps, the international programme for young musicians playing folk, world and traditional music. He has taught on the EFDSS National Youth Folk Ensemble and Sage Gateshead’s Folkworks Summer Schools.
Hazel Askew is one of the country’s leading melodeon players and is one of the most experienced melodeon teachers in the UK. She developed the melodeon courses for EFDSS’s Saturday Folk Music School, which she still leads, and has run courses/workshops for many organisations including FolkWorks at The Sage Gateshead, Melodeons & More, Halsway Manor, Adderbury Music Weekends and various festivals across the country. Hazel also teaches freelance workshops and one to one lessons, and has even taught long-distance over Skype! Hazel’s photo is by Elly Lucas.
Mel Biggs is a musician, performer and melodeon teacher based in Derbyshire, England. Renowned the world over for her perceptive, patient and mindful manner in teaching groups and individuals, Mel is a leading light in the world of melodeon teaching; both on and off-line. Having been teaching since 2009, Mel has an ever expanding toolkit of techniques at her disposal which she adapts to every new teaching scenario. You can expect a bespoke blend of learning-by-ear, call and response playing, analogies, visualisations and pattern recognition, tune deconstruction and notation in moderation. Mel is a consummate performer, vocalist and accompanist wracking up a wealth of experience in trio Moirai with Jo Freya & Sarah Matthews, playing for various morris & traditional dance sides, and most recently as an actor-musician in the 2022-23 UK & Canada tour of Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical.
8.00 pm
Full price: £12
Full-time student: £6
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-melodeons-2025/
+ support Nova Scotia Duo
Gnoss’ signature sound is a rich tapestry of acoustic layers; outstanding musicianship, deep traditional roots and contemporary compositional flair combine to create songs and tunes brimming with character.
Triple Scots Trad Music Awards nominees, the band have built an invested following through their forward-thinking take on traditional music and the unique warmth of their live shows. This has been proven through three consecutive sellout appearances at Glasgow’s world-famous Celtic Connections festival.
Nova Scotia Duo
Multi award-winners from Nova Scotia, Rachel Davis and Darren McMullen have toured the world for over a decade - most notably as one half of Cape Breton supergroup Còig. With virtuoso fiddle, banjo and songs, they take turns on lead vocals and harmonies, and offer a refreshing mix of traditional and contemporary songs alongside multi-instrumental tunes. Their debut duo release won a 2024 Music Nova Scotia Award, and is currently shortlisted for two 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards.
8:00pm doors at 7:30pm
Tickets £18 in advance £20 on the door if available.
Details: www.celticfolk.net
Contact: Adrian or Juli 01202 083740
+ special guest Mother of Mankind
Baka have toured the world playing immersive African world fusion so this promises to be a great night!
Inspired by the Baka Pygmies of Cameroon, Baka Beyond doesn’t just play their music – they live it. Martin Cradick and Su Hart, the brains behind the band, were so moved by the Baka‘s spirit during their first visit to the Cameroon rainforest that they knew they had to share it with the world. Their album “Spirit of the Forest” catapulted them to global fame, but they’ve stayed true to their roots.
Dj set from our local legend and world music maestro Mother of Mankind. aka Tom Rickey.
A night of world music and sounds not to be missed.
£14 advance + booking fee
All Standing
7.00 pm
https://www.cheeseandgrain.com/events/baka-beyond/
We hope that you'll be able to join us for our annual Peggy Party.
Each year we host the party on the anniversary of the founding of the Arts Centre with the aim of bringing our community together for an evening of fun and entertainment.
The event is named in honour of Peggy Chapman-Andrews, BAC’s founder who motivated the local community to come together to create a place for people to enjoy and experience the arts. We continue to take inspiration from her vision.
This year we’re celebrating with a cèilidh. So, get ready to put on your dancing shoes, let down your hair and make some new friends!
We’re delighted to be joined by Chris Toyne on accordion and Liz Hall on violin. And caller Jane Thomas will provide expert guidance for each dance, so absolutely no prior experience is required.
The party will begin with a few words from BAC director Claire Tudge. There will be a complimentary drink (using delicious apple juice from New House Farm - with bubbles for those who like their drinks a little stronger) and the bar will be open for further refreshment. Then on with the dancing!
The Peggy Party is an event for everyone. However, it’s also our way of saying ‘thank you’ to our loyal Supporters. One of the benefits of becoming a BAC Supporter is receiving a free ticket to the party (2 free tickets for Premium Supporters).
If you would like to join our burgeoning group of Supporters, not only can you claim your free ticket/s (and other benefits including discounted BAC tickets year-round), but you will know that you are making an important contribution towards BAC’s future.
We look forward to welcoming you on Sat 17th – and sharing a dance!
Tickets £11
BAC Supporters are eligible for a free ticket,
BAC Premium Supporters are eligible for 2 free tickets.
Discounts will be applied during the checkout process.
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/peggy-party-2025/?utm_campaign=14995690_Strictly%20Come%20Folk%20Dancing&utm_medium=email&utm_source=BridportArtsCentre&dm_i=1GK7,8XEQY,19X9EE,1189ES,1
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky or a guest musician, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and acoustic instruments. Sheet music and audio supplied in advance.
1:30 - 4:30 pm
Admission: £16 on the door
Or cheaper when paid in advance via the website.
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Session with added feet!
8.00 pm start Dancing, music, maybe the odd song. All welcome to play, dance, sing or just listen and watch.
https://www.facebook.com/Laycockcider
Contact Steve Cunio: 07811 680534
info AT somerstep.org
www.somerstep.org
We’re delighted to be hosting another enjoyable summer weekend of Ukulele music and song for players of all levels of experience.
The mix of the three tutors is what makes this course special. Jon deals with the ‘tools of the trade’, introducing new fingerstyle and strumming techniques along with some theory. Sam takes you down the classical route with tablature and ensemble playing. Phil is a jazz and blues specialist who introduces a bit of extra spice in your playing. There will be plenty of time to relax and socialize too. The evenings include opportunities to perform your own material, plus enjoy an informal concert on the Saturday by the tutors.
In the past, the weekend workshops have covered:
•New chords from the blues/jazz repertoire and how they fit together
•Strumming techniques suitable for different styles and songs
•Fingerstyle playing as well as strumming
•How to accompany yourself on a song
•Advice on purchasing instruments, strings, etc
•How to read and interpret tablature
You’ll also be able to develop Ukulele Band skills, using pieces arranged for different ability levels; gain performance tips – get thinking about how you want to present your music improve stage craft and presence – and develop confidence and song writing skills, unlocking some creative potential!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/ukulele-weekend-2025/
Since 2009, Skinny Lister have been at the forefront of first-rate folk/punk in the UK. Making waves with the irrepressible energy of their debut album ‘Forge and Flagon’ in 2012, the London-formed crew went on to sign with Xtra Mile Recordings for the release of their classic second album ‘Down On Deptford Broadway’ (2014) and so beginning a partnership that has birthed a further four records with the label including ‘The Devil, The Heart, The Fight’ (2016), ‘The Story Is…’ (2019), ‘A Matter Of Life & Love’ (2021), and most recently ‘Shanty Punk’.
Given its mastering polish at the iconic Abbey Road Studios by Frank Arkwright, their latest effort ‘Shanty Punk’ finds the band delivering their most autobiographical and arguably most definitive Skinny Lister album yet. A concept album all about the myths and madness that have have defined Skinny Lister themselves, it was warmly received by The Morning Star who praised in a 5* review “If you’re feeling out of sorts and in need of festive cheering up, the exuberant Deptford sextet Skinny Lister are the remedy, the balm that no festive season can do without. Ever.”, whilst RNR Magazine hailed the record as “very good…raucous!” (4*).
As the band’s career continues to see them passing the growing flagon of their experiences with every album and tour. They’ve led an endless parade gathering fans old and new, from the respected folk circuit to the riotous Download Festival, igniting pogoing mosh-pits at each. Over the past ten years they’ve travelled from rain-soaked London to the vast arteries of the USA, upgrading from narrow boat to Salty Dog Cruise, played huge tours across Europe and North America and headlined themselves across festivals, sweatboxes and ever-larger venues. Performing with some of music’s most tenacious live acts from Dropkick Murphys to Frank Turner, Boy George to Beans on Toast to The Bouncing Souls, not to mention reigniting their US fanbase with an epic tour across America with Flogging Molly in 2023; Skinny Lister’s formidable live rep more than proceeds them.
And now with the tantalising promise of new material on the horizon, catch Skinny Lister doing what they do best at the Marine Theatre.
Standing
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Tickets: Early Bird £19.00, Advance £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
https://www.marinetheatre.com/skinny-lister/
Whilst crossing the Atlantic on a raft of their own making, Sons of Town Hall crafted songs of wonder and woe, heartbreak and hope. Jump aboard and join these theatrical-folk sensations for an immersive experience unlike any other.
American songwriter/author David Berkeley and British songwriter/producer Ben Parker are the men beneath the hats in this transatlantic folk duo. The pair conjure their timeless mythic universe under the aliases Josiah Chester Jones and George Ulysses Brown, 19th-century vagabonds who travel the world in a hand-built boat to escape troubled pasts and search for adventure and love. Weaving wild stories between heart-breaking and rousing songs, The Sons take audiences on a deeply imaginative voyage complete with Victorian-era costumes, sing-alongs, and meditations about the seafaring life.
For fans of Simon and Garfunkel, Tom Waits, and Monty Python alike, prepare to be uplifted and inspired, transfixed and transformed, drunk on adventure and in awe of Sons of Town Hall’s harmonies. You will laugh. You will cry. You will sing along.
