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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****Please note: there is NO session tonight as we can't make it for some other reason. It'll be next Sunday, 28th July*****
Contact Colin and Ruth Thompson: 01300 321396
fiddler AT casterbridge.net
A weekend to explore the wonderful choreography of Gary Roodman, a retired American college professor, whose dance compositions have captivated English Country Dancers on both sides of the Atlantic in recent years.
This will be our 8th ‘Roodman Celebration’ weekend, and will focus solely on Gary’s dances.
Gary Roodman, a dancer of ‘International’ dances for many years, discovered English & American dance when he attended Pinewoods Camp in Massachusetts with his family for the first time in 1976. ‘That experience changed my life forever’ he states on his website. Since his first publication ‘Calculated Figures’ in 1987 Gary has produced a further 10 collections of ‘Calculated Figures’ plus other books and accompanying CDs, creating a total of almost 160 dances. The music used is frequently by famous classical composers, but also modern composers and in particular collaborations with Jonathan Jensen, & Dave Wiesler.
This is a challenging weekend of dance aimed at experienced English Country Dancers.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/roodman-dance-celebration-weekend/
Approx 68 music acts, plus around 25 dance sides, plus social dances and ceilidhs, workshops and sessions around the town, 2 headline concerts and 4 outdoor stages. Local artisans, storytelling and a children's area, there will also be events going on around the pubs late into the evenings.
There will be a small £2 charge for entry all weekend to the outdoor stages and the workshops and concerts are ticketed events.
Friday night sees Julie Felix and Reg Meuross at Bridport Arts Centre, Saturday night is Karsilama and Mark Radcliffes band - Fine Lines.
media AT bridportfolkfestival.com
bridportfolkfestival.com
Influenced by an eclectic range of music, this ever-evolving, nationally acclaimed gypsy folk-rock band play an exciting and visceral blend of styles. In the perfect collision of rowdy tunes, pumping danceability and compelling storytelling, expect a medley of original songs and old time drinking tunes, both hilarious and thrilling, and sure to entertain!
Last summer the band enjoyed accoladed appearances at festivals including Glastonbury, Boomtown Fair, Bestival, Camp Bestival and Beautiful Days. Released in April 2019, their third album ‘Take A Bite’ is a concise, passionate take on folk, blues and indie rock. Fresh from a European tour with Skinny Lister, HMATC are back on the road- come along for the ride and join the craziest party in town!
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
* Rescheduled tour. HMATC plus support from Chris Roberts
“The musicians are stylistically dazzling” Bright Young Folk
www.artsreach.co.uk | www.holymolyandthecrackers.com
£10, £7 u18s, £28
7:30pm
Phone: 01258 475137
https://stur-exchange.co.uk
!!! SOLD OUT !!!
The Spooky Men wooed us with an outstanding concert at the end of summer 2018 and now they’re back!
They are the gift that keeps on giving... as thunderous as a herd of wildebeest, as sly as a wagonload of Spike Milligans and as sonorous as a cloister of monks. They emerged blinking-eyed from the Blue Mountains of NSW fifteen years ago and armed with no more than their impressively cavernous vocal chords, a nice line in deadpan, improbable facial hair and an ill-matched set of hats, have been gleefully impressing audiences throughout Australia, NZ and the UK ever since.
Their 2019 tour includes material from a brand new album, and a winning spectrum of Georgian songs, pindrop-beautiful ballads, highly inappropriate covers, and immaculate man anthems.
You must see them. Really, you must.
8pm
£22 / £20
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/fri-26-july-spooky-mens-chorale/
Influenced by an eclectic range of music, this ever-evolving, nationally acclaimed gypsy folk-rock band play an exciting and visceral blend of styles. In the perfect collision of rowdy tunes, pumping danceability and compelling storytelling, expect a medley of original songs and old time drinking tunes, both hilarious and thrilling, and sure to entertain!
Last summer the band enjoyed accoladed appearances at festivals including Glastonbury, Boomtown Fair, Bestival, Camp Bestival and Beautiful Days. Released in April 2019, their third album ‘Take A Bite’ is a concise, passionate take on folk, blues and indie rock. Fresh from a European tour with Skinny Lister, HMATC are back on the road- come along for the ride and join the craziest party in town!
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
* Rescheduled tour. HMATC plus support from Chris Roberts
“The musicians are stylistically dazzling” Bright Young Folk
www.holymolyandthecrackers.com
£10, £7 u18s, £28 fam
7:30pm
Phone: 01935 891744
https://artsreach.co.uk
The Strawbs started life as the Strawberry Hill Boys before emerging into the mainstream from the exciting British Folk Movement of the mid 60s alongside other such luminaries as Fairport Convention, Pentangle, Al Stewart and Roy Harper. Their first album with Sandy Denny attracted the attention of A&M Records in America and they became the first British Band to be signed by the famous label.
