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.
Trio of Murphy's - jaunty jigs, peppery polkas, rollicking reels, ballads, shanties and tales of ploughboys.
Alongshore is a duo, Vic Baines and Ledger de la Bald, who weave together songs and poetry to tell the stories of folks who live by the sea.
Just Us are Simon and Steph - a duo of guitar and vocals formerly in NO Direction.
8.00 pm
Contact Pip Evans: 07598 328479
pip_evans AT btinternet.com
www.bereregisfolk.com
West Gallery Carols, Harmony Songs and Dance Music from Thomas Hardy’s Wessex
The Mellstock Band invite you to join them for a weekend of music and song from the West Country, as immortalised in the poems and novels of Thomas Hardy. For over thirty years Dave Townsend and the band have been resurrecting his musical world, finding forgotten gems of vocal and instrumental music from village musicians’ manuscript books and the early folksong collectors. Hardy and his family were active local musicians with their own collection of song and dance manuscripts, and Hardy noted down songs from his family and friends.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/christmas-in-mellstock-2/
Richard Digance is a BAFTA-nominated entertainer and a recipient of The Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. He has also won a Sony Award and is one of only three British Folk singers mentioned in The Virgin Anthology of Songwriters for his contribution to comedy songwriting.
Richard has released 31 albums, written 14 books and has had nearly 5 million visits on YouTube. He also composed the songs and music for Bill Bryson’s best-selling audio CD book, The Road To Little Dribbling. He has worked in America with movie star Steve Martin and recalls two of his greatest moments as playing The London Palladium with Robin Williams and a guitar duet on TV with Queen guitarist, Brian May.
Off-stage he composes soundtracks and incidental music for TV and movies plus audio CD books
Richard ends another year of touring with a very special Christmas show for grown-ups who still believe. An evening of festive merriment and audience participation to celebrate the end of over 50 years of touring up and down the country without Santa’s magical sleigh! Nothing rude, but it certainly isn’t a school Christmas concert.
Tickets: £16 Full, £15 concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/richard-digance/
Shillingstone Barn Dance Club
1st Fridays until April.
7.30 for 7.45 in the Portman Hall, .
Some precautions being taken. Please bring your own drinks and snacks if you want to.
£6
Jenny and Ian Edlin 01258 861184
The Stanchester Quire are pleased to welcome the Folk Maestro once more to perform his incredible Christmas masrepiece!
£10
8.00 pm
Contact Bonnie by email: stanchesterquire1 AT gmail.com
or Phil by phone: 07 778 119 663
stanchesterquire.org.
Join us for an evening of dancing, carolling and carousing in English Tradition with songs, tunes and tales from Hardy’s Wessex.
The Mellstock Band return to Halsway Manor for a weekend workshop of West Gallery Carolling. This evening is their seasonal public concert. An uproarious celebration of dance, drink and general misbehaviour as carried on at Christmas in many villages until about a hundred years ago – along with sobering admonitions from puritans, parsons and angels. The band perform in period costume with a mix of early and modern instruments.
The stories and poems come from Dorset stalwarts Thomas Hardy and William Barnes. Hardy’s family were themselves musicians and collectors of folks song and dance manuscripts. These dance traditions were central to Christmas celebrations alongside the ancillary activities of drinking, singing and revelry. Alongside this are carols dedicated to dancing, bell-ringing and cider, and the Devil’s own tunes, with parsons and preachers caught in the crossfire.
8pm–10pm
£12
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mellstock-band-a-shepherds-calendar/
Christmas Carol Concert
Retiring " silver+" collection
7:30pm
Contact Alison Suter
leosca4 AT gmail.com
Delve into the wonderful world of klezmer with Susi Evans and Szilvia Csaranko (and Indra Buraczewska TBC) at the helm to inspire you to explore this celebratory, soulful and melodic music from nineteeth century Jewish Eastern Europe.
Go at your own pace, learn great tunes and gain knowledge of the modes, ornamentation, rhythms and accompaniment that give klezmer its unique flavour. Play in small ensembles, be part of the Halsway Klezmer Orchestra and learn tips and tricks on your instrument to play in a klezmer style. There will also be a tutors’ concert and plenty of opportunity for jamming in the bar!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/klezmer-music-course/
Join host Roger Phipps and friends at our informal Music and Song session. We usually meet on the first Sunday of each month at 8pm. Tonight we’ll be sharing the Manor with arrivals on the Klezmer Music course, so we may combine for some or all of the evening – we’ll wait and see!
Open to all singers and musicians – or you are welcome to just come and have a drink and listen. We have a folk theme, but really all types of acoustic music, song and poetry are welcome. We generally combine some playing together with some individual spots. We don’t frown on you having your words or music in front of you and we encourage beginners.
There’s no admission fee; we generally ‘pass the hat’ for donation to Halsway.
Just come along, or give Roger a call on 01278 671685 if you’d like to know more.
8pm–10:30pm
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-sunday-club-2/
Christmas Carol Concert
The quire are performing their Christmas Concert in support of the hall.
£8
7:30pm
Phone: 01460 240340
info AT thedavidhall.org.uk.
2-day workshop
Arriving Thursday evening, then two full days of multi-instrumental group arrangements, playing and tuition for intermediate players. Music and videos sent in advance. Limited to 20 participants. Booking at 01643 821425.
You can come as a resident in the hotel or as a day visitor.