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity
Running Time: 80mins + interval
£12.50, £6 u18s
7.30pm
Contact Ann Shaw: 07740 949904
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/sons-of-town-hall
Whilst crossing the Atlantic on a raft of their own making, Sons of Town Hall crafted songs of wonder and woe, heartbreak and hope. Jump aboard and join these theatrical-folk sensations for an immersive experience unlike any other.
American songwriter/author David Berkeley and British songwriter/producer Ben Parker are the men beneath the hats in this transatlantic folk duo. The pair conjure their timeless mythic universe under the aliases Josiah Chester Jones and George Ulysses Brown, 19th-century vagabonds who travel the world in a hand-built boat to escape troubled pasts and search for adventure and love. Weaving wild stories between heart-breaking and rousing songs, The Sons take audiences on a deeply imaginative voyage complete with Victorian-era costumes, sing-alongs, and meditations about the seafaring life.
For fans of Simon and Garfunkel, Tom Waits, and Monty Python alike, prepare to be uplifted and inspired, transfixed and transformed, drunk on adventure and in awe of Sons of Town Hall’s harmonies. You will laugh. You will cry. You will sing along.
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity
Running Time: 80mins + interval
£12.50, £6 u18s, £35 fam
7.30pm
Contact Keith Coombs: 01929 423834
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/sons-of-town-hall
Join local folk singer Alastair Braidwood for a walk around fields and lanes of West Dorset, accompanied by traditional folk songs from the county and further afield. Explore beautiful countryside, and hear songs relating to nature and rural ways from years before.
Meet at the Loder's Arms for 2pm. Drinks in the pub upon our return. Refreshments are not included.
Bring your own water bottle, stout walking boots, and headgear if hot. Walkers are responsible for their own surefootedness.
The walk will be about 4 miles take about 3 hours, with frequent stops for songs. Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome, so long as they don't 'sing-along'!
In association with Dorset Rural Music School.
£10 per adult in cash on arrival, u-18s free.
2.00 - 4.00 pm
Contact Alastair Braidwood: 07510 282652
alastair.j.braidwood AT outlook.com
Mark is an original songwriter and accomplished guitarist, Charles is a much-admired double bass and electric bass whose fine harmony vocals contribute to this duo’s unique sound incorporating elements of classic roots, folk and blues.
www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com
£12 advance / £14 on door
7.30 pm
Contact Helen Leary
hlleary AT hotmail.co.uk
www.caryfordhall.co.uk
An un-tutored course for experienced singers and players of early instruments. Non-fixed ensembles of recorders and viols form the main part of the week with a variety of small singing groups depending on participants. Evening sessions for all are conducted and include music for instruments and voices. All of these sessions are at 440 pitch. We usually have harpsichords available and arrange chamber groups at 440 and 415 and are also able to welcome baroque oboe, flute, and violin as second instruments. Cornett, cornamuse, sackbut, curtal and crumhorn are also welcome as second instruments and we can usually arrange sessions for these. The repertoire is primarily renaissance and baroque.
Who’s it For?
The association organises two meeting a year (end May and mid-September). Those who wish to join us must be experienced on viol and/or recorder, able to play one to a part, and be good sight readers. We welcome additional harpsichords (the owner will not be expected to play continuo exclusively all week).
The Team
This course is a partnership event, organised by The Voices, Viols and Recorders Association who can be contacted via Halsway Manor or directly through our email vvr-association AT hotmail.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/voices-viols-recorders-association-3/
Join acclaimed Australian harpist & singer Emma Horwood and Celtic harpist Christine Morphett for an exploration of world music old and new. From innovative arrangements of traditional Irish, Scottish & Japanese tunes to American blues, Spanish Flamenco & original music, be mesmerised by two Celtic harps in harmony. Also featuring harp & voice solos by Emma, with Christine and Peter Franche as harp/guitar duo Telenn Tri, don't miss the stunning strumming of seventy plus strings!
£10 / £8
2.00 - 4.00 pm
Contact Christine Morphett: 07879 484764
harpstrings AT hotmail.com
https://bowerhintonchapel.org/
Join local folk singer Alastair Braidwood for a walk around fields and woods of the Blackmore Vale, accompanied by traditional folk songs from Dorset and further afield. Explore beautiful countryside, and hear songs relating to nature and rural ways from years before.
Meet at Farthing Gate Farm for 2pm. Refreshments, not included, are provided upon our return.
Bring your own water bottle, stout walking boots, and headgear if hot. Walkers are responsible for their own surefootedness.
The walk will be about 4 miles and take about 3 hours, with frequent stops for songs. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, so long as they don't 'sing-along'!
In association with Dorset Rural Music School.
£10 per adult in cash on arrival, u-18s free.
2pm
Contact Alastair Braidwood: 07510 282652
alastair.j.braidwood AT outlook.com
Singer and guitarist, Jack Badcock is a hugely experienced performer, having toured throughout Europe, North America, Asia and Australia, predominantly as frontman and founding member of his multi-award winning, internationally renowned world-folk band ‘Dallahan’. He is a critically acclaimed solo artist and has also performed or recorded with Rura, Siobhan Miller, Adam Holmes, Dougie MacLean and The Royal Scottish National Orchestra among many others and was a finalist in the BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year Award. His career has seen him perform at some of the world’s most prestigious folk music events including Tønder Festival (DK), Festival Ortigueira (ES), Celtic Connections, (SCO) Woodford Folk Festival (AUS), Milwaukee Irish Fest (USA), Festival Dranouter (BE) and countless others.
Raised in Co. Kilkenny, Ireland and later Yorkshire, England, before moving to Scotland as a teenager, Jack has a split national identity shared between the three countries. At eighteen, in Edinburgh, he formed a partnership with multi-instrumentalist Ciaran Ryan, touring the UK, Germany and Denmark. The duo would go on to form Dallahan in 2013, which rapidly became one of Scotland’s busiest international folk bands. To date the band have recorded four critically acclaimed albums, earned several awards and many nominations and toured extensively on four continents.
Having previously sung mostly original interpretations of traditional songs, In 2020, Jack began writing original songs, initially incorporating them into Dallahan’s music before beginning to write and release solo recordings. In 2021, Jack released his debut solo EP, The Driftwood Project. Funded by Creative Scotland, the EP was drip-released throughout the year and showcased a plethora of musical influences and outlooks, featuring a large lineup of some of Scotland’s most accomplished instrumentalists from the jazz, classical and folk worlds. It was nominated for Original Work of the Year (Sponsored by PRS) at the BBC Scots Trad Music Awards 2021. He was then invited to write, arrange and perform the prestigious New Voices commission at Celtic Connections 2022 with a show of all-new original material with a six-piece band.
Jack Badcock is a singer whose solo material reveals an astute songcraft exploring enormously wide ranging subjects delivered with a musical sensitivity clearly influenced by American folk, funk and soul music as much as the traditional music of Britain and Ireland and all served with a healthy dose of storytelling and humour.
Website: www.jackbadcock.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/JackBadcockMusic
Instagram: www.instagram.com/JackBadcockMusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZEC5eIFq5kRQGFTRj5S1t?si=XoIbJUFMS2ainPcFRkBJqg
Youtube: www.youtube.com/JackBadcockMusic
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £13.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/jack-badcock-dallahan/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We meet on alternate Thursdays for a relaxed not too serious evening of dancing.
4 - Includes a cuppa and a cake
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
The Halsway Playford Weekend is always a stimulating and enjoyable experience, and we are delighted to welcome back dancing master Andrew Swaine with musicians Purcell’s Polyphonic Party for the 2025 event.
A vigorous and fun weekend of dancing, the course is aimed at dancers – both experienced and new to Playford are welcome – who want to explore the music and dances published in the English Dancing Master.
An extremely brief history of Playford, in Andrew’s words: “John Playford was a publisher in the mid-17th century who published a lot of “country dances” which were being danced in the English Inns of Court at the time. It’s commonly believed that that they were initially dances for light relief based on what the common folk were doing, but dancing masters got involved and many of the dances are quite elaborate! They evolved considerably when Charles II came back from exile and country dancing became very popular throughout the nation and much of Western Europe, declining in the early 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century Cecil Sharp, reviving interest in all things traditionally English, reinterpreted and and taught these dances.”
Andrew likes to promotes a relatively lively and accessible style of Playford dancing, aiming to rediscover what made these dances fun in the first place. Expect a varied and joyful programme of workshops and social dancing, aimed at interpreting the dances for a modern audience with enthusiasm and enjoyment, whilst also setting the dances in historical context and referring back to the original sources.
There will be a Playford Assembly Ball on the Saturday evening – costume strongly encouraged!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-playford-assembly-2025/
A talk by David Sutcliffe with live music from Sirinu
In honour of the Ilminster Literary Festival, Ilminster Arts Centre is delighted to host a captivating evening celebrating the life and legacy of folk collector Cecil Sharp through both insightful commentary and stirring music. This special event features a talk by David Sutcliffe and a concert by the acclaimed ensemble Sirinu, weaving together history and melody to bring Sharp’s work vividly to life.
The evening begins with a talk by David Sutcliffe, a Somerset-based freelance researcher with a passion for the county’s rich folk traditions. David embarked on the journey of writing a new biography of Cecil Sharp in September 2020, delving into archives, correspondence, and original sources to craft a compelling narrative of Sharp’s life.
Sharp’s journey as a struggling musician, his transformative travels in Australia and America, and his encounters with folk performers are recounted in this engaging biography, Cecil Sharp and the Quest for Folk Song and Dance, published by Ballad Partners in September 2023. The book explores Sharp’s contributions to the Edwardian Folk Revival and its limitations, blending social history with the personal story of a fascinating cultural figure.
