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.
Dialect poet William Barnes relished the country dances, folksongs and carols of Dorset, and often wrote about community celebrations, where music was a key part of the proceedings. Alongside a delicious Dorset tea, The Ridgeway Singers and Band, led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries, will perform traditional songs collected across the County by the Hammond brothers, play dance tunes from the repertoire of fiddler Benjamin rose and will perform an arrangement of the R. Vaughan- Williams setting of William Barnes' famous poem 'My Orchard in Linden Lea'. Recitals of some of Barnes' much-loved poems will keep alive the rich dialect of Dorset.
www.artsreach.co.uk
2:30pm.
Tickets 01963 362355. £12
We’re delighted to be welcoming Piva back to Halsway for a fifth course exploring the Real Roots! of folk music, both the music and the instruments. Discover the world of late 16th century popular traditional music as heard in both court and country. The focus of the course will be playing 4 or 5 part harmony in small groups but it doesn’t matter if you are new to this music or an experienced renaissance specialist; sessions will be adapted to suit all levels.
We will, as ever, be looking at dance repertoire and how simple tunes can be adapted into different harmonies and arrangements and for those that wish to, we will also be playing some “art music” with layered polyphony. There will be plenty of opportunities for all levels of players to experience these types of music.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/piva_realroots/
Discover the Real Roots! of folk music, the world of late 16th century popular traditional music and instruments as heard in both court and country.
Piva – The Renaissance Collective have wide and diverse musical backgrounds and between them they have experience in playing renaissance, classical, and roots music. They bring all of these diverse musical influences together and fuse them with their knowledge of renaissance music and instruments.
Eric Moulder – Renaissance woodwinds (curtal, shawm, rauschpfeife, crumhorn, recorder). Eric is Piva’s founder and director of music. His passion for early music was inspired by the late David Munrow, amongst others. He has been an early woodwind player for many years and has performed with a number of ensembles. He is an internationally renowned maker and researcher in the field of historic woodwind instruments from the Renaissance period and his instruments are played by leading professional musicians and amateurs alike. He also provides many of the instruments played by Piva as well as being responsible for creating many of the group’s musical arrangements.
Mary Mohan – viol, strings, percussion, voice and renaissance woodwind. Mary studied the flute from the age of 8, quickly getting to grade 5 and into the school orchestra. Then she discovered other instruments and nagged her mother for a cello. She was promised a cello if she got a distinction in her grade 5 flute exam, and the rest is history! Mary studied cello, flute, conducting and musicology at the University of Huddersfield and now works as an instrumental teacher and freelance musician teaching a range of instruments. Her biggest influence in recent years has been Jordi Savall, whose recordings have opened up a whole world of Medieval and Renaissance music. She also runs her own group, Archaedium, which specialises in medieval music.
Jude Rees – Bagpipes and Renaissance woodwind, voice. Jude Rees is a professional oboist and woodwind specialist with extensive experience in classical, folk, contemporary and early music. As freelance multi-instrumentalist and sought-after session musician, Jude has worked with some luminaries of the folk world and has guested on numerous albums and live tours. She currently plays with BBC Radio2 Folk Award nominated Pilgrims’ Way and has played for theatre and television including the BBC and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Jude also co-runs a lively early music group for children in Warwickshire.
Jane Moulder – Bagpipes and Renaissance woodwind. Jane Moulder is the resident bookworm of the group and, alongside Eric, she researches and develops Piva’s repertoire and performance programmes. She is a freelance researcher and writer on music, dance and manners of the 14th to 18th Centuries. Jane runs Piper’s Publishing which has produced a number of successful historical music books. She also works for the National Trust as a historical interpreter specialising in the Tudor period. She balances all of these roles with working alongside Eric making historical woodwind instruments.
8pm–10pm
£10 - Adults
£4 - Concessions
Concessionary priced tickets are available to children and students - of any age - in full-time education.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/piva-real-roots-gig/
For those with some experience, another exciting exploration at the leading edge of English Country Dance revival. Dance 17th & 18th century English Country Dances, many newly researched and reconstructed, with confidence, style and delight.
This course is aimed at experienced dancers.
Led by expert caller Andrew Shaw with musicians Paul Hutchinson and John Hymas.
www.lemmingsreprieve.org.uk
To book or for further course information contact Denise Bearon:
Email - tickets AT lemmingsreprieve.org.uk
Tel - 01695 422971
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/kyndred-spirits-3/
celebrating 50 years since playing the opening slot at the first ever Glastonbury Festival!
More details later
£8 / £6 concessions
8 p.m. for 8.30 start
Contact Nathan: 07752593299
nathanvibration AT gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/2831592690225272/
Music session with added step dancing.
All welcome to play, dance, sing or just listen and watch
8.00 pm
Contact Steve Cunio: 07811 680534
info AT somerstep.org
www.somerstep.org
Kimmeridge Keilidh - All Welcome! No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles. Tickets on the door.
£5 adults £2.50 under 16
7.30 0 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
With captivating harmonies and finely crafted songs, Lore will provide an evening of soulful songs with stunning musical arrangements.
Famed for turning the legendary Teenage Kicks on its head, Lore have went from living room dreams to Sell-Out Theatre Tour success in a short time. With a strong folk influence, Lore combine their songwriting craft with souful 3-piece harmonies.
www.loreband.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £15.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/lore/
Asian Arts Agency presents Hashmat Sultana, the most sensational contemporary Sufi and Punjabi singers to emerge from India recently.
Propelled into the limelight in 2016 as part of a major Indian TV talent show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, the duo received rave reviews from prominent Bollywood composers Pritam Chakraborty and Sajid-Wajid for their beautiful and electrifying vocal abilities.
Since then Hashmat and Sultana have been winning the hearts of audiences in India and internationally with their refreshing contemporary twist on traditional Punjabi folk and ancient Sufi music. The talented ‘Sufi sisters’ have become a YouTube sensation and developed a huge online audience. Their song Rang has received over 25 million views and more recent singles have also notched up millions of views.
Feature Sufi poetry and songs from the great Punjabi Sufi poets, such as Baba Bulleh Shah and Shah Hussain, the sisters are appealing to a new generation of audiences with their powerful vocal performances and incredible versatility that shows maturity beyond their years.
After their sensational debut UK appearance at WOMAD Festival 2018, which was described as one of the highlights of the festival, Hashmat Sultana are returning to the UK with a full live band on their debut UK tour in 2020.
Presented by Asian Arts Agency.
7:30pm
£18
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/hashmat-sultana/?dm_i=1GK7,6PTY7,19X9EE,QTGFA,1
Bringing new life to forgotten music
Almost 300 years ago, some musicians from around Antwerp, Brussels, Gent and Leuven decided to write down their favourite music. As time passed, however, the paper turned yellow, the ink began to fade, and the music itself was left to gather dust along with the faded manuscripts …
That is, until now! With their finely textured arrangements WÖR injects new energy into 18th-century tunes from the Flanders region of Belgium. Their innovative arrangements and superb musicianship shine an inventive spotlight on these long forgotten tunes. Playing saxophone, fiddle, accordion, guitar and bagpipes, these five young Belgian musicians will rock your socks off and stir your soul.
www.wearewor.com
Support for this show is provided by the General Representation of the Government of Flanders in the United Kingdom
Call: 01398 323818
Price: £10/£8 student
A Take Art event
https://takeart.org/event/wör
Music begins at 7.30 as usual, performers of all sorts and abilities are very welcome. Chiselborough village hall.
Delicious food from Kirsty will be available on the night.
Clothes donations are welcome for the free shop.
The music nights are not for profit, and run by volunteers. If you would like to help out, let us know and we would appreciate your contribution.
The BCO were established by British composer and violinist Christian Garrick in 2009. Led by Christian, they play a blistering barrage of traditional Folk and Gypsy-flavoured music from across the Balkans and Russia, Klezmer laments, Romanian Doinas, Hungarian Czardas and their own unique re-imaginings of some of the biggest pieces ever written by the greats.
The Budapest Café Orchestra evokes vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires – plus a few surprises along the way, and are hugely entertaining, demonstrating immense skill and profound musicianship. A show by the BCO is good enough to make you want to book that holiday down the Danube!
http://www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
8:00 pm
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/christian-garrick-the-budapest-cafe-orchestra-10th-birthday-tour-2009-2019/
Benjamin Joseph "Ben" Ottewell (born 23 June 1976) is an English singer-songwriter. He is one of the three lead singers of the English indie rock band Gomez. He was the recipient of the Mercury Music Award Prize in 1998, and is well known for his "deep, raspy voice" and "gravelly baritone”. In 2011, Ottewell embarked upon a solo-project, with the debut album Shapes & Shadows.
Ottewell's deep, soulful voice has gained him some acclaim and has drawn some comparisons to Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder and artist Tom Waits, and his lyrical style, and acoustical arrangements, especially in his solo work, have drawn comparisons to folk singer Nick Drake.
http://www.bournemouthfolkclub.com/index.php/all-artists/90-90
Leap Year Celebrations Concert
Celebrate 20 years of Bridport Millennium Green, with local male sea shanty singing group. Entry includes wine and nibbles.
£7 (members £6)
7.30pm
Contact Sue Wilkinson: 01308425037
sue.traidcraft AT btinternet.com
http://bridportmillenniumgreen.co.uk
Bournemouth (Westhill) Folk Dance Club is holding its annual Spring Dance with an excellent caller and musicians. American Supper (Bring & Share). Soft drinks provided. All welcome.
£8 paid in advance, £9 on the door
7.30 - 10.30 p.m.
Contact Di Darch: 01202 896711
diane AT rdconsulting.co
www.bournemouthfolkdanceclub.btck.co.uk
The fiercest expression of the Human spirit ever devised
Flamenco Express returns to Bath with another cargo of raw, heart-wrenching flamenco – featuring ‘sizzling soloist’ La Joaquina and guitar virtuoso Chris Clavo.
Plus the overwhelming power, imagination and grace of Emilio Ochando; and the extreme presence of singer Juan-José Suárez – a true gypsy of the Extremadura, and household name in Spain, whose collaborators include:
Andrés MarÍn, Mario Maya, Carmelilla Montoya, Belén Maya, and Antonio Canales.