Call the hotel for details, depending on day or residential visit.
Contact Jon Bennett: 01865 769206
MoonrakersCelticMusic AT gmail.com
www.moonrakers.net
A heart-warming look at the timeless rituals and folklore of midwinter England. Mysterious and magical songs of wassailing, wren-hunting, stirring the fire and incessant feasting come dressed up in a glittering finery of toe-tapping tunes and cracking choruses. Add a smattering of hilarious original songs and a sprinkling of carols both familiar and unfamiliar, all stirred up with John’s usual panache and supported by his scintillating skill on squeezeboxes, and you have the recipe for a rattling good sing, guaranteed to keep the spirits cheery and the cold at bay.
8pm–10pm
Full price: £14
Concessions: £12
Concessionary priced tickets are available to full-time students of any age (including children)
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/john-kirkpatrick-carolling-crumpets-2/
Ellie Gowers has been making an impression wherever she lands. Her music embeds a fierce energy that echoes the 60’s folk revival scene and she is known to hold pride of place on stage with her strong and lucent vocals. Her songs are built from a childhood love of literature and traditional folk song, but also discuss the more modern narratives of the present day. These influences fuse together to create a sound that has been deemed unique and incomparable.
8pm
£12
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 20 years.
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/st-agnes-fountain-christmas-2021/2021-12-10/
Mad Dog Mcrea blend a unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. In constant demand and having played just about every festival and two-bit, jibe-arsed dive in Christendom, Mad Dog Mcrea are, in every sense of the word, a live, band.
Matched with the unshakable dedication of their massive and “loyal-to-the-hilt”, fan base – Mad Dog Mcrea are more than just a very popular, festival act – with five albums under their belts, they are serious and acclaimed recording artists too. December 2019 saw Mad Dog Mcrea released a 5-track EP titled ‘It’s a Sign’.
The famous purple happy bus is fired up and ready for action, and there’s room for you – jump aboard!
8pm
£16.50 / £14.50 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2021/09/20/mad-dog-mcrea/
Some seasonal, and not so seasonal songs and tunes from the wonderful Jez Lowe with his brilliant Bad Pennies.
Joining them for this brilliant night's entertainment is Benny Graham.
There is no additional support.
Seating capacity has been reduced to allow more spacing for the comfort and Covid safety of all our guests. This means fewer tickets available. Advance booking is essential.
£20
8.00 pm (doors open 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
The quire are pleased to be performing again in this very special church.
Proceeds 50/50 to Friends of Holnest Church and Stanchester Quire
www.stanchesterquire.org
£8 to include mulled wine and mince pie
7pm
Contact Graham Sargent: 01963 210632
Limited seating booking advisable
friendsofholnest AT gmail.com
friendsofholnestchurch.wordpress.com
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 20 years.
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions.
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/st-agnes-fountain-christmas-2021/2021-12-10/
Much-toured 4-piece band, Moonrakers (harp, cello, stringed instruments, whistles, female/male vocals) pride themselves on having brought traditional and contemporary folk music to new audiences in festivals, arts centres, churches and village halls across the UK in recent years. Songs and tunes from the English, Irish and Scottish tradition as well as their own compositions.
£15
7.30 pm
Contact Regal Theatre: Booking: 01643 706430.
MoonrakersCelticMusic AT gmail.com
www.moonrakers.net
Brand-new for 2021! Following on from A Christmas Carol: In Concert and A Brief History of Christmas, GreenMatthews present their new festive show. Spanning several centuries, GreenMatthews’ Midwinter Revels is a celebration of Yuletide Past guaranteed to warm the cockles of the most Scrooge-like heart. Featuring Christmas carols, winter folk songs, toe-tapping tunes and a plethora of weird and wonderful instruments, the show is brought to life with GreenMatthews’ trademark wit and humour.
8pm–10pm
Full Price: £12
Under 18s: £10
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/greenmatthews-midwinter-revels/
A Traditional Dorset Celebration!
Led by folk musicians Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries and inspired by the rich sources of locally collected folk songs and West Gallery carols from the South Dorset Ridgeway area, The Ridgeway Singers & Band have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present with two special concerts for Artsreach this winter.
Traditionally sung by village choirs in English country churches, West Gallery music’s demise was brought about by the innovations of the organ and harmonium. West gallery carols and the accompanying musicians who played the fiddle, cello and serpent might have been no more than a footnote in history, if it hadn’t been for this style of popular music being recorded by writers such as Thomas Hardy in the wonderful stories and poems in which he evoked the singers and musicians who performed it.
This seasonal programme will include works from Puddletown and Bridport manuscripts, together with newly composed carols in the West Gallery tradition including ‘One Bright Star’. Interspersed with some sparkling instrumental pieces and midwinter stories, plus a few Ridgeway favourites, expect a heart-warming seasonal celebration of all things Dorset!
4.00 pm
Box office 01963 362355
Tickets and further information also available from www.artsreach.co.uk To find out where else the Ridgeway Singers & Band are performing this winter visit their website, ridgewaysingersandband.org
www.artsreach.co.uk
Peter Annear, along with Sharon Rabbitts and her daughters Frances and Buffy will be joined by Sharon's brother, Blue on banjo, to add to the orchestra! Hence, we are looking forward to hearing Blue, Peter & The Rabbitts! (Don't forget the comma!)