The second part of the evening features a concert by Sirinu.
Sirinu perform songs and tunes collected by Cecil Sharp with an emphasis on his discoveries in Somerset from the towns and villages near Ilminster collected before the Great War. Some of the songs we perform in Sharp's own arrangements but for others we perform them as noted by Sharp directly from the source singers that he collected from. Others songs we have prepared in our own contemporary folk arrangements. We use a variety of instruments both traditional and modern - fiddle, concertina, banjo, keyboard, hurdy-gurdy, guitar - and explore Sharp's enduring legacy in the light of David Sutcliffe's recent research on Sharp.
Discover Cecil Sharp’s journey, immerse yourself in the music he championed, and celebrate the legacy of folk traditions through this unique evening of word and song!
For additional details about Sirinu, visit https://www.sirinu.co.uk
David Sutcliffe’s website is https://cecilsharpspeople.org.uk
Doors from 6:30pm with bar available.
General admission: £16 Students: £8 with valid student ID
Start time: 7.30pm
Contact Ilminster Arts Centre: 01460 54973
info AT ilminsterarts.org.uk
www.ilminsterartscentre.com/performances
The famous yearly FREE Wessex Folk Festival returns to Weymouth Harbourside on the 31st May and June 1st 2025. Festival Music from top Folk acts and Bands. Local musicians and great Morris Dancing, sessions and workshops, mixed in with Trade stalls and great food. Kicks off at the Sailors Return Weymouth Friday evening 30th May. All welcome so come and enjoy! Visit the Wessex Folk Festival website for up to date details.
Contact Martin: 07730 575241
info AT wessexfolkfestival.com
https://www.wessexfolkfestival.com
Hobsons Choice are delighted to bring you an evening of guaranteed laughter, fun and frolics with some great music to dance along to. This lively fiddle led band has been entertaining Folk throughout the south west for many years
and continue to bring joyful memories for all occasions.
Sarah will be bouncing around on bass guitar whilst calling dances and says “If you can walk, you can barn dance, so come along and have some fun whilst supporting The Great David Hall”.
www.hobsonschoice.org.uk
£12.50 Full. £11.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Two exceptional musicians, world-renowned Welsh harpist Catrin Finch and Aoife Ni Bhriain, one of Ireland's foremost traditional fiddle players and a classical violinist of international stature, who's serendipitous meeting during a brief respite in covid lockdown has blossomed into a ground breaking musical partnership.
Double You, Catrin and Aoife’s debut album as a duo, features an exquisite collection of new compositions that draw inspiration from various genres, taking listeners on a captivating journey on the wings of the bees across the Irish Sea and inspired by the cultures of their home countries.
Dublin native Aoife Ní Bhriain is one of her generation’s most versatile and gifted violinists, a dazzling musician who commands both the classical world and her Irish traditional heritage. From across the Irish Sea and the west coast of Wales, harpist Catrin Finch has also built an impressive classical career and ventured into unchartered musical territory, most notably through her international award-winning collaborations. Double You, their debut album as a duo, features an exquisite collection of new compositions that draw inspiration from various genres, taking listeners on a captivating journey on the wings of the bees across the Irish Sea and inspired by the cultures of their home countries.
Both are incredible virtuosos of their respective instruments, who started young and trained hard with great dedication to achieve the highest world-class standards of their art. Both went through rigorous classical training and grounded their careers in the classical world. Given her family heritage, it was inevitable that Aoife would also become a master of the Irish tradition; and given her fearless and inquisitive nature, it was equally inevitable that Catrin would seek artistic satisfaction beyond the confines of the classical world. “Audiences just want to come away from a performance having been moved,” says Catrin. That becomes the key creative force, transcending the boundaries of genre.
Running through their stories – as individual creatives, remarkable women, and now as an inspirational duo – are universal themes of identity, self-belief and the courage to be who you really are, to find yourself, particularly when others expect you to conform. Theirs is a story of being brave enough to follow your own path. From fighting against cancer and embracing sexuality, to being courageous enough to express their full creative potential, both Catrin and Aoife have been forging their own paths of challenge and discovery.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M. Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £21.00 On the door £25.00 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. Booking fee may apply
https://www.marinetheatre.com/catrin-finch-and-aoife-ni-bhriain-2/
Free concert with refreshments available.
Step back in time and let local early music consort Courtlye Musick and our guests, Ars Nova of Cherbourg, transport you from 1450 to 1600 on a musical journey through the courts of Europe. Performed in costume. Pop in to see us, even if you can't stay.
Donations welcomed - profits to Dorset Rural Music School.
3.00 - 5.00 pm
Contact Anne Jones: 01305 854915
eagjones21 AT gmail.com
www.courtlyemusick.co.uk
Free concert with refreshments available.
Step back in time and let local early music consort Courtlye Musick and our guests, Ars Nova of Cherbourg, transport you from 1450 to 1600 on a musical journey through the courts of Europe. This is a fairly informal event so we'll pick from yesterday's programme in St Mary's Church and add whatever we fancy! Performed in costume. Pop in to see us, even if you can't stay.
Donations welcomed - profits to Dorset Rural Music School.
3.00 - 5.00 pm
Contact Anne Jones: 01305 854915
eagjones21 AT gmail.com
www.courtlyemusick.co.uk
Get a closer look at the accommodation options here.
Join Eliza Marshall (Freedom To Roam), Deborah Norris (Ballet Folk), and Katie Whitehouse (Company of Song) for an inspiring retreat designed to reconnect you with the natural world and your creative self, with a touch of folk tradition woven into the experience.
Come as you are, and leave with renewed energy, ideas, and connection to nature.
Through the interconnected disciplines of writing, music, movement and nature-based activities like mindful walks, you’ll explore how creativity can deepen our relationship with the earth, and each other, encourage meaningful connections, and inspire positive change.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Halsway Manor, this retreat offers a unique blend of nature immersion and artistic exploration. Evenings will be spent sharing nature-inspired songs, stories and dance.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/connected-creativity-2025/
Wonderful Klezmer and Balkan music on Fiddle, Clarinet, Accordion, Double Bass, Vocals, Darabuka and more - poignant, exciting, fantasic music from a great band.
There will be space to dance for those who wish...
£14 online, £17 on the door
Doors open 7.30pm
Contact CICCIC: 01823 337477
zeffe.music AT gmail.com
www.ciccic.co.uk
Kip Winter and Dave Wilson bring a sense of intimacy to every venue, blending superb, often hard-hitting original songs, stunning harmonies and musicianship with sometimes hilarious humour and tales of life on the road. Kip (vocals, accordion, guitar, flute) “simply has a voice to die for” ( John Roffey, Maverick Magazine), whilst Dave (vocals, guitar and banjo) is now rightly recognized as being amongst the top tier of British songwriters, with his songs sung in Folk clubs across the UK and beyond. Together, their voices are sublime.
£17. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Join us for a Bal, with Topette!! The evening will kick off with a short performance by students on the Topette!! playing weekend, followed by dancing and merriment for all! Everyone welcome, and bring instruments if you play – there will likely be a session afterwards.
The Band
Topette!! occupy a unique position in the current folk and traditional music landscape. A collaboration between five highly-regarded individuals from two countries, they’re the kind of perfect idea that, if they didn’t already exist, someone would have to invent. Yet Topette!! are no mere ‘project’ band. They’re a fully-formed and functioning group of the kind that rarely comes around nowadays. Topette!! are a true collective – bonded as much by the joy found in each other’s company as in their shared musical vision.
Julien Cartonnet is a powerhouse on both bagpipes and banjo. Fiddler James Delarre’s innate melodic and harmonic sensibilities make him the perfect match for accordion virtuoso Andy Cutting. Tania Buisse’s propulsive bodhrán playing and Barn Stradling’s singularly distinctive bass grooves complete a sound that is irresistible to ears and feet alike.
Full price £15 Concession £7.50
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/bal-topette-2025/
Headlining a perfect evening of music at Evershot Parish Hall will be the multi-talented Stompin’ Dave Electric Duo featuring Lucy Piper with The Dorset Mutineers starting off the evening.
Stompin’ Dave is a phenomenal artist, a former member of former UK Blues Band of the Year The Producers, Dave was nominated for a British Blues Award in 2014. He has appeared at Evershot Parish Hall many times over the years and we are so excited to have him back with Lucy Piper as the Electric Duo!
Devon Drummer, Lucy Piper, has performed in Mississippi, USA alongside many top musicians. In 2019 and 2020 Lucy worked with double Grammy Award winning label Ruf Records on their annual ‘Blues Caravan’.
Plus, returning to their original rehearsal space for their first public performance at Evershot Hall, the Dorset Mutineers will open our evening with their rich a’capella voices, singing shanties and sea-fairing folk songs.
Tickets are available now
Come and join us for fun, music, drinks and dance.
Bring your best buddies – See you here!
Evershot Parish Hall – DT2 0JY
Tickets £15 per person
Our fully licensed bar with drinks and snackettes will be operating and accepts cash, card, contactless and mobile payments!
Doors Open at 7:00pm
https://evershot-parish-hall.square.site/product/double-feature-25/63?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false
Dance workshop from 6 - 7pm
Main dance from 7 - 9.30pm
All welcome, no experience needed
Tea and coffee available
Free town centre parking
Contact Rainer: 07957 211 879
rainer.wittlin AT outlook.com
https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne
Chard Folk Dance Club
We meet on alternate Thursdays for a relaxed not too serious evening of dancing.