Juan is in hot demand as a composer for dance, theater and movie soundtracks. And is constantly adding new musical colours to the modern flamenco palette.
www.flamencoexpress.co.uk
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £16.00
Advance: £14.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/flamenco-express-at-the-roses-plus-juan-jose-suarez/
Bringing new life to forgotten music
Almost 300 years ago, some musicians from around Antwerp, Brussels, Gent and Leuven decided to write down their favourite music. As time passed, however, the paper turned yellow, the ink began to fade, and the music itself was left to gather dust along with the faded manuscripts …
That is, until now! With their finely textured arrangements WÖR injects new energy into 18th-century tunes from the Flanders region of Belgium. Their innovative arrangements and superb musicianship shine an inventive spotlight on these long forgotten tunes. Playing saxophone, fiddle, accordion, guitar and bagpipes, these five young Belgian musicians will rock your socks off and stir your soul.
www.wearewor.com
Support for this show is provided by the General Representation of the Government of Flanders in the United Kingdom
8 pm
Call: 01749 813694
Price: £10/£5 child
A Take Art event
https://takeart.org/event/wör
Charming, disarming and exceptionally talented, multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer is something of a national treasure on the folk, roots and acoustic scene. One-half of awardwinning powerhouse Show of Hands, Beer is equally as in demand for his solo shows.
Phil sets out to share some of his most-loved songs at carefully selected venues across the UK.
Tickets: £22
Supported by The David Hall
A £1 ticket levy is included in all stated ticket prices.
https://www.octagon-theatre.co.uk/whats-on/music/the-phil-beer-band/8150
A light hearted week of Scottish and English folk dance with a friendly and experienced team. There are dance workshops each morning, with afternoons free for you to explore the sights this lovely area has to offer, or to relax and enjoy the Manor and grounds. Dances every night include a Scottish Ball, a ceilidh and a Costume Playford Ball, so bring costumes if you have them!!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/aglo-scottish-dance-week/
Devon based Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns again in 2020 with her latest album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.
Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, Miranda Sykes is back with her latest project: Her album ‘Behind The Wall’
Where Borrowed Places opened a window into the past, explaining where she had been, physically and spiritually, Behind The Wall is a Roller Coaster Ride exploring where we are going; Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today, living in our communities and societies and where will our actions lead us? Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant and beautiful, this show is not to be missed.
After the success of the 2019 tour, this is another opportunity to experience the show.
£13
8 pm
Contact Winscombe Folk: 07703 538861
winscombe.folk AT gmail.com
www.mirandasykes.com
Best known as the virtuoso guitar and fiddle players from the band Sheelanagig, Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow draw on their many influences to created unique arrangements of traditional music, as well as their own compositions. In demand as musicians, writers and arrangers, Kit and Aaron have worked with many established artists including Grammy Award-nominated Yola, Seth Lakeman and Afro Celt Sound System. Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow’s debut album ‘The Fox’ has been received with critical acclaim. It explores the relationship between fiddle, guitar and voice, using the fertile ground of the traditional music of the British Isles as its starting point. The product of decades of musical experience, the track listing combines self penned tunes and folk tales, all intricately arranged and heartfelt. Set off an a musical journey through Europe, America and beyond, as together Kit and Aaron combine dazzling playing with a fine sense of musicality and showmanship.
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01935 83453. £9, £6 u18s, £25 fam
These three flamboyant characters present their uplifting and entertaining show with a unique dynamism and describe their music as “Folk Unlimited”. Mike Harding calls it “Brilliant and beautiful” while Dave Pegg says they are “The most musically inventive group I’ve seen in decades”.
Why “Churchfitters”? Nobody knows! They’re not fitters and have absolutely nothing to do with churches. The name’s origin is lost in the mists of time but there is one aspect that suits them perfectly – its quirkiness. When your array of instruments includes a motorcycle petrol tank, a musical saw and a Mercedes Benzouki made from hubcaps there’s little point worrying if the name makes sense! Saucepan dulcimer, glass harp, Bing-Bong machine and magic boots all join some more conventional instruments (fiddle, banjo, sax and whistle to name a few) to back Rosie Short’s sublime voice.
8pm (doors & bar 7.30pm)
£13 / £11 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/11/25/thu-5-mar-churchfitters/
Chard folk dance club
CFD meet alternative Thursdays . £4 nonmembers. £3 members. A friendly club, with lots of laughing. Everyone welcome
£3/4
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Hosted by Christine Corkett with a great team of tutors – Andy May, Pauline Cato, Chris Evans, Rob Say and Francis Wood – this popular workshop weekend gives everyone from absolute beginners to intermediate and more advanced players a thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to develop their abilities, technique and repertoire. The course starts on Friday evening with an introductory session to assess people’s needs and a tune session in the bar, followed by workshops all day Saturday and Sunday and a Saturday evening tutor’s concert.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/northumbrian-small-pipes-weekend/
We meet on First Fridays through the Autumn and winter for light hearted dancing to different good bands and callers. Squash provided. Bring drinks and snacks if you wish.
£6
7.30 for 7.45 - 9.45
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
A concert with Grant Baynham, the fabulous guitarist and singer who rose to fame on Esther Rantzen's "That's Life" and has been entertaining along with Hilary Spencer as Quicksilver in more recent years.
Opening support is from Blandford based country-style band Buskers Cat, singing self penned cowboy style easy listening songs.
£12 pre-booked, £14 unbooked
8.15 pm (Legion open from 7.00 Concert doors 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Ceilidh in aid of The burrough Harmony Group charity, Bridports mental health drop in and crisis centre.
All welcome and please support this fundraising event. No partner or dancing experience needed.
7.30 - 11.00pm
£10 or £8 for Harmony members, food is included
Bar available
Tickets from: Clocktower Music, Bridport Music Centre and Bridport TIC
facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/161002615314895/
Wareham Whalers will present an evening of traditional shanties, new songs and readings to celebrate the golden age of sail.
Tickets available by contacting Durlston Country Park
£6
7.30 pm
Contact Durlston Country Park: 01929 424443
wareham.whalers AT gmail.com
www.durlston.co.uk
An exciting new combination for Bridport Ceilidhs, with loads of experience playing for festival and around the country - see http://www.theoldchapelband.co.uj. Come along and enjoy a fun evening of dancing amongst friendly welcoming folk. No partner or experience required, all dances will be talked and walked through and called until you are all experts! Bring & Share supper and you own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door, £4 for 6-16 yrs
Tickets can be bought at The Bridport Music Centre in South Street or booked by phone/email up to 5pm on the day.
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Two of the British Folk scene’s top performers have teamed up for some duo/double header shows to perform their own and each other’s music.
Since Daniels’ landmark solo statement, What’s Here What’s Gone, in 2014, he’s put down several more markers on the musical map. Revolve and Rotate had him transporting the 19th Century’s closest thing to hi-fi, the giant steel discs of the polyphon, to modern transcription.
Nancy Kerr is one of the most celebrated Folk musicians of her generation and to date has won six Folk Awards from BBC Radio 2, including Best Duo 2003 and again in 2011, with James Fagan.
This new duo show promises to be a stunning mix of contemporary Folk music and inspired instrumental virtuosity.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £15 Full. £14 Concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/luke-daniels-and-nancy-kerr/
Best known as the virtuoso guitar and fiddle players from the band Sheelanagig, Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow draw on their many influences to created unique arrangements of traditional music, as well as their own compositions. In demand as musicians, writers and arrangers, Kit and Aaron have worked with many established artists including Grammy Award-nominated Yola, Seth Lakeman and Afro Celt Sound System. Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow’s debut album ‘The Fox’ has been received with critical acclaim. It explores the relationship between fiddle, guitar and voice, using the fertile ground of the traditional music of the British Isles as its starting point. The product of decades of musical experience, the track listing combines self penned tunes and folk tales, all intricately arranged and heartfelt. Set off an a musical journey through Europe, America and beyond, as together Kit and Aaron combine dazzling playing with a fine sense of musicality and showmanship.
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01929 471002. £9, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Come and try the Northumbrian Smallpipes in this special taster day for absolute beginners! If you’ve ever wanted to learn to play the Nortumbrian pipes this will be a great introduction.
Led by Francis Wood, we’ll have simple sets of teaching pipes available, designed for beginners. This is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy the gentle sound of small pipes and would like to learn a little about their technique, repertoire and history.
The day will cover :
The use of bellows in the most relaxed and efficient way
Principles of ‘closed fingering’
Coordinating bag and bellows arms to sustain a steady pressure
Drone tuning
Discussion of the instrument’s history and development
Timings:
10am Workshop
11am tea/Coffee
11.15am Workshop
12.30pm Bar Open
1pm Lunch
2pm Workshop
4pm Tea
Optional (£20 extra):
6.30pm Dinner
8pm Northumbrian Small Pipes Concert
Who’s it For
You don’t need to own, or bring, a set of pipes, sets of teaching pipes are available. Designed for beginners, these are simple sets in ‘G’ without keys, and are a modern interpretation of the original form of Northumbrian smallpipes on which the earliest traditional repertoire is based. This is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy the gentle sound of smallpipes and would like to learn a little about their technique, repertoire and history.
The Tutor
The course is led by experienced tutor Francis Wood. Francis has been playing and teaching for more years than he cares to remember. He has a particular passion for introducing newcomers to the Northumbrian Smallpipes, as well as endless patience
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/northumbrian-smallpipes-taster-day-2/
Join us for a performance of Northumbrian Small pipes by experts in the instrument who are tutoring on the Halsway Manor Smallpipes weekend.
Andy May was introduced to the smallpipes by his father Stan, later learning from Roland Lofthouse and Adrian Schofield, and from studying the recordings of Billy Pigg and Tom Clough. Through the 90s Andy entered many piping competitions and studied music at the University of York with the pipes as his chosen instrument. Andy has been a full-time musician since 2002, with the Andy May Trio, UK/Finnish/Danish ensemble Baltic Crossing, and with North-East band Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies. Andy is a notable pipemaker, learning much from his father, and also Colin Ross, and teaches on the folk music degree course at Newcastle University.
Pauline Cato with her extremely accurate staccato approach, has brought a fresh and exciting sound to the Northumbrian bagpipe tradition. While she’s has shown a mastery of the traditional repertoire of Billy Pigg and Tom Clough, Cato become known for her unique bagpipe renditions of songs by such folk-like songwriters as Richard Thompson and Jay Ungar. In addition to performing as a soloist and in a duo with McConville, Cato has worked with Alistair Anderson and the Northern Sinfonia Orchestra in the opera Cullecoates Tommy. Cato has become a highly respected instructor and has taught courses in the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States.
Chris Evans a regular tutor on courses at Halsway Manor and an experienced tutor.
Rob Say is also a regular tutor on these courses at Halsway Manor and an experienced tutor.
