Here is a complete listing from the Somerset and Dorset Folk Diary. To receive regular updates to this listing, along with other news items, please subscribe.
Regular events, such as music sessions and dance clubs are listed separately here.
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We will be raising money for Fortuneswell Cancer Trust with music provided by The Remnants a group of talented folk musicians from Weymouth, Bimbling a delightful duo from Dorset & Hampshire and On Reflection featuring Bob Morley. Hsoted by Paul Openshaw.
There will be no entrance fee but a collection will be taken as well as a raffle. Donations of prizes for the raffle are welcomed.
8.00 pm
Contact Pip Evans: 07598 328479
pip_evans AT btinternet.com
www.bereregisfolk.com
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/
8.00pm
Tickets £10
ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club
- World Class Music from Wales
Described by Songlines magazine as a “Welsh supergroup”, ALAW is three leading musicians who bring a wealth of experience to a shared passion - the traditional music of Wales. Nia Lynn's exceptional voice and harmonium dance with the dazzling fiddle of Oli Wilson-Dickson, interwoven with Dylan Fowler's sparkling guitar playing. Whether unearthing rare gems or reimagining a well-loved song, they treat their music with a deftness and sensitivity that is thoroughly absorbing. Combined with powerful song writing and original tunes, this makes for a musical experience that will stay with the listener long after the performance ends. Oli and Dylan have a long history of working together, sharing projects including The Devil’s Violin and The Ian McMillan Orchestra. Oli is well known as the fiddler in Jamie Smith’s MABON. Nia has an international reputation and has sung at the Barbican and The Albert Hall. From stirring songs to driving jigs - they communicate their music with relaxed humour and a genuine affection that is truly infectious. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
Tickets 01305 871035. £12, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
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/
+ support Dani Sharp)
Blues guitarist and harmonica player, Joe Strouzer, sings songs from his travels from Newcastle to New Orleans and a hell of a lot of places in between.
£10 advance / £12 on door
6:45 pm (doors) / 7:30pm (performance)
Contact Helen Leary
hlleary AT hotmail.co.uk
www.caryfordhall.co.uk
- World Class Music from Wales
Described by Songlines magazine as a “Welsh supergroup”, ALAW is three leading musicians who bring a wealth of experience to a shared passion - the traditional music of Wales. Nia Lynn's exceptional voice and harmonium dance with the dazzling fiddle of Oli Wilson-Dickson, interwoven with Dylan Fowler's sparkling guitar playing. Whether unearthing rare gems or reimagining a well-loved song, they treat their music with a deftness and sensitivity that is thoroughly absorbing. Combined with powerful song writing and original tunes, this makes for a musical experience that will stay with the listener long after the performance ends. Oli and Dylan have a long history of working together, sharing projects including The Devil’s Violin and The Ian McMillan Orchestra. Oli is well known as the fiddler in Jamie Smith’s MABON. Nia has an international reputation and has sung at the Barbican and The Albert Hall. From stirring songs to driving jigs - they communicate their music with relaxed humour and a genuine affection that is truly infectious. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
Tickets 01929 423834. £12, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
- World Class Music from Wales
Described by Songlines magazine as a “Welsh supergroup”, ALAW is three leading musicians who bring a wealth of experience to a shared passion - the traditional music of Wales. Nia Lynn's exceptional voice and harmonium dance with the dazzling fiddle of Oli Wilson-Dickson, interwoven with Dylan Fowler's sparkling guitar playing. Whether unearthing rare gems or reimagining a well-loved song, they treat their music with a deftness and sensitivity that is thoroughly absorbing. Combined with powerful song writing and original tunes, this makes for a musical experience that will stay with the listener long after the performance ends. Oli and Dylan have a long history of working together, sharing projects including The Devil’s Violin and The Ian McMillan Orchestra. Oli is well known as the fiddler in Jamie Smith’s MABON. Nia has an international reputation and has sung at the Barbican and The Albert Hall. From stirring songs to driving jigs - they communicate their music with relaxed humour and a genuine affection that is truly infectious. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
07966 177789. £10
www.artsreach.co.uk
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/
Chard Folk Dance Club
Come along for a relaxed evening of dancing, laughter and lovely music
£3/£4
7.30 pm
Contact Elaine: 07729 103359
e3dons AT hotmail.com
Folk Music & Ceilidh Barn Dance Night
Come and enjoy a fun Ceilidh dance night out with traditional live Ceilidh music at CICCIC. Plus during dance breaks Mitchell & Vincent will be performing amazing folk music.
Ceilidh dancing is a great deal of fun, energetic and a wonderful way to socialise and fun to share with friends. Not only will have the chance to hear some quality live folk music from one of the best Ceilidh duos in the South West but you’ll also find the dancing simple to learn and satisfying to dance to.
You do not have to be experienced and may even be a first timer to Ceilidh dancing, and don’t forget at every Ceilidh our band Mitchell & Vincent bring a caller who acts as the MC for your evening. She teaches the dances, helps everyone feel at ease and ensures everyone can enjoy the music and dancing. It really is great fun and acts as one of your 5 a-day for doing something physical and having a great time.
About Mitchell & Vincent
David Mitchell and Graham Vincent are a Fiddle and Classical Guitar duo who first met playing in a ceilidh band which was based in the South West of England. Coincidentally, they both had trained as Luthiers (instrument makers) so with shared musical tastes, and wanting to make more music, they started playing a few gigs as a duo during 2012 … and haven’t looked back! Since then they have gone on to perform at a whole variety of festivals, events and concerts around the UK and as far afield as The Netherlands.
7.30pm – 11.00pm. Start 8pm.
Tickets £10 online £12 on the door (OTD). Under 14 yrs are FREE.
Contact Andrew Knutt: 01823 337477
andy AT ciccic.co.uk
https://www.creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk/contact/
Shillingstone Barn Dance Club
Jenny and Ian Edlin 01258 861184
Loshn are a Klezmer trio exploring the traditional music of Ashkenazi Jewish Culture. Their intimate chamber music style arrangements speak, sing and dance with the tradition’s distinct Yiddish accent and vocabulary. Collectively bringing together over 30 years of experience, the members of Loshn are an exciting collaboration between some of the UK’s most established and acclaimed Klezmer musicians and the next generation of Klezmorim. Fiddle player Anna Lowenstein and clarinetist John McNaughton are joined on accordion by Susi Evans (She’koykh / The London Klezmer Quartet), performing intimate, chamber music style Klezmer. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
01308 867252. £10, £5 u18s
www.artsreach.co.uk
Gabriel Moreno is a Gibraltarian poet and singer songwriter. After periods spent living in Barcelona, New York and across South America, he currently resides in London. He has been likened to poetical singers such as Nick Cave, Bill Callahan and Leonard Cohen, and has released an EP and three albums to date – the most recent receiving airplay on BB6 6 Music – with a fourth, The Year of the Rat, due in February 2022.
In this new record he explores the experience of lockdown – the struggles and revelations of enforced confinement and solitude. 2020 was the year of the rat according to the Chinese horoscope, and Moreno says that, like the rat, it was necessary to employ shrewdness and ingenuity to survive this period, and attempt to emerge with something compelling, vital and positive. The album features collaborations with several acclaimed musicians including Ned Cartwright, Adam Beattie, Fiona Bevan, Pearl Fish, Pablo Yupton and DG Solaris. It was mixed by Chris Gadd and mastered by Erik Wofford (My Morning Jacket, Bill Callahan).
Website: https://www.gabrielmoreno.co.uk/about
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quiveringpoets/
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £13.00
Advance £13.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/gabriel-moreno-the-quivering-poets/
Loshn are a Klezmer trio exploring the traditional music of Ashkenazi Jewish Culture. Their intimate chamber music style arrangements speak, sing and dance with the tradition’s distinct Yiddish accent and vocabulary. Collectively bringing together over 30 years of experience, the members of Loshn are an exciting collaboration between some of the UK’s most established and acclaimed Klezmer musicians and the next generation of Klezmorim. Fiddle player Anna Lowenstein and clarinetist John McNaughton are joined on accordion by Susi Evans (She’koykh / The London Klezmer Quartet), performing intimate, chamber music style Klezmer. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
01300 345455. £10, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
January 2020 marks thirty years since Brooks Williams’ first album came out. Thirty years since the Washington Post’s glowing review of that album. Thirty years since National Public Radio’s Noah Adams interviewed him about that album. It’s where it all began. The subsequent twenty-eight recordings, the countless international tours and festival appearances, the countless hours and miles on the road and in the studio.