4 - Includes a cuppa and a cake
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
We are delighted to be welcoming back the British BMG Federation for their 2025 Summer School. Choose from 3 courses – Classic Finger-style 5-string Banjo with Danielle Saxon Reeves; The Art of Playing in Ensemble with Roland Gallery; Traditional Music from the British Isles for Mixed Instruments with Nigel Gatherer – and let us know your choice when booking.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/bmg-summer-school-2025/
All welcome to our regular Barn Dance. No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles! Tickets on the door - just turn up
£7.50 adults £2.50 children
7.30pm - 10.00pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Marion Fleetwood (TRADarrr, Feast of Fiddles, IOTA, The Sandy Denny Project, Fleetwood Cave) performs her stunning music alongside Gregg Cave (TRADarrr, Fleetwood Cave).
These two seasoned performers bring a fresh and lively aspect to traditional folk songs and folk rock, plus self penned contemporary music.
Blandford RBL open from 7pm.
£15, ONLY pre purchased or reserved
8.00 pm (doors open 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 07590 411515
kd.79 AT live.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
7.30pm onwards
£10.50 on the Door - card or cash
bar & a raffle.
All proceeds to
Primrose Race for Life fund
Cancer Research.
This is, as always, a day of free entertainment for all ages and will include music and dance performances, workshops, stalls and much, much more!
FREE EVENT
Entertainment will take place all day, throughout the village. Key venues
will include The David Hall, the Market Square, the Blake Hall, St Peter and
St Paul Church and the Brewers Arms.
www.pethertonfolkfest.co.uk
Known for their rousing sea shanties and maritime tunes, The Longest Johns have captivated global audiences, and their live performances promise to deliver the same powerful energy fans have come to love. They visit Bruton for a haunting church concert to celebrate the band’s latest project, Pieces of Eight—a series of eight 3-track EPs, released monthly from March to October 2025.
£23.50 general admission
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/vqnodxzrmxna
A rare opportunity to see Phil Beer solo in an intimate accoustic setting.. ADVANCE BOOKING is ESSENTIAL.
£15
Doors open 7.pm For a 7.30pm Start.
Contact Meg Rose: 07877 206124
meg.rose AT btinternet.com
If you’re just getting started (or restarted) with the fiddle, our Summer Fiddle Weekend is the perfect opportunity for you to take the next steps and consolidate your learning so far. Tutor Becki Driscoll will help you explore a variety of different fiddle techniques, and lots of lovely tunes over the weekend. Learning will mostly be by ear, but notation will be available in case you need it. There’ll also be the chance to get together with fiddlers from the Intermediate and Advanced course, as well as enjoying sessions in the evening, and Halsway’s beautiful surroundings.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/summer-fiddle-weekend-beginners/
Our Summer Fiddle Weekend is dedicated to developing your fiddle playing through a range of repertoire and a deep dive into fiddle technique. We want you to go home with ideas and skills that you can implement into your playing for years to come!
We’re delighted to welcome back Tom Kitching with Bridget Slater to work with any player who considers themself to be working at an intermediate or advanced level.
If you are a beginner or an improver, check out our Beginners and Improvers Course instead – same dates, same place.
Workshops will touch on or explore technique, expression and some repertoire. You’re also welcome to use our extensive folk library to discover tunes that you’d like to work on. There will be plenty of time to play together on this intensive weekend of workshops for fiddle players who can play folk dance tunes up to tempo either from the music provided, or by ear.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/summer-fiddle-weekend-2025/
Hailing from Merseyside, Contemporary five-piece acoustic Roots combo Elbow
Jane blend acoustic Folk instrumentation with a fresh exciting sound and energy. Bouzouki, mandolins, guitars, piano and percussion are complemented by expressive vocals and stunning harmonies - likened by some to `Crosby
Stills & Nash’. They’ll make you laugh; they’ll make you cry and leave you shouting for more.
www.elbowjane.com
£19.50 Full. £18.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Enjoy the pleasure of group singing as you discover the potential of your own voice. Singers of all abilities are invited to join Hilary James to explore the wealth of songs within the British folk tradition and take a peek beyond into blues, swing and comic song. You’ll be working largely ‘by ear’ with simple improvised vocal harmony but, for the more experienced, written parts for some songs will be available.
This week runs alongside the Simon Mayor Mandolin Week and Ben Walker’s Guitar Study Week.
Ben, Simon and Hilary will perform an informal concert on the Thursday evening.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/summer-song-week-2025/
Back by popular demand, join Simon Mayor, one of the country’s finest mandolin players for this mid-week masterclass.
Simon’s January ‘Mandolin Workshop Weekends’ have been hugely successful and consistently prompt requests for more. This time it’s a smaller group, but a longer, mid-week gathering, suitable for intermediate and advanced players. There’ll still be some ensemble playing, but this will be a chance for students to share their performances and for Simon to offer personal critiques – as always, in an atmosphere of mutual support.
The music of the Irish harper and composer Turlough O’Carolan (1670-1738) has featured from time to time in Simon’s mandolin workshops over the years. This is a chance for mandolinists – or players of other mandolin family instruments – to get more intimately acquainted with his music in a mandolin ensemble setting.
Carolan’s tunes for the most part follow the format of a typical traditional jig, reel or march: two sections, each usually repeated. Stylistically, they differ a little from a typical trad tune because he was also influenced by the classical music of his day, in particular the Italian composers Corelli and Geminiani.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mandolin-with-simon-mayor-2025/
Ben Walker returns to Halsway Manor to lead a mid-week guitar masterclass for intermediate and advanced level guitarists.
Together we will explore ways of arranging traditional folk tunes on the guitar, look at ways to arrange melodies and chords, and then put it all together to form a complete performance.
We’ll cover advanced guitar techniques, alternative tunings, whilst allowing for plenty of time to work at your own pace. There will also be the opportunity for 1-2-1 sessions with Ben who is one of the UK’s foremost acoustic guitarists.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/ben-walkers-guitar-masterclass-2025/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We meet on alternate Thursdays for a relaxed not too serious evening of dancing.
4 - Includes a cuppa and a cake
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
New York’s celebrated Max ZT (House of Waters), and Tokyo/Black Country’s lauded Dan Whitehouse combine their inventive energy to create stunning performances. ZT, the hammered dulcimer player compared to Hendrix and the ever-regenerating Whitehouse, use spoken word and virtuoso playing to create impactful (often improvised) pieces with a belief in the healing power of music at its core.
www.maxzt.com
www.dan-whitehouse.com
((I'm not sure how 'folk' this is, but I've included it because of the hammer dulcimer--Steve))
8.00 pm
Tickets: £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Our accordion workshop weekend is a chance for Level 1 to Level 3 accordionists to grab a whole bag of pick’n’mix techniques and tips from three brilliant players and tutors.
If you’re looking for a more advanced course, check out our Advanced Accordion Course for Level 4 players.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/advanced-piano-accordion-weekend-2025/
Course leader Paul Hutchinson will be joined once again by Tamsin Elliot, multi-instrumentalist, composer and film-maker, as well as leading UK folk accordionist and composer Amy Thatcher.
The weekend offers workshops honing technique, repertoire and interpretation of folk tunes and accompaniment, as well as a chance to look at creating your own tunes and playing together. There will also be time for informal evening sessions and tune sharings.
This course is for Beginner to Intermediate players. We recommend having a look at our accordion course levels to find out if this course would be suitable for you.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/halsway-accordion-workshop-levels/
You’ll need to be able to read music, and in the higher levels, know your way around your instrument with some degree of confidence. If you consider yourself to be Level 1, a willingness to learn is key! You’ll also need to have your own instrument.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/accordion-weekend-levels-1-3/
Ranagri is an award winning Folk band from Ireland and England. With a unique blend of instruments that includes voices, guitar, bouzouki, flutes, whistles, harp/electric harp, and bodhrán/drums, they create a sound that is both mesmerising and
unforgettable.
The band have established themselves as a standout act, drawing in crowds from around the world with their captivating live performances and exceptional musicianship. They have performed at some of the most prestigious venues & festivals across the UK and Europe, including Cambridge Folk Festival, Bloom festival (Dublin), Montelago festival (Italy), Towersey Festival, a headline slot at Costa Festival Ibiza 2023, Birmingham Symphony Hall, The Union Chapel, Kings Place London along with regular tours of Scotland and Europe.
https://ranagri.com/
Tickets: £18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Join us for a midweek country dancing break, in the height of the Somerset summer.
This will be a week of lively dance encompassing all forms of social folk dancing. We will have an opportunity to enjoy American and British contra as well as traditional English, Playford, American squares and some of Mark’s own composition.
There will be dances each evening, workshops in the mornings, while the afternoons will be left free to enable dancers to enjoy the Somerset countryside in all its summer glory. Afternoon trips out will be arranged on an ad hoc basis depending on the weather and demand.
Musicians are encouraged to bring instruments for jam sessions and cloggers experienced or beginners to bring footwear. Callers aspiring or experienced may like to bring their notes or queries for an open mic session.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/social-country-dancing/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We meet on alternate Thursdays for a relaxed not too serious evening of dancing.
4 - Includes a cuppa and a cake
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Banding Together summer weekends provide advanced and fluent English system concertina players with the opportunity to join with others of similar proficiency to play as a big concertina band. The music is varied and challenging but help with preparation is provided. The result is an electrifying big band sound!
Banding Together is very excited to announce that its 2024 weekend will be led by guest conductor Calum Gray.
The option to extend your stay with a B&B booking on Sunday evening will be available for this event.
The weekend is for advanced and fluent English system concertina players to play as a big concertina band under expert direction. The music is varied and challenging but help with preparation is provided. The result is an electrifying big band sound!