Expect multi-instrumental playing, five-part harmony vocals, festive songs and cheer, plus plenty of good humoured banter from this fabulous group. Don't miss it!
As usual, floorsingers are welcome to play a song or two (depending on numbers) in the first half of the evening (from 7.30pm to 8.30pm). Please come early and sign up in the book, or email me in advance.
At present, I don't think that food will be available for this first session because Chris & Clare have just arrived. However, the bar will be open beforehand and during the interval for drinks. I'll keep you informed of developments.
For more information contact Laurie Burn laurieguitars AT gmail.com 07854 750545
A Traditional Dorset Celebration!
Led by folk musicians Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries and inspired by the rich sources of locally collected folk songs and West Gallery carols from the South Dorset Ridgeway area, The Ridgeway Singers & Band have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present with two special concerts for Artsreach this winter.
Traditionally sung by village choirs in English country churches, West Gallery music’s demise was brought about by the innovations of the organ and harmonium. West gallery carols and the accompanying musicians who played the fiddle, cello and serpent might have been no more than a footnote in history, if it hadn’t been for this style of popular music being recorded by writers such as Thomas Hardy in the wonderful stories and poems in which he evoked the singers and musicians who performed it.
This seasonal programme will include works from Puddletown and Bridport manuscripts, together with newly composed carols in the West Gallery tradition including ‘One Bright Star’. Interspersed with some sparkling instrumental pieces and midwinter stories, plus a few Ridgeway favourites, expect a heart-warming seasonal celebration of all things Dorset!
3.30 pm
Box office 07436 000097
Tickets and further information also available from www.artsreach.co.uk To find out where else the Ridgeway Singers & Band are performing this winter visit their website, ridgewaysingersandband.org
www.artsreach.co.uk
An Afternoon of Fun
50 year founding member of the International folk group "The Yetties", whose love and knowledge of Dorset is renown, will be bringing his humour with his
'Slightly Alternative Christmas'
Poems, songs and readings old and new for the festive season
3.00 pm
Tickets £5 available from Charlton Horethorne Shop,
or 01935 814199 (jb AT classicmedia.co.uk)
Paul Hutchinson and Paul Sartin return to Halsway with their festive show – Mistletoe and Whine. Christmas starts here!
Belshazzars’ Feast start with traditional folk music, add a touch of classical and jazz, sprinkle over a few TV and movie themes, and top it off lashings of laughs for a unique live experience. A seasonal treat that sends audiences home with a smile.
Paul Hutchinson (accordion) and Paul Sartin (oboe, violin and vocals), “one of folk’s odd couples”, have for nearly 25 years wowed audiences around Europe, The States and Australia, with virtuoso musicianship tempered by wry humour.
8pm–10pm
£15
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/belshazzars-feast-3/
Lunchtime Christmas Carol Concert
1.00 pm
krisemmett AT live.co.uk
Banding Together summer weekends provide advanced and fluent English concertina players with the opportunity to join with others of similar proficiency to play as a big concertina band. The music is varied and challenging but help with preparation is provided. The result is an electrifying big band sound!
This winter weekend is altogether a more relaxed affair. It is a Christmas House Party for concertina bandits (ie English system players addicted to concertina band) with repertoire focusing on seasonal music. Festive fun and games will form an integral part of the weekend.
Unlike the summer weekend, the music will not be outrageously complicated but attention to detail, our hallmark, will not be compromised. Participants will still be expected to come well prepared and “band ready”, having spent time working on the music. Dots and resource materials are all emailed in advance.
Bandits finding the summer weekend too advanced might find this a more comfortable level.
Who’s it For?
Players must be fluent and confident on their instrument and read notation accurately. Preparation is essential. Music, together with audio files and practice guidance, is provided in advance. It is open to any English system concertina player who meets these criteria.
The Team
Banding Together weekends are organised by Junction 25 Concertina Band.
Music for Banding Together is sourced, arranged and led by J25 director Claire Wren.
For details and booking of this partnership event please contact:
Claire Wren: bandingtogetherwithj25 AT gmail.com
Christmas concert
We are so lucky to be able to welcome Jim back to Chaffcombe. A wonderful sense of humour and fantastic music and singing.
£10
7.30 pm
Contact Elaine Drewer: 01460 65909 or 07729 103359
e3dons AT hotmail.com
jimcausley.co.uk
Jackie Oates is a mainstay of English traditional music. Regarded as one of the country’s best loved folk performers, Jackie’s current focus is on collaborating with a diverse array of artists and commissions. Following the death of her much-loved dad five days after the birth of her first child, Jackie’s 2018 album The Joy Of Living reached beyond the past lives in folk song to the lived experience of all of us. The Guardian called it “utterly gorgeous… moving, depth-filled.” Since then, Jackie has released classic covers with Scritti Politti’s Rhodri Marsden, researched pagan Bath for the mavericks at Lush cosmetics, been Artist In Residence at the Twitter-famous Museum of English Rural Life, lent her voice and musicianship to CBeebies’ Nick Cope’s Popcast, and begun an ongoing mixed media work about the history of lace telling. Jackie Oates continues to bring elements of the English folk tradition to new people and places; in turn bringing a much needed calm and joy to those who hear it.