The Acoustic Strawbs of the 21st century consist of the founder, constant guiding force, originator and lead vocalist Dave Cousins, described by Rolling Stone Magazine as the best Dylan influenced songwriter to come out of the UK. Alongside him longtime band members lead guitarist Dave Lambert and the astonishingly versatile Chas Cronk, who together formed the front line of the classic 1970s Strawbs.
www.strawbsweb.co.uk
www.strawbs50.com
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £17.00
Advance: £15.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/strawbs-50-years-on-a-50th-anniversary-acoustic-concert/
World-class musicians Simon Swarbrick & Robbie McIntosh join forces with the lovely singers, Ken & Lucy Watkins for a one-night performance of astonishing acoustic music from the genres of folk, country, blues, and jazz.
ROBBIE MCINTOSH, known as ‘the guitarist’s guitarist’ has legendary status among his fellow musicians. His career to date has included spells as guitarist for Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Tom Jones, John Mayer, and Norah Jones.
SIMON SWARBRICK is an extraordinary fiddle player and multi-instrumentalist, as well as a composer and producer. Earlier this year, he took part in the official UK tribute tour, celebrating the music of his uncle, the late Dave Swarbrick.
Well-known in the area for many years, and having packed the Pavilion Theatre, Weymouth on several occasions, KEN WATKINS is a singer who always connects with an audience and performs songs with sensitivity, passion and warmth.
LUCY WATKINS has contributed some sublime singing on albums by Show of Hands and Robbie McIntosh. Her atmospheric bluesy renditions of jazz standards and folk songs never fail to captivate the audience.
This concert is a rare chance to see all four of these excellent musicians, performing together on one stage. The evening is guaranteed to be a joyous combination of warmth, humour, friendship and above all, some of the finest acoustic music you will ever hear.
£14 in advance.
8pm (doors & bar from 7.30pm)
Contact Angela: 01305 837299
songsfromthehalls234 AT gmail.com
https://www.robbiemcintosh.co.uk/ https://soundcloud.com/watkinswarbrickband
All styles and forms of performance welcome – not just music.
If you wish to perform please drop us an email at folk AT chriswatts.org to secure a slot.
This is the 4th Sunday, not the 3rd as you will already have noticed. Look on it as a pre-Sidmouth warm-up. Mainly English. All welcome. There may be birthday cake.
6.00 - 9.30 pm
Contact Colin and Ruth Thompson: 01300 321396
fiddler AT casterbridge.net
Full board (accommodation and all meals), tuition and all activities:
£225
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first-served basis.
Contact us for an application form. Please return your completed application form with a deposit of £60 to secure your place; the balance is due 6 weeks before the course begins.
An opportunity for young musicians from the South West and beyond to work with leading folk artists, to create a new performance piece – and to perform it live at Sidmouth Folk Week!
The young performers will operate as a company: taking warm ups together, technique classes in their disciplines, learning repertoire and creating contemporary reinterpretations 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.
This is a fun but intensive course for young people aged 12-18, leading to a day of performances at Sidmouth Folk Week. It’s designed as a progression from our Spring Halsway Young Folk Intro Week, but if you’re new to Halsway, that’s ok; you’ll need prior experience as a musician or singer, and to have some folk experience, eg from taking part in workshops at Festivals, from going to courses at other venues, from playing in a school (or your own!) folk band. If you’re not sure, then get in touch.
((There is lots more information on the Halway website - see the link below))
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-intermediate-2/
Ted and Pat Morse, Susan Peterman and the Stray Chords Ceilidh Band host this wonderful week for all ages! Enjoy a family holiday filled with fun folk activities. Either choose to stay in the manor or camp in the grounds and relax while our great staff do all the catering for you and your family. There’s a full programme of dancing and music making and fun activities each morning while afternoons are usually free for trips around this beautiful area including the West Somerset Railway, the seaside and Exmoor – or you could even pop-down to Sidmouth Folk Week for the day! There will be dancing each evening with song sessions in the bar.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/family-folk-week-3/
Leading Serbian Roma violinist Branko Ristic – ‘a performer that Paganini would be proud of’ [BBC Radio 3], and English ‘passionate nimble-fingered accordionist’ Faith Ristic [Rhythms Magazine, Australia] perform virtuosic original Roma-influenced music with their international ensemble.
The duo met in Branko’s Romani village in 2009, and – with music as their only tool for communication – began a journey that would lead to their marriage, their last album ‘Gypsy Lover’ being placed in the top 10 World Music Charts, a successful international touring schedule and a soon to be released documentary. From a foundation of ‘Serbian-Roma’ music, Faith i Branko have created a style that draws from both of their musical heritages and expresses their unique personal connection.
soundcloud.com/world-music-network/faith-i-branko-bumbar
http://www.faithibranko.com/
https://www.facebook.com/faithandbranko
8:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Doors: 7:30pm)
Door Price: £12.00
https://chapelarts.org/events/faith-i-branko/
Join us for our popular August dance holiday! This week began as the ‘Guildford Folk Dance Holiday’ in 1977 and has continued to bring together dancers to enjoy folk dance, Halsway and its surroundings to this day.
Hosted by Shirley Williams, we are delighted to welcome caller Jane Thomas to the team for the first time! Jane will lead enjoyable morning dance workshops and evening dances, with top-notch live music provided by Kelly’s Eye. The afternoons include optional organized outings* and activities, or you can relax and enjoy the Manor and its gardens, or explore the area under your own steam.
* Some outings may incur additional costs.