When it came time to put together an album reflecting songs from across those thirty years, Williams immediately thought of fiddler Aaron Catlow. The two met on a tour in The Netherlands in the snowy winter of 2019. “I loved his tone and vibe immediately” says Williams, “the breadth of styles under his fingertips reminded me of how I think about my music and I thought he’d bring a great sound to the project and tour.”
And so he has! Listen the interplay on Williams’ signature cover of Dave Alvin’s “King of California” or the drive of Williams’ “Not Haunted Anymore.” The interplay was instantly, and intuitively, present.
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £12.00
Advance: £12.00
Advance £12.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/brooks-williams-aaron-catlow/
A day to celebrate the 120th birthday of Charles Wheatstone, who designed the English concertina system. There will be an opportunity for visitors to try playing a concertina, and a room where the more experienced can play informally to listeners if they wish.
10.00 am - 4.30pm
Contact Jackie Setter: 01460 73168
jackidood AT hotmail.com
Loshn are a Klezmer trio exploring the traditional music of Ashkenazi Jewish Culture. Their intimate chamber music style arrangements speak, sing and dance with the tradition’s distinct Yiddish accent and vocabulary. Collectively bringing together over 30 years of experience, the members of Loshn are an exciting collaboration between some of the UK’s most established and acclaimed Klezmer musicians and the next generation of Klezmorim. Fiddle player Anna Lowenstein and clarinetist John McNaughton are joined on accordion by Susi Evans (She’koykh / The London Klezmer Quartet), performing intimate, chamber music style Klezmer. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7.30 pm
01258 860319. £10, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
We will be resuming our weekly meetings when we will learn songs of "hardship, hope and labour" which have either been collected from, or written about, agriculture and the countryside in South West England. Everyone is very welcome to come and join us; there are no auditions and the ability to read is not essential as we learn everything by ear. What's more, the first two weeks are free for newcomers so why not give it a try? Singing is good for the soul!
£30 for ten weeks
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Phone: Phil on 07 778 119 663
Bonnie at stanchesterquire1 AT gmail.com
stanchesterquire.org
Featuring local group the Chantry Buoys (who have appeared at the Falmouth International Folk Festival) and other local groups. All welcome for a rollicking evening!
7.30pm to 9.30pm.
Lady Maisery – Rowan Rheingans, Hannah James, and Hazel Askew – give an intimate and informal ‘unplugged’ evening concert as part of their Creative Singing Week at Halsway Manor. Expect contributions from course participants, alongside music from the trio themselves.
In an English folk scene currently bursting with bold and innovative folk music, vocal trio Lady Maisery shine brightly. With their unique approach to harmony singing, intelligent and thoughtful arrangements of both traditional repertoire and original compositions, Hazel Askew, Hannah James and Rowan Rheingans harness and celebrate their united voice. Whether unearthing a feminist twist hidden in a traditional tale, delivering a poignant anti-war ballad, or showcasing their immense multi-instrumental talents in original compositions that draw on a myriad of musical influences, Lady Maisery are skilful explorers of the power, beauty and vitality of song
Underpinning every performance are Lady Maisery’s distinctive harmonies: sometimes lush and rich, sometimes dark and invigorating, they intertwine with assured precision. The trio also breaks new ground as one of the first UK groups to explore the tradition of ‘diddling’ or mouth music, which has nearly died out in England, but is still prevalent in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe.
8pm–10pm
£12 - Adults
£6 - Concessions
Concessionary priced tickets are available to children and students - of any age - in full-time education.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-lady-maisery/
The Madding Crowd research and perform the church and secular music of the English village bands and choirs in the period 1660 to 1861.
The Madding Crowd is one of the largest and longest established of the revival groups specialising in West Gallery music, meeting each week, just as the old gallery bands and choirs did. The group was founded in 1975 to lead a village evensong, and we have given carol concerts every year since 1977, summer concerts since 1979, harvest concerts since 1989, and have led the singing at many church services, baptisms, weddings and harvest festivals. We have broadcast on radio and television several times, including the Songs of Praise programme shown in 1990, and in “Going the Rounds” on BBC Radio 4 in December 2003. We also provided music for a television programme about Isaac Watts, shown on the PAX channel in North America. In the 1990s we created an early 19th century village wedding and celebration for English Heritage Special Events at various locations in the South of England.
If you’d like to find out more, head to their website www.maddingcrowd.org
Or please contact Heather: heather AT maddingcrowd.org
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/the-madding-crowd-2/
+ Anne-Louise Richards
Wessex Acoustic are delighted to welcome back the fabulous duo of Mitchell and Vincent. David and Graham offer a wide selection of songs and tunes, accompanied by guitar and fiddle. Heavenly music!
Supporting them is Shaftesbury's singer-songwriter Anne-Louise Richards. Anne-Louise has a stunning voice and loves to write traditional style folk songs as well as sing some old traditional songs you will all know.
£15 ONLY pre purchased or reserved
8.00 pm (doors open 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
7.30 pm
For more information contact Laurie Burn laurieguitars AT gmail.com 07854 750545
Tim Edey is a completely self-taught guitarist and has shared stages holding his own with people like Ry Cooder and Martin Simpson, playing now almost wholly in dropped d tuning (1 x drop d) which he started after listening to and meeting the legendary Irish guitarist, Steve Cooney.
Learn how 1 dropped d tuning will open up your Folk/Celtic playing and also some tricks and basic chords and tunes.
Workshop Fee: £15 per person
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/tim-edey-guitar-workshop/
Tim Edey (BBC Radio Two’s Musician Of The Year 2012 – Radio 2 Folk Awards) multi-instrumentalist and singer, has toured the world and recorded with most of the major names in Celtic/Contemporary roots music including; The Chieftains, Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Natalie MacMaster, Altan, Capercaillie, Brendan Power, Michael McGoldrick, Seamus Begley, Dougie Maclean, The Barra MacNeills, JP Cormier, Shaun Davey, Session A9, Lunasa, Vinnie Kilduff, Mary Black, Session A9, Julie Fowlis, Frankie Gavin to name but a few…
Tickets: £16 Full. £15 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/tim-edey/
Pete Stearn is one of our regular floorsingers who always delights the audience with his cockney charm and his eclectic mix of songs which might include blues, folk, pop or even rock 'n roll - always laced with his own infectious sense of humour! On this occasion, Pete will be joined by Will Southcote with extra vocals and some pretty impressive accordion playing.
Music will begin at 7.30pm. Floorsingers are welcome to sing and/or play in the first half - until the beer break at 8.30pm. Simply sign up in the book on the night, or email me in advance.
A great evening of music and fun is guaranteed!
Our landlords Chris & Clare assure me that all due Covid precautions are in place, including extra, regular deep cleaning and availability of hand sanitising. The seats will be spaced apart at a reasonable safe distance and we will encourage everyone to wear masks (unless drinking or performing.) We would also request that everyone takes a lateral flow test that day and only come if you are Covid negative and free of symptoms. There will be no food available, except bar snacks/nibbles.
7.30pm
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 more than 50 years Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s greatest innovators, one of its best loved, most enthusiastic and, at times, most quietly controversial of figures. His skill, stage presence and natural charm have won him many admirers, not only from within the folk scene, but also far beyond it.
Trailblazing musical partnerships with, amongst others, Steeleye Span, Dave Swarbrick and his award-winning wife (Norma Waterson) and daughter Eliza Carthy have resulted in more than 40 albums, but Martin has only recorded 10 solo albums, of which the much anticipated Waiting for Angels (Topic TSCD527) was the latest. Whether in the folk clubs (which he continues to champion), on the concert stage or making TV appearances (he was the subject of the acclaimed `Originals’ music documentary strand on BBC 2) – there are few roles that Martin Carthy hasn’t played.
https://carthyonline.wordpress.com/
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £14.00
Advance: £14.00
Advance £14.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/martin-carthy-3/
Secondhand Heart is the first in a concept EP entitled Songs of Solace which follows the beginning, middle and end of a relationship and explores themes of mental health and depression. The EP features acoustic heartfelt songs with female vocal, guitar, cello, violin & piano. Secondhand Heart is about embarking on a new relationship but carrying with you all the baggage of former relationships. It’s about that desire for intimacy and connection, but with the knowledge that it could all fall apart like it has before.