This weekend’s conductor will be Calum Gray.
Calum enlisted into the Army as a Junior Musician in 1974. During three years of instruction he developed his cornet playing ability and learned to play the ‘cello. After serving with the Band of The Corps of Royal Signals and the Band of The Grenadier Guards he attended the three-year Student Bandmaster Course and was appointed Bandmaster of the 1st Battalion The Royal Hampshire Regiment in 1987.
On being awarded his commission in June 1994, he was appointed Music Director of The Band of The Dragoon Guards, located in Paderborn, Germany. In September 1997 he returned to the country of his birth when appointed Music Director of The Lowland Band of The Scottish Division. His last posting was to Winchester in 2000 when he was appointed Music Director of The Band of The Light Division. In February of this year he steered the Band through a period of transition with the demise of The Light Division and the formation of The Rifles.
Calum left the Army in September 2007 following a career spanning over 33 years and shortly afterwards became Music Director of Southampton Concert Wind Band.
Partnership Event
For more information and to book please email Sue at nog_walsh AT hotmail.com
Please note: partners set their own course prices, which may differ from in-house courses.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/j25-banding-together-3/
Experience the Power of Banter: A New Era of English Folk Music
Formed from a shared passion for traditional English music, Banter has revolutionized the genre since 2015, blending time-honoured melodies with a bold, contemporary twist. Renowned for their explosive live energy and praised as “the world’s smallest big band,” Banter has captivated audiences at top festivals like Glastonbury, Sidmouth, and Rudolstadt.
With four critically acclaimed albums, regular airplay on BBC Radio 2 and beyond, and endorsements from folk legends, Banter’s latest release, HEROES, cements their status as trailblazers in English Folk. This is more than music—it’s a movement. Catch Banter live and feel the tradition redefined.
www.banter.band
Tickets: £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
We’re delighted to be welcoming duo James Delarre & Saul Rose, who have been here before with other bands but not as a pair, for a deep dive into what it takes to play as a duo (or trio). They want to equip you with new skills, technique and repertoire, and build on what you already know, to give you a broader understanding of the subtle dynamics of small ensemble playing.
You’ll be looking at tune arrangement for a concert setting, song arrangement and accompaniment (and how to choose songs that work within your vocal and instrumental range), and tune arrangement and selection for playing for dance.
This is a brand new course, and over the three days and four evenings, you can expect guided learning in big and small groups, some self-led time in small groups, and optional one-to-one time if required.
One of the great things about our midweek courses is the extra time they allow for impromptu workshops and informal time together as a group. The tutors look forward to sharing some great sessions in the bar, and maybe a glass or two of wine, with you!
Who is it for?
This course is aimed at instrumentalists who already play in duos or trios and would like an extended course dedicated to improving their small ensemble skills. Don’t worry, though, if you don’t already have a duo partner or they can’t make it. We’ll be able to pair you up with someone in a similar position so that you can still get the most out of the course.
All intermediate and advanced instrumentalists and singer-instrumentalists are welcome, but there will be particular emphasis on fiddle and DG melodeon. If you’re a keen to take part as a singer, please get in touch with us to discuss what opportunity there may be for you to get involved.
You will need to be able to learn by ear but you won’t need to be able to sightread. James and Saul plan to send out sheet music to be learned in advance, so some degree of notation reading would be useful.
The Team
Fine musicians and longtime friends, James Delarre (Topette!!, Mawkin) & Saul Rose (Faustus, Eliza Carthy) are masters of their craft and well known for their outstanding musicianship and exquisitely delivered traditional tunes and songs. Their latest record, ‘Kith & Kin’, celebrates the pair’s enduring friendship and expanding families and was hailed as ‘good news for every folk music fan’ by Bright Young Folk. The duo intertwine seamlessly; dancing around the tunes between the notes, finding space and air, and breathing fresh energy into the music.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/playing-in-a-duo-2025/
We're keen to encourage a younger audience to Halsway - are you aged 35 and under?
We'll take £100 off room rates, camping and non-resident prices. Let us know on your enquiry form.
This is a course to explore all things queer and folk, in collaboration with Queer Folk! Through workshops and discussions you’ll be making new music, learning old songs and having the opportunity to share music and stories that are important to you.
There’ll be chances to meet new musicians, create new ensembles, take part in sessions, delve into archives and perform. You’ll gain research skills and get tips about finding interesting resources online and in print. The course will be a mixture of guided and self-led learning, as a whole group and in small ensembles.
There will be sessions and an informal sharing for members of the group.
The team will also be guiding you through the process of queering folk song, discussing what it means to be LGBTQIA+ in the folk scene, and establishing ways in which queer history can be discovered. They’ll also be introducing you to (potentially) new repertoire. Come and join the LGBTQIA+ folk community!
All instrumentalists and singers are welcome, though this is not a course for complete beginners. You don’t need to be able to read music but some playing by ear will be required.
The tutors plan to supply a list of songs and tunes that you can explore in advance, and audio recordings for those who need a little longer to learn by ear. Sheet music will be available on arrival.
Anyone with an open mind and an interest in LGBTQIA+ history in traditional culture is welcome.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/queer-folk-weekend-2025/
with Polina Shepherd and Bara Grimsdottir
Pitchfolk is a weekend centred on workshops of different singing traditions from around the world, led by renowned experts in those traditions. This year we will have Slavic and Yiddish songs with Polina Shepherd and Icelandic singing with Bara Grimsdottir, plus storytelling with Sharon Jacksties.
Tickets are available for the full weekend, single day, or individual workshops.
£12.50-£165
Contact Neil MCKAY: 07703 272510
pitchblend.gigs AT gmail.com
https://buytickets.at/pitchblend/1439268
Cardiff’s bluegrass sensation, Taff Rapids, is taking the international stage by storm. Comprised of seasoned musicians Darren Eedens, Siôn Russell Jones, David Grubb, and Clem Saynor, Taff Rapids brings a fresh perspective to the bluegrass genre, infusing traditional American classics and captivating originals with Welsh-language elements for a unique global appeal.
Their engaging live performances, rich harmonies, and instrumental mastery continue to attract audiences across the UK, Europe and Canada, whilst regular airtime on BBC Radio has solidified their reputation as an exciting new force in bluegrass. 2025 promises to be a landmark year with the highly anticipated release of their debut album, Blŵgras, and an extensive live schedule, including a return tour to Canada alongside tours and festival appearances across the UK and Europe.
With electrifying performances, rich harmonies, and unmatched instrumental prowess, Taff Rapids is set to become a powerhouse in bluegrass and beyond - don’t miss them playing live in Dorset!
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity
Running Time: 90mins + interval
£12.50, £6 u18s, £35 fam
7.30pm
Contact Tel.: 07798 720812
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/taff-rapids
We invite you to join us at Three Hares Folk Camp for a long weekend retreat of folk music tuition, 24-27th July 2025. Come and immerse yourself in the joy of folk music, level up your playing, and connect with fellow musicians.
Set on a beautiful organic farm in North Somerset, our residential folk music course offers expert tuition, lots of opportunities for group playing, and a chance to immerse yourself in the music — all in an idyllic rural environment.
Learn from expert tutors in small workshops during the day; then head to the timber-frame barn, or under the branches of the spreading oak to play with your fellow musicians and your tutors in sessions in the evenings.
On Saturday night, join a Three Hares Ceilidh; with music provided by your tutors, and a caller to teach and lead the dances. All taking place in our gorgeous timber-framed barn.
Our expert tutors:.
Bradon Smith (fiddle) http://bradonsmith.com/ http://learntoplaythefiddle.co.uk
Dominic Henderson (Irish flute, whistle, uilleann pipes) https://www.dominichenderson.com/
Hazel Asquew (squeeze boxes, folk song) http://www.hazelaskew.co.uk/
Kit Hawes (guitar, mandolin) https://www.kitandaaron.com/
£195
Camping from 5pm Thursday
Finishes 1pm Sunday
Contact Bradon Smith: 07807 049896
bradon.smith AT gmail.com
http://threeharesfolk.com/
Chard Folk Dance Club
We meet on alternate Thursdays for a relaxed not too serious evening of dancing.
4 - Includes a cuppa and a cake
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Cardiff’s bluegrass sensation, Taff Rapids, is taking the international stage by storm. Comprised of seasoned musicians Darren Eedens, Siôn Russell Jones, David Grubb, and Clem Saynor, Taff Rapids brings a fresh perspective to the bluegrass genre, infusing traditional American classics and captivating originals with Welsh-language elements for a unique global appeal.
Their engaging live performances, rich harmonies, and instrumental mastery continue to attract audiences across the UK, Europe and Canada, whilst regular airtime on BBC Radio has solidified their reputation as an exciting new force in bluegrass. 2025 promises to be a landmark year with the highly anticipated release of their debut album, Blŵgras, and an extensive live schedule, including a return tour to Canada alongside tours and festival appearances across the UK and Europe.
With electrifying performances, rich harmonies, and unmatched instrumental prowess, Taff Rapids is set to become a powerhouse in bluegrass and beyond - don’t miss them playing live in Dorset!
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity
Running Time: 90mins + interval
£12.50, £6 u18s, £35 fam
7.30pm
Contact Deborah Childs: 01935 891744
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/taff-rapids
Dancers of all levels are invited to join our fun, friendly weekend and widen their international folk dancing experience.