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/august-folk-dance-holiday-3/
Kabantu, meaning ‘of the people’, is an eclectic five-piece hailing from Manchester, who unravel new marriages of music from around the globe. Vocal harmonies from South Africa blend with everything from Celtic reels and Balkan folk music to Brazilian samba and beyond. Kabantu have performed all over the UK including at the Royal Albert Hall, Sage Gateshead and Cadogan Hall, and have appeared at the BBC Proms, Celtic Connections and the Cambridge Folk Festival. In 2018 Kabantu release their debut album ‘Of the People’ to critical acclaim, recorded by the Mercury-nominated producer Gerry Diver. Using music to bridge countries and cultures, Kabantu create upliftingly exuberant and joyful performances.
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.kabantu.com
£10, £7 u18s, £28 fam
7:30pm
Phone: 01929 450204
https://artsreach.co.uk
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Caller Peter Bolton, accompanied by Jeroka, present a jolly evening.
A warm welcome, live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
Kabantu, meaning ‘of the people’, is an eclectic five-piece hailing from Manchester, who unravel new marriages of music from around the globe. Vocal harmonies from South Africa blend with everything from Celtic reels and Balkan folk music to Brazilian samba and beyond. Kabantu have performed all over the UK including at the Royal Albert Hall, Sage Gateshead and Cadogan Hall, and have appeared at the BBC Proms, Celtic Connections and the Cambridge Folk Festival. In 2018 Kabantu release their debut album ‘Of the People’ to critical acclaim, recorded by the Mercury-nominated producer Gerry Diver. Using music to bridge countries and cultures, Kabantu create upliftingly exuberant and joyful performances.
Tickets include a World Food BBQ
Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.
www.kabantu.com
£16, £8 u18s *Price includes a World Food BBQ
7:30pm
Phone: 01725 517607
https://artsreach.co.uk
An evening of music and visual art, played on the Hammer Dulcimer and Hurdy Gurdy.
Damian brings his music and songs, played on the beautiful Dulcimer and the evocative, medieval Hurdy Gurdy into the historic setting of St Edward's Church. As some of his music relates to his paintings, there will also be a pop-up exhibition around the church of his fine-art paintings and prints, which will be for sale. Some of these can be seen at http://www.damianclarkeart.co.uk.
Doors open at 7 pm
In aid of St Edward's fabric fund
Price £8 for adults, £3, 5-16yr olds
Contact numbers for tickets: 01929 481498 or 01929 480109
Contact us for an application form. Please return your completed application form with a deposit of £60 to secure your place; the balance is due 6 weeks before the course begins.
Now in its third year, Halsway Young Folk – Advanced is an opportunity for musicians and singers aged 16-25 to explore and develop their skills in arrangement, composition and ensemble work. We’re delighted to be welcoming Amy Thatcher (The Shee, Kathryn Tickell’s The Side, Monster Ceilidh Sound System) to lead the course alongside regular lead tutor Will Lang.
Much more detail on the website
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-advanced-3/
Now in its third year, our popular Halsway Young Folk – Juniors is a great introduction to folk music and dance for ages 8 – 12. Led by experienced teacher-practitioners Claire Bailey and Ford Collier*, this short residential will be filled with fun and creative folk activities, using local traditions and customs as inspiration. Children will explore music, dance and song, and create and perform a show for family and friends.
Much more detail on the website
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/halsway-young-folk-junior-2/
This is the seventh year of our folk music, dance and song summer school – for all ages and abilities – led by a crack team of tutors who have detailed knowledge and extensive experience of a wide spectrum of folk music. There will be groups for dance (Kerry), song (Carolyn), fiddle (Sophy), accordion (Paul), guitar (Kevin) and mixed-instrument (Jo), and the programme will be fluid enough for you to move from group to group should you wish. One of the course’s special features is, throughout the week, we will work towards a full-group ensemble piece, with the whole summer school. This is a powerful way of bringing everything we do, and all the participants together, in one shared experience, allowing you to learn about how to structure a performance, work together, use all levels of skills (in small and large groups) – and create something that’s amazing and all inclusive!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/folk-summer-school-3/
We are DELIGHTED to welcome back Stuart, Richard, Chris and Matthew for a third ‘Dances of Poldark’ weekend! This weekend is for dancers of all abilities to learn and enjoy some of the elegant and lively 18th Century dances featured in the BBC’s adaptation of Winston Graham’s ‘Poldark’ novels. Led by dancing-master Stuart Marsden, choreographer of the BBC Poldark series. Previous courses have sold out fast, so book your place asap to avoid disappointment.
We promise not recreate the 18th Century ‘baroque stage & court dances’ but do promise to bring the exquisite 18th century country dance steps, rhythms and sounds into our ballroom for all to enjoy – in the lovely setting of Halsway Manor!
https://halswaymanor.org.uk/event/dances-of-poldark-weekend-2/
Workshop and ceilidh with teacher and caller Val Knight
Workshop 11am - 1pm
Lunch Please Bring Picnic Lunch to Share
Ceili 2pm - 5pm
Refreshments ~ Free
Contact Val Knight
email valcuttywren AT yahoo.co.uk
Charming, disarming and exceptionally talented, multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer is something of a national treasure on the Folk, Roots and Acoustic scene.