8pm–10pm
£10 - Adults
£4 - Concessions
Concessionary priced tickets are available to children and students - of any age - in full-time education.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/northumbrian-small-pipes-concert/
Sackbuts and theorbos meet pipes and fiddles for a razzle-dazzle, slide-slipping, bow-slapping musical frolic. Shetland folk fiddler Morag Johnston is joined by early musicians Kate Bennett-Wadsworth, James Risdon, Emily White and Matt Wadsworth. Clap when you want, cry when you need. You’ll hear a Shetlandic set segue into music from the 17th century, a medieval dance followed by a contemporary improvisation. The Brewery Band ‘performed with exquisite expression’ (Andrew Benson-Wilson, 2018). The Brewery Band are 2018's winners of The Stroud Green Festival Ensemble Competition.
We saw this fabulous collective of fine musicians a couple of years ago and we’ve at last managed to organise a concert by them at Hornblotton. On Fiddles and Recorders as well as Sackbut, Bass Viol and Theorbo they play a wonderful mix of early music, traditional folk and contemporary improvisation. The music is as infectious as the musicianship is phenomenal. Lovely food available from 7pm. BYO booze.
£15
7.30pm
Contact Colin Bowen: 01963240282
bowencolin AT hotmail.com
www.hvh.btck.co.uk
A night of dancing will give folk music enthusiasts chance to raise money for this year’s Wessex Folk Festival.
The event is being held to raise money for this summer’s Wessex Folk Festival, which brings leading musicians and dancers to Weymouth to perform at one of the biggest free festivals in the country.
Doors open at 7.00 pm and tickets cost £9.50, including a chilli supper. Vegetarian or non-chilli options can be requested when you book through the festival website at www.wessexfolkfestival.com or by email to osmingtonmusic AT gmail.com
The Wessex Folk Festival takes place around Weymouth Harbour over the weekend of May 30 and 31.
An evening of folk music from around the world (UK, celtic and central Europe) played on brass and reed instruments by the wonderful tutors on Halsway Manor’s Brass and Reeds week. Saxophones, trumpets, and clarinets don’t get as much attention as they might within our folk music traditions. This concert is part of a week that aims to remedy that.
Jo Freya (saxes) has been singing and playing traditional folk music since her childhood. As well as being a highly effective workshop leader and teacher in music, dance, voice and composition she is also a charismatic performer with many high profile folk artists including Narthan, Blowzabella and Coope, Simpson, Fraser, Freya, Boyes in their work with author Michael Morpurgo.
Tim Walker (trumpet and percussion) is one third of dance band Banter , the Liam Robinson Dance Band, Pigeon English, and Tickled Pink). With over 30 years of experience (he started playing cornet at the age of 8) Tim is a multi instrumentalist with experience in a range of different styles. He loves to bring his love of music and experience as a teacher into community settings.
Michel Duijves (Celtic Music) (Maalstroom, Mind the Midgie). Michel is first and foremost clarinettist and bass clarinettist and also plays the piano, tin whistle and saxophone. His bands play acoustic music inspired by the Irish, English and Dutch folk. The band members write the instrumental repertoire themselves, the songs are usually traditional. Michel’s band Mind Midgie , a quintet that plays Irish traditional folk, laced with pieces by ‘house composer’ Auke Hofstra.
8pm
£10 adult £5 student
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/jo-freya-tim-walker-michel-dyvres/
Best known as the virtuoso guitar and fiddle players from the band Sheelanagig, Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow draw on their many influences to created unique arrangements of traditional music, as well as their own compositions. In demand as musicians, writers and arrangers, Kit and Aaron have worked with many established artists including Grammy Award-nominated Yola, Seth Lakeman and Afro Celt Sound System. Kit Hawes and Aaron Catlow’s debut album ‘The Fox’ has been received with critical acclaim. It explores the relationship between fiddle, guitar and voice, using the fertile ground of the traditional music of the British Isles as its starting point. The product of decades of musical experience, the track listing combines self penned tunes and folk tales, all intricately arranged and heartfelt. Set off an a musical journey through Europe, America and beyond, as together Kit and Aaron combine dazzling playing with a fine sense of musicality and showmanship.
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01258 861621. £10, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Dave Arthur, Pete Cooper and Dan Stewart play British, Irish and Appalachian Songs and Tunes on fiddle, banjoes, melodeon and guitars. Check out you tube videos.
Tickets £10
Doors 7.30 for 8pm start.
Contact Meg Rose: 07877206124
meg.rose AT btinternet.com
Mitchell and Vincent bring traditional and contemporary styles on fiddle and guitar to folk tunes and songs from the British Isles, as well as original material drawing on the folk traditions, producing their own varied arrangements and great foot-tapping folk music. They've performed around the country including festivals such as Glastonbury, Broadstairs and Lyme Folk Weekend plus supported musicians including Ralph McTell and Wizz Jones, Kate Rusby Band and Tim Edey Trio.
Elfentale are a wonderful duo from Bridport made up of Chris Deacon and Jess Yarham-Baker. They perform superbly smooth vocal harmonies accompanied by finger-picked guitar.
This afternoon concert will be a 'Pay what you feel' ticket event so just turn up, enjoy the music and then pay what you feel is appropriate/what you can afford at the end.
www.mitchellandvincent.com
3.00 - 5.30 pm
Contact David Mitchell
mitchellandvincent AT gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/616435705811370/
An enjoyable week of morning and evening dances, with afternoons free to explore the lovely Somerset countryside.
This partnership event is organised by Susan Swann. With caller Ivan Aitken and music from Dampiers Round.
For more information and to book please contact Terry & Lesley England:
Tel: 01252 659183
Email: lesleyengland AT ntlworld.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/spring-folk-dance-holiday-3/
With original arrangements and self-penned songs, the Cajun Roosters Trio take the music of the Louisiana swamplands into fresh territories, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own. Combining accordions, fiddle, guitar and vocals they create an uplifting sound that has led to headline appearances all over Europe, delighting audiences with their authentic joyous music and stories of life in the bayous. Leading the trio is accordionist Chris Hall, who has recorded and played with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Dave Gilmour, Kate Bush and Seth Lakeman. Expect Cajun music served with a side order of southern swamp blues, deep fried Louisiana country and tall tales served by the undisputed masters of this genre!
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01963 220208. £9, £6 u18s, £25 fam
On Reflection Tour
2020 marks 25 years of making music together for this popular wife and husband duo.
Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have long established themselves as one of the UK Folk scene’s most rewardingly enduring partnerships.
To celebrate and acknowledge this milestone, the couple will revisit and reinterpret songs which span their career.
From the early days of folk supergroup ‘ Equation ‘ through to the current release ‘Personae ‘ with a nod or two along the way to their extra-curricular musical adventures, the evening promises a whistle-stop tour through their artistic journey to date
8.00 pm
Tickets £15
Box Office: (01278) 422700 Tues - Friday
https://bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk/
Following the success of last year’s intimate one man show, Steve’s latest outing is intended for anyone fascinated by the art and craft of song writing.
Exploring his extensive back catalogue and introducing unheard, new material he explores the themes and stories that inspire him. Along the way this masterful songwriter shows how music and words can become lyrics and chords, and how notes can meld to create songs that acquire a life of their own.
8pm (7.30pm)
£20
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/12/05/thu-12-mar-steve-knightley-pass-notes-the-stories-behind-the-songs/
Jack Rutter is a highly respected folk singer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist from West Yorkshire. His second solo album Gold of Scar & Shale is available CD/DL from October 4th 2019.
Produced by Joe Rusby and recorded as live, the new album continues the stripped back approach of its critically acclaimed predecessor, Jack’s debut solo outing Hills. The songs are unearthed gems from the folk canon – almost all of them rare and many previously unrecorded – gathered from old books and source singers as Rutter uncovered material for this major new release of traditional song.
Jack Rutter grew up in the Holme Valley area of West Yorkshire, a place steeped in a wealth of traditional song, and following a BSc degree in Countryside Management at Newcastle University has forged a highly successful career playing music across the UK and Europe. In addition to his acclaimed solo work, he has become a highly sought after collaborator for a host of the biggest names in folk music such as Seth Lakeman, Sam Sweeney and Jackie Oates as well as playing in the celebrated instrumental trio Moore Moss Rutter.
www.facebook.com/JackRutterMusic/
Twitter: AT jackrutterer
Instagram: jack_rutterer
www.jackruttermusic.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £12.00
Advance: £10.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/jack-rutter/
We’re delighted to welcome West Country Concertina Players to Halsway Manor to host a packed concertina workshop weekend for intermediate / advanced level players of all systems. You do not need to be a member of WCCP to come (though you might consider joining them – it’s only £10 annually); the weekend is open to all. Though this is a popular weekend and priority will be given to WCCP members through an opportunity to book early.
WCCP offer a course for all abilities from beginners upwards in October each year – see website for details.
This Halsway course however is aimed at players at a more advanced level; you’ll be a competent player, fluent in your chosen system and ready to develop technique and repertoire in a group workshop environment. We regret that beginners / post beginners cannot be accommodated on this course.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/wccp-concertinas-at-halsway/
With original arrangements and self-penned songs, the Cajun Roosters Trio take the music of the Louisiana swamplands into fresh territories, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own. Combining accordions, fiddle, guitar and vocals they create an uplifting sound that has led to headline appearances all over Europe, delighting audiences with their authentic joyous music and stories of life in the bayous. Leading the trio is accordionist Chris Hall, who has recorded and played with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Dave Gilmour, Kate Bush and Seth Lakeman. Expect Cajun music served with a side order of southern swamp blues, deep fried Louisiana country and tall tales served by the undisputed masters of this genre!
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01308 867252. £10, £6 u18s
‘On Reflection' Tour 2020 Celebrating 25 years of making music together
2020 marks 25 years of making music together for this popular wife and husband duo. Twice winners of ‘Best Duo’ BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2016, and 2013.
Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have long established themselves as one of the UK Folk scene's most rewardingly enduring partnerships.
To celebrate and acknowledge this milestone, the couple will revisit and reinterpret songs which span their career. From the early days of folk supergroup ' Equation ' through to theircurrent release 'Personae ' with a nod or two along the way to their extra-curricular musical adventures, the evening promises a whistle-stop tour through their artistic journey to date.
£15
8pm
Contact box office: 01202 280000
info AT lighthousepoole.co.uk
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
Powerful vocals and driving guitar combine with sublime fiddle, humour and thoughtful social commentary.
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Another jolly evening at Ditcheat, with caller Peter Bolton.
Always a warm welcome. Live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
Uplifting heartwarming folk-pop.
Faeland’s original music is beautiful, enchanting, uplifting, technically impressive and extremely accessible. The band have audiences singing along and being moved instantaneously. There is something in the words and melodies which goes deeper than the everyday, touching on the mystical and the unspoken.