There is dancing every evening led by Janet Woolbar with Stella Wentworth and Maggie Kaye providing live music, taking you on a journey of discovery around the world teaching wonderfully authentic dances for novices and experienced dancers to enjoy together. There are dance walk-throughs and calling to suit all. Guided walks are arranged during the day in the wonderful Quantock Hills or along the coast. Otherwise, there is plenty to visit locally with time to explore on your own. In the grounds there is also a chance to try out Maypole dancing.
For details and booking of this partnership event please contact:
Brenda Steventon - brenda.steventon AT btinternet.com
Please note: partners set their own course prices, which may differ from in-house courses.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/society-for-international-folk-dancing-2025/
Cardiff’s bluegrass sensation, Taff Rapids, is taking the international stage by storm. Comprised of seasoned musicians Darren Eedens, Siôn Russell Jones, David Grubb, and Clem Saynor, Taff Rapids brings a fresh perspective to the bluegrass genre, infusing traditional American classics and captivating originals with Welsh-language elements for a unique global appeal.
Their engaging live performances, rich harmonies, and instrumental mastery continue to attract audiences across the UK, Europe and Canada, whilst regular airtime on BBC Radio has solidified their reputation as an exciting new force in bluegrass. 2025 promises to be a landmark year with the highly anticipated release of their debut album, Blŵgras, and an extensive live schedule, including a return tour to Canada alongside tours and festival appearances across the UK and Europe.
With electrifying performances, rich harmonies, and unmatched instrumental prowess, Taff Rapids is set to become a powerhouse in bluegrass and beyond - don’t miss them playing live in Dorset!
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity
Running Time: 90mins + interval
£12.50, £6 u18s, £35 fam
7.30pm
Contact Sarah Miller: 07534 006951
info AT artsreach.co.uk
https://artsreach.co.uk/event/taff-rapids
An opportunity for young musicians from the South West and beyond to work with leading folk artists, to develop skills, confidence and creativity, and create a new performance piece.
We’ll be providing an immersive week of music, creativity and fun, in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Halsway Manor. It will be intensive and challenging, but also supportive and fun! Young musicians will spend the week working together to learn, arrange and rehearse new repertoire, developing musical skills and performance technique, and creating their own interpretations of traditional material. The group will live, work and play together, with opportunities for informal rehearsals and social gatherings to enrich their experience and understanding of the folk arts.
As always we’ll have a fantastic team of tutors, lead by Becki Driscoll.
The week will end with performances at Sidmouth Folk Festival! Participants will need to make their own arrangements to get to Sidmouth.
This is an intensive but fun course for young people aged 12-18.
You’ll need to have prior experience as a musician, and some prior experience of folk, perhaps in a school folk band or previous courses at Halsway, and you should be working at a playing level of at least grade 4 and upwards.
Any acoustic instrument is welcome. If your main instrument is piano, you’ll need to bring a digital keyboard and stand with you, and be prepared to take it to Sidmouth as well.
We’ll be teaching predominantly by ear, so if you’re used to reading music you’ll need to be happy to give that a go! It’s important that you want to be creative, work collaboratively with others, and have fun creating a performance that everybody can be proud of.
How to Apply
To take part in the 2025 Intermediate course, please complete the application form on the Halsway website. Places are limited, and will be allocated based on playing level and experience. If you’re not quite ready for our Intermediate course yet, consider whether our Young Folk Intro might help you gain a bit more experience.
We may be able to offer a small number of partial bursaries to those for whom cost is a barrier to attending. If you wish to discuss this, please contact Crispian Cook on chiefexec AT halswaymanor.org.uk
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-intermediate-2025/
Bring your family to a creative and fun Summer folk break at Halsway!
There’ll be a programme of activities each morning and evening, focused around children but suitable for the whole family – mum, dad, aunties and uncles, granny and grandad, even close family friends! – to join in with. You’ll be able to spend quality time together exploring creative and accessible folk activities (no experience necessary) and we’ll make the most of Halsway’s beautiful setting and outdoor spaces to inspire us!
Typical activities might include:
Singing for everyone – learning some traditional songs or perhaps creating some of our own…
Fun Folk Dancing for everyone – using up some excess energy or refining your best moves!
Music-making for all, where everybody can join in whatever their age, instrument or experience, and make a great sound together
“Have a go” workshops where we create new dances or learn something new or perhaps try new musical instruments
Games, crafts and outdoor play exploring the environment around us
All activities will be optional, so if you want to take some time out to relax or do your own thing that’s fine, but we do expect children to be supervised by a member of their family at all times.
Afternoons are free time for trips around this lovely area; there’s plenty to see and do including the West Somerset Railway, the seaside and Exmoor. One day a week is left completely free for you to plan your own day trips, or to relax at the Manor if you prefer.
Stay in our beautiful Manor house – large family rooms are available, and also comfortable double / twin rooms for accompanying grandparents, for example – or you can set-up camp in our lovely grounds. All meals are provided, so you can relax and enjoy yourselves in a convivial, family-orientated atmosphere!
Who is it for?
The holiday is for families and children of all ages who want to experience a fun and creative folk break together. We are only accepting bookings from family groups including children. Your ‘family’ group can include close friends and relations of all ages, but please note that the organised programme is aimed solely at providing inclusive family activities. There won’t be any activities aimed solely at adults.
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/family-folk-2025
We’re having a bit of a knees up to celebrate our 60th Anniversary! Of course, Halsway Manor has been here much longer, but in 1965, the Halsway Manor Society was created and began to welcome guests for folk dance holidays throughout the year. The programme has grown and changed a good deal since then, but modern Halsway works hard to maintain the same principals of sharing the folk arts with as many people as possible through our courses for adults, young people and families.
Our special party weekend will be hosted by a team representing Halsway courses, past, present and future. There will be music and dance sessions with our weekend house band of Paul Hutchinson, John Dipper, and Gareth Kiddier with caller Jane Thomas, and song sessions led by Dom Stichbury and Anna Tabbush. It will be a chance for you to get together with other people who love Halsway as much as you do – whether you’ve been coming since the early days or only recently found us, you’ll be just as welcome.
Do consider bringing a friend or partner to share your room – single occupancy rooms will be limited for this weekend.
We’re planning some special treats to make the weekend go with a bang (or at least a good fizzy pop!) and, rumours are, there might some exclusive merchandise for weekend guests…
Who is it for?
Anyone who loves Halsway! And would like to spend a weekend here in the middle of summer, soaking up the atmosphere, listening to the birdsong, and dabbling in some enjoyable folk-based activities. The programme will be mixed, and some free sessions will be available for you to enjoy our surroundings and each other’s company.
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/60th-anniversary-weekend-2025
The Halsway Young Folk Advanced course aims to challenge and inspire the next generation of professional folk musicians – could this be you?!
This is the course to do if you have aspirations of being a professional musician or educator, or are planning to continue your musical education at University.
Now in its eighth year, participants on previous years’ courses have created videos of their own new arrangements, and run festival workshops. This year we’ll be challenging our group to create a performance at Halsway from scratch, in only 5 days! You’ll choose the repertoire – from material you bring with you, and also from material created during the week – and rehearse together to create exciting performances that you can be proud of. You’ll be in good hands with lead tutor Archie Churchill-Moss to guide you though the creative process.
Who is it for?
For ages 17 – 21. You’ll be a competent musician (and maybe a singer too, though this is not essential), keen to work at a higher level. This is the course to do if you have aspirations of being a professional musician or educator, or are planning to continue your musical education at University. Or if you’re simply a good and experienced young folk musician who wants to spend a few days with like-minded people being creative and having fun with music, that’s fine too! If you’re not ready for our advanced course, maybe consider joining the Intermediate group and working your way up.
How to Apply
Please complete the application form on the website. You’ll need to pay a deposit of £60 to secure your place, and the balance is due 6 weeks before the course. Places are limited, and will be allocated on a first-come, first served-basis.
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-advanced-2025
Dance workshop from 6 - 7pm
Main dance from 7 - 9.30pm
All welcome, no experience needed
Tea and coffee available
Free town centre parking
Contact Rainer: 07957 211 879
rainer.wittlin AT outlook.com
https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne
Come and enjoy an enjoyable holiday that has dancing at its heart, alongside optional folk-related activities for all to enjoy.
Hosted by Jane Thomas, the Halsway Folk Dance team brings together caller Ivan Aiken, musicians Richard Jones and Chris Jewell, plus their partners, for an enjoyable summer holiday in the beautiful setting of Halsway Manor.
Each morning will include two workshops, one for dance, one for another folk activity, which might be dance, song-based, or musical, depending on audience preference. There will be an early evening sing before dinner, and dances every evening/night. The team have organised a programme of fun things to do which make use of the Manor and its lovely gardens for both indoor and outdoor activities. All of these are optional and there is free time each day after lunch (packed lunches available if preferred) plus one day completely free, giving you time to explore the area, or to relax at the Manor.
Both the dance workshops and the evening dances will be of a professional standard both in terms of calling and music, and will include dances from across the UK. Novice dancers are very welcome, and there will be sufficient quality and variety to entertain more experienced dancers too.
Who is it for?
This is an ideal week for anyone wishing to enjoy a summer holiday at Halsway. No previous experience is necessary, though an enthusiasm for folk dance and folk music is clearly an advantage! This is an extended break, with a mixture of planned activities and freedom to explore the surrounding area.
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-folk-dance-holiday-2025
Our beloved Folk Summer School is back for 2025. There’ll be music, dance and song – for adults of all abilities – led by a crack team of tutors who have detailed knowledge and extensive experience of a wide spectrum of folk music. Throughout the week, you will develop your skills and put them into practice, working towards a full-group ensemble piece which includes the whole summer school cohort – the ‘Big Ensemble’; it’s a powerful way of bringing everything and everyone together in one shared experience, allowing you to learn about how to structure a performance, work together, use all levels of skills (in small and large groups), and create something that’s amazing and all-inclusive.