One half of award-winning powerhouse, Show of Hands, Phil is equally in demand for his solo shows.
Phil sets out to share some of his most-loved songs at carefully selected venues across the UK. With the odd laugh thrown in for good measure, Beer’s flawless musicianship and rich vocals will leave you wide-eyed and wanting more.
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/phil-beer/
Bridport ceilidhs welcomes a new band for us, "A Pair of Shears", with the ebullient Simon Maplesden calling.
Bring and Share supper and your own ale (The Woodman Inn is just opposite).
On street parking or free evening car park further up the street.
Tickets may be bought in advance via the website and from The Music Shop, South Street, or booked by phone or email.
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, £4 for 6-16 yrs
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423 442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
Sally Barker, Anna Ryder & Marion Fleetwood perform as IOTA. All three write, sing and sway in perfect harmony and each is a seasoned performer of the UK Folk/Rock scene.
£14
8.00 pm
Contact Steve Coram: 01278 422700
steve AT bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk
http://bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk/
Saul Rose (Melodion &vocals) Maclaine Colston (hammered dulcimers, guitar and vocals) Between them Saul and Maclaine have collaborated with a long line of Britfolk luminaries including Waterson Carthy, Faustus, Whapweasle, Eliza Carthy's Kings of Calicutt and Wayward Band.
£10
7.30 for 8pm
Contact Meg Rose: 07877206124
Meg.rose AT btinternet.com
French – Breton – Euro Dances
Workshop at 7pm followed by Bal at 8pm
£6 adults, £4 for 12-18s, under 12s free Dorset
2019 dates for Dorchester Dances
Friday Jan 11th, May 10th, Sept 13th, Nov 8th
See our facebook page - fb: EuroBal Wessex email us to add your name to our
mailing list: eurobalwessex AT gmail.com
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Caller Peter Bolton, accompanied by Jeroka, present a jolly evening.
A warm welcome, live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
2017 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award Winners Josie Duncan and Pablo Lafuente are a vocal/guitar duo like no other.
Calling the Isle of Lewis and Spain home respectively, their music traverses nationalities. Vocals in in Gaelic, Scots and English, their music cover centuries old ballads meet Gaelic puirt a beul, songs from the mines and cotton mills, as well as some original writing.
Josie’s voice, crystal clear. With its slight island twang, equally at home in any of these domains. Accompanied by Pablo’s dynamic, sensitive guitar playing, they illuminate the lyrics. The music at times sparse and haunting, at others driving and all consuming, will leave you stunned.
They are both accomplished musicians in their own right. Josie Duncan a recent graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where she studied with some of the masters of the Scottish and Gaelic traditions. Pablo Lafuente studied guitar and fiddle at the National Centre for Excellence in Traditional Music and has put down cultural roots in Scotland, exploring the tradition to its deepest core.
8.00pm
£13 / £11 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/fri-13-september-josie-duncan-and-pablo-lafuente/
The remarkable intimate solo performances Martin gives go from strength to strength – every gig is a masterclass. He travels the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his playing.
Equally at home playing English traditional Folk, American Folk and Blues, and his own compositions, he is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world.
In September, Topic Records will release Martin’s new album, a mixture of Simpson originals and traditional songs and tunes with guest appearances from friends old and new. As ever, Martin is pushing in new directions; expect exquisite ensemble playing and solo magic.
8:00 pm £19
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/martin-simpson/
Harvest Festival Barn Dance - The Cerne Abbas Giant Ceilidh
www.ceilidhscomet.co.uk
www.facebook.com/ceilidhscomet
Hot Food included in ticket Licensed Bar Available
buy tickets online at
www.bearcatcollective.co.uk
Or email for bank transfer info
Or send a cheque payable to BearCat Collective
at Silverthorne Farm, Milborne Wick DT9 4PW
please include names and food choice (chicken/veggie)
Adv. Tickets Only £8, U16s £3
Family £18 = 2 adults +up to 3 U16s
Entry on the door £10 / £4
(No unaccompanied under 18s)
7.00 pm
Programme of easy Scottish dances and ceilidh dances and all will be talked / walked through and dancing will be to recorded music. Hot / cold drinks will be supplied foc . Wear something tartan if you wish!
Sunday afternoons from 2.30 to 4.30 pm.
No need to book, just come along and have a great time.
Further enquiries to Anita on anitaandjim22 AT gmail.com or phone 01460 929383
Run by the Somerset Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society (RSCDS)
All welcome! You don't have to bring a partner. We have a caller so the inexperienced needn't worry. We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the Memorial Hall in the dark it is about 100 yards north of the Piddle Inn. Parking is on the road side.
£6 under 16s free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington, plus their on-stage ‘musical spaceship’ of 13 instruments, are The Blackheart Orchestra.
After four acclaimed albums and awards – including Best British Duo, #4 Best New Band of 2018, #3 Best Unsigned Band of 2019 plus a nomination for the Limelight Award in the 2018 Progressive Music Awards – The Blackheart Orchestra have become one of the must-see bands of 2019.