For this special Christmas show Jackie will be joined by double bassist John Parker and Mike Cosgrove on piano and accordion.
jackieoates.co.uk/
£15.00
Doors 7:30pm
Music from 8:00pm
https://bournemouthfolkclub.com/product/jackie-oates/
Jackie Oates is a mainstay of English traditional music. Regarded as one of the country’s best loved folk performers, Jackie’s current focus is on collaborating with a diverse array of artists and commissions. Following the death of her much-loved dad five days after the birth of her first child, Jackie’s 2018 album The Joy Of Living reached beyond the past lives in folk song to the lived experience of all of us. The Guardian called it “utterly gorgeous… moving, depth-filled.” Since then, Jackie has released classic covers with Scritti Politti’s Rhodri Marsden, researched pagan Bath for the mavericks at Lush cosmetics, been Artist In Residence at the Twitter-famous Museum of English Rural Life, lent her voice and musicianship to CBeebies’ Nick Cope's Popcast, and begun an ongoing mixed media work about the history of lace telling. Jackie Oates continues to bring elements of the English folk tradition to new people and places; in turn bringing a much needed calm and joy to those who hear it.
For this special Christmas show Jackie will be joined by double bassist John Parker and Mike Cosgrove on piano and accordion.
£15.00
Doors 7:30, Music 8:00pm
Contact Leonardo MacKenzie: 07780847867
info AT bournemouthfolkclub
bournemouthfolkclub.com
Three time winners of the prestigious BBC Folk Awards, The Young’uns are one of the hottest properties on the UK Folk and Acoustic scene. A unique act – performing mainly accapella - these 3 huge hearted, brass lunged lads from the North of England sing folk songs for our times with heart and humour.
Their album Strangers was voted Best Album by the British public at the 2018 BBC Folk Awards (adding to the Best Group awards the band won consecutively in 2016 and 2015). Described as a ‘record for troubled times’ and ‘an antidote to Brexit,’ it is a bold, profound and resonant collection of songs showcasing the growing talents of Sean Cooney, fast becoming one of folk’s finest songwriters.
Together with Michael Hughes and David Eagle (who is also an award winning stand-up comedian) the Young’uns live performances achieve one of the trickiest balancing acts – an ability to truly ‘make them laugh and make them cry’, while cutting straight to the heart of some of today’s most topical issues.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £17.50
On the door £20.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/the-younguns/
CHRISTMAS TOUR – 2021
Cara Dillon, possessed of one of the most celebrated folk voices to have
come out of Ireland, will be touring her annual Christmas show “Upon A
Winter’s Night”. The overwhelming success of previous tours cementing this
magical and memorable festive experience as a firm tradition for many years
to come.
£25 + BOOKING FEE
19:30
https://www.cheeseandgrain.com/events/cara-dillon-upon-a-winters-night/
On our performers night The David Hall hands over its professional stage and outstanding acoustics to budding artists of all genres.
IMPORTANT: Please pre-book your performance slot or seat. Do not walk-up on the night. (so we can manage properly in the time of Coronavirus)
If you would like to attend our Acoustic Night as a performer or audience member then please email Chris Watts folk AT chriswatts.org or call 07715501157.
Suggested donation: Just £1 for performers and £2 Audience. Please pay on the door.
Petherton Arts Trust is trying this new evening as a way of encouraging more local performers of all genres to come and perform on a professional stage and to attract more people in the audience.
It’s a great evening full of extraordinary skill, talent and variety – and it doesn’t cost the earth – just £2 audience and £1 performers to cover the cost of heating and lighting the hall.
All types of performance welcome – The David Hall has had music, comedy, poetry, dance…. All have the opportunity to deliver for 10 – 15 minutes with full PA and lighting system.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/acoustic-night-730pm-donations-only/2021-12-19/
A true celebration of a traditional Dorset Christmas. Playing locally collected West Gallery music with readings from the era of William Barnes and Thomas Hardy, Dorset's own enthusiasts Tim Laycock,Phil Humphries and the Ridgeway Singers and Band have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present.
7.00 pm.
https://ridgewaysingersandband.org/
Tickets available from 01305 852826
Tourist Information ttps://bridportandwestbay.co.uk/tickets/
Ticketsource https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ (search for ridgeway-s-and-b)
Three time winners of the prestigious BBC Folk Awards, The Young’uns are one of the hottest properties on the UK Folk and Acoustic scene. A unique act – performing mainly accapella - these 3 huge hearted, brass lunged lads from the North of England sing folk songs for our times with heart and humour.
Together with Michael Hughes and David Eagle (who is also an award winning stand-up comedian) the Young’uns live performances achieve one of the trickiest balancing acts – an ability to truly ‘make them laugh and make them cry’, while cutting straight to the heart of some of today’s most topical issues.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £17.50
On the door £20.00
10% off for members
Unreserved Seating
Tickets available online and over the phone on 0333 666 3366.
10% booking fee applies. An additional booking fee of £1.80 per order applies to telephone bookings.
https://www.marinetheatre.com/the-younguns/
We are delighted to present you PDSW’s Christmas Ceilidh, the premier English Ceilidh series in the South West.
The dances will be held in our fully air-conditioned Ocean Room Theatre, here at Pavilion Dance in the heart of Bournemouth.
The dancing will be on our sprung floor with atmospheric lighting creating a unique folk dance club experience.
Come with a partner, group of friends, or on your own; English Ceilidh is a social dance and often dancers will change their pairs to meet new people.
English Ceilidh (pronounced Kaylee) is a lively and energetic form of communal folk, barn, or country dancing.