Songs performed on acoustic guitars, accordion, banjo, charango, violins, lush vocals and Celtic harp.
www.faeland.co.uk
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £12.00
Advance: £10.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/faeland-2/
'So Much To Choose From' The 2020 Tour
At the time of writing this (August 2019) I will have been busily engaged in finishing a large number of recordings to make up a definitive Box Set of songs and music encapsulating everything I do or have done in the last 40 years. There will be archive material as well as copious new recordings all in one package. -- Phil Beer
7:30pm
£15
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/phil-beer/
The 2020 Tour
"At the time of writing this (August 2019) I will have been busily engaged in finishing a large number of recordings to make up a definitive Box Set of songs and music encapsulating everything I do or have done in the last 40 years. There will be archive material as well as copious new recordings all in one package.
The solo shows for 2020, which will be the last time I undertake such a large number of performances, will reflect this body of work. In addition, there will be a solo album entirely featuring instruments built by the late David Oddy.
Very old songs, very new songs. So much to choose from after all this time.
http://www.bournemouthfolkclub.com/index.php/all-artists/135-135
With original arrangements and self-penned songs, the Cajun Roosters Trio take the music of the Louisiana swamplands into fresh territories, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own. Combining accordions, fiddle, guitar and vocals they create an uplifting sound that has led to headline appearances all over Europe, delighting audiences with their authentic joyous music and stories of life in the bayous. Leading the trio is accordionist Chris Hall, who has recorded and played with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Dave Gilmour, Kate Bush and Seth Lakeman. Expect Cajun music served with a side order of southern swamp blues, deep fried Louisiana country and tall tales served by the undisputed masters of this genre!
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 07903 057427. £9, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Join us for a popular evening concert from tutors of the WCCP Concertina weekend.
West Country Concertina Players are a Club of friendly concertina enthusiasts formed in 1983 and one of very few teaching clubs in the country. They are joined by guests:
Brian Peters A true all-rounder Brian is on the one hand a passionate singer and on the other a multi-instrumentalist acknowledged as one of England’s leading exponents of the anglo concertina and melodeon (button accordion). Having begun his career in the folk clubs of England, he’s taken his music to stages all over the world, touring regularly in America, Europe and Australia.
Tim Laycock has been playing and singing at folk clubs and festivals for over 25 years using mainly the concertina, melodeon or guitar as accompaniment. He has a vast repertoire of traditional songs and his own compositions are inspired by his native county Dorset, giving them a West Country flavour.
Sandra Kerr’s long and distinguished career in folk needs no introduction. She is a multi-instrumentalist and performer playing guitar, dulcimer, autoharp and the English concertina. She is a popular tutor of the concertina at gatherings including the ‘Swaledale Squeeze’ and ‘Concertinas At Whitney’, and twice at the National Folk Festival Easter School in Canberra. She also teaches on Newcastle University’s degree course in Folk and Traditional Music.
8pm–10pm
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/concertina-concert/
Hammer Dulcimer music and Art exhibition
Damian Clarke brings one of his pop-up Art and Music concerts to Templecombe. He plays and sings with two very unusual instruments; the beautiful, ringing tones of the ancient Hammer Dulcimer and the evocative, stirring sound of the medieval Hurdy Gurdy. Set in the ancient surroundings of St Mary’s Church in Templecombe, the sound of a modern day Troubadour such as Damian will be something that should not be missed.
The second half of the concert will be a performance by Humstrum – an acoustic duo of Damian and his musical partner, Cliff Eastabrook. Together they play the dulcimer and Hurdy Gurdy as well as the Celtic Harp and acoustic bass. They weave storytelling in with music and song to create a rare and entertaining Bardic show.
All ticket proceeds and a % of any Art / CD sales go to the Church funds.
Tickets on the door £8 (includes glass of wine and refreshments).
7.30pm
Dorset Ceilidh
Enjoy an evening of dancing and entertainment from Dorchester folk band Tatterdemalion, with caller Angela Laycock. Suitable for young and old; no experience necessary.
All money raised will go towards Harriet Scott's expedition to Peru, where she will be involved in environmental and community projects, organised by Camps International.
Bar and raffle and fun!
£10 adult, £2.50 child, or £22 family (2 adults and up to 2 children), includes a pasty (meat or vegetarian).
Doors 6.30pm for 7pm start Ends 10.00 pm
Contact Liz Scott: 07932 026560
lizscott708 AT gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/204197867392142/
Workshops are led by Hannah Cumming, an inspiring and experienced workshop leader, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments. Notation and audio supplied. Everyone is welcome!
1:30 - 4:30 pm (including coffee break with homemade cake!)
Further information and admission prices on the website
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
With original arrangements and self-penned songs, the Cajun Roosters Trio take the music of the Louisiana swamplands into fresh territories, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own. Combining accordions, fiddle, guitar and vocals they create an uplifting sound that has led to headline appearances all over Europe, delighting audiences with their authentic joyous music and stories of life in the bayous. Leading the trio is accordionist Chris Hall, who has recorded and played with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Dave Gilmour, Kate Bush and Seth Lakeman. Expect Cajun music served with a side order of southern swamp blues, deep fried Louisiana country and tall tales served by the undisputed masters of this genre!
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01747 811364. £9, £6 u18s, £25 fam
Many thanks to those who braved the elements and came to the last session. All welcome. Mainly English
6.00 - 8.00 pm
Contact Ruth and Colin Thompson: 01300 321396
fiddler AT casterbridge.net
This is a course for musicians – of an intermediate level and above – who wish to develop their arranging skills through ensemble playing. Players of all instruments welcome, but this course caters particularly well for harpists, under the dedicated tuition of Moira Gutteridge. Part of the time the group will be split in two, allowing for focused tuition with Moira for the harpists, while all other musicians work with Peter. There will be plenty of time for playing as a full ensemble, to share and try arrangements, and also time to work in smaller groups to devise arrangements based on the skills developed through the course. You’ll also learn and practice tunes for dancing, with one evening taking the form of an informal dance for local dancers, called by Madeleine Smith, who works closely with Moira and Peter to select suitable tunes and dances.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/beyond-the-tune-2020/
Chard Folk Dance Club
CFD meet alternative Thursdays . £4 nonmembers. £3 members. A friendly club, with lots of laughing. Everyone welcome
£3/4
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
All welcome! You don't have to bring a partner. We have a caller so the inexperienced needn't worry. We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the Memorial Hall in the dark it is about 100 yards north of the Piddle Inn. Parking is on the road side.
6 under 16s free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Step into spring and enjoy a night of dancing to toe-tapping tunes brought to you by an energetic band of musicians on strings, wind and percussion. Caller Angela Laycock will guide us through some traditional dances in this celebratory ceilidh, as we come together to mark 30 years of Artsreach entertaining rural communities across Dorset. Tickets include a tasty supper of local fayre by Dike & Son of Stalbridge.
www.artsreach.co.uk
7:30pm.
Tickets 01305 269512. £18
Last at the Corn Exchange in 2017 with Daniel Kimbro, Martin Harley makes a welcome return with an intimate solo acoustic show. Through his road worn song writing style he explores hopes and fears for fast changing times. Slide guitar, as always is at the root of Martins sound, mirroring his whisky soaked northern breeze vocals.
8pm (doors & bar 7.30pm)
£15 / £13 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/11/05/fri-20-mar-martin-harley/
Great Irish tunes and songs in aid of dementia café. Always fun and in support of a very good cause.
organised in conjunction with Nailsea Tithe Barn Trust.
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
Cara Dillon occupies an enviable position at the very top of her genre. This extraordinary Irish singer has been captivating audiences and achieving exceptional acclaim for over 20 years. She has (according to Mojo magazine) “Quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice”.
Alongside a selection of favourites from her previous releases, Cara will be performing material from her new album “Wanderer” which is a collection of beautiful and moving songs recorded in an intimate setting with her husband and musical partner Sam Lakeman.
Every note and word sung with a passion and confidence earned through a life of experience singing traditional songs. Legions of fans will attest to their impassioned performances with Cara’s warm and natural stage presence something to savour.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £22. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/cara-dillon/
Irish supper and concert
Hot meal followed by lots of lovely Irish music to celebrate St Patrick’s night.
Please book 0146065909/64553
£10
7pm
Contact Elaine : 01460 65909/64553
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Www.chaffcombe.com
Nick Cope’s family performances are legendary! If you haven’t heard his songs or seen his shows before come and find out what you’re missing. Nick has been writing, recording and performing music for families for over ten
years and has established a fanatical army of little people and their parents from all over the world. His six albums of original songs have become a must have for thousands and thousands of young families.
2pm (doors & refreshments 1.45pm)
£10 / £8 members and concessions / £32 family ticket (4 people, max 2 adults)
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/12/05/sun-22-mar-nick-cope-family-concert/
An enjoyable, full-on, fun packed workshop week for the more confident nyckelharpa player. This mid-week course is designed as the next progression for learners that have worked their way through beginners, intermediate and are looking for something more advanced to get their teeth into. There will be a big emphasis on technique, exercises, studies and less on straight tune learning. For more information contact Vicki Swan 07721 519719.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/advanced-nyckelharpa-3/
A mid week course led by Jonny Dyer for beginner*/intermediate accordion players looking to explore playing Scandinavian music on the accordion.
Topics covered will include polska, schottis and finding that elusive second beat. There will also be a focus on general technique and some ensemble playing. There will be time for a trip to the legendary Pebbles Tavern cider (& gin!) bar in Watchet and a walk up into the Quantocks to blow the cobwebs away.
This course is being run along side the advanced nyckelharpa course, so there will be opportunity in the evenings to play Swedish music with the nyckelharpas. There will also be the possibility to partake in some morning warm-up Nyckelrhythmics.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/scandinavian-tunes-for-accordion/
Following its sold-out smash hit debut tour, Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners returns to theatres in 2019 with an even bigger production.
Direct from the West End, the show brings to life the music of Ireland's favorite sons 'The Dubliners’. Telling the story of a career spanning 50 years and evoking the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, Jim McCann, Ciaran Bourke and John Sheahan. This talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group to life.
A performance that will have you singing and clapping along to such classics as The Wild Rover, The Black Velvet Band, The Irish Rover, Molly Malone, Finnegan’s Wake, McAlpines Fusileers, Raglan Road and of course The Seven Drunken Nights.
This celebration of the music of The Dubliners is a celebration of Irish music itself and a guaranteed evening of music, humor and ‘craic’.