Their mesmerising multi-instrumental shows, which combine elements of Folk, Progressive and Classical music, have won them obsessive worldwide fans, plaudits from musical giants and placements on TV commercials and films
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-blackheart-orchestra/
Jim Moray is amongst England’s finest interpreters of traditional song. His relentlessly innovative recordings can truly be said to have changed the sound of folk music since the early 2000s, and he has won fans and admirers far outside of the folk scene without ever betraying his traditional roots. A five-time BBC Folk Award winner, his songs have been featured in a season finale of Grey’s Anatomy, he has appeared on-screen singing a specially composed song for Dr Who spin-off Class as aliens attack the earth, and he has presented documentaries on traditional music for BBC Radio 3.
Jim's website: www.jimmoray.co.uk
Tickets £15 (students £10) - on sale soon!
(Please note the Belinda O’Hooley concert originally scheduled for this date has been cancelled for very good personal reasons. It will be rescheduled sometime next year)
www.bournemouthfolkclub.com
Originally from the South West "Chris Foster merits legendary status, one of the very best in the second wave if the folk revival, as important as Martin Carthy, Dick Gaughan and Nic Jones in the way he has modernised and invested traditional songs with inventive guitar arrangements and potent vocal delivery" Colin Irwin fROOTS magazine.
£10
8pm
Contact John Waltham or Meg Rose: 01963362890 or 07877206124
jhnwaltham AT yahoo.co.uk meg.rose AT btinternet.com
The Anglo-Chilean band Quimantu creates a unique cultural blend through their exceptional use of the numerous traditional Folk styles of Latin America, skilfully incorporated with contemporary influences from Western Classical music to Celtic, African and Indian styles, to name just a few. Their concert will include a selection of new songs featuring the rising star Laura Venegas-Rojas, whose warm and velvety vocals are complemented by virtuosic violins, the brilliance of guitars, charango and cuatro and the vibrant rhythms of Latin percussion.
Experience a wonderful concert with this multi-talented group of musicians who have quite deservedly gained a reputation as one of the UK’s best and most creative Latin groups.
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/quimantu/
Overstratton Folk Dance club Autumn Dance
Bring and share supper.Cracking band with a great caller.
Early tickets £7.50 /On the door £8.50
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact lynn sparks: 01935479291
sjsparks AT btinternet.com
Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns in 2019 with a new album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.
Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, Miranda Sykes is back with a completely new project: Her new album ‘Behind The Wall’
Where Borrowed Places opened a window into the past, explaining where she had been, physically and spiritually, Behind The Wall is a Roller Coaster Ride exploring where we are going; Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today, living in our communities and societies and where will our actions lead us?
Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant and beautiful, this show is not to be missed.
www.wegottickets.com/event/461796
£12 adv
7.30pm
Phone: 07817 379006
www.mirandasykes.com
Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns in 2019 with a new album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.
Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, Miranda Sykes is back with a completely new project: Her new album ‘Behind The Wall’
Where Borrowed Places opened a window into the past, explaining where she had been, physically and spiritually, Behind The Wall is a Roller Coaster Ride exploring where we are going; Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today, living in our communities and societies and where will our actions lead us?
Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant and beautiful, this show is not to be missed.
www.chettlemusic.co.uk
£12
7.30pm
Contact Jan Fisher: 07776 323198
jan.fisher AT chettlemusic.co.uk
www.chettlemusic.co.uk
A folk musical telling the story of love divided by the greatest voyage of exploration the world has seen. Bob Whitley (guitar and mandola) and Lee Cuff (cello) perform in 16th century costumes which will take you back 500 years to a time when at a time when the sailors’ greatest fear was falling over the edge of the earth.
Magellan’s Circumnavigation was the greatest voyage of human exploration, at a time when sailors believed in gigantic sea monsters, demons, boiling seas at the Equator and magnetic rocks that drew the nails out of the timbers. The sailors also believed that the world was flat and feared they would disappear over the edge.
This musical story is set against the background of the voyage and follows an ordinary sailor and his wife mirroring the parallel story of Ferdinand and Beatriz Magellan.
8.00pm
£12 / £10 members and concessions
https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/thurs-3-october-magellan-circumnavigation-we-sail-to-prove-the-earth-is-round-2/
She draws her inspiration from the Celtic mysteries of the Isle of Man, in the middle of the Irish Sea. He has both the dry deserts of Australia and a German heritage in his blood. Between them, Christine Collister and Michael Fix create a rare musical synergy that transcends cultures and musical traditions and enraptures audiences wherever they perform.
With Christine’s sultry, sensuous voice and unsurpassed brilliance in range, combined with Michael’s exquisite guitar playing, the listener is transported to places in the soul where only music can take you.
www.christinecollister.com www.michaelfix.com
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/christine-collister-and-michael-fix/
Bridport Folk Dance Club's Centenary Dance, with multi-talented musician Chris Jewell and Ted Farmer calling. Bring & Share supper and your own alcohol. Floor spot, raffle and cake!
All welcome, friends new and old, no partner needed.
£8 in advance or on door. Booking preferred
7.30 0 11.00 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
Bridgwater Arts Centre welcomes, the mighty Fairport Convention!
Fairport Convention are often credited with being the first English electric folk band.
