December Events Guide
Please bear in mind that every effort is made to ensure that the details below are accurate, however some events are cancelled/sell out etc so please check with the venues/clubs before travelling long distances. Please email us to include your event listings and these will be added as soon as possible.
To return to the main events guide and for events this month click here
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Monday 1st December 2008
Steve Tilston at The Greys Pub, Brighton
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who
actually excels in all departments..." Froots
Bing Lyle at Brighton Acoustic Session, The Lord Nelson, Trafalgar Street, Brighton, Sussex - 9pm – Admission Free
multi-instrumentalist songwriter makes a rare solo appearance
 Archie Fisher at Croydon Folk Song Club, Croydon, Surrey
Archie Fisher was born in Glasgow in 1939, the only son in a family of seven, and now lives in the Scottish Borderlands. An internationally-known singer-songwriter he has enjoyed a parallel career as a broadcaster presenting concerts, interviews, live studio sessions, review panels, features, and the latest folk music recordings to his listeners on his BBC Radio Scotland programme "Travelling Folk".
Junk and Disorderly The Fox and Hounds Folk Club, Romney St, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, Kent
Stringwhistle at The Barge, Gillingham, Kent
"String Whistle are Dave Rickard (keyboards, guitar, vocals) and Rob Mitchell (whistles, woodwind, flutes, recorders, vocals).
Their repertoire has always been an eclectic mix, there are few styles of music that they do not embrace. Their live performances are full of fun, energy and witty repartee - in a phrase 'good old fashioned entertainment'."
Dick Gaughan at Colchester Folk Club, Colchester, Essex
"Scotland’s top singer, guitarist and political songwriter brings us his passionate and inspiring songs. Dick is unequivocally ‘on the left’ and is one of a very few singers to steadfastly and publicly espouse ‘the cause’ (Billy Bragg is a major fan!)"
Martin Simpson at The Junction, Cambridge
"There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin Simpson is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving.
There is no-one who has more successfully combined the diverse elements of British, Afro-American and old-timey music than Simpson. His 15 years living in the US were well spent. In addition his own songwriting has produced some real gems, from the truck-stop epic, “Love Never Dies” to the profoundly moving “Never Any Good”."
Singers' Night at Acoustic Folk at the Nursery, Nursery Inn, Green Lane, Heaton Norris, Stockport, Cheshire
Girls Night at The Woodlark Folk Club, The Woodlark Inn, Church Street, Lambley, Nottingham
Lucy Ward (Radio 2 Young Folk Award Finalist), Dawn Pickering, Becky Syson & Bead, Tina Taylor
Under One Sky at Pocklington Arts Centre, Pocklington, East Yorkshire
"Under One Sky is an hour-long vocal and instrumental suite by the Scottish multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer John McCusker, performed by a dozen of Britain’s finest musicians.
Originally a joint commission by the PRS Foundation, the Scottish Arts Council and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Under One Sky sets out to explore and interweave the many different traditions, genres and influences at work across today’s dynamic UK folk scene. Bringing together an array of established and emerging talent from both sides of the Border, McCusker’s hand-picked ensemble includes Blur co-founder Graham Coxon , Idlewild vocalist Roddy Woomble and acclaimed Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis. Revered balladeer John Tams and rising star Jim Causley also feature among the singers."
Singers Night at Skipton Folk Unplugged, The Narrowboat Inn, Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire
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Tuesday 2nd December 2008
Folk Singaround Session at The Good Intent, John Street, Rochester, Kent
Steve Tilston at Darford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Steve is of that rare breed of singer, songwriter and guitarist who actually excels in all departments" Froots
Blackheath Folk Club at The British Oak, Old Dover Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 8SU
Meets every tuesday for an open mic acoustic session. All welcome.
Sharps Folk Club at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
Come and join in a friendly, informal sing-around in the bar at Cecil Sharp House, 8pm. £3.00 Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regent's Park Road, NW1 7AY
Old Man Luedecke + Catherine MacLellan + Ryan LeBlanc at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"Fantastic triple bill, featuring three young, up-and-coming Canadian folk artists...
A banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string, and foot stomps. A rare type of musician one of such hopeful goodness, rarer still. In the tradition of solo banjo men and women of days gone-by. OLD MAN LUEDECKE sings his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense.
It is CATHERINE MCLELLAN's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen. A bona fide roots music gem.
RYAN LEBLANC is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick. With his own original material, Ryan interlaces guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of upbeat and passionate musical pieces. Ryan is known for his innovative combinations of percussive and alternative musical styles that give his compositions an extremely earthy and organic quality."