Daisy Chute is an American-Scottish folk singer and songwriter. A banjo-wielding multi-instrumentalist, her musical roots are born out of her transatlantic heritage and she writes award-winning intelligent songs with stories, performing them with spine-tingling vocals & intricate instrumentation. Whilst still at school Daisy signed to Universal/Decca as one quarter and lead vocalist of multiple platinum selling band All Angels. A mix of Celtic, American, Classical and Jazz backgrounds has since seen her feature across Film/TV/Game soundtracks ranging from The Sims 4, Tomb Raider, Shaun The Sheep the movie, 47 Ronin and Yesterday to David Attenborough documentaries (A Perfect Planet) and Radiohead albums (session vocalist on A Moon Shaped Pool).
www.daisychute.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daisychuteofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daisychuteofficial
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £12.00
Advance: £10.00
Advance £10.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/daisy-chute/
Our popular Bagpipe Weekend returns in 2021, running alongside the Hurdy Gurdy Weekend, in a frenzy of reeds, drones and buzzing things! Our thanks to the Bagpipe Society for their support of this event.
We’re delighted to announce that Andrea Hotzko (Germany) will be joining us to teach a weekend course for Intermediate / Advanced level bagpipe players, while Halsway-favourite David Faulkner will return to lead a course to introduce complete beginners to the bagpipes.
You’ll need to select your level and will be working with the tutor for that level during the weekend. Though there will be plenty of opportunity to socialise with the tutors and participants over the weekend.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/bagpipe-weekend-4/
Please note that Beginner and Intermediate groups are now full; limited places available for Advanced students only.
Guaranteed to be one of Halsway’s noisiest weekends, this popular Hurdy-Gurdy Weekend runs alongside our Bagpipe Weekend in an intensive learning weekend of masterclasses, workshops, sessions and a Saturday night concert/dance. A frenzy of reeds, drones and buzzing things! Early booking advised.
The weekend is hosted by Claire Dugué, hurdy-gurdy maker and repairer, and she’ll be available to help people get the most out of their instruments with tips for maintenance. Our International tutor team includes Johannes Geworkian Hellman (Advanced Hurdy Gurdy Workshop), Cecile Delrue Birot (Intermediate Hudy Gurdy Workshop) and Scott Marshall (Beginner Hurdy Gurdy Workshop). Each tutor will dedicate themselves to a specific group for the full weekend allowing for maximum learning and progression. You will need to decide which group you wish to join and tell us when booking; numbers in each group are limited.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/hurdy-gurdy-weekend-5/
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/
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. See website for more information
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
Tickets available from the Marine (Mondays and Fridays only), Bridport Tourist Information centre, online, & over the phone on 0333 666 3366
https://www.marinetheatre.com/lau-in-lyme-regis/
Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion
With readings, songs and sea shanties, the Wareham Whalers explore how life on board sailing ships has produced a wide variety of words and phrases which are now very much part of the English language.
Tickets available from Durlston Country Park on 01929 424443
£6
7.30pm
Contact Durlston Country Park: 01929 424443
wareham.whalers AT gmail.com
www.durlston.co.uk
Imagine a world where the lines separating humanity and animals have blurred, in which dark forests contain refuge as well as danger, and where blood is not always thicker than water...
The Devil's Violin presents 'The Beast In Me', a masterfully woven tapestry of stories from long ago about our perception of beauty and the value of kindness. Epic narratives are evocatively brought to life by master storyteller, Daniel Morden, and with sublime stringed accompaniment from virtuoso musicians Sarah Moody (cello) and Oliver Wilson-Dickson (violin). Expect a charming, chilling and thrilling evening’s entertainment. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity. Recommended 12+
7:30pm
07968 633834. £10, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
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
United by a love of tea, energetic dancing, cheeky riffs, silly hats, and cake, Mr Tea and the Minions have been unleashing their colourful explosion of musical mayhem on unsuspecting audiences since 2013.
Their raucous Ska Folk blended with full-fat Balkan beats and a squeeze of tangy Dub has made them party-starting festival favourites – and has inspired frenzied dancing all over the UK (and on a number of forays into continental Europe), with almost 100 festival appearances including Glastonbury, Boomtown, WOMAD, Secret Garden Party, Shambala, Belladrum, Wilderness, Nozstock, and Goulash Disko, to name just a few.
Tickets: £16/£15 Concessions.
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/mr-tea-and-the-minions-a-chance-to-dance-event/
Pipers
Andrea Hotzko has been teaching bagpipes for 20 years and is highly experienced in all levels of playing. She has founded her own piping school in Berlin and is also the founder and director of the German workshop festival “Spielkurs”.
David Faulkner has been playing pipes for over 25 years with groups such as the Eel Grinders and Jon Swayne’s Zephyrus, and performs regularly as a duet with accordionist Steve Turner. He has toured in Europe, Canada and America. He has led many pipe courses in the UK and abroad and has worked as a community musician for nearly 20 years.
Gurdy Players
Johannes Geworkian Hellman (SE) With the hurdy-gurdy as his voice, Johannes has become known as a passionate musician and artist who loves to share his music with the audience. He is known for his emotional and captivating live performances whether playing solo or together with his ensembles Symbio and Garizim, among others. Johannes studied at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm (SE) and at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki (FI). He studied the hurdy-gurdy together with Matthias Loibner, Valentin Clastrier and Romain Baudoin among others. More about Johannes at: www.johannesgeworkianhellman.com
Cecile Delrue-Birot (France) began playing Hurdy Gurdy in 1998 with Patrice Gilbert in Cric Crac Compagnie. She also learned in many workshops with Gilles Chabenat, Grégory Jolivet, Anne-Lise Foy, Marc Anthony… In 2015 she was awarded a degree in musics from auvergne and limousin in the Conservatoire of Limoges, where she also studied violin with Philippe Ancelin. She continued her studies at the CEFEDEM of Lyon to qualify as a music teacher. She now plays in Maralha (violin and songs from auvergne-limousin), Bresièr (music from auvergne and brionnais), Torgnole (noise music), Les Sœurs Michel (« et Trululu voilà l’beau temps »), Tazon (chabrette and violin).
Scott Marshall (England) has been playing hurdy-gurdy since 2005. He has been a regular festival and workshop tutor for the last decade. In 2017 he recorded his first solo album Gurdymania, followed in 2018 by Gurdymania 2, using multiple hurdy-gurdies and effects units. He is currently recording the third and final Gurdymania album before moving onto new folk and metal projects. He will be teaching the beginners class at Halsway focusing on good habits, solid playing skills and creating musical exercises for practice.
8pm–11pm
£12 - Adults
£6 - Concessions
This gig is likely to sell out. So you will need to buy your ticket in advance.
Ticket sales for this gig are currently suspended and more tickets will be available in the new year.
Join us for one of the loudest and most popular nights of the Halsway Calendar. An evening of pipes and gurdy performances from the tutors on our pipes and gurdies weekend. With music and dance.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-hurdy-gurdy-and-bagpipes-concert-and-dance/
Party like it's 1780!
WOR (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
Start time: 6:45 (doors) / 7:30 (performance)
Contact Helen Leary
hlleary AT hotmail.co.uk
www.caryfordhall.co.uk
Imagine a world where the lines separating humanity and animals have blurred, in which dark forests contain refuge as well as danger, and where blood is not always thicker than water...
The Devil's Violin presents 'The Beast In Me', a masterfully woven tapestry of stories from long ago about our perception of beauty and the value of kindness. Epic narratives are evocatively brought to life by master storyteller, Daniel Morden, and with sublime stringed accompaniment from virtuoso musicians Sarah Moody (cello) and Oliver Wilson-Dickson (violin). Expect a charming, chilling and thrilling evening’s entertainment. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity. Recommended 12+
7:30pm
01258 861621. £10, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
Imagine a world where the lines separating humanity and animals have blurred, in which dark forests contain refuge as well as danger, and where blood is not always thicker than water...