They hold a coveted BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and their groundbreaking album 'Liege & Lief' was voted 'Most Influential Folk Album Of All Time' by Radio 2 listeners. So, don't miss out
£25
8.00 pm
Contact Steve Coram: 01278 422700
steve AT bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk
http://bridgwaterartscentre.co.uk/
A range of mainly English folk dances to suit all levels.
Caller Peter Bolton, accompanied by Jeroka, present a jolly evening.
A warm welcome, live music, good dances and cheerful company.
Nothing too serious, but as energetic as anyone might wish !
£4
7.30 - 9.30 pm
Contact Ama Bolton: 01749 672911
amabolton AT hotmail.com
Special Acorn Acoustic Music Club
Bruce is a major Australian songwriter and performer in the folk tradition. Based in Melbourne, he performs around Australia and New Zealand at festivals, clubs and other venues.
Bruce is a hilarious humorist and a writer and performer with the power to move audiences to tears. His performances are joyful and thoroughly engaging, with witty lyrics and energetic presentation. He is a masterful craftsman of songs, be they evocative and heart wrenching, or side-splittingly funny.
supported by our own floor spots and The Acorn Shanty Crew.
www.brucewatsonmusic.com
www.acornshantycrew.co.uk
Jaw dropping bluegrass picking from the UK's finest exponents. An evening in the company of Leon (banjo, gourd banjo) and Jason (guitar, percussion, vocals) is a rare treat, more a musical conversation than a rigid performance. Leaning heavily on traditional music from the US and the British Isles, their own compositions take on musical references from just about everywhere.
Please note there is no bar so please BYO. Thank you.
£10
Doors 7pm for 7.30 pm start.
Contact Meg Rose: 07877206124
Meg.rose AT btinternet.com
All welcome! You don't have to bring a partner. We have a caller so the inexperienced needn't worry. We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the Memorial Hall in the dark it is about 100 yards north of the Piddle Inn. Parking is on the road side.
£6 under 16s free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Album Launch from Hampshire-based Threepenny Bit!! 8pm.
This band is an example of how traditional dance tunes and contemporary sounds can be blended into a fresh interpretation of folk music. This dynamic eight-piece band combines a group of diehard folkies with some of the finest young jazz and classical musicians of the south. They play bold arrangements of traditional and original tunes with infectious stage energy for concerts and ceilidh dancing.
Tickets £12 (students £8)
01202-413600
or choose your own seat on line: www.shelleytheatre.co.uk
With 25 years of unrivalled musical partnership and gathering nominations, awards and critical acclaim along the way, British artists and singer-songwriters Chris While and Julie Matthews are celebrating this year with a brand new album ‘Revolution Calls’ and an extensive Autumn tour of the UK as well as numerous summer festivals. Chris and Julie will be curating the Pengwern stage at Shrewsbury Festival this year and will be performing with their band.
This duo have been nominated ten times in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the ‘Best Song, Best Duo and Best Live Act’ categories, winning Best Duo in 2009.
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/chris-while-and-julie-matthews/
Songs of Rural Life in South West England
An evening of songs depicting hardship, hope and humour throughout the years.
£10 to include 1st interval drink.
7.30 pm
Contact Mrs Jan Turner: 01458 270096
A new French Dance starting in October in Dorset near Bridport with the excellent trio, Meridian.
Tuition to dances will be available at the start of the evening.
The hall and band are booked, details will be finalised shortly.
Contact Rab or Mary : 01308 420764
squilla AT gmail.com
The Tweed Project is a collaboration between some of Scotland and England’s most in-demand explorers of their respective country’s Folk traditions. The project has been reborn with a new line-up for 2019 with the aim of finding common ground between the Scottish and English Folk traditions – two cultures which live extremely separate lives, despite sharing so many similarities. The band will be interpreting songs from each country’s traditional collections, as well as some contemporary compositions
The Tweed Project are Greg Russell (vocals/guitar/bouzouki), Josie Duncan (vocals), Ciaran Algar (fiddle), Pablo Lafuente (guitar), Evan Carson (percussion) and Ali Levack (whistles/pipes).
8:00 pm £18
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-tweed-project/
Ringers from all over the South West come together to show what handbell music is all about
The Sou’westers present music from the shows, Gilbert and Sullivan and the classics – as well as music written specially for handbells.
If you’ve never heard music played on handbells – now is your chance. It’s a surprisingly mellow and pure sound and whatever your taste in music, lively or easy listening, there will be something for you.
The beginnings of handbell ringing can be traced to the 16th century in England. Tower bell ringers could practise in the comfort of village inns, away from the drafty belfry, and it was not long before they realised that the bells could be used to play simple tunes. The tuned musical handbell was introduced during the 17th century and ringing skills developed as competitions were held between rival bands playing complicated scores and using large numbers of bells.
Sad to say, following the First World War, handbell ringing virtually ceased until interest was rekindled in 1967 with formation of Handbell Ringers of Great Britain. Some of these dedicated handbell musicians, who think it is worthwhile keeping the tradition alive, come together on a regular basis in Taunton to enjoy playing a wide variety of music on three sets of bells, augmented by bass chimes.
During the interval they’ll be glad to talk to anyone interested about the bells and the techniques used.
A feast for the eye and the ear, you’ll be surprised by the mellow tones of 200 plus handbells rung in harmony.
Tickets: £9, £6 Conc.