How the days are structured:
Mornings
are mostly Main Instrument classes – you will choose one ‘main instrument’ in advance but will have the opportunity to move between groups and learn from different tutors during the afternoons, should you wish.
Afternoons
are mostly Bringing it Together – a big ensemble piece which is worked on during sessions throughout the week, giving musicians and dancers the opportunity to explore collaborations and arrangements.
Options – a chance to try out workshops with other tutors.
More details on the website
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/folk-summer-school-2025
Along with all the usual FREE music and dancing, ceilidh, workshops and sessions, there are three stunning headline concerts in the Marine Theatre. These are listed separately under the venue, the Marine Theatre
Join dance teacher and caller Georgia Delve for another weekend exploring the Regency period through dance. She will be looking at the evolving fashions of social dancing through the Georgian period, culminating in the iconic Regency era. Halsway is excited to offer this weekend masterclass of steps, patterns, music and manners, not forgetting that all-important ballroom etiquette. With a mixture of country dances, cotillions, quadrilles and even some scandalous couple waltzing, it’s sure to be a weekend to enjoy.
Who is it for?
The Halsway Regency Assembly is a course aimed for all levels of dancer, and will be tailored to the abilities of the attendees. Costume of the period is welcome and encouraged, especially for the evening assemblies, but not essential.
https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/the-halsway-regency-assembly-2025
Ten years after their last visit to Lyme Folk Weekend, Turin Brakes return with their highly-acclaimed stripped back to basics acoustic show which has been playing to sell-out audiences around the country since the autumn.
The band explain: ‘We couldn’t ignore all the love we got for the first acoustic tour (in 2019) when we kept having to add more and more shows due to the demand. We ended up doing about 50 shows when we originally planned to do just one or two! So we decided to do it again and make it another very special and intimate performance.’
Turin Brakes released their Mercury Prize nominated debut The Optimist Lp in March 2001 (achieving gold status in the UK) and followed it up in 2003 with their most commercially successful album – Ether Song – featuring the Top 5 hit single Pain Killer (Summer Rain). Since then the band have racked up seven top 40 singles, six top 40 albums and over a million record sales worldwide.
Support comes from Riverman
Singer/songwriter Steve Dagleish, a regular visitor to Lyme Folk Weekend, leads his eclectic folk band ‘riverman’, weaving traditional roots with American, blues and indie-folk elements.
Formed in 2024, the band features Mark Thistlewood (double bass) and Caro Lynn (vocals). Expect lyrical depth, catchy hooks, pulsing rhythms and exquisite vocal harmonies.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £31.00
On the door £33.00
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.
Booking fee may apply
https://www.marinetheatre.com/turin-brakes-plus-riverman/
Back by popular demand! After a year away from the Lyme Folk stage, the festival’s patrons return with their latest one-off 'Ninebarrow & Friends' show. Once again they will be joined on stage for what is always a stunning and unique musical event - Jon and Jay’s guests for 2025 will be Will McNicol and Jack Rutter.
Will wowed our audiences with his incredible virtuoso guitar playing as part of the Ninebarrow show back in 2018. He was Guitarist Magazine’s UK Acoustic Guitarist of the Year (2011), and Guitar World called him “one of the best acoustic players on the planet, (2021).
Yorkshire folk singer Jack Rutter has established himself as one of the standout voices of the folk, roots and acoustic music scene in recent years.
Lyme Folk regulars will have seen Jack on stage with the Sam Sweeney band in 2019. His soaring vocal, powerhouse guitar and bouzouki playing and masterful arrangements of traditional songs and contemporary covers have enthralled audiences from the largest festival main stages to the most intimate folk clubs.
All that and the fabulous Ninebarrow too!
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £26.00
On the door £29.00
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.
Booking fee may apply
https://www.marinetheatre.com/ninebarrow-friends-jack-rutter-and-will-mcnicol/
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Australian phenomenon The Spooky Men’s Chorale as the finale to Lyme Folk Weekend 2025. The Chorale is a magnificent, many-headed beast which has single-handedly turned the world of men’s singing upside down. Formed in New South Wales in 2001, the Spooks have become rock-solid festival and theatre favourites in Australia, UK and Europe, with seven albums and 900 gigs under their belts. No subject is too trivial or weighty for their attention, and such ability to find new musical rooms to explore contributes greatly to their astonishing fan loyalty.
The show evokes musical worlds far beyond that suggested by their unassuming, casually hatted, black-clad appearance. They are just a bunch of blokes, but where they take you will blow your mind.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £31.00
On the door £33.00
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.
Booking fee may apply
https://www.marinetheatre.com/spooky-mens-chorale-plus-alden-patterson/
Plumhall (Michelle Plum and Nick B Hall) are an acclaimed UK song-writing duo known for their beautiful vocal harmonies and powerful blend of acoustic guitars and occasional electric instrumentation. Their original songs have earned them widespread acclaim.
In 2024, the duo completed a successful 30-date tour as special guests of Fairport Convention on their Winter Tour, with Fairport joining Plumhall on stage each night to perform “One Star Awake,” the title track of Plumhall's latest album, which also features Fairport's Ric Sanders. They were thrilled to be invited to perform at Costa Festival in Ibiza in May. They then reunited with Fairport at the Cropredy Convention in August, where they performed as part of an extended Fairport lineup including Ralph McTell. They will be performing a full band set at Cropredy in August 2025, and plans are are in the pipeline for a future collaborative project with Fairport's one time member Iain Matthews, and Andy Roberts.
From the Alt-Country feel of their debut album to the more experimental sound of the follow-up, Plumhall have shown their ability to blend strong song-writing with diverse musical influences. Their much-anticipated third album, One Star Awake, was released in June 2024 to critical acclaim.
www.plumhallmusic.co.uk
Tickets: £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
In a class of his own: a superb storyteller and a musician of great depth and virtuosity
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
Commissioned and produced by Pete Townshend and created by Reg Meuross, Fire & Dust - The Woody Guthrie Story is a journey into the heart and soul of one of America’s finest Folk musicians.
At this show Reg is joined by three members of his band - The Strike - the name drawing from the energy of collective action bringing Fire & Dust to life and channelling the spirit of Guthrie’s defiant activism, creative brilliance, and unyielding hope for justice.
The Strike: Phil Beer (The Albion Band, Johnny Coppin, Show of Hands); Welsh pianist and accordionist Geraint Watkins (Nick Lowe, Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, Paul McCartney) and renowned string player Marion Fleetwood (TRADarrr, IOTA, The Sandy Denny Project and Fleetwood Cave)
With songs and stories that highlight Guthrie’s fight against racism, inequality, and injustice, Fire & Dust draws poignant parallels between Guthrie’s time and our present day. Townshend saw this project as drawing a direct line from Woody Guthrie through Bob Dylan to Reg Meuross, and described it as “Folk music at its best.”
This extraordinary performance combines Meuross’s song-writing mastery with Guthrie’s enduring legacy, creating an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and history.
http://www.regmeuross.com/
Tickets: £22.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Tarren is an ambassador for New-Folk; music that is fresh and dynamic, rooted in the English tradition. Original and traditional material is expertly arranged by this trio of musicians who are creating music that moves and excites people. By incorporating modular hooks and minimalist forms, Tarren is leading folk music to a new place, while keeping the pulse of traditional dance at its heart.
Tarren is made up of Bristol-based artists Sid Goldsmith (Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith, Awake Arise), Alex Garden (The Drystones, Harriet Riley & Alex Garden: Sonder) and Danny Pedler (Pedler // Russell). They combine cittern and concertina, fiddle, and accordion to create new, dynamic English Folk music.
https://tarrenmusic.com/
Tickets: £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Scottish brilliance. High energy and freshness from these rising stars
7:30
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
Folk rock, Celtic, self-penned music and song. The band shares decades of skilled musicianship and award-winning song-writing, playing a dazzling array of instruments. The line-up brings together former members of folk rock band Shave the Monkey, which was an established name on the European folk scene for 20 years.
Penni McLaren Walker – Lead vocals, guitars, whistles, keyboards, percussion
Bryan Causton - Guitars, bass, mandolin, bouzouki, cittern, keyboards, percussion, vocals
Duncan Moss - Hurdy gurdies, bagpipes, flutes, saxophones, rauschpfeife, piano, keyboards, vocals
Fran Broady - Violins, harp, vocals
John Campbell Armer - Guitars, basses, bass pedals, synths, percussion, vocals
Martin Lindridge - Drums, percussion, congas, cajon, bass, vocals
Phenomenal. Unbelievable. Irish music as you have never heard it before. Absolute class
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
One of the finest and most loved duos on the British and World folk/roots stages.
With over 30 years of unrivalled musical partnership and gathering numerous nominations, awards and critical acclaim along the way, much beloved British singer-songwriters Chris While and Julie Matthews celebrated a quarter of a century last year as one of the best loved and most prolific female duos to come out of this country.
They have played more than 2,600 gigs, appeared on over 100 albums, written hundreds of original songs and reached millions of people around the world. They are also part of female super group, Daphne’s Flight (Helen Watson, Melanie Harrold & Miranda Sykes) and Christmas band, St. Agnes Fountain with Fairport’s Chris Leslie. Now, 31 years after their debut, they sound as fresh and vital as ever.