The Devil's Violin presents 'The Beast In Me', a masterfully woven tapestry of stories from long ago about our perception of beauty and the value of kindness. Epic narratives are evocatively brought to life by master storyteller, Daniel Morden, and with sublime stringed accompaniment from virtuoso musicians Sarah Moody (cello) and Oliver Wilson-Dickson (violin). Expect a charming, chilling and thrilling evening’s entertainment. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity. Recommended 12+
7:30pm
01308 867617. £10, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
We’re delighted to be welcoming Piva back to Halsway for a sixth (!!!) course exploring the Real Roots! of folk music, both the music and the instruments. Always an enjoyable and fascinating course, 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’re thinking of having a ‘Grand Tour’ theme to our 2022 event, meaning we’ll look at dance and popular music from across Europe – European Roots music! We can – if there’s the demand – run some fixed ensemble groups to allow for some good developmental work to take place; if you’re part of an established early music (or other) group who would like some coaching together this could be for you!
Piva will also give a recital one evening.
The programme will include:
• Ensemble playing – 4 and 5 part harmony
• Loud wind band
• Developing arrangements and making the music your own
• Informal performance
• Reed playing technique
• Individual coaching sessions
In previous years a particular feature of the course has been the opportunity of “having a go” on Piva’s extensive range of instruments, including renaissance recorders, crumhorns, bagpipes, viols and curtals. Whether this is possible will depend upon COVID-19 safeguards at the time.
Arrive in time for lunch on Monday (1pm) and depart after breakfast on Thursday morning.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/piva-real-roots-2/
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.
Led by expert caller Andrew Shaw, with musicians Rebecca King and John Hymas.
Email - tickets AT lemmingsreprieve.org.uk
Tel - 01695 422971
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/kyndred-spirits-4/
If you are a sibling of someone attending there is a discount to £25.
A day for young musicians aged 9-18 to have fun with music. Whether you are familiar with Halsway Manor or visiting for the very first time you are most welcome to come along and have a go in this intensive and fun day of music making. Led by Halsway Young Folk Creative Lead Becki Driscoll, along with tutors Jude Rees and Kate Moran.
All instruments are welcome, all abilities are welcome. You might be a seasoned Halsway Young Folk participant, keen to meet up with friends and enjoy some music together. Or you could be completely new to Halsway and wanting to discover whether the Halsway Young Folk programme might be for you.
If you have never played an instrument before? No problem! we’ll have instruments available for total beginners to try.
For more experienced musicians there will be plenty to challenge you to expand your skills.
The day will combine whole group playing with some smaller group work based on ability-level. The day will include music, song and perhaps some simple folk dance too.
Workshop places are limited and we will tailor the day according to who is enrolling to ensure there is something for everyone. Please book early to avoid disappointment!! When you have completed the enquiry form will ask you to tell us more about your instrument and experience
10am–3:30pm
£35 including lunch
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-youth-music-day/
BBC Folk Award winner Ben Walker joins forces with highly acclaimed singer and pianist Kirsty Merryn to create a fresh take on a tradition ripe for rediscovery.
Life and the Land is a celebration of England’s harvest tradition, reimagining songs born out of our agricultural past. Focusing on songs from rural England found in local archives and EFDSS collections, Ben and Kirsty are breathing new life into long-lost songs of the land; innovative composers and performers bringing eclectic influences from across the musical spectrum – from classical to jazz to electronica – as well as deep roots in traditional music. Both consummate musicians, contrasting and complementary styles combine to create a timeless sound, with Ben’s guitars and mandolin providing a perfect frame for Kirsty’s piano, harp and silver voice.
www.benwalkermusic.com
www.kirstymerryn.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £15.00
Advance: £15.00
Advance £15.00
Note: A 5% booking fee will be added to all bookings
https://chapelarts.org/events/ben-walker-and-kirsty-merryn-present-life-and-the-land/
Chard Folk Dance Club
Come along for an evening of dancing, laughter and lovely music
£3/£4
7.30 pm
Contact Elaine: 07729103359
e3dons AT hotmail.com
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/
One of the world’s most prolific fiddle groups, Blazin’ Fiddles formed for a one-off tour of the Scottish Highlands in 1999 and are still raising roofs far and wide well over two decades later. Encompassing a rare and virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and island voices, with ensemble and solo-led sets both backed by powerhouse guitar and piano, the Blazers pack all the power, passion and sensitivity of Scotland’s traditional music, into a single show.
The four-fiddle frontline of Inverness’ Bruce MacGregor, Shetlander Jenna Reid, Nairn’s Rua Macmillan, and Orkney’s Kristan Harvey ignites atop second-to-none accompaniment from Anna Massie and Angus Lyon. Whatever the hall – whether of the Highland village or Royal Albert variety – they’ll turn it into the liveliest and warmest of hootenannies, setting the hearts of their audience alight.
Bar opens 7:00 P.M.
Starts 8:00 P.M.
Advance £18.00
On the door £22.00
10% off for members
Unreserved Seating
Tickets available from the Marine (Mondays and Fridays only), Bridport Tourist Information centre, online, & over the phone on 0333 666 3366
https://www.marinetheatre.com/blazin-fiddles/
On a summer’s day in 2016, the organisers of FolkEast Festival masterminded one of the most intriguing and exciting collaborations on today’s Folk scene.
Legendary fiddle player Peter Knight, part of Steeleye Span’s classic 1970s line-up, was paired with leading melodeon player and Bellowhead co-founder, John Spiers, for a special one-off performance which left audiences in awe. With no space to be found in the marquee, people stood five deep in the pouring rain in order to witness the bringing together of two of the most genuinely gifted musicians in their respective fields.
www.peterknight.net
www.johnspiers.co.uk
7.30
Tickets: £19 Full. £18 Concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/peter-knight-and-john-spiers/
Members of Moonrakers (www.moonrakers.net) bring their exciting and dynamic music to this special Halsway Manor event for musicians and singers. Expect a relaxing, stimulating and engaging multi-instrumental week.
Whether you play bowed, fretted or reed instruments, whistles or flutes, or simply like to sing, you’re welcome on this course!
We’ll work on our own improvised arrangements of about 10 folk tunes and songs throughout the week; you don’t need to read music, but some instrumental experience is required. Music and recordings will be provided in advance.
In the evenings there will be plenty of opportunity for showcasing some of your own material.
This course is aimed at instrumentalists and singers with some experience under their belts. You’ll need a good understanding of your instrument and to be open to working in small and larger groups and trying new ways of working.
We’ve prepared a set of about tunes for the week; participants can download music or sound files using the links below. (If you provided a valid email address, you will have also received an email with this information).
See the website for more details and to download the music.
The tutors are two of Moonrakers’ members – Jon Bennett (guitar, bouzouki, ukulele, whistles, vocals) and Jacqui Johnson (cello, fiddle, whistle, vocals). Both tutors have many years’ experience of running workshops and folk orchestras across the country.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/moonrakers-folk-orchestra-3/
Subject to demand, a short course to learn how to make reeds for the Northumbrian (or Scottish) smallpipes – then, if you wish, stay on for our Northumbrian smallpipes weekend! The course is led by renowned piper and pipe-maker Andy May. You’ll be in the workshop by day, but there will be time in the evenings to relax and enjoy informal playing sessions in the bar, so bring your instruments and try your new reeds!
This course is for all-comers. Tools will be supplied but you may wish to bring your own. There will be a small charge of £10-£15 (payable on departure) to cover the cost of cane.
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, nowadays touring with North-East band Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies, UK/Finnish/Danish ensemble Baltic Crossing, his own Andy May Trio, and various other projects.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/reed-making-for-northumbrian-smallpipes-4/
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
Featuring local group the Chantry Buoys (who have appeared at the Falmouth International Folk Festival) and other local groups. All welcome for a rollicking evening!
7.30pm to 9.30pm.
Hosted by Christine Corkett this popular workshop weekend will be led by a great teaching team of pipers, Andy May, Pauline Cato, Alice Robinson and Rob Say. We’ll also be running a Beginners’ Taster Day – details to follow.
The weekend offers a enjoyable opportunity to develop ability, technique and repertoire with a variety of workshops, sessions, and a performance from the weekend tutors.
This popular workshop weekend is designed to give everyone from beginners to intermediate and advanced level players a thoroughly enjoyable opportunity to develop their abilities, technique and repertoire.
You’ll work in groups according to ability level, with the opportunity to work with all tutors over the course of the weekend. Music will be available in advance.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/northumbrian-smallpipes-weekend-3/
Britain’s oldest boy band emerge from lockdown and hit the road as The Fisherman’s Friends – combined age 401 (and three-quarters) will be heading out on their Unlocked & Unleashed tour this year, with further rescheduled dates in March 2022.