Tickets: £25.50
Concessions: £24
Footlights: Discount Applies
A £1 ticket levy is included in all stated ticket prices.
https://www.octagon-theatre.co.uk/whats-on/music/seven-drunken-nights-the-story-of-the-dubliners/8064
So if you want to ensure you can get in on the night, please get in touch ASAP and I'll reserve tickets - there are unlikely to be any seats available on the night. If you're not sure whether you want to come, look him up on Youtube or browse his website.He's probably the finest singer to come out of the Irish tradition in the last thirty years or more, and this is a rare chance to hear him do a purely acoustic set. His bouzouki playing is exceptional, and the songs are well selected. He's twice been voted BBC Folk singer of the year, so come and see why.
Tickets are £15.00, no concessions, and it starts at 8.00. Get there early and enjoy the fact that we have an excellent new landlord. They should be doing food by then, but call first to ensure they can fit you in - 01963 362405
jhnwaltham AT yahoo.co.uk
Music session with added step dancing.
All welcome to play, dance, sing or just listen and watch
8.00 pm
Contact Steve Cunio: 07811 680534
info AT somerstep.org
www.somerstep.org
An enjoyable full-on fun-packed workshop weekend with Vicki Swan to introduce players to both the säckpipa (Swedish Bagpipes) and Swedish bagpipe music.
Topics to be covered (more to be added!) will include:
• The Standard Swedish Säckpipa Repertoire
• Tunes from Småland
• Articulation
• General bagpipe technique
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/sackpipa-swedish-bagpipe-tunes/
Club Patrons PJ Wright and Guy Fletcher are headlining John Butcher's 70th birthday concert, along with a lifetime friend of John's, the redoubtable Paul Downes. A night of great music and humour for all.
£12 pre-booked, £14 unbooked
8.15 pm (Legion open from 7.00 Concert doors 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Kimmeridge Keilidh - All Welcome! No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles. Tickets on the door.
£5 adults, £2.50 under 16
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Jim Moray is amongst England’s finest interpreters of traditional song.
His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots.
A five-time BBC Folk Award winner, his songs have been featured in a season finale of Grey’s Anatomy, he has appeared on-screen singing a specially composed song for Dr Who spin-off Class as aliens attack the earth, and he has presented documentaries on traditional music for BBC Radio 3.
www.jimmoray.co.uk
www.facebook.com/jimmoray/
twitter.com/jimmoray
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £14.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/jim-moray-with-tom-moore/
Welcoming back this scene-stealing, barnstorming and perennially popular ceilidh big band
Bath Ceilidhs are no ordinary barn dances. Buzzing with upbeat energy right from the start, the great bands we book give you a thrilling and amazing evening of exuberant dancing and fun, whatever your age or experience.
The music generally has its roots in British traditional music, but with a contemporary, eclectic and sometimes cross-cultural bias. The bands we have booked are amongst the best in the country and have appeared at all the top venues/festivals, travelling a considerable distance to play for you. (See the bands individual websites)
There is a caller at all the dances to guide you through so it is no problem if you have never done anything like this before. Don't worry if you go wrong, it just adds to the fun!
Dancing starts at 7.30pm prompt, with doors open from 7pm
Free parking
Bar available
Prices: Adult: £12, Concession £10, Students £6, 7-18 years £3, under 7 free.
Contact: Richard & Jo 01225 311634
E-mail: joanne.lander AT talktalk.net
http://www.poppyrecords.co.uk/bathceilidh/main.php
Rachael McShane is a singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player based in the North East of England.
An original member of folk big band Bellowhead, Rachael toured internationally with them as well as making several TV appearances.
Bellowhead recorded five studio albums, and won a total of eight BBC Folk Awards in their 12 years together.
Rachael is now working on a new solo project – a reworking of traditional songs and is playing with a brand-new band, featuring guitarist Matthew Ord (Assembly Lane) and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting).
Rachael McShane & The Cartographers are a brand new signing to Topic Records, the oldest
independent label in the world, on the eve of its 80th anniversary.
8:00 pm
£15.00 – £16.00
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/rachael-mcshane-and-the-cartographers/
Four times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson, aka Stu & Debbie Hanna, draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music.
The husband & wife duo bring an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo) Megson have gained fame on the British folk scene, not only for their arresting & intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour.
http://www.bournemouthfolkclub.com/index.php/all-artists/136-136
Devon based Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns again in 2020 with her latest album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.
Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, Miranda Sykes is back with her latest project: Her album ‘Behind The Wall’
Where Borrowed Places opened a window into the past, explaining where she had been, physically and spiritually, Behind The Wall is a Roller Coaster Ride exploring where we are going; Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today, living in our communities and societies and where will our actions lead us? Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant and beautiful, this show is not to be missed.
After the success of the 2019 tour, this is another opportunity to experience the show.
www.mirandasykes.com
£12/£10 conc
8pm
Contact Silver Street Sessions: 01984 623308
info AT silverstreetsessions.co.uk
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
BBC award nominees, Ninebarrow, have been impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition for years. For the first time, the duo will not only be joined by cellist and long-term collaborator, Lee MacKenzie, but also the extraordinary talent of John Parker on double bass and Evan Carson on percussion. With brand new songs and stunningly realised arrangements of some old favourites, this promises to be a night to remember!
8pm (doors & bar 7.30pm)
£17 / £15 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/10/30/sat-28-mar-ninebarrow-band/
Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ is returning to her roots. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she is touring as she started out: one woman, one bass, and one guitar.
£12 / £10 concessions
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
Barn Dance
BYO drinks
£8
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Mike: 023 8073 8960/ 0774 2957858
mike AT woodsiders.co.uk
www.woodsiders.co.uk
Rachael McShane is a singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player based in the North East of England. An original member of folk big band Bellowhead, Rachael toured internationally with them as well as making several TV appearances. Bellowhead recorded 5 studio albums, and won a total of 8 BBC Folk Awards in their 12 years together.
Rachael has more recently been singing the role of Susannah Holmes in The Transports alongside The Young’uns, Faustus, Nancy Kerr, Greg Russell and Matthew Crampton.
Rachael is now working on a new solo project of traditional songs and is playing with a brand new band, featuring guitarist Matthew Ord (Assembly Lane) and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting).
https://rachaelmcshane.co.uk
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
£14.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/rachael-mcshane-and-the-cartographers/
A great event for all those who enjoy the high energy of contra and square dancing with a great caller and scintillating band!
This is an intensive but fun week for dancers of all levels of experience. If you are new to Contra but have experience in other dance styles you should find you learn rapidly; if you’re an experienced dancer there should be plenty to keep you interested!
Geoff Cubitt is well known as a caller for American Squares and Contra and English Ceilidh and is well respected among his peers. He has considerable experience as a dancer himself, particularly in Appalachian dancing, performing at many festivals.His experience as a dancer stands him in good stead when calling, as his sympathy with those on the floor means that he is helpful to beginners as well as extending the expert dancers.
The English Contra Dance Band is a two piece band, based in the UK, who have for the last ten years played at most of the major contra dances. Linda Game plays a driving fiddle style over Gareth Kiddier’s solid piano accompaniment. Although they are from different traditions, English traditional and Rock, they have adapted very well to the American high energy style of contra dance music. As a dancer recently said, “How can two people make so much noise!”.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/contra-and-square-dance-week-2020/
Rowan Rheingans is an award-winning fiddle player, banjoist, songwriter and theatre-maker widely regarded as one of the foremost innovators in folk music today. Best known for her work with acclaimed bands Lady Maisery, The Rheingans Sisters and Songs of Separation, Rowan has won two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards (‘Best Original Track’ in 2016 & ‘Best Album’ in 2017) and is a six-times nominee. Her duo The Rheingans Sisters are currently nominees for the prestigious ‘Best Duo/Band’ award at the the 2019 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
7:30PM
£12
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/dispatches-on-the-red-dress-rowan-rheingans/
Chard Folk dance club
CFD meet alternative Thursdays . £4 nonmembers. £3 members. A friendly club, with lots of laughing. Everyone welcome
£3/4
7.30 - 9.45 pm
Contact Elaine : 0146065909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
A very popular dance weekend for experienced dancers. Join the A-team of callers Maggie Daniel and Lucy Slemmings, and Irish musicians Rise the Dust Ceili Band for another rip-roaring weekend at Halsway.
Maggie and Lucy will teach daytime workshops helping you to brush up on your skills, and there will be ceilis on Friday evening, Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon for you to enjoy dancing to top-notch live accompaniment. Book early!
There’s the option to stay Sunday night for an extra £40 per person, to include light supper, B&B. Bring instruments if you have them, and enjoy a relaxed evening session!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/irish-set-dance-weekend-4/
We meet on First Fridays through the Autumn and winter for light hearted dancing to different good bands and callers. Squash provided. Bring drinks and snacks if you wish.
£6
7.30 for 7.45 - 9.45
Contact Jenny and Ian Edlin: 01258 861184
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Another jolly evening at Ditcheat, with caller Peter Bolton.
Always a warm welcome. Live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
Why “Churchfitters”? Nobody knows! They’re not fitters and have absolutely nothing to do with churches. The name’s origin is lost in the mists of time but there is one aspect that suits them perfectly – its quirkiness. When your array of instruments includes a motorcycle petrol tank, a musical saw and a Mercedes Benzouki made from hubcaps, there’s little point worrying if the name makes sense! Saucepan dulcimer, glass harp, Bing-Bong machine and magic boots all join some more conventional instruments (fiddle, banjo, sax and whistle, to name a few) to back Rosie Short’s sublime voice.
The three flamboyant characters that make up Churchfitters present their uplifting and entertaining show with a unique dynamism and describe their music as ‘Folk Unlimited’.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £15. No concessions.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-churchfitters/
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first-served basis. Contact us for an application form, or download an application form here. Please return your completed application form with a deposit of £60 to secure your place.
This annual week-long music residential for young musicians and singers is designed as an intensive but fun introduction to our folk traditions.
You will operate as a company: taking warm-ups together, developing technique in music and performance, learning repertoire, and creating new interpretations of traditional material. There will also be down-time to socialise and enjoy being part of an exciting new company of performers! At the end of the week you’ll have the chance to perform what you’ve learned to an invited audience where family and friends are welcome.
We are delighted to announce that Becki Driscoll will be Lead Artist across our Halsway Young Folk courses in 2020, supported by a team of experienced folk artists and educators. For ‘Intro 2020’ she’ll be joined by musicians Archie Churchill-Moss (Moore Moss Rutter, Sam Kelly & the Lost Boys, False Lights) and Jamie Francis (Sam Kelly & the Lost Boys, Seth Lakeman Band) plus community artist Kerrie Seymour as Pastoral Support.