You’ll be led by the “Caller” who will guide both novice and experienced dancers through each of the dances.
Doors open at 6:30 pm for a 7 pm start with a break halfway through the evening. Dancing finishes at 10 pm.
Wear comfortable shoes and cool clothing as you will get warm whilst dancing.
Our fully licensed bar will be open throughout.
Children aged 10 and upwards are welcome.
https://www.pdsw.org.uk/whats-on/christmas-ceilidh/
The Ceilidh Series will be in the heart of Pavilion Dance in our Ocean Theatre and curated by PDSW's Matt Smee. Using his twenty plus years experience as a folk musician and dancer we have created an exciting line up of some of the best callers and bands in the folk scene. With our sprung dance floor, excellent acoustics and atmospheric lighting, the room will be transformed into a relaxed folk club where you can kick back with friends and family and dance to your heart's content. Just what we all need!
There will be a well-stocked bar, and "grab and go" food on a first-come-first-served basis.
Doors 6.30 dancing 7-10
Tickets £15 standard £12 concession
Tickets can be booked by visiting https://www.pdsw.org.uk/whats-on/ or phoning the box office on 01202 203630
A dinner-dance, folk style! Enjoy a delicious home-cooked supper followed by light-hearted country dancing. All welcome, including those new to country dance. Simon Mapplesden (caller) leads the dancing with live music from musicians Chris Toyne and Henry Lovegrove.
All welcome, for food, folk-dancing and fun!
The Team
Simon Maplesden has been calling for folk dances for about ten years and has a wide repertoire from Playford to Ceilidh for all ages and abilities. He’s still trying to learn to play the melodeon but would argue he’s a better caller than a melodeon player!
Chris Toyne has been playing the accordion for both Folk and Morris dancing since the early 70s. From Playford to present day tunes, it’s all about making music work for the dancing. These days Chris can be heard around many of the local folk dance clubs and events as a solo musician and with his “Big Band” (of 3 !).
Henry Lovegrove has been playing in ceilidh and morris dance bands for over 50 years, rejoices that he can still do it, the more the better!
6pm–11pm
Dinner & dancing: £15
Dancing only (8pm approx): £5
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/county-christmas-dinner-folk-dance/
A true celebration of a traditional Dorset Christmas. Playing locally collected West Gallery music with readings from the era of William Barnes and Thomas Hardy, Dorset's own enthusiasts Tim Laycock,Phil Humphries and the Ridgeway Singers and Band have once again tuned their fiddles and voices to present a joyous celebration of Christmas past and present.
7.00 pm
https://ridgewaysingersandband.org/
Tickets available from 01305 852826
Tourist Information ttps://bridportandwestbay.co.uk/tickets/
Ticketsource https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ (search for ridgeway-s-and-b)
Come and enjoy the Christmas celebrations at Halsway Manor in the company of your MC Gareth Kiddier, who will be cooking-up a fine programme of festive delights with plenty to keep you entertained!
Expect enjoyable and varied folk activities – music, dancing, singing, quizzes, a film-night or two, informal concert, murder-mystery dinner and general merry-making. Plus great food, roaring log fires and convivial company. Bring your instruments, dancing shoes – and walking boots too if you fancy a stroll – and prepare for a very Merry folk Christmas!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/christmas-house-party-2020/
Chard folk dance club Christmas Party. All welcome. Please call 01460 65909 for details
Contact Elaine Drewer: 01460 65909
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Celebrate the New Year in style – folk style that is! Join us for an enjoyable Hogmanay break with a great team at the helm.
COVID-allowing, we’re expecting a return to social dancing, with workshops and evening dances as a part of the programme, plus plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. With optional walks and playing sessions; pack your walking boots and instruments.
Enjoy the Manor is its festive finery and see-in the New Year with great music and good company!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/new-year-house-party-2020/
New Year’s Eve Celebration Ceilidh with Crooked Furrow. A ‘Support the Hall’ Event.
Bring in 2022 in style with music and dance.
Crooked Furrow have been around for many years performing for ceilidhs through Devon, Somerset, Dorset and beyond. The band is Derek who is the caller and also plays bass guitar, banjo & guitar, Judy playing fiddle and whistle and Mark on the accordion. The emphasis is on fun for all ages with a variety of reels, jigs, hornpipes and one or two unmentionables!
Early booking essential by Friday 17 December. No tickets available on the night.
Tickets: £17. No concessions.
8.30 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/new-years-eve-celebration-ceilidh/
Shakespeare And Dance is the theme for this year’s Historical Dance Society Weekend at Halsway Manor. Classes (beginners and improvers) will work on dance scenes from Henry VIII with Anne Daye, or Romeo and Juliet with Ann Hinchliffe, for performance on the Saturday evening as part of a Revel (costume very much encouraged!) with measures and country dances.
If enough musicians apply (any portable acoustic instrument) we will also run a workshop on playing Tudor dance music.
Saturday evening open to non-residents, a chance to dance in historical gear if you like!
Tutors: Anne Daye and Ann Hinchliffe
Further information: Historical Dance Society Facebook and website
Or from Ann Hinchliffe: 01935 472771
thedancingmaster AT outlook.com.
Jemima Farey will be presenting : - an evening of American "roots" music, bluegrass, blues and folk, played by two the very best at that sort of thing, with guitar, banjo, fiddle harmonica vocals and tap dancing, plus a set from our friends from the Blackdown hills singing and playing their homespun, close harmony music that is loved by so many in our local area. They will join forces for a rousing final couple of songs.