Thanks to the small film with a big heart that shares their name, the story of the original Cornish ‘buoy band’ is known around the world – bound by shared experience, for 40 years they have met on the Platt on the harbour in their native Port Isaac to sing the songs of the sea.
Box Office & Bars: 6:30pm / Doors: 7:00pm / Show: 7:30pm
Tickets: £33.50 / £25.00 (+ Booking Fees)
Please Note: Under 18's to be accompanied by an adult 18+
https://www.bathforum.co.uk/Publisher/Article.aspx?ID=618003
Come and try the Northumbrian Smallpipes in this special taster day for absolute beginners! If you’ve ever wanted to learn to play the Northumbrian 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:
9.30 arrival
10am Workshop
11am tea/Coffee
11.15am Workshop
12.30pm Bar Open
1pm Lunch
2pm Workshop
4pm Tea
Optional (£25 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 group is limited to 8 students.
£50 workshop only includes tuition, instrument hire and lunch
£75 above plus evening meal and smallpipes concert
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/northumbrian-smallpipes-taster-day-3/
Join us for an informal evening of music featuring tutors from the Halsway Northumbrian Smallpipes Weekend, and possibly some contributions from course participants and guests too. A celebration of all things NSP!
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.
Alice Robinson (nee Burn) began Northumbrian smallpipes lessons at the age of 8 and won her first Northumbrian Smallpipes open competition at the age of 11, the youngest ever to do so. In 2002 Alice was offered a place at St Mary’s Music School, Edinburgh, as a first study Northumbrian piper, a unique opportunity for a piper and folk instrumentalist. Dr. Anthony Robb has been Alice’s tutor and great friend. He has imparted to Alice his passion for Northumbrian music and a deep knowledge of our folk heritage. Alice belongs to Dr. Robb’s Windy Gyle Band and has recorded with the group. In 2007 Alice was Berwick-upon-Tweed’s Folk Musician of the Year and she is currently Piper to the Mayor of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Rob Say was surrounded from childhood by music, he started playing concertina at the age of sixteen and picked up the pipes soon after. His repertoire and musicality is firmly grounded in the vibrant traditional music of the North East of England. Rob can be found playing solo or with the Wall Star Village Band at numerous local dances, village suppers or evening entertainments in Northumberland.
£12 - Adults
£6 - Concessions
Concessionary priced tickets are available to children and students - of any age - in full-time education.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/gig-northumbrian-smallpipes-sat-5-march-8pm/
Westcountry duo 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, using varied arrangements to create stories with tunes as well as songs.
Bright Young Folk: " Their sound is much deeper and richer than you would expect from an acoustic duo. … Providing skilled arrangements and expert delivery of tunes and songs which showcase the vibrancy, and variety, of folk music across Britain. A thoroughly engaging and enjoyable experience.”
Both are also trained luthiers and play using instruments hand-made by themselves.
Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/349920676498450
Website: www.mitchellandvincent.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mitchellandvincent
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/MitchellandVincent
Bandcamp: https://mitchellandvincent.bandcamp.com
Pay What You Feel
3pm - 5pm
Contact David Mitchell: 07817 318391
mitchellandvincent AT gmail.com
www.mitchellandvincent.com
Dialect poet William Barnes relished the huge variety of country dances, folksongs and carols originating from Dorset, often writing about lively community celebrations where music was a key part of the proceedings. Alongside a delicious Dorset cream tea, The Ridgeway Singers and Band, led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries, will perform traditional songs from across the County, some of which were collected by the Hammond brothers, play dance tunes from the repertoire of fiddler Benjamin Rose and 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 by members of the William Barnes Society will keep alive the rich dialect of Dorset in this wonderful celebration of the life of William Barnes, supported by Artsreach, Dorset’s rural arts charity.
3pm
01258 475137. £12
www.artsreach.co.uk
A light hearted week of Scottish and English country dance with a friendly and experienced team of Frances Richardson, and musicians Ali Messer & Mollie Koenigsberger. 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 evening include an English Ball on Tuesday, a Scottish Ball on Wednesday; bring costumes/kilts if you would like. Monday and Thursday evenings will be more informal mixed events.
The morning workshops will be educational and fun, stretching skills for English and Scottish dancers. You will have the chance to improve your own technique in each style, and if you’ve not tried one of the styles you will find out what joys you have been missing so far.
The week is aimed at dancers with some experience – of either English or Scottish dance – to explore a new dance style, or brush-up on existing dance skills. We will look at similarities and differences in styles and formations plus timing and phrasing. Although some footwork will figure in the sessions we promise it won’t be arduous!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/english-scottish-dance-week/
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
+ Becoming Branches
Making their first and long overdue visit to Wessex Acoustic, we welcome The Ciderhouse Rebellion.
The duo brings together master accordionist Murray Grainger and fiddle player Adam Summerhayes. The pair play some traditional tunes, particularly from the NE of England, and compose their own music, specialising in creating within the moment so each performance is uniquely magical in its improvisatory focus.
Supporting this outstanding duo are Becoming Branches,
Based in the New Forest in the south of England, Becoming Branches are a Country-Folk-Pop trio blending acoustic sounds and soaring harmonies in an enchanting mix of creative and heartfelt originals. Winners of the 2019 Wimborne Folk Festival Live Award; their debut EP is out now!
Having played together in various acts over the years; Jaz, Rob and Hannah formed Becoming Branches in the summer of 2018. Initially starting out as a covers band performing at private parties and weddings, the trio soon starting writing their own songs and creating their own sound.
Seating capacity is reduced to lessen Covid risks. Although optional, we recommend the wearing of face masks when using the Legion bar area.
£15 ONLY pre purchased or reserved
8.00 pom (doors open 7.45)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
Having run 6 very successful Halsway song weekends together with Meg Rose, Bill Crawford – ably assisted by Penny Rigby – joins forces with co-host Rosie Upton and Pete MacGregor to lead a weekend of traditional song for experienced singers (non-singing partners welcome).
Join them, and friends old and new, for a weekend of singing, presentations and fun events. Bill & Rosie will be joined by guests Dave Webber & Anni Fentiman.
Bring your voices, instruments and walking boots for an optional circuit of the ‘Halsway Loop’ to blow away the cobwebs! A weekend of sharing memories, songs, and having a wonderful time revisiting those good old days!
The weekend is aimed at experienced traditional singers (and partners) who do not need to read the words.
To register an interest please contact the event team, details below. It is anticipated that application forms will be sent out in late summer/early autumn:
Phone: 07875 174401 (Penny Rigby)
Email: quantocktradsing AT gmail.com
Sunday night 'Survivors' Sessions', supper & B&B available for those wanting to extend their visit.
Please note: Bookings and deposits from the cancelled 2020 / 2021 events cannot be transferred by Halsway to this event as it is now a private booking. Please contact Halsway if you require a refund, and use the details above to make a new enquiry.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/bill-and-rosies-traditional-song-weekend/
For a man still in his twenties whose debut album Blight & Blossom, won the coveted Horizon Award at the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, whose 2010 debut EP is now a collector’s item, and who was declared the “vital bridge between Brit folk’s first and latest flowerings” by Q Magazine, one might think it easy to rest on the laurels of an already successful career but that’s certainly not the case; constantly searching for new sounds and techniques, Blair’s new music is already sounding unlike any of his previous releases.
“I finally feel established enough to not need to talk about ‘folk references’ or ‘Americana references’, but to just write beautiful songs. Back to basics and simple presentation of melody matched with intensity of lyric will be the way forward for the forthcoming EP.”
To support the new release Blair will tour extensively throughout March and April 2021 in the format that his fans love him best: one man and one guitar! Intimate selected venues have been chosen to allow the simplicity and sincerity of Blair’s songs and spellbinding live performances connect with his audience in the way Blair does best. See you there!
blairdunlop.com
ELLIE GOWERS
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.
In the last two years, Ellie has released the EP From Here on Outand followed that with her latest single Against the Tide which earned her a TedX talk. Both of these were welcomed with a good reception from listeners. These songs have been toured widely, both in headline shows and support slots for critically acclaimed artists, up and down the UK.