Full board (accommodation and all meals), tuition and all activities: £195
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-intro-2020/
Following a storming gig in summer 2018, we’re delighted to welcome back Welsh folk supergroup Calan with their trademark brand of high-energy routines, verve and raw excitement. Expect stunning playing, beautiful songs and soaring harmonies…with added virtuoso step dancing! A special evening for firm fans and those new to the magic alike: come along and help us raise the roof.
8pm (doors & bar 7.30pm)
£16 / £14 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/11/05/thur-9-apr-calan/
Africa’s greatest choir The Yoruba Women Choir is one of Nigeria’s biggest musical exports. The choir, directed by founder Funmi Olawumi, creates music of astounding power.
Each of the 11 singers is a soloist of the highest order and they combine exquisite harmonies and joyful songs to create a spectacular show bursting with passion. Their songs lift your soul and uplift your spirit in a remarkable way.
Powered by a six-piece band that provides the pulse for a musical and spiritual alchemy that touches a worldwide audience.
7:30PM
£20 / £18
https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/the-yoruba-women-choir-20-18/
An extended weekend course for musicians to develop their ensemble playing skills. Drawing on European folk/contemporary/popular music traditions we’ll be making new arrangements that can go in any direction. The aim is to explore and combine all sorts of influences and ideas to make spine tingling music that is more than the sum of the parts.
The course is fairly intensive and includes all day ensemble workshop sessions with the aim of performing all the pieces we create together at a public concert on the Sunday night.
The course is led by musician/composer/arranger Paul James – saxophones, border bagpipes (Blowzabella, Paul James and the Drowned Lovers). We are delighted to welcome Spanish composer, arranger, teacher and virtuoso hurdy-gurdy player Germán Díaz and the return of harpist, composer and teacher Merit Zloch for the second year.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-european-ensemble-weekend/
+ Anne-Louise Richards
The wonderful tour de force that is Richard Digance is coming to Wessex Acoustic. Songs, stories, and humour abound.
Supporting Richard we welcome back the Shaftesbury based songstress, Anne-Louise Richards, who not only sings like an angel but also writes folk songs you feel you have known forever, one highly talented young lady.
£14 pre-booked, £16 unbooked
8.15 pm (Legion open from 7.00 Concert doors 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Their “Look After One Another” gigs continue ….”Until we all sing together again!”
John Tams: ex-Albion Band, founding member of Home Service, longtime actor/musical director at The National Theatre, Rifleman Daniel Hagman in the Sharpe ITV series and Songmaker for WarHorse.
Barry Coope: of the iconic a’capella trio Coope, Boyes and Simpson, now of Narthen.
Winners – Best Duo – BBC Folk Awards
“Look after one another.” – John and Barry
7:30 pm
£15.00 – £16.00
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/john-tams-barry-coope-tams-coope-2d/
Leaders of the Halsway Manor European Weekend perform arrangement of European traditional music with participants of the Halsway Manor European Ensemble Weekend course.
Musician/composer/arranger Paul James – saxophones, border bagpipes (Blowzabella, Paul James and the Drowned Lovers). We are delighted to welcome Spanish composer, arranger, teacher and virtuoso hurdy-gurdy player Germán Díaz and the return of harpist, composer and teacher Merit Zloch for the second yea
8pm–10pm
£10 adult
£5 student
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/european-music-ensemble/
A fun and friendly ‘House Party’ for all who enjoy folk dancing and playing and want to try a range of dance styles. There will be dance workshops each morning, afternoons are free to explore this lovely area or take a ramble in the Quantock Hills. Bring your walking boots and instruments. There’s a dance each evening with the occasional music session and sing-around in the bar afterwards.
The Team
Ted & Pat Morse: Ted began dancing with the Oxford Morris Men and Oxford City Folk Dance Club when he was 17, started calling and running barn dances at 19, and has barely paused since! Ted plays accordion, percussion and tuba, is an experienced band leader, teaches Morris, Sword and Country dancing (and more!) and is a regular tutor at Halsway Manor – along with Pat .
Music comes from Gareth Kiddier and Linda Game – English Contra Band. One of the best known and friendliest folk dance bands on the UK scene. Once you start dancing with them you wont want to stop! Gareth Kiddier (Piano) has been playing and dancing for over 15 years with driving rhythms and considered harmonics. Linda Game (fiddle, mandolin) (The Broken Ankles, The Kitchen Girls, The Fold) has over 20 years’ folk experience since leaving the classical music world. With stunning improvisational fluency and rhythm she’s an exciting dance musician
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/easter-house-party-3/
Belinda O’Hooley began playing the piano at the age of seven. She is an exceptionally gifted pi-anist, singer, songwriter and composer and has become renowned for her highly individual, emotional, yet sensitive musicality. She is half of four time BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Best Duo nomi-nees O’Hooley & Tidow alongside her wife Heidi Tidow; together described by The Guardian as ‘exceptional songwriters.’
£12 / £10 concessions
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
Led by Andrew Swaine with music from Boldwood. The Halsway Playford Weekend is always a stimulating and enjoyable experience!
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.
The dance will be led by Andrew Swaine who is an experienced caller for most genres of English country dancing, including ceilidh, American contra, Playford (early country dancing, starting with the publications of John Playford 1651 onwards) and modern country dances at all levels written since the revival in the early 20th century.
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-weekend-4/
All welcome! You don't have to bring a partner. We have a caller so the inexperienced needn't worry. We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the Memorial Hall in the dark it is about 100 yards north of the Piddle Inn. Parking is on the road side.
6 under 16s free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Songs, stories and fun from the North East. Lindisfarne front man and Warhorse song-man come together.
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
BBC Folk winners Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin, and Bellowhead co-founder John Spiers, join forces with legendary fiddle player Peter Knight’s highly acclaimed trio Gigspanner to form the Gigspanner Big Band.
Taking self-penned material along with music rooted in the British Isles and beyond, with the flick of a bow, a finely chosen chord or slip of a beat, they produce richly atmospheric arrangements “with notes seemingly plucked from the stars and rhythms from the equator”.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £21. No concessions.
www.peterknight.net
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/peter-knights-gigspanner-big-band/
The remarkable intimate solo performances Martin gives go from strength to strength - every gig is a masterclass. He travels the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his playing.
40 years after he recorded his first album, Golden Vanity, in 1976, Martin is known as a guitarist of formidable talent. Equally at home playing English traditional folk, American folk and blues and his own compositions, he is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world.
In recent years, he has been a lynchpin in the award-winning Full English, The Elizabethan Sessions and, in 2015, recorded Murmurs, an exciting new album with Andy Cutting and Nancy Kerr. Martin’s eagerly awaited new solo album entitled Trails and Tribulations will be released in September 2017 on Topic Records. Album guests include Andy Cutting, Kathryn Tickell, Nancy Kerr and John Smith.
http://www.bournemouthfolkclub.com/index.php/all-artists/138-138
This talented pianist is half of O’Hooley & Tidow, described by The Guardian as ‘exceptional songwriters.’ Their song is the closing theme for the celebrated drama series Gentleman Jack. Belinda is also known for her inventive accompanying of folk luminaries including Rufus Wainwright, Nic Jones, Jackie Oates and Rachel Unthank and The Winterset.
‘Inversions’ showcases Belinda’s abilities as a composer and pianist with many of the pieces inspired by the songs and tunes her father inherited from a long line of male musicians in the hills of the West coast of rural Ireland.
£15.00 advance / £17.50 on the door
10% discount for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com
https://www.seetickets.com/event/belinda-o-hooley-inversions-/marine-theatre/1461299
Workshops are led by Hannah Cumming, an inspiring and experienced workshop leader, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments. Notation and audio supplied. Everyone is welcome!
1:30 - 4:30 pm (including coffee break with homemade cake!)
Further information and admission prices on the website
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Building on the success of their annual Give Voice Weekends we’re delighted that Tom and Barbara Brown have agreed to host a relaxed week of Folk Song and Singing with a great all-singing team.
Join us for a week of song-sharing and workshops with Tom & Barbara Brown, and guest leaders Bonny Sartin, Janet Russell, Jeff Wesley, Jim Mageean and Marianne McAleer!
Singers of all ages (teenagers to pensioners) and abilities are welcome to join the fun, in the comfortable and relaxed surroundings of Halsway Manor. The programme includes practical workshops, presentations, a film screening, discussions, song sharing and Big Sings (with everyone having a chance to lead chorus songs – if they want to) when the bar is open.
There will be plenty of opportunity to explore songs and individual singing in between, or have a ramble around the glorious countryside – it’s up to you! You’re welcome to bring accompanying instruments if you wish. The extensive folk library will also be open throughout the weekend should you wish to delve into the collection.
The week includes a twilight ‘Leaders’ Concert’ on the Wednesday evening.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/give-voice-extra/
The Gigspanner Big Band are a unique force in British folk music. Their high-energy, virtuosic performances appeal equally to traditionalists and to those looking for something more experimental, and they have garnered praise from publications as varied as fRoots, The Telegraph and The Wire, where they were described as ‘melodically folk-rooted yet open and innovative beyond the constraints of genre’
£22/£20
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
As part of the Give Voice Retreat week, we’re delighted that Tom and Barbara Brown will be giving a leaders concert alongside and their fabulous all-singing team that includes Bonny Sartin, Janet Russell and Jeff Wesley, Jim Mageean and Marianne McAleer.
7:30pm–10pm
£5
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/give-voice-extra-leaders-concert/
For the first, time Ireland’s Heidi Talbot and Scotland’s Adam Holmes are joining forces to tour, write and record an album of original material, together.
Between them they have been nominated for multiple BBC Folk Awards, SAY awards, Irish music awards and played for First Ministers and US Presidents.
This new collaboration will see the pair work under the name “Arcade”, with plans to record and release
a new album of songs in 2019, produced by Louis Abbott (Admiral Fallow).
8:00 pm
£22
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/arcade-feat-heidi-talbot-adam-holmes/
A social weekend of dance for club members and friends. The Falconers Folk Dance Club is a registered club of the English Folk Dance and Song Society from Bromyard. English and American country dancing with live music from The Falconers Band.
Who’s it For?
Whether you have done a lot of dancing or none, the Club will make you welcome and help you have an enjoyable time! Although this is a club partnership event, there may be space for additional dancers so please get in touch!
This course is a partnership event, organised by The Falconers Folk Dance Club. For more details: http://www.falconers.org.uk
For more information and to book please contact Barbara Tyler:
Email: barbara.tyler AT talktalk.net
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/falconers-dance-event-2020/
Over Stratton Folk Dance Club SPRING DANCE.
Bring and share supper.