A great way to kick off our new year programme !
7.30 pm
For booking phone 01460 54973, £10, or pay on the door.
Alex Garden (fiddle) and Ford Collier (guitar, low whistle) are a duo with a new take on the timeless folk union of fiddle and guitar. Combining, breath-taking live energy, 'a brave experiential bent' (David Kidman - FATEA), and a wealth of endlessly danceable tunes, they have been described as 'indecently talented (Mike Harding) and earned themselves a nomination for the 2018 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Awards. With an album release and Arts Council funded tour in the pipeline for 2022, this year The Drystones are drawing from material they have gathered in the 10 years since they began busking on the streets of Somerset in their teens. Their stripped back live shows focus on the raw elements of their finely honed instrumental playing, and it makes for an unforgettable experience.
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
Leveret features three of England’s finest folk musicians – Andy Cutting, Rob Harbron, Sam Sweeney – in an acclaimed collaboration. All three are experienced teachers and workshop leaders, sharing a commitment to developing the next generation of folk musicians, and we’re delighted to be working with them to offer this intensive weekend exploring ensemble playing, aimed exclusively at young adults. Leveret are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all participants both during and outside workshops.
Aimed at young adults aged from 18 to about 30, you’ll be a competent musician with a good knowledge of your instrument; the weekend will focus on general music-making skills rather than instrument-specific technique, so you’ll need to have a sufficient grasp of your instrument to get involved. You’ll be happy to learn by ear, with a desire to build confidence, develop musical ideas, and experience playing in ensembles.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/leveret-young-musicians-weekend/
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.
Tickets: £22. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/cara-dillon/
Family ceilidh
Join Dorchester-based band Tatterdemalion at this ceilidh for all the family in support of the Mayor’s charities. Traditional tunes from Dorset, taught by experienced dance caller Angela Laycock, and played with energy and verve by this colourful group of musicians. No experience necessary.
The afternoon session (4pm - 5) is especially for families with younger children, while the evening (7.30pm - 10) is for everyone. No partner necessary, as you can always find someone there!
Tatterdemalion, the band of The New Hardy Players, are honoured to have been asked to perform by Mayor of Dorchester Gareth Jones to support his chosen charities. They play for many local dances and functions, as well as providing music for the New Hardy Players’ productions of Thomas Hardy novels. All the tunes they play are traditional and could be found in Dorset in the Nineteenth Century. Angela Laycock is a well-respected caller, who doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer!
The evening is supporting the mayor’s chosen charities: The Gap Project and the Mencap Hub.
Note that this is a standing event. There will be plenty of room with dancing with limited seating available around the edge of the room.
£2 / £10 (see website for details)
Afternoon: 4.00pm - 5.00pm
Evening: 7.30 - 10.00pm
Contact Dorchester Arts: 01305 266926
enquiries AT dorchesterarts.org.uk
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2021/11/10/the-big-dorset-midwinter-ceilidh/
Join us for an exploration of 18th century English dance tunes! The last edition of Playford’s Dancing Master was published in 1728 but other publishers continued in his footsteps, making the 1700s a golden age for English vernacular music. It was a time when the lines between folk and classical music were blurred with the likes of Purcell and Handel equally at home composing jigs and hornpipes as they were with operas and oratorios. We’ll be learning some superb tunes from this period, looking at them in their historical context but also exploring ways to make them swing in the 21st century.
The course leaders are fiddle player Richard Heacock (Boldwood, The Warleggan Village Band), guitarist Chris Green (GreenMatthews, The Warleggan Village Band) and bagpiper and early woodwind specialist Sophie Matthews (GreenMatthews). All three have a longstanding expertise in this repertoire and the emphasis of the week will be very much on ensemble playing.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/beyond-playford/
Simon Mayor is beyond doubt this country’s finest mandolin player, moving effortlessly between classical, traditional folk, jazz & blues. His dazzling technical skills grace all the music he plays. He’s also a fine guitarist & fiddle player, with a delicious sense of humour & great teaching ability.
The overwhelming success of Simon’s ‘Halsway Manor Mandolin Workshop Weekend’ over the last three years prompted immediate requests for this return visit – and here it is!
Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event.
Halsway Manor will be hosting this weekend workshop alongside the Hilary James Song Weekend
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayors-mandolin-weekend-3/
This weekend runs alongside the Simon Mayor Mandolin Weekend
Hilary James and Simon Mayor’s annual visit to the idyllic Halsway Manor has – for the third year – the added attraction of Hilary’s sister Janet Giraudo who will be travelling from the South of France to join us for the weekend. Janet left for France over thirty years ago but the sisters have started to sing together again, revisiting songs from early teenage forays into folk clubs.
Singers of all abilities are invited to join Hilary & Janet to enjoy the pleasure of group singing as you discover the potential of your own voice. Explore the wealth of songs within the British folk tradition and take a peek beyond: ballads, sea shanties, lullabies, comic songs and more. You’ll be working largely ‘by ear’ with simple improvised vocal harmony but, for the more experienced, written parts for some songs will be available. As well as singing acappella the group will join Simon Mayor’s mandolinists for some joint pieces.