7pm
Contact Amanda Jones - but booking through the theatre: 01278 556677
info AT mcmillantheatre.com
https://mcmillantheatre.com/event/souwesters-ring-out/
Mark Radcliffe describes Somerset singer/songwriter Reg Meuross as a “brilliant singer/songwriter and true troubadour with a social conscience.”
This is true, but it’s not all protest. As well as story songs which bring characters from history to life, and comment on life around him, Reg also writes and sings some of the most heart-aching love songs ever written, performed with depth and spellbinding delivery.
Reg has that rare gift of being able to touch people through his songs and performance, his words and music painting pictures that remain with the listener long after, accompanying himself masterfully on guitar and captivating audiences with his beautiful tenor voice.
8:00 pm £15
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/reg-meuross/
Another great combination at Bridport Ceilidhs, expect a fun evening of dancing amongst friendly welcoming folk. No partner or experience required, all dances will be talked and walked through and called until you are all experts! Bring & Share supper and you own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, £4 for 6-16 yrs
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423 442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
French – Breton – Euro Dances
Workshop at 7pm followed by Bal at 8pm
£6 adults, £4 for 12-18s, under 12s free Dorset
2019 dates for Dorchester Dances
Friday Jan 11th, May 10th, Sept 13th, Nov 8th
See our facebook page - fb: EuroBal Wessex email us to add your name to our
mailing list: eurobalwessex AT gmail.com
Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne (Melodeon, Concertina, Vocals), George Sansome (Guitar, Vocals) and Lewis Wood (Fiddle, Mandolin, Vocals) – are a folk trio who play the tradition with verve, energy and their own inimitable style. These three young men are all exceptional musicians and fine singers and play English traditional and original music. Formed in 2009, they have since played at clubs and festivals up and down the country, and have been heralded for their lively performances and maturity beyond their years in their delivery and selection of traditional songs.
8pm
Tickets £12
www.grannysattic.org.uk/
www.ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club,
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/
A Chance to Dance Event Sat 9th November AT 8pm
Skerryvore represent the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music, with a growing fan base worldwide and with the promise of much more to come.
8.00 pm
Tickets £20 Full. £19 Concessions
http://skerryvore.com/
https://www.facebook.com/skerryvore/?fref=ts
https://twitter.com/SKERRYVORE
info AT skerryvore.com
https://www.thedavidhall.org.uk/catalogue/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=15&products_id=1062&zenid=7k3ufkuvu2n8qrppps7ea2bn57
Folk Concert American Roots
Scintillating traditional music with a twist. Drawing on the roots of old time and bluegrass, this exceptional duo features two gifted young musicians who are already leading lights in the new generation of American roots music.
Details on how to get tickets will be announced nearer the time.
8pm
Contact Pip: 07598 328 479
info AT draxfolk.org.uk
www.draxfolk.org.uk
All welcome! You don't have to bring a partner. We have a caller so the inexperienced needn't worry. We are looking forward to a lively evening.
There will be no food but squash will be provided, BYO if you wish.
To help those trying to find the Memorial Hall in the dark it is about 100 yards north of the Piddle Inn. Parking is on the road side.
£6 under 16s free
Start 7.15 for 7.30
Finish 9.30
Contact Sally Condon 01300 348250
riverpiddle2 AT btinternet.com
Martyn Joseph is a completely unique and mind-blowing artist. Take everything you think you know about singer/songwriters….and rip it up. For one man and a guitar he creates a performance with a huge far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling and passionate. Be it to 200 people or 20,000, he blows the crowd away night after night.
2018 saw him honoured with a Spirit of Folk Award by Folk Alliance International in Kansas USA and he also received Fatea magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award here in the UK; and in January 2019, he released his critically-acclaimed album, Here Come The Young, of which Uncut magazine said: ‘He’s never sounded more potent than he does here’.
8:00 pm £18
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/martyn-joseph/
The Tannahill Weavers are a band which performs traditional Scottish music. Releasing their first album in 1976, they became notable for being one of the first popular bands to incorporate the sound of the Great Highland Bagpipe in an ensemble setting, and in doing so helped to change the sound of Scottish traditional music. In 2011 the band were inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame.
The band was formed in 1968 and practiced in a back room of the McKay family's rented council house at 41 St. Ninian's Road, Hunterhill, Paisley. The band first performed at St. Peter's Folk Club, Glenburn, Paisley which was run by Pat Doherty, father of Weavers' founding member Neil Doherty.
They are named after Scottish poet Robert Tannahill, known as the 'Weaver Poet,' and have recorded several of his songs.
8pm
Tickets £14
www.tannahillweavers.com/
www.ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club,
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/
In a world of soundbites and distractions Chris Wood is a truth seeker. His writing is permeated with love and wry intelligence, uplifting and challenging as he celebrates the sheer one-thing-after-anotherness of life. Tom Robinson and Chris Difford are fans while Stick In The Wheel and The Unthanks look to him as an influence. Winner of 6 BBC Folk Awards, he's played with The Royal Shakespeare Company and was a key member of The Imagined Village along with Billy Bragg and Martin Carthy. A wise and soulful craftsman, his concerts are a cliche free zone.