Only the Best band in the area Ian Bridens Jigs for Gigs with a welcome return from our last Autumn sell dance the inimitable Simon Maplesden.
Early tickets 7.50 /On the door 8.50
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact lynn: 01935479291
sjsparks AT btinternet.com
Set Dance Ceili 8pm - 12pm £8
Singing Workshop Available 4pm - 6pm
Please Bring Supper to Share
A Bar Will Be Available
Everyone Will Be Given a Very Warm Welcome
Fully Refurbished Hall ; All Facilities ;
Contact George East on Tel 07536 105194, george9east AT btinternet.com
Facebook Page - Priddy Revival Ceili
Set Dance Ceili 8pm - 12pm £8
Plus Singing Workshop 4pm - 6pm £3
Led by Catherine Mowat
Please Bring Supper to Share
A Bar Will Be Available
Everyone Will Be Given a Warm Welcome
Dance Contact: George East 07536 105194 george9east AT btinternet.com
Facebook Page ; Priddy Revival Ceili
Song Contact : cemowat AT gmail.com 01458 250655
The Drystones are two twenty-one year olds from Somerset playing a lively mix of their own interpretations of traditional folk tunes and original compositions. Playing violin, guitar and whistle, they have made a big splash since they formed in July 2011. They have played festivals all over the West Country (including Larmer Tree, Sidmouth, Broadstairs, Purbeck and Folk East), and went down a storm at 2019’s Maumbury Rings Music Day. At their 2013 Glastonbury Festival performance they were Steve Lamacq’s “recommendation of the day”. For just two people they make a lot of sound!
8pm (doors & bar 7.30pm)
£12 / £10 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2019/12/11/wed-29-apr-the-drystones/
Belinda O’Hooley is an exceptionally gifted pianist, singer, songwriter and composer and has become renowned for her highly individual, emotional, yet sensitive musicality. She is half of four time BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Best Duo nominees O’Hooley & Tidow alongside her wife Heidi Tidow; together described by The Guardian as ‘exceptional songwriters.’ Their song ‘Gentleman Jack’ features as the closing theme song for Sally Wainwright’s latest BBC/HBO drama series Gentleman Jack.
The new album ‘Inversions’ showcases Belinda’s abilities as a composer and pianist with many of the piano pieces inspired by the songs and tunes her father inherited from a long line of male musicians from Monalea up in the Ox Mountains in the West of rural Ireland. With the passing of her father in 2017, Belinda; the first woman to be handed the tradition, has found the freedom to express the music of her ancestors in her very own, unconventional way, evolving and migrating into something you could describe as an inversion: a reversal of the norm.
Inversions encapsulates the essence of an artist truly at one with her instrument. This show will be a stunning, quality performance, not to be missed.
£16.50
Doors 7.30pm show 8pm
Contact box office: 01373 471854
info AT cooperhall.org
http://www.cooperhall.org
Partnership Event
For further details or for a booking form please contact Robin Morris:
Mobile: Phone 07966 785172
Email: Robinnimbo AT aol.com
A wide selection of International Dances each evening led by a guest caller. You will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful varied area of the Quantocks and Somerset coast and to join organised walks. The period of stay is Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights with the choice to stay the Monday night should you wish.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/society-for-international-folk-dance-2/
For more information contact Roger Phipps 01278 671685
A monthly meeting of folk musicians and singers. Come and join in or just have a drink and listen. Join host Roger Phipps and friends for an informal ‘Sunday Club’ open to all musicians and singers. We encourage beginners and those curious about folk music to come along.
We have a folk theme, but really all types of acoustic music, song and poetry are welcome. The evening generally combines some playing together with individual spots. We don’t frown on you having your own words or music in front of you and encourage beginners.
Just come along or give Roger a call if you would like to find out more.
8pm til late
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-music-and-song-club-monthly-sunday-club-may-2/
Have you ever felt like you picked up the wrong instrument for the music you’ve fallen in love with? Brass and reed players on the folk circuit are few and far between and can feel a bit isolated – and so we’re delighted to offer a course specifically for you!
Each of the tutors are highly experienced, and specialise in a different area of the folk tradition: Jo Freya (Blowzabella, Narthen) – Central Europe and beyond; Tim Walker (Banter, Tickled Pink) – English music; Michel Duijves (Maalstroom, Mind the Midgie) – Celtic music. We’ll explore this music together, finding ways to better ‘fit the folk style’, how we play, decorations, repertoire, keys and transposition and anything else we can think of together.
The week will mostly be about playing music but we will also have sessions and discussions to help develop ourselves as players and this type of course and resources for the future.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/brass-and-reeds-week/
After embarking on a solo career, releasing his debut solo album The Unfinished Violin on Island Records and touring it to sell-out crowds on the 2019 album launch tour, Sam is releasing his highly anticipated second solo album in Spring 2020.
Moving on from his five year connection to the First World War, which inspired his first album and captured the nation’s hearts through appearances on Antiques Roadshow and BBC Breakfast, alongside BBC Radio 2, 3, 4 and 6Music, Sam is moving on to making music on his own terms, with three of his favourite musicians and with a totally fresh approach and a big sound.
Sam and his new band are putting something into English music that has never been there before. This album has the swagger and groove of traditional English music with the huge sound, flare, energy and festival spirit of bands coming out of the Celtic and Scandinavian music scenes.
£16 + Booking fee
7.30 pm
https://www.cheeseandgrain.com/events/sam-sweeney-band/
Acclaimed harmonica and melodeon player Will Pound is embarking on a musical journey across the states of the European Union, to discover and unveil the diversity and common ground of their traditional music and song. From the lively Swedish polska to the upbeat Italian tarantella, the lilt of the Irish jig, to buoyant French bourées, relentless rachenistas from Bulgaria and the rip-roaring Spanish jota.
£18 / £16
8.00pm
Contact David Bond: 01984623308
jbond36086 AT aol.com
www.silverstreetsessions.co.uk
Following on from last year’s Advanced Fiddle Weekend with Rowan Rheingans, this course – with both Rowan and Anna Rheingans – is for experienced violin players who wish to expand on their skills and deepen their personal style. We will learn some new repertoire together and do some smaller ensemble work, supporting individual players to further develop tone, technique, musicality and style.
Although the Rheingans Sisters’ playing and teaching is rooted in traditional European styles, this course is open to all advanced fiddle players.
This years’ two-tutor approach will allow for advanced workshops alongside a second steadier-paced group, exploring technique and repertoire from pan-European traditions, plus one-to-ones, a tutors’ gig, and some surprises!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/going-further-fiddle-weekend/
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Another jolly evening at Ditcheat, with caller Peter Bolton.
Always a warm welcome. Live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
Rheinghans Sisters perform at Halsway Manor as part of their Going Further weekend for folk fiddle players. In this evening’s performance Halsway Manors doors are open for the public to join workshop participants and enjoy an evening of talented and passionate folk fiddle.
8pm
£10 adult
£4 Student
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/rheingans-sisters-2/
Our much loved annual American Contra Dance Week is hosted by Meg Winters with caller Carol Ormand and music from the UK’s top contra band, English Contra Dance Band. There will be dance and music workshops in the mornings, afternoons are free for you to explore this lovely area, and there are dances every evening. Early booking advised.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/american-contra-dance-week-4/
The Nyckelharpa is an amazing instrument that grabs everyone that comes into contact with it. This is your opportunity to meet and play the instrument for the weekend. Eight spaces are up for grabs for the complete beginner with an instrument provided. Spaces fill up fast on this course – so don’t delay. If you want to borrow an instrument book now!
An enjoyable and full-on, fun-packed workshop weekend with popular tutor Vicki Swan who will introduce beginners to this fascinating and unusual Swedish folk stringed instrument. Kirsty money will be joining Vicki as a second support tutor to ensure that you are well looked after.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/beginners-nyckelharpa/
The Violin making workshops are extremely popular at Halsway Manor, with many of the participants coming back year after year. The workshop gives maximum continuous time at the workbench supported by Neville Gardner, who has been teaching violin making for the last sixteen years. He is joined by Corrie Schrijver to ensure that there is a ratio of 1 tutor to no more than 5 participants giving plenty of patient and knowledgeable support.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/violin-making-7/
Classic songs from every era of a long and mighty career.
Oysterband, the five-times BBC Radio 2 Folk Award-winning outfit that brought passion, power and not a little poetry to Folk and Roots music, enter their fifth decade as vital and creative as ever, with some of the finest songs in the modern Folk canon to their name: Put Out The Lights; When I’m Up (I Can’t Get Down); Blood Wedding; Everywhere I Go; The Oxford Girl; Granite Years; Native Son; A River Runs…..these and many others from their vast back catalogue will feature as they embark on another year of international touring and festivals.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £24. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/oysterband-chance-to-dance/
Kimmeridge Keilidh - All Welcome! No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles. Tickets on the door.
£5 adults, £2.50 under 16
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
The nyckelharpa – the Swedish keyed fiddle is an instrument that is capturing the hearts of people the world over. It was once in danger of dieing out, but kept safe and sound it is now on the up and up. Even so very few people have heard of this magnificent instrument.
Vicki goes back in time, all the way back to the medieval period to give you a potted history of the nyckelharpa. Meet nyckelharpa players from the past, but beware the one in the big black floppy hat.
Tunes, tales and intrigue will ensue.
A multimedia experience.
8pm
£10 adult
£4 student
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/vicki-swan-presents-the-nyckelharpa/
Devon based Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns again in 2020 with her latest album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.
Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, Miranda Sykes is back with her latest project: Her album ‘Behind The Wall’
Where Borrowed Places opened a window into the past, explaining where she had been, physically and spiritually, Behind The Wall is a Roller Coaster Ride exploring where we are going; Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today, living in our communities and societies and where will our actions lead us? Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant and beautiful, this show is not to be missed.
After the success of the 2019 tour, this is another opportunity to experience the show.
£13
8 pm
Contact Dorchester Arts: 01305 266926
www.dorchesterarts.org.uk
Workshops are led by Hannah Cumming, an inspiring and experienced workshop leader, who will teach tunes and harmonies by ear. The workshops are suitable for all levels and all acoustic instruments. Notation and audio supplied. Everyone is welcome!
1:30 - 4:30 pm (including coffee break with homemade cake!)
Further information and admission prices on the website
www.sherbornefolkband.org
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
Classic songs from every era of a long and mighty career.