After the unpredictable circumstances that 2020 brought with it, Ellie found herself making good use of her time, beginning to work on projects she had only ever thought about. Collaborations were done with friends new and old, songs were written, a festival was played, and she was also included in the line up of the Filkin’s Drift Ensemble, covering Arthur McBride.
Ellie released a new EP, Parting Breath, in March 2020, an ode to Robert Burns’ Auld Lang Syne and will be releasing her debut album Dwelling By The Weir in spring 2021.
elliegowersmusic.com
£15.00
7:30 doors, 8:00 Music
Contact Leonardo MacKenzie: 07780 847867
info AT bournemouthfolkclub.com
https://bournemouthfolkclub.com/
Steve Knightley is a multi-award winning singer-songwriter/musician and founder member of widely acclaimed Folk/Acoustic Roots trail-blazers ‘Show of Hands’. A constant throughout his work in his ability to roots his song in geographical place, notably the West Country where he still lives. Informed by love of traditional Folk song, Knightley writes historically accurate songs that resonate with contemporary meaning. It’s an ability that fuels his reputation as an ‘issues’ writer.
8.00 pm
Tickets: £21. No concessions
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/steve-knightley/
Thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and world folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians, expect an intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances. Combining the energy and passion of world folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation, Moishe's Bagel will draw you in, turn you inside out, and leave you smiling uncontrollably – all in the space of one tune.
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Stunning original compositions meet sublime traditional melodies, all backed up by infectious foot-stomping grooves. Boasting some of the best instrumentalists that Scotland has to offer on fiddle, accordion, piano, bass and percussion, join this virtuoso band for a night of rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
07903 057427. £12, £5 u18s, £25 fam
www.artsreach.co.uk
Thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and world folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians, expect an intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance music, Middle Eastern rhythms and virtuoso performances. Combining the energy and passion of world folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation, Moishe's Bagel will draw you in, turn you inside out, and leave you smiling uncontrollably – all in the space of one tune.
Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Stunning original compositions meet sublime traditional melodies, all backed up by infectious foot-stomping grooves. Boasting some of the best instrumentalists that Scotland has to offer on fiddle, accordion, piano, bass and percussion, join this virtuoso band for a night of rip-roaring, foot-stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music. Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
7:30pm
07779 484013. £12, £5 u18s
www.artsreach.co.uk
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.
Course starts 2pm Monday, and ends after lunch on Friday.
Who’s it For?
This course is for all levels of ability and beginners are very welcome. As well as the violin family, support can also be given for making a Rebec (an ancient ancestor of the violin). The class size is limited so that participants have plenty of support from the two tutors. Before enrolling please contact Neville Gardner – Neville AT nevillejgardner.co.uk – to discuss the suitability of the course for your needs.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/violin-making-9/
Discover French dance or develop your dance horizons! Both experienced and novice French dancers are invited to a week of expert tuition led by Peter Clifton, and supported by Karen Prager. Yannick Minvielle-Debat joins the teaching team to introduce traditional singing-for-dancing. The course will be taught to exemplary live music from Richard Heacock (violin) and Paul Hutchinson (accordion), with guest musician Anne Marie Summers (bagpipes) joining us for the Thursday night finale Bal.
Dancers will be introduced to French couple dances: Scottish, Bourrée, Waltz and Mazurka, and to Breton circle and chain dances. (You don’t need to bring a partner for the couple dances). Lesser-known dances will also be taught, including some from the Vendée and Poitou regions. The focus will be on dance variation and developing communication and dynamics through both couple and circle dances.
Yannick will add some easy-to-learn French songs to the mix, which can be applied to well-known dances, and practised within the week at workshops and evening bals.
Dancers who also play are encouraged bring to bring instruments if they wish; there will be opportunities to play for some of the dances in the bal each evening.
You’ll have some experience in traditional dance – Playford, English Country Dance, Contra, Scottish etc – but you can be completely new to French dance. For those with experience of French dance the course offers the opportunity to learn more and to discover lesser known dances too.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/french-breton-dance-week-5/
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
The culmination of our French Dance workshop week at Halsway; the team invite you to a public Bal, hosted by Peter Clifton with music from Yannick Minvielle-Debat (singing), Richard Heacock (violin), Paul Hutchinson (accordion) and special guest Anne Marie Summers (bagpipes).
8.00 pm - 11.00 pm
Tickets on sale shortly
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/balfolk-french-and-breton-dance-night/
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. This is a popular weekend and priority will be given to WCCP members through an opportunity to book early.
Workshop strands are as follows, you will need to let us know which group you’d like to join when booking:
Concertina Band with Claire Wren
English System – Dave Ball
Anglo System – John Kirkpatrick
Duet System – Iris Bishop
An essential part of the team, ‘The Concertina Tinker‘ Dave Elliott will be in attendance throughout the weekend offering ‘Concertina A&E’ and practical advice and expertise regarding maintenance.
There will be time to relax in the comfort of Halsway Manor, with evening playing sessions in the bar, plus an informal tutor’s concert on the Saturday evening. There’s also the option to stay an extra night and book for Sunday supper, B&B, the perfect time to relax and unwind after a busy weekend of music and socialising.
A selection of music for the Duet, Anglo and English workshops and all music for those opting for Band will be made available ahead of the weekend. Band music will be part and instrument specific.
A note re. Band Workshop: We’ll be in touch, as Claire will need to know what instruments you will be bringing and whether you would be willing to lend or play other instruments within the band workshop. Band balance only works if enough people play lower pitch instruments. All players must be prepared to play at least one line on a lower pitched instrument.
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.
You do not need to be a member of WCCP to come, but we are opening bookings early for WCCP members.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/wccp-concertinas-at-halsway-3/
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/
The Jamestown Brothers are a 9-piece band from Somerset, England. They play original songs influenced by folk, country and blues, with lyrics that mine the rich history and social tapestry of Great Britain and Ireland.
With a unique line-up of guitars, banjo, piano, bass and drums, together with fiddle, recorder, trumpet and trombone, the band creates a really full sound with intricate instrumental interplay taking the audience on a foot-stomping musical journey. A real treat for all music lovers.
These guys are guaranteed to entertain whatever the occasion and the in any setting from a festival field to a cosy club tucked away by sea, and we are so lucky to have them perform at CICCIC.
£12/14
Doors 7.30pm. Starts 8.00pm.
Tickets £12 online £14 OTD.
Contact Andrew Knutt: 01823 337477
andy AT ciccic.co.uk
https://www.creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk/contact/
£15
Two of the most popular Acoustic guitar styles! Come along and learn how to play a classic Celtic piece in drop-D tuning as well as some Blues improvisation ideas that allow you to play lead lines over a pulsating bass rhythm. Please bring your guitar. All TAB/sheet music will be provided on the day. This workshop will take on a relaxed, no pressure format, with the players trying out ideas as a group.
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Tickets: £15 per person.
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/celtic-blues-guitar-workshop-with-clive-carroll/
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
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.
Who’s it For? *Beginner and intermediate level accordion players!
* – this course is not suitable for absolute beginners! But so long as you didn’t get your first accordion yesterday, you’ll be fine.
Jonny is a holder of the Zorn Brons award for the playing of the Swedish cow horn, and is the author of ‘Scandinavian Folk Tunes for Accordion‘ published by Schott. He is also the other half of the duo Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/scandinavian-tunes-for-accordion/
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 and 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.
This course is slightly longer than the weekends and will include some time for 1-to-1 learning, ensembles and even a quick trip up to the top of the Quantocks.
For more advanced level players of the nyckelharpa! This course will not be repertoire based, but instead focus on further developing your technique and musicianship. Not sure? Contact Vicki to find out if this course is for you. There will be more emphasis through exercises and study on technique, and musicianship, and less emphasis on straight tune learning. There will also be general musicianship in the form of Eurythmics style musicianship and other musical games aimed at increasing skill and flexibility.
Vicki Swan is well known across the UK and beyond as one half of folk duo Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer. Once known mainly for for their instrumental skills with Scottish smallpipes, accordion and Swedish nyckelharpa, they are now gaining recognition as impressive song arrangers and writers.
Vicki, who plays an assortment of less-than-mainstream instruments (Scottish smallpipes, Swedish nyckelharpa, English border pipes, Swedish bagpipes and more) is very much at the forefront of the current surge of interest in the Nyckelharpa in the UK. She plays as a member of the European Nyckelharpa Orchestra, runs Nyckelharpas at Halsway, founded the Nyckelharpa Project. She also teaches internationally at festivals and events.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/advanced-nyckelharpa-4/
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/
A full-on, fun packed workshop weekend for beginners as well as more experienced players of this unusual Swedish folk stringed instrument. Vicki Swan will be leading the weekend, with a second tutor to be announced at a later date.