Martyn Wyndham-Read at St Neots Folk Club, St Neots, Cambridgeshire
"Martyn is well known on the folk scene – rich vocals and a vast repertoire of material. He has run many workshops in France and elsewhere on song writing and style."
Magpie Lane at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
"Top Festival Band normally only appearing at leading Festivals. Quintessential Southern English Folk. Wonderful 6 piece group from Oxford. Any one who saw them on their previous visits will tell you how brilliant they are. Great English singing and playing. The six of them epitomize Southern English Traditional music and song. Bags of instruments including Cello & Hurdy Gurdy, Percussion, Fiddle, Concertina, Bouzouki, Flute & Guitar.
They all sing beautifully. There's too much to say about them here, visit their web site."
Bella Hardy (with Chris Sherburn) at The Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
"Bella's solo performances combine her mesmerising voice with intricate fiddle accompaniment to breath-taking effect."
Jackie Oates at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Immersed in traditional music from birth, Jackie Oates made her recording debut on brother Jim Moray’s album Sweet England, and made the finals of BBC Radio 2’s Young Folk Awards later the same year. Appearances at folk clubs, arts centres and festivals followed as a member of Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, alongside solo work, tours with Phil Beer, more recording…"
James Hollingsworth at The Bell, 39 Etnam St, Leominster, Herefordshire
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006
Under One Sky at The Lowry, Salford, Gtr Manchester
"Under One Sky is an hour-long vocal and instrumental suite by the Scottish multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer John McCusker, performed by a dozen of Britain’s finest musicians.
Originally a joint commission by the PRS Foundation, the Scottish Arts Council and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Under One Sky sets out to explore and interweave the many different traditions, genres and influences at work across today’s dynamic UK folk scene. Bringing together an array of established and emerging talent from both sides of the Border, McCusker’s hand-picked ensemble includes Blur co-founder Graham Coxon , Idlewild vocalist Roddy Woomble and acclaimed Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis. Revered balladeer John Tams and rising star Jim Causley also feature among the singers."
Tom McConville at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick
Edwina Hayes at The Tap and Spile, 169-171 Spring Bank, Hull, East Yorkshire
'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels' Nanci Griffith
Barrow Sessions at The Six Bells Pub, Barrow on Humber, North Lincolnshire
20.30 onwards, singers & musicians
Didsbury Sings Night at Didsbury Cricket Club, Didsbury, Manchester
Admission free, contact via the link above to pre-book a spot, singers get 15 mins/3 songs depending on numbers. It
starts around 8.30/9ish and Ransom finish off the evening from around 10.15
John McCusker's 'Under One Sky' at The Lowry, Salford Quays, Greater Manchester
An extraordinary project from John McCusker celebrating the diversity of today's British folk scene and interweaves diverse styles, genres and traditions. Featuring Gaelic singer Julie Fowlis, Idlewild front man Roddy Woomble, percussionist James Mackintosh, bassist Ewen Vernal, multi-instrumentalist Iain MacDonald, ex-Blur guitarist Graham Coxon, Radio 2’s Folk Musician of the Year Emma Reid , guitarist Ian Carr, Anglo-Swedish fiddler Emma Reid and vocals from Jim Causley and John Tams.
Lyra Celtica at Cramlington Folk Club, Cramlington, Northumberland
“Lyra Celtica....good fun and quality music.” .......... Living Tradition
The McCalmans at Penicuik Folk Club, 34 High St, Penicuik, Midlothian
"'The McCalmans' have been performing for ......well, um, quite a long time.
Ian McCalman (Lasswade), Nick Keir (Edinburgh) and Stephen Quigg (Saltcoats) all sing and play instruments, sometimes simultaneously. Ian writes songs. Nick writes songs. Stephen doesn’t write songs but cleverly compensates by being younger. They also collect and sing traditional and contemporary material from Scotland (occasionally beyond) with unique harmony and idiosyncratic presentation. Their songs wryly observe all things Scottish without losing sight of world events, serious and funny."
Mark Dunlop and Steve Byrne at Leigh Folk Club, Leith, Edinburgh
"Steve Byrne and Mark Dunlop began their career in 1998 with the founding of the innovative band Malinky, quickly becoming one of the most sought after young folksong groups in Scotland. With Malinky, Steve and Mark have produced 3 acclaimed albums to date, and the band's touring career now extends outside of the UK across Europe and recently into new successes in Canada and the USA. The fourth album is underway and the lads will appear with Malinky in Denmark, Germany, Canada and the USA as Malinky celebrates its 10th year.