Oysterband, the five-times BBC Radio 2 Folk Award-winning outfit that brought passion, power and not a little poetry to Folk and Roots music, enter their fifth decade as vital and creative as ever, with some of the finest songs in the modern Folk canon to their name: Put Out The Lights; When I’m Up (I Can’t Get Down); Blood Wedding; Everywhere I Go; The Oxford Girl; Granite Years; Native Son; A River Runs…..these and many others from their vast back catalogue will feature as they embark on another year of international touring and festivals.
7:30 pm
Tickets: £24. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/oysterband-seated-concert/
Acclaimed bassist and singer with Show of Hands returns to her roots.
7.30 pm
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
We are delighted to welcome back Nonsuch Dulcimer Club to host another packed workshop week offering practical guidance on playing the dulcimer. Featuring superb tutors from the USA and UK, there will also be times to socialise and play informally, plus informal evening concerts from the tutors – and from participants!
Choose from four courses, and let us know your choice when booking:
Mountain Dulcimer: Introductory Course
Mountain Dulcimer: Exploring Course
Hammered Dulcimer: Introductory Course
Hammered Dulcimer: Exploring Course
Introductory courses are designed for beginners / improvers, loan instruments are available subject to demand; please make your enquiry early.
Exploring courses are more in-depth, designed with the intermediate / advanced level player in mind. NB. the MD Exploring course is also open to players of players of other fretted instruments.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/dulcimers-at-halsway-3/
Exquisite harmonies, excellent musicianship and fine songwriting from this Baltimore folk/Americana duo
We will be welcoming The Honey Dewdrops to our Folk Night on 19 May.
They are an absolutely exceptional duo. This tour will be their second of the UK after their debut in early 2019 which included Celtic Connections. They have acoustic guitars, clawhammer banjo, some mandolin. The Honey Dewdrops blend folk, acoustic Americana and a dash of bluegrass, enchanting audiences with their memorable and exquisitely performed songs. They’re from Virginia but live in Baltimore now.
Check them out here:
https://youtu.be/GFcE6k7tz5U
https://youtu.be/Qs3zbDp3p0g
£10
8pm
Contact Pip: 07598 328479
mail AT draxfolk.org.uk
www.draxfolk.org.uk
Nominated ‘Musician of the Year’ – BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2018
The remarkable intimate solo performances Martin gives go from strength to strength – every gig is a masterclass. He travels the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his playing.
“What’s it like being the best guitar player in the world…?” Martin’s modesty and grace prevented him from answering this BBC Radio 4 interviewer’s question recently, but the facts speak for themselves.
40 years after he recorded his first album, Golden Vanity, in 1976, Martin is known as a guitarist of formidable talent. Equally at home playing English traditional folk, American folk and blues and his own compositions, he is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world.
A virtuoso player without question, but above all Martin Simpson conveys his diverse treasure trove of material from the heart, performing with rare subtlety, intensity and honesty. A true master of his art.
www.martinsimpson.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £16.00
Advance: £16.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/martin-simpson-a-master-of-his-art/
Sam and Jon return for another enjoyable summer weekend of music and song for players and singers of all levels of experience. Jon & Sam will lead the ukes to kick-start and improve your skills and they’ll be joined by guest tutor Percy Copley to lead the singing element of the course. We’ll have three groups according to your playing skills, but you’re free to move between the groups, and there’s plenty of time to relax and socialize too. The evenings will include opportunities to perform your own material, plus an informal concert on the Saturday by the tutors. To get you started, there are some video tutorials and other materials at www.ukuleleoxford.com
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/ukulele-and-song-weekend/
In 1995, Christine Collister, Melanie Harrold, Julie Matthews, Helen Watson and Chris While – acclaimed and appreciated for their individual talents as Folk, Blues, Rock and Soul singers – found themselves at the Cambridge Festival. They decided to sing some songs together….. Magic happened and Daphne’s Flight took off. A widely-acclaimed eponymous studio album and UK tour followed, with a prestigious date at London’s Union Chapel – all of which marked a turning point in the role of women within the English Folk movement.
Five of the finest singer-songwriters of their generation, Daphne’s Flight is a unique and magical blend of individual styles that captivates audiences with complex harmony arrangements, unbridled energy and the infectious joy of performing together.
8:00 pm
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/daphnes-flight/
Daphnes Flight are:
Melanie Harrold * Chris While * Julie Matthews * Helen Watson * Christine Collister
It was 1995 and five friends found themselves at Cambridge Festival. They decided to sing some songs together ... magic happened and Daphne's Flight took off.
Now, two decades later, five of the best singer/songwriters of their generation are gathering again – older, wiser and twice as powerful.
In 2017 they released their new album on the Fledgling Label on CD and Vinyl 'Knows Time, Knows Change'. 2018 brought a sensational new live album available now.
Daphne's Flight will be playing the Shelley Theatre while touring the UK throughout in May 2020 with a stunning brand new album.
http://www.bournemouthfolkclub.com/index.php/all-artists/137-137
We are delighted to announce the return of International folk legends Blowzabella for a second festival weekend of workshops, sessions, concerts and dances at Halsway Manor. Plus special guests – Les Poufs à Cordes (France).
An outline programme for the weekend includes:
Friday 29th May:
Arrive from 4pm. Dinner 6.30pm.
8.30pm: Evening concert with Blowzabella.
Followed by Bal with Les Poufs à Cordes & Musicians’ Session.
Saturday 30th May:
Daytime: English & European dance workshops. Big band workshop. Guided walk.
Hurdy-gurdy ensemble. Bagpipe Ensemble. Violin, accordion & bagpipe workshops.
8.00pm: Dance – Blowzabella, Les Poufs à Cordes, Workshop Dance Orchestra.
Sunday 31st May:
Morning: Workshops – Big band, singing, violin, diatonic accordion, beginner bagpipes.
Afternoon: Bal – unplugged with Les Poufs à Cordes & Blowzabella.
Ends with a final gathering & the legendary Halsway cream tea at 5pm.
Sunday evening music session in the bar for those who want to stay an extra night.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/blowzabella-festival-with-special-guests/
This pioneering Scottish folk trio has always experimented with sound and form; the results have always been complex and thrilling.
Already acknowledged as phenomenal live performers (‘the UK’s best live band’ – the Guardian), Lau arrived at a new creative peak with 2019’s Midnight and Closedown (Reveal Records). That album was produced by John Parish (PJ Harvey, This Is The Kit), who said: ‘Lau are in touch with their roots but not bound by them’.
£18.50 advance | 10% discount for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com
As previous winners of Best Live Act at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, there’s no denying The Demon Barbers’ ability to put on a first-class performance.
Over the years they’ve thrilled countless audiences with their live music and dance shows, be it stirring up a frenzy at Glastonbury Festival and Edinburgh Fringe or selling out theatres around the UK!
8:00 pm
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-demon-barbers-xl/
Seckou Keita has arguably become the most influential and inspiring kora player of his generation, an exceptional and charismatic musician and a modern global citizen, living with seven centuries of tradition and heritage expressed through his music.
In his solo album, 22 Strings (released May 2015), Seckou gives us the kora in its purest guise, a wondrous instrument that can soothe the bloodlust of warriors and take the human spirit to a place of deep meditation, stillness and beauty.
8:00 pm
£17.00 – £18.00
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/seckou-keita/
Ceilidh
The excellent young band Abacus from Exeter with Gill calling. No partner needed, all welcome whatever your level of dancing experienced. All dances will be walked and called for as long as needed. Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door.
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Multi award winning singer songwriter, musician and proud Devonian, Jim Causley is an all round great entertainer.
£10
Doors 7.30pm for 8pm Start
Contact Meg Rose: 07877206124
Meg.rose AT btinternet.com
Jimcausley.co.uk
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Another jolly evening at Ditcheat, with caller Peter Bolton.
Always a warm welcome. Live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail,com
The 9th Petherton Folk Fest since the revival in 2012.
We are continuing to plan a day which celebrates music and dance from the Folk tradition. We will also build on the success of last year by improving the stalls area in the churchyard and creating a day of free entertainment.
There will be a full programme of music in Market Square and The David Hall as well as sessions in the Brewer’s Arms and singing in the church.
Children’s activities and workshops are being organised.
Put the date on your calendar and bring your friends and families!
Free
Nick Cope is a professional singer and songwriter and has over 20 years of experience in music, including international success as lead singer and songwriter with The Candyskins in the 1990s.
For close to 10 years Nick has been writing, recording and performing music for families and has established a fanatical army of ‘little people’ and their parents from all over the world. His six albums of original songs have become a ‘must have’ for thousands and thousands of young families. His latest album – Have you heard about Hugh? – features the incredible Folk musician, Jackie Oates.
2:00 pm
Tickets: £8 Full, £7 Under 12s
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/nick-cope-a-family-afternoon-gig/
Kimmeridge Keilidh - All Welcome! No Bar - bring your own drinks & nibbles. Tickets on the door
£5 adults, £2.50 under 16
7.30 - 10.30 pm
Contact Steve Earwicker: 01929 480 737
arish.mel AT btinternet.com
www.earwicker.org/arish_mel.htm
Music, Dance, Children’s Festival, free Fringe Festival, food, drink and weekend camping in Priddy village in the Mendips. The friendliest festival in the South West!
Tickets and line-up at www.priddyfolk.org
Music for a Summer Eveningj
Folk songs, gallery carols, dance tunes
All proceeds to church facilities fund to provide servery .and lavatory
£10 to include wine and small eats
7.00 for 7.30 pm
Contact Evelyn Price: 01305 812282
eveprice.upwey AT outlook.com.
www.timlaycock.co.uk
Artists include: Gigspanner Big Band, Fay Hield Band, Ninebarrow and friends, Merry Hell
https://www.lymefolk.com
Ceilidh / folk dance
A fun dance on Bridport's Hat Festival day! Prizes for the best/silliest/most creative hat. No partner needed, all welcome whatever experience level. All dances will be talked and walked through and called for as long as needed. Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door.
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Great to welcome a great combination of festival band and caller, English Contra Dance Band with ChipFolkFest's Mike Courthold, for our one dance each year dedicated to (mainly) American styles. Don't be put off by that, all are welcome whatever the level of experience and no partner is needed - you will be guaranteed plenty of dancing! Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door. 16s and under £4
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Ceilidh / folk dance
Always good to have the characterful O.P.P. back, with Helen doing the honours. No armaments will be in evidence! Expect a fun evening, all are welcome regardless of experience, no partner needed. All dances will be walked and talked through and called for as long as needed. Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol - the Woodman in is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door. 16s and under £4
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Ceilidh
Another combination of favourites, Doug & Sarah with Jane - our pre-Christmas treat!
All are welcome regardless of experience and no partner is needed - you will be up and dancing! Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£9 in advance, £10 on the door. 16s and under £4
7.30 - 11 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com