The weekend includes the opportunity for complete beginners to meet and play the instrument. Eight spaces are up for grabs for the complete beginner course with a loan instrument provided. Spaces fill up fast so don’t delay!
Plenty will also be on offer for the improver / intermediate level player. Workshops will cover all aspects of playing the nyckelharpa: posture, technique, bowing, Swedish tunes, British tunes, chord playing, ensemble playing (by ear), exercises and Nyckelrythmics!
This course is aimed at both total beginners, and those with some experience, up to about intermediate level. More advanced players should check out our ‘Nyckelharpa: Next Steps’ week.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/harpas-in-spring/
A concert featuring the latest super folk-rock band TRADarrr.
PJ Wright, Gregg Cave, Marion Fleetwood, Guy Fletcher, Gemma Shirley , Mark Stevens, Brendan O'Neill are the band. Their past credits are too many to list. All are top notch musicians and play a folk roots mix of traditional songs, tunes and contemporary folk rock.
Using the Corn Exchange means higher numbers can be safely seated with space to reduce Covid risks. There may be dance space too!
£20
8.00 pm (doors open 7.30)
Contact Kathy Dunn: 01202 732239
kathy.dunn AT btopenworld.com
www.wessex-acoustic.co.uk
‘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/
Love dancing AND the great outdoors? This is the week for you! Enjoy a lighthearted Springtime week of dancing, with opportunities to walk in the beautiful Quantock Hills each afternoon. Discover and learn about our beautiful local landscapes, while also brushing-up on your dance steps!
We’re delighted to welcome back caller – and keen walker – Rhodri Davies, to join musicians (and dedicated hikers!) Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer. The team is completed by our regular walk leaders Nan Ward & Roger Phipps, who might be persuaded to dance…
A mixed-programme of country dance workshops will take place each morning with Rhodri and the band. You’ll have a chance to brush-up your dancing skills and maybe learn a new dance or two, before heading off into the hills – quite literally – to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of this distinctive and nationally important protected area. Guided walks will be led by our knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guides Nan and Roger, giving you a chance to learn more about the history and wildlife of the hills, or simply to enjoy an amble with in beautiful countryside in amiable company!
Then it’s back to the Manor, for dinner, and dances every evening. Feel free to bring along instruments for the odd informal session in the bar!
This course aims to be suitable for everyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
The morning dance workshops will be friendly and encouraging, enabling novice dancers to gain confidence and more expert dancers to refine their skills and try new dances.
The will be a choice of two walks each afternoon, tailored to meet the requirements and abilities of the group. One will be a shorter ‘stroll’ option, and the other a longer and more challenging route; the opportunities for walking on the Quantocks are endless.
Please note we are not offering full-day walking options; this is primarily a dance week, with opportunities to enjoy afternoon walking in a friendly and social group.
A reasonable fitness level is required – even short walks may include steep climbs – and appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for a variety of weather conditions is essential. Car sharing will be necessary for some of the walks.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/dancing-walking-week-3/
Hannah James (Lady Maisery, Maddy Prior, Sam Sweeney, Seasick Steve and Songs of Separation) is a singer, accordionist and dancer who has made her unique path across the varied landscape of English and European folk music. She been singing, dancing and playing traditional English music for years, she has always embraced the wider cultural influences that inform many of those old songs. Toby Kuhn (Wild Strings Trio, Bipolar Bows and Old Salt) comes from an altogether different background: a French cellist with classical training who has developed a completely unique style indebted to guitar, violin and double bass.
£14.00
7:30 pm
Contact Chapel Arts Centre: 01225 461700
info AT chapelarts.org
https://chapelarts.org/events/hannah-james-toby-kuhn/
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-assembly-2/
Heidi Talbot was born in a small village in Co. Kildare, Ireland, became a Folk star in the USA as a member of the Irish-American band Cherish the Ladies, and now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland, teaching yoga in her spare time.
Heidi is a warm and engaging performer and over the past 20 years has performed all over North and South America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, in the finest concert halls and international festivals. She is equally at home in front of a symphony orchestra, a performing arts centre, a Folk festival – or even at The White House…..
Heidi has been nominated for Folk Singer of the Year and Best Traditional Song by BBC Radio 2, Best Live Act by the Scottish Traditional Music Awards and Best Female Vocalist at The Irish Music Awards.
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/heidi-talbot/
All visitors are expected to comply with our Covid Guidance, click here for details.
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.
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.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-sunday-club-6/
Bellowhead front man, one half of Spiers & Boden, and multiple BBC Folk Award winner Jon Boden introduces his chamber folk lineup, Jon Boden & The Remnant Strings featuring Jon Boden (fiddle, guitars, concertina, stomp box), Helen Bell (viola), Morven Bryce (violin) and Lucy Revis (cello).
Expect materials from across all of Jon’s lineups including Bellowhead, and from his post oil trilogy of albums, from his Folk Song A Day project and more.
7.30 pm
Tickets: £18.00
https://www.strodetheatre.org.uk/whats-on/view/jon-boden-the-remnant-strings/
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/
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/
Former Bellowhead frontman, Jon Boden has become the ‘stand out performer of his generation’, according to The Guardian anyway. 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 Jon Boden (fiddle, guitars, concertina, stomp-box), Helen Bell (viola), Morven Bryce (violin) and Lucy Revis (cello).
He is best known as the lead singer and main arranger of the progressive folk juggernaut Bellowhead. After twelve years, a quarter of a million album sales, seven singles on the Radio 2 playlist and selling out hundreds of venues throughout the land and beyond, including notably the Royal Albert Hall, Jon announced in 2015 that he wanted to move on. The rest of the band decided not to continue without him. Bellowhead played their final gig on May 1st 2016.
Bar opens 6:30 P.M.
Starts 7:30 P.M.
Advance £18.00
On the door £22.00
10% off for members
Unreserved Seating
Tickets available from the Marine (Mondays and Fridays only), Bridport Tourist Information centre, online here, & over the phone on 0333 666 3366
https://www.marinetheatre.com/jon-boden-the-remnant-strings/
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.
£16
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/rachael-mcshane-and-the-cartographers/
India Electric Company are perhaps best described as “a veritable musical magpie’s nest” (BBC Radio 3) . Blending traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, they’ve extensively toured throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo.
After live sessions with BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, Glastonbury Festival appearances and BBC Introducing’s backing they released The Gap in 2020 with FRUK declaring them “one of the truly pioneering acts in folk music”.
indiaelectricco.com
£16.00
7:30 doors, 8:00 Music
Contact Leonardo MacKenzie: 07780847867
info AT bournemouthfolkclub.com
https://bournemouthfolkclub.com/
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first-served basis.
Once we've been in touch to confirm your booking, please complete this online Student Information Form to tell us about your musical experience and residential requirements. If you wish to share a room with friends there's a space to request this on the form.
An opportunity for young musicians from the South West and beyond to work with leading folk artists, to develop skills, confidence and creativity, and create a new performance piece to be shared with parents and friends at Halsway at the end of the week!
Musician, composer and educator Becki Driscoll is back as our Creative Lead for 2022. For this Intro week she’ll be joined by professional musician-tutors Matt Norman and Archie Churchill-Moss, with Kerrie Seymour also returning as Pastoral Lead.
We’ll be providing an immersive week of music, creativity and fun, in the beautiful and secluded surroundings of Halsway Manor. It will be intensive and challenging, but also supportive and fun! Young musicians will spend the week working together to learn, arrange and rehearse new repertoire, developing musical skills and performance technique, and creating their own interpretations of traditional material. The group will live, work and play together, with opportunities for informal rehearsals and social gatherings to enrich their experience and understanding of the folk arts.
Visit the website for more information, how to book and so forth:
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-intro-4/
Please use the 'Book Now' button on the website (see below) to make a booking enquiry, or call 01984 618274 ext 1. Once you have made your booking and paid a deposit please complete the Participant Info Form, thank you!
We aim to keep our prices affordable to all. Prices for this weekend are slightly higher than other weekends in our programme due to the extended length of stay, the costs of bringing European artists to the UK, and also to support bursary places for musicians aged 16-25.