2024 marked their 30th Anniversary and saw the release of their 12th studio album, Days Like These
2025 sees them on another packed out Autumn Tour.
www.whileandmatthews.com
Tickets: £18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Legendary 70’s Tyneside folk-rock pioneers Lindisfarne present a classic five-piece line-up of long-time members fronted by founder-member Rod Clements on vocals, mandolin, fiddle and slide guitar.
With a repertoire of unforgettable songs like Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home and a reputation for live performance second to none, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanize festival and concert audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get the crowd on their feet and singing along.
8.00 pm
£33
https://www.electricpalace.org.uk/events/event/lindisfarne/
A radically fresh, boundary-pushing take on traditional songs.
Anglo/Irish Folk band The Haar brings the formidable singing talent of All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner Molly Donnery combined with three of the most exciting instrumentalists on the Folk and Traditional music scene in Cormàc Byrne (Show of Hands/Seth Lakeman), Adam Summerhayes, and Murray Grainger (both of the FATEA award-winning The Ciderhouse Rebellion).
Known for taking a familiar tune and turning it into something breathtakingly fresh and ambitious, this band of high level improvisers produce ever-changing musical soundscapes, while Molly lets her sublime vocals flow to stunning effect.
Latest album ‘Where Old Ghosts Meet’ received multiple rave reviews and has paved the way for outstanding festival appearances at Shrewsbury, Beardy Folk, and at other prestigious stages during their successful UK tours.
Expect a magical evening of stunning, made-in-the-moment renditions of some of the world’s most incredible songs.
www.thehaar.ie
Ticket: £21.50 Full. £20.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Dance workshop from 6 - 7pm
Main dance from 7 - 9.30pm
All welcome, no experience needed
Tea and coffee available
Free town centre parking
Contact Rainer: 07957 211 879
rainer.wittlin AT outlook.com
https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne
Somerstep is a group of dancers and musicians based in Crewkerne. Their wide repertoire continues the tradition of step dancing and social dancing in the South West with a lively combination of authenticity and individuality.
Expect exuberant dancing and exhilarating music with some of the best musicians in the South West playing locally collected tunes for dances such as the Dorset four hand reel and the East Coker ribbon dance. Caller Steve’s clear instructions make these appealing, traditional, sometimes quirky social dances suitable for everyone. Several short intervals provide an opportunity to enjoy captivating performances of intricate stepping and clogging.
www.somerstep.org
Tickets: £8 Full. £7 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
A powerful, thought-provoking concert to mark Black History month
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
"The guitarist/composer who absorbed his art in the land of its origin, Andalucia and later Madrid, introduces his compositions within the forms of the great tradition of flamenco. His unique sound has been honed through a lifetime of concerts and recordings and performing with legends of the song and dance like Rafael Romero and Eva la Yerbabuena.
He has recorded 20 albums, published 17 books and was invited to appear in a Spanish film 'Donde tu Estés' when only 17 years old. He has since made three films/dvds with his flamenco dance company.
Voted into the top three flamenco guitarists in the world by Guitar Player USA, Juan Martín has toured the world playing concerts from Shanghai and Melbourne to New York as well as in the Montreux Jazz Festival. Critics have compared his compositional talent to that of Albéniz, Turina and Tárrega. He played for Picasso's 90th birthday celebrations and his books and films for learning the guitar are now translated into many languages with his original book 'El Arte Flamenco de la Guitarra' being referred to as 'The Bible' of flamenco guitar."
https://flamencovision.com/
Tickets: £21.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Born in Essex, raised by the Devon seaside, and making his bones in the bars and clubs of Liverpool, John has released six studio albums with over 100 million Spotify streams. He has played to audiences all over the world in living rooms, festival tents and sold-out concert halls, barely pausing for breath during his eighteen years as a full-time independent touring musician.
Steeped in the lineage of British Folk and American guitar music, taking his cue from Richard Thompson, John Martyn and Ry Cooder, Smith has evolved a transatlantic blend of fingerstyle and slide guitar techniques. His deeply romantic and vivid songwriting, combined with his innovative guitar work, have won him a loyal following.
www.johnsmithjohnsmith.com
Tickets: £23.50 Full. £22.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Politically charged singer/songwriter with roots in folk, country, and punk
With a sound that recalls Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash along with the cynicism of grunge and punk, nobody could believe wry singer/songwriter Willy Mason was only 19 when he appeared on the indie scene. Mason is a songwriter who has become harder to define as the years go on. Often outside of time musically, his lyrics reflect the humanness of now and our steps toward transcendence.
His voice and performances have only improved with age. Todays shows are tight and powerful; full of passion and conviction, humour and love.
Advance £19.00 | On the door £25.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/willy-mason/
What began in 1995 as a ground-breaking union of musicians and instruments, has continued as a unique musical offering through one live album, four studio albums and countless outstanding performances. A new recording, Sanju, is due for release in early 2025. After 30 years Flook show no sign of letting-up in their brilliance, their dynamism, or their inventive flair.
The band early on evolved an inimitable trademark sound and hold fast to their rightful reputation as exceptional musical innovators; the whistles and flutes of Brian Finnegan and Sarah Allen, the guitar of Ed Boyd and the bodhran of John Joe Kelly weaving and spinning tunes rooted in tradition over precise acoustic grooves, with a rare blend of fiery technical brilliance, delicate ensemble interaction and a bold, adventurous musical imagination.
There is an ever present abundance of individual virtuosity amongst Flook's four members, but there is also something wholly unique when this iconic Anglo-Irish band step on stage together, their playing always an intuitive, almost symbiotic, exchange between the various flutes, whistles, frets and skins. An evening and a celebration you don't want to miss out on.
www.flook.co.uk
Tickets: £22.50 Full. £21.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Ninebarrow are a multi-award-winning folk duo, who are impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition. Combining breath taking vocal harmonies and melodies, they deliver songs and stories inspired by the landscape and history of the British Isles. An evening with the duo isn't just a concert with superb music - it's also a night of folklore and storytelling at its very best.
BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Nominees for ‘Best Emerging Artist’
www.ninebarrow.co.uk
Tickets: £18.50 Advance. £21.50 On the Door
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Fast paced, mesmerising Balkan and eastern European music to get your pulse going
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
The celebrated partnership of “one of the UK’s greatest guitarists” (BBC RADIO 2) with “the doyenne of Irish harpers” (SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY) and recipient of Irish music’s most prestigious award, Traditional Musician of the Year (Gradam Ceoil TG4), has toured in twenty-three countries on five continents to venues ranging from the tiniest of village halls to palaces in Kyoto and Istanbul, London’s Barbican, Sydney Town Hall and Cologne's Philharmonie. Expect a breathtaking blend of traditional Irish music, hot jazz, bluegrass and baroque, spiced with striking new compositions - and Chris’ subversive wit!
ww.maireandchris.com
Tickets: £18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
How many artists have covered as much musical ground and journeyed so far at The Unthanks over the past two decades? BBC 6 Music regulars, but equally to be found on Radios 2, 3 and 4, the Tyneside band are like magpies, picking up undiscovered jewels and reframing folk. They won Mojo Magazine Folk Album of the Year twice, were in The Guardian’s and Uncut’s Best Albums of the Decade, and count amongst their admirers Elvis Costello, Maxine Peake, and Dawn French.
£34.00 general admission
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/lvpzwkoobapn
Celebrating 25 years of ground-breaking performances, The Demon Barbers embark on an electrifying tour, blending traditional British Folk music with high-energy dance. Featuring fresh material and reimagined favourites, the award-winning band, led by Damien Barber, includes Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, Hugh Vincent, Alix Shepherd, and long-time drummer Ben Griffith. Showcasing outstanding clog and Hip Hop dancers, this tour highlights their signature fusion of folk and urban dance. Don’t miss this spectacular celebration of The Demon Barbers’ 25-year journey across the UK!
www.thedemonbarbers.co.uk
Tickets: £23.50 Full. £22.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Dance workshop from 6 - 7pm
Main dance from 7 - 9.30pm
All welcome, no experience needed
Tea and coffee available
Free town centre parking
Contact Rainer: 07957 211 879
rainer.wittlin AT outlook.com
https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne
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.
www.stagnesfountain.net
Tickets: £24.50. No concessions
7.30 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
A beautiful, traditional start to Christmas
Tickets available from: http://ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
Mashing their own brew of pop-punk and folk since 2013, the five-piece continue on their mission to provide merriment and moshing to the masses by relentlessly touring the UK and Europe.
Drawing inspiration from their favourite pop punk bands growing up, such as Green Day, Sum 41 and The Offspring as well as their self-discovered affinity to folk legends such as The Pogues, Flogging Molly and Bellowhead, the fusion of folk melody and instrumentation with driving, high energy drums and guitar have continued to forge the distinctive sound through the years.
www.blackwatercounty.co.uk
Tickets: £20.50. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com
Bring in 2026 with fun and dance at The David Hall.
A light supper will be provided. Please provide any dietary requirements on booking.
Doors open at 8pm, dancing from 8.30pm.
Tickets £17.50 Full. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com
+ Special Guests - Concrete Prairie - Trio
Multi award winning & un-missable Irish Folk Rock.
Roving Crows are an Irish Folk Rock band who deliver the goods with unbounded amounts of riotous energy and banter. Paul O’Neill (guitar and lead vocals); Caitlin Barrett (fiddle & vocals); Laurence Aldridge (drums & vocals) and Jim Smith (bass & vocals).
Their passion and energy on stage is infectious, never failing to deliver a great time with their vibrant live show! Their music pushes the boundaries of the Irish Folk genre, the jumping jigs and reels will get you dancing whilst their enquiring and provocative lyrics will make you think.
https://www.rovingcrows.com/
Tickets: £18.50 Full. £17.50 Concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com