Tickets £16 (students £12), 8pm
01202-413600
or choose your own seat on line: www.shelleytheatre.co.uk
+ support from Mitchell and Vincent
Fronted by songwriter John Elliott, The Little Unsaid are a band with an original sound and international outlook. The Little Unsaid have spent the last year touring Europe, leaving audiences emotionally rapt with a live show that’s been described as “a thumping depth of passion”. Their sound is all their own but echoes the intensity and melancholic overtones of greats such as Nick Cave and Leonard Cohen.
The Little Unsaid embrace elements of Rock, Folk, Electronica, Jazz and Alt-Pop. One of the UK’s “must see” rising live acts and recent winners of the Steve Reid award for Innovation.
Mitchell and Vincent’s fiddle and guitar playing has been described by Acoustic magazine as “Stunning”, while Bright Young Folk praised their music for “Providing skilled arrangements and expert delivery of tunes and songs which showcase the vibrancy, and variety, of Folk music across Britain.”
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/the-little-unsaid-support-from-mitchell-and-vincent/
Multi-award-winning Merry Hell offer joyful, uplifting Folk-Rock, with a message for troubled times. Native to the North West of England, the eight-piece musical charabanc was built from the embers of the much-loved Folk-Punk band The Tansads, developing a life and feel all of its own.
Their passion is complemented by their love of what they do and desire to share hope and togetherness with as many people as are willing to listen. Through five well-received albums and hundreds of gigs, they’ve offered voices of hope and beacons of light to anyone valuing both melody and positive humanity.
8:00 pm £18
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/merry-hell-a-chance-to-dance-event/
Join Jim in celebrating the Christmas season as he entertains you with lesser known West Country carols, medieval and secular carols from around the British Isles, his own settings of moving Christmas poems by his relative, the late Cornish poet Charles Causley as well a gurt dollop of festive fun with songs of over-indulgence and even a spot of panto too! If you are feeling a little dismayed with the over-commercialisation of “Christmas present” then join Jim for a journey through Christmas past that will be guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit!
7.30pm
www.jimcausley.co.uk/
Tickets £10
www.ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club,
https://www.nailseafolkclub.co.uk/
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member David Hughes with Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 17 years.
8:00 pm £19
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/st-agnes-fountain/
The band that gives Christmas songs a good, if respectful, kicking. They bring sparkling musicianship, humour and heartfelt renditions of your favourite Christmas tunes, both original, and those you know so well (or thought you did). Great musical talent, wit and invention in the form of founder member David Hughes with Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention) and Chris While and Julie Matthews (Radio 2 Folk Award Winners). They have brought joy, laughter and a few tears to every concert performance for the last 17 years.
8:00 pm £19
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/st-agnes-fountain-2/
Delighted to welcome back Doug and Sarah, who produce such great music for dancing, teamed again with the effervescent Jeremy.
All welcome for our final dance of the year, no partner or experience needed - all dances will be talked and walked through and called for as long as you need. Bring & Share supper and you own alcohol - the Woodman Inn is just opposite.
£8 in advance, £9 on the door, £4 for 6-16 yrs. Regretably, prices go up next year...
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact Monty: 01308 423442
monty3dayslate AT yahoo.co.uk
www.bridportceilidhs.wordpress.com
An Albion Christmas is widely regarded as the premier seasonal show, which has been touring for nearly 20 years, and attracts sell-out audiences across the UK. Indeed many people say that their Christmas doesn’t start until they have seen The Albion Christmas Show. Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band) Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings, this show is a wonderful celebration of Christmas both traditional and contemporary.
All Tickets £22, 7.30pm
01202-413600
or choose your own seat on line: www.shelleytheatre.co.uk
On tour with a Christmas-themed show that mixes traditional Folk music, seasonal material, their usual touch of Classical and Jazz with a bit of Pop and Music Hall, all topped off with lashings of wry humour. Together, Paul Sartin (of Bellowhead and Faustus) and Paul Hutchinson (of Hoover The Dog) wow audiences across the UK with their eclectic and eccentric mix of tunes and ‘between songs chat’ that always sends audiences home with smiles on their faces.
8:00 pm £16
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/belshazzars-feast/
Bring in 2020 in style with music and dance at The David Hall.
Tickets: £17 includes a light supper. No concessions.
Early booking essential by Friday 20 December.
No tickets available on the night.
8:15 pm
https://www.thedavidhall.com/event/new-years-eve-celebration-ceilidh-with-jigs-for-gigs/
wit Dampiers Round, Ray Goodswen
A residential folk dance weekend in the medieval village of Dunster, with a visit to Exmoor's hidden Snowdrop Valley. Includes 2 nights Full Board accommodation and Sunday lunch, all dances and transport to Snowdrop Valley.
from £270.00 per person
Contact Yarn Market Hotel: 01643 821425
hotel AT yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
www.yarnmarkethotel.co.uk
Over Stratton Folk Dance Club SPRING DANCE.
Bring and share supper.
Only the Best band in the area Ian Bridens Jigs for Gigs with a welcome return from our last Autumn sell dance the inimitable Simon Maplesden.
Early tickets £7.50 /On the door £8.50
7.30 - 11.00 pm
Contact lynn: 01935479291
sjsparks AT btinternet.com