Unfortunately Germán Díaz is no longer able to join us for this event; we’ll be announcing a replacement tutor very soon.
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 the return of harpist, composer and teacher Merit Zloch for the second year.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-european-ensemble-weekend-3/
Join us for an evening of European folk music with tutors from the Halsway European Weekend and course participants.
Paul James is a saxophonist, bagpiper, singer and composer from Newbury who writes, arranges and performs music influenced by English and other European folk traditions. Paul has toured the world with the influential folk band Blowzabella and composed for TV and theatre (he was composer for the critically acclaimed production of John Milton’s ‘Comus – A Masque in Honour of Chastity’ at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre). He also fronts Paul James and the Drowned Lovers and plays with the folk dance band The Playford Liberation Front.
Merit Zloch is a harpist, composer and music teacher. She sees herself in the tradition of the itinerant harp players of the 19th and early 20th century, travelling with her harp throughout Europe charming people with her original compositions and arrangements of historical dance music.
She has played in bands almost as long as she has played the harp and is constantly fascinated by the interplay between musicians. She likes to arrange und develop pieces together with her band colleagues and to improvise.
Merit researches historical dance manuscripts and organises musicians meetings, bals and instrumental workshop weekends.
8pm–10pm
£12 - Adults
£6 - Concessions
Concessionary priced tickets are available to children and students - of any age - in full-time education.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/european-music-with-paul-james-merit-zloch-and-german-diaz-sun-17-apr/
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.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/easter-house-party-5/
The Unthanks return to live touring after two years off the road, with the rich and colourful sound of their eleven-piece ensemble, showcasing forthcoming new album, Sorrows Away, alongside favourites such as Magpie, The King Of Rome and Mount The Air.
Since the release of the technicolour BBC Folk Album of the Year, Mount The Air in 2015, The Unthanks have both scaled up to symphonic levels with Charles Hazelwood and the BBC Proms, and stripped down to the unaccompanied singing they grew up with for Diversions Vol 5. They’ve written six scarecrow soundtracks for Mackenzie Crook’s beautiful adaptation of Worzel Gummidge, while finding time to interpret the work of female writers including Emily Bronte, Molly Drake and Maxine Peake. But projects and diversions aside, Sorrows Away is the long-anticipated follow-up to Mount The Air, and as the title suggests, promises to be a blues-buster and a step into the light for a band known more for melancholy and well, sorrow!
Box Office & Bars: 6:30pm / Doors: 6:30pm / Show: 7:30pm
Tickets: £24.00 / £30.00 (+ Booking Fees)
Please Note: Under 16's to be accompanied by an adult 18+
https://www.bathforum.co.uk/Publisher/Article.aspx?ID=622451
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.
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
Partnership Event
For more information and to book please contact Barbara Tyler:
Email: barbara.tyler AT talktalk.net
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/
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
A wide selection of International Dances take place at dance sessions during the weekend. You will also 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.
Dancers of all levels of experience are invited to take this opportunity to widen your dancing experience. Walk throughs and calling to suit all, including novices. Children very welcome. You do not need to be a member of SIFD to book onto the course.
This partnership event is organised by the Society for International Folk Dance, with an experienced caller leading the dancing to both recorded and live music.
The Society for International Folk Dance are a UK-based, voluntary, non-profit-making, non-political association that aims to encourage people to learn and enjoy Folk Dances from many countries. There are many groups and classes all over Britain – almost all can be joined by people of any age with no previous experience, and singles are as welcome as couples. New dancers do not need to be members of the Society, although membership will naturally confer benefits. Details are available on the SIFD website.
https://sifd.org
Partnership Event
For further details or for a booking form please contact Robin Morris:
Mobile: Phone 07966 785172
Email: Robinnimbo AT aol.com
India Electric Company are perhaps best described as “a veritable musical magpie’s nest” – BBC Radio 3. Blending traditional instruments, Folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, they’ve toured extensively throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including UK shows at The London Palladium and Hammersmith Apollo.
After live sessions with BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, Glastonbury Festival appearances and BBC Introducing’s backing, they released The Gap in 2020 with FRUK declaring them “one of the truly pioneering acts in Folk music”.
Tickets £17.50 Full. £16.50 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/india-electric-co-30th-april/
A brand-new musical adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s well-loved classic by Chris Green.
GreenMatthews use music, song, light and sound to bring this timeless tale to sparkling life.
Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and of course the irrepressible Mr Toad as they embark on various adventures – on the river, on the road and in the dark and dangerous Wild Wood. Using traditional English Folk melodies set to lyrics, the show paints a vivid picture of Grahame’s world – from the humble comfort of Mole End to the grandeur of Toad Hall.
The Wind in the Willows is the prefect soundtrack to reminisce the months of summer – vivacious, sparkling and full of life.
Suitable for children over 8 years.
Tickets: £13 Adults / £9 Children /£36 Family 2+2
7.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/greenmatthews-wind-in-the-willows/
Brian Finnegan – whistles and flutes, Sarah Allen – flutes and accordion, Ed Boyd – guitar, John Joe Kelly – bodhrán
Taking inspiration from their roots in the Irish and English traditions, Flook have an enviable trademark sound, weaving and spinning traditionally-rooted tunes over precise Acoustic grooves, with a rare blend of fiery technical brilliance, delicate ensemble interaction and a bold, adventurous, musical imagination. There is certainly no shortage of virtuosity amongst the members of Flook, but the unique impact of this band stems from the wholly intuitive, almost symbiotic, exchange between the various flutes, frets and skins.
More than 25 years after their first gig together, Flook continue to inspire and enchant audiences of all ages.
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/flook/
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. As fRoots Magazine puts it ‘if you don’t like the music here then you have a problem’.
megsonmusic.co.uk
£16.00
7:30 doors, 8:00 Music
Contact Leonardo MacKenzie: 07780 847867
info AT bournemouthfolkclub.com
https://bournemouthfolkclub.com/
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/
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
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.
Tickets: £24. No concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/oysterband-chance-to-dance/
Back to the 1780’s! If it sounded good then, why not today?
WÖR (pronounced ‘were’) is 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 inject 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.
Tickets: £18 Full. £17 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/wor/
Reg is touring with songs of history, protest, love, loss, and legend from 14 releases as well as some brand-new songs from three forthcoming projects.
The breadth and depth of Reg Meuross’s material is unparalleled in contemporary Folk: songs about forgotten heroes, famous names, folk legends, the climate emergency, tales from the kitchen sink and news from the world stage; if something needs to be sung about then Reg Meuross has a song for it.
Meuross has the gift of being able to touch people through his songs and performance, painting pictures that remain with the listener long after the song has been sung.
Masterfully accompanying himself on his ’44 Martin six-string guitar, harmonica, tenor guitar, banjo and dulcimer, and captivating audiences with his beautiful tenor voice, witnessing a Reg Meuross performance is to experience a journey into the heart, soul and songs of one of England’s finest writers.
Tickets: £16 Full. £15 Concessions
8.00 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/reg-meuross/
Back for 2022!
More details later
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org
During lockdown in 2020 the 11 members of Bellowhead first re-connected online to remotely record ‘New York Girls - At Home’. That led to re-uniting in person for a one-off performance which was streamed to mark the anniversary of Hedonism. Thousands of fans watched the concert (one of the biggest online streams of 2020) confirming that Bellowhead are still one of the biggest and most in demand UK folk acts despite not performing for nearly 5 years.
The stream led to pleas from fans for more and now the stars have aligned and they are to reunite for a mammoth UK tour in November 2022 to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of their fourth album Broadside!
Support on all dates will come from Sam Sweeney with his band. Sam is a veteran of the mighty Bellowhead and former artistic director of the National Folk Youth Ensemble. He recently released his second solo album Unearth Repeat.
Box Office & Bars: 6:30pm / Doors: 7:00pm / Show: 7:30pm
Tickets: £25.00 / £32.50 / £39.50 (+ Booking Fees)
Please Note: Under 18's to be accompanied by an adult 18+
https://www.bathforum.co.uk/Publisher/Article.aspx?ID=624329
Workshops are led by Julia Catovsky, 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
Admission: £10 on the door. Cheaper in advance via the website
info AT sherbornefolkband.org
Julia: 07527 508 277
www.sherbornefolkband.org