Simon, Hilary and Janet will perform an informal concert on the Saturday evening.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/two-sisters-song-weekend-2/
We were extremely saddened at the loss of Pete Hendy last year, who, together with wife Marj, ran this and many other events at Halsway over the years. We’ve decided the best way to celebrate his legacy is to continue in his sizeable footsteps, treading a merry path between encyclopedic folk knowledge and dedicated silliness (we’ll try at least!). The team are planning on a similar format to previous Winter Warmers, with a similar range of activities: dances, dance workshops, music workshops, games, quizzes, singing, craft activities, and hopefully a walk or two, depending on the weather.
We’ve a team of faces both new and familiar: Sue Irving has agreed to host the event and lead some fun and games to keep everyone relaxed and entertained; Madeleine Smith – well known to many as a friendly and knowledgeable caller – will lead the dancing, assisted David Capron; musicians Dampiers’ Round (Peter & Moira Gutteridge) will be back, leading music for dancing and also offering workshops for musicians. We’re delighted that Marj Hendy has agreed to join us too, and she’ll be helping with the activities and will be calling some of the dances. There will also be opportunities for anyone attending to call a dance or run an activity, if they so wish.
There will be a range of activities to keep you entertained including daily music and dance workshops, plus afternoon activities and walks for those who want to get out into the fresh air. Dances every evening, with the option for you to play in the band or call a dance should you so wish, before retiring to the bar to enjoy the convivial relaxed atmosphere of the manor.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/winter-warmer-5/
Folk Dance Workshop Residential weekend
A 2 night residential Folk Dance workshop weekend, includes full board accommodation and Sunday lunch, and all dances. An excursion is included to Exmoor's hidden snowdrop valley. Discount available for bookings before 30/09/21
£305.00 per person sharing, £320.00 single occupancy
Contact Antony Brunt: 01643 821425
hotel AT yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
www.yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
Dive into the fantastic world of folk harp playing. Join us for a weekend of harp workshops and sessions in our second annual weekend dedicated to harp playing in a folk context.
We are delighted to welcome back Steph West and – we hope – Merit Zloch, though as she’ll be travelling from Germany COVID-19 restrictions may make this impossible. Just in case we’re enormously grateful to the wonderful Scots harper and teacher Irene Watt, who is poised to step in should the need arise.
Using repertoire from the UK with Steph, and Germany with Merit (or Scotland with Irene) we’ll explore the music, arrangements and techniques for playing the harp in folk context.
The course will be taught by ear with notation available at the end of the weekend. You are welcome to bring your recording devices.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-harp-weekend-2/
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’.
Tickets: £15. No concessions.
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-churchfitters/
Reg Meuross is delighted to be returning to Halsway to run another songwriting retreat, together with guest singer-songwriter Katie Spencer. Fees include workshops, small group song clinics, full board and accommodation.
As well as running workshops and song clinics throughout the three days Reg and Katie will perform at a live gig on Thursday night (free for retreat participants and ticketed to the public).
This retreat is a wonderful opportunity for songwriters of all levels to forget about the rest of the world and immerse themselves in their writing amongst like-minded people, and well-supported by Reg and his team (Katie Spencer and Reg’s manager Katie Whitehouse). The programme includes group and individual tasks to stretch and challenge, opportunities to collaborate, a chance to play songs to Reg and Katie for feedback (song clinics), song sharing with the group, Q&A sessions, space to write brand new songs, time to relax at the bar, and to enjoy good food and good fun.
Online bookings via eventbrite: search for:
reg-meuross-somerset-songwriting-retreat-at-halsway-manor
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/songwriting-retreat-reg-meuross-with-katie-spencer/
Details later
Sharon Shannon is a musician who likes to surprise. While she is known for her arrangements of traditional Irish tunes and Irish-influenced compositions, she has always been eager to explore new styles, and to meet and work with other musicians. The accordionist from Ireland has achieved legendary status throughout the world and has made the much-maligned accordion 'cool' in her home country. Renowned for her collaborations, not just in Irish traditional music, but through all musical genres, Hip-Hop, Cajun, Country, Reggae, Classical and Rap.
Sharon has recorded and toured with a who's who of the Irish and Global Music Industry, including Bono, Adam Clayton, Sinead O’Connor, Jackson Browne, John Prine, Steve Earle, The RTE Concert Orchestra, The Chieftains, The Waterboys, Willie Nelson, Nigel Kennedy, Alison Krauss and Shane MacGowan - a list that is testament to Sharon's versatility as well as talent.
£22
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/diary
For the first time in over a decade, Lau present an entirely acoustic tour. The pioneering Scottish folk trio have always experimented with sound and form; the results have always been complex and thrilling.
This event has been rescheduled from 29 May 2020, 4 November 2020, and 18 June 2021. All original tickets are valid. For more information see the web site.
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’.
Now 2020’s Unplugged concert tour sees traditional music’s most celebrated innovators strip away their banks of electronics, loops and wild effects. The trio of Kris Drever (guitar, vocals), Martin Green (accordion) and Aidan O’Rourke (fiddle) feel drawn to a more raw and plain-speaking aesthetic. The approach is subtler, less about spectacle, more about close listening. In brash and polarised political times, here is the poetry of real instruments and considerate music making.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £18.50
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/lau-in-lyme-regis/
Party like it's 1780!
WÖR (pronounced were) are a band of five musicians whose curiosity, passion and talent has led to a niche goldmine of melodies in stunning contemporary arrangements. With their finely textured arrangements WÖR injects new energy into 18th-century melodies from the Flanders region of Belgium. Their music shines an inventive spotlight, with a modern twist, on the melodies in these manuscripts. Visit www.wearewor.com for more info and a listen to their stunning sound. Free off-road parking. All Covid Guidelines at time of performance will be adhered to.This performance is brought to you with the support of TakeArt, the Somerset rural touring scheme.
Tickets £12 from https://www.wegottickets.com/event/528860
£12
6:45 pm (doors) / 7:30 pm (performance)
Finish time: 22:00
Contact Helen Leary: 01963 350980
hlleary AT hotmail.co.uk
The Ceilidh Series will be in the heart of Pavilion Dance in our Ocean Theatre and curated by PDSW's Matt Smee. Using his twenty plus years experience as a folk musician and dancer we have created an exciting line up of some of the best callers and bands in the folk scene. With our sprung dance floor, excellent acoustics and atmospheric lighting, the room will be transformed into a relaxed folk club where you can kick back with friends and family and dance to your heart's content. Just what we all need!
There will be a well-stocked bar, and "grab and go" food on a first-come-first-served basis.
Doors 6.30 dancing 7-10
Tickets £15 standard £12 concession
Tickets can be booked by visiting https://www.pdsw.org.uk/whats-on/ or phoning the box office on 01202 203630
One of the world’s most prolific fiddle groups, Blazin’ Fiddles, formed for a one-off tour of the Scottish Highlands in 1999 are still raising roofs far and wide well over two decades later.
Encompassing a rare and virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and island voices, with ensemble and solo-led sets the band is backed by powerhouse guitar and piano.
Blazin' Fiddles pack all the power, passion and sensitivity of Scotland’s traditional music into a single show.
£18.00 advance / £22.00 on the door | 10% discount for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/blazin-fiddles/
Entertaining audiences worldwide for more than 40 years, the Brewhouse invites you to join us for a night with legends of Irish music and song, The Fureys.
£24
7.30 pm
Contact Box Office: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT thebrewhouse.net
www.thebrewhouse.net
Chris Wood is an uncompromising folk singer songwriter whose music reveals his love for the un-official history of the English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £14.00
On the door £17.00
10% off for members
https://www.marinetheatre.com/chris-wood/
More details later
https://bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk
The Phil Beer Band performs a unique blend of 'folk and roll' trawled from Phil's treasure trove of traditional tunes and American country rock.
£24
7:30 pm
Contact Box Office: 01823 283244
boxoffice AT thebrewhouse.net
www.thebrewhouse.net
Singer-songwriter, storyteller and Hammond organ donor, Joshua Burnell grew up in various locations between France and Scotland. He now resides in York, but everyone assumes he’s from Rivendell. At some point, English folk, prog, contemporary classical, and vintage pop-rock all got mixed up and everyone had a great time so he decided to make a career of it.
Joshua sparked the interest of the folk world with his ambitious Seasons Project which saw him release one of his folk-rock arrangements of a traditional song or tune every week for a year. Fourteen favourites formed Joshua’s release, Songs From The Seasons, released on the 4th May 2018. RnR Magazine gave the album a solid 5/5 rating and commented, “this isn’t about academic research, it’s about playing the music, which is what Joshua does exceptionally well.”
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/0D7517HnJXL2oWR9pRDkza
Website: www.joshuaburnell.co.uk
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:00pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £13.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/joshua-burnell-band-2/
Track Dogs have been barnstorming the UK with some major festival appearances and collaborations. It has been a pivotal year including playing to a heaving, rocking Trafalgar Square and surprise on-stage participation of Show of Hands’ Steve Knightley and Seth Lakeman at Shrewsbury Folk Festival. Well-established in Spain where they are based, they are surprising UK music lovers with “Sun-shiny songs thriving on dark themes behind irresistible rhythms.”
The four international “madrileños” (Garrett Wall, Dave Mooney, Howard Brown & Robbie K.Jones) whose artistic name derives from the dark subterranean world of New York’s subway system, present Fire On The Rails, a kicking album that grows on the work that has opened so many doors for the band. If they are still new to you, check out previous releases Kansas City Out Groove and Uke Songs By Track Dogs and see why they are so hard to pigeonhole.
www.trackdogsmusic.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:00pm)
Door Price: £16.00
Advance: £14.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/track-dogs-4/
‘The Sweetest Voice in England’
Edwina’s beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle Folk-Americana. She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison as well as her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall. Edwina numbers Michael Parkinson and Mike Harding among her fans and the title track of her album Pour Me A Drink was covered by Nanci Griffith who calls her ‘the sweetest voice in England’.
Tickets: £15 /£14 concessions
http://www.edwinahayes.com
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/edwina-hayes/
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
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/rachael-mcshane-and-the-cartographers/
Jon Boden has become the ‘stand out performer of his generation’, according to The Guardian. Jon is a traditional folk artist, but one whose repertoire extends far beyond the familiar boundaries of the genre. He visits Lyme with the Remnant Strings for a very special show. The Remnant Strings features Helen Bell (viola), Morven Bryce (violin), and Lucy Revis (cello).
£18.00 advance / £22.00 on the door
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/DoArgQvSaIWN
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”.
Tickets: £21. No concessions.
www.peterknight.net
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/peter-knights-gigspanner-big-band/
More details later
https://bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk
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.
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/daphnes-flight/.
Back for 2022!
More details later