Now in a new duo, the pair are concentrating on a joint presentation of the songs of their respective home areas, Angus and Ulster, both rich in song traditions, a more personal representation of these two musicians than the bigger band setting normally allows."
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Wednesday 3rd December 2008
Martin Simpson at The Discovery Centre, Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire
"There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin Simpson is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving.
There is no-one who has more successfully combined the diverse elements of British, Afro-American and old-timey music than Simpson. His 15 years living in the US were well spent. In addition his own songwriting has produced some real gems, from the truck-stop epic, “Love Never Dies” to the profoundly moving “Never Any Good”."
Needleandthread presents the redstar open mic, The Redstar, 319 Camberwell Road, London
"with free entrance, live music, and two for one cocktails all night, it'll be a good one.. Live music celebrated in all its forms.. if you want to play, sign ups are from seven thirty pm.. bring your instruments, and play your own songs, to an appreciative audience.. or come be a part of the crowd! We welcome all styles.. spoken word, and acoustic acts are catered fully, with a nice sound system, monitoring, and sound engineer on hand.."
"CEOL AGUS OL" at The Nightingale Public House, 51 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, East London E11 2EY
"An Evening of Traditional Irish Music every Wednesday evening from 8.30 - 11pm. All Session players welcome. Food available on the night.( 020 84530 4540 )."
Open Mic night (The Rhythm Room) at the Fighting Cocks, Horton Kirby, Dartford, Kent
Held every other Wednesday, this is a semi Acoustic evening open to all style of music, instruments/singers & abilities
new players/singers are always most welcome!
Dick Gaughan at The Fisher Theatre, Bungay, Suffolk
"A troubadour, a stunning singer, passionate songwriter and a guitarist with a dazzling technique, Dick has been at the cutting edge of Scottish music for almost four decades. He has been a member of Boys of the Lough, Five Hand Reel and founded and produced the short-lived but quite extraordinary ensemble Clan Alba. Well known for his forthright and long-held political views, the legendary Dick Gaughan just doesn’t do gigs which are ‘ordinary’."
Isambarde at Baldock & Letchworth Folk Club Folk Club, The Orange Tree, Norton Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire
"They're good to listen to, good to look at and it's very obvious that they enjoy performing" - Vin Garbutt
Jeff Hankins at Llantrisant Folk Club, The Windsor Hotel, Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan
"Jeff, from Deri, near Caerphilly, is very much a regular at Llantrisant Folk Club - and the buzz of excitement and interest is quickly mounting as he takes the stage for his second set in the Club's 28-year run. His self-made songs are sometimes amusing, sometimes tearfully powerful, always intelligent and incisive, and Jeff carefully blesses them with startling and original chord structures to die for. His easy charm comes through on every performance. His rare CD is a masterpiece - recorded live at Llantrisant Club, you can almost feel the audience hanging on every word."
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at The Flowerpot, Derby
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
Ken Nicol and Phil Cool at The Bonnington Theatre, Arnold, Nottingham
"Ken & Phil perform their own music and songs with a little bit of mirth for good measure.
A special evening of entertainment from two very distinctive artists.....
Phil Cool and Ken Nicol have joined forces to present a unique evening of entertainment which will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Both are extremely experienced artists each with their own rich background of performing success."
Old Man Luedecke + Catherine MacLellan + Ryan LeBlanc at The Musician, Leicester
"Fantastic triple bill, featuring three young, up-and-coming Canadian folk artists...
A banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string, and foot stomps. A rare type of musician one of such hopeful goodness, rarer still. In the tradition of solo banjo men and women of days gone-by. OLD MAN LUEDECKE sings his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense.
It is CATHERINE MCLELLAN's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen. A bona fide roots music gem.
RYAN LEBLANC is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick. With his own original material, Ryan interlaces guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of upbeat and passionate musical pieces. Ryan is known for his innovative combinations of percussive and alternative musical styles that give his compositions an extremely earthy and organic quality."
Acoustic/Folk Session at The Railway Hotel, Pleasington, Lancashire
Starts Around 8.30pm Till Midnight.A Talented Bunch Of Musicians Perform A Wide Variety Of Music Every Week Including, Irish, Lancs, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz.
Mandolins.Banjos,Whistles.Harmonica,Bodhran.Fiddle,Guitars.
All Welcome Free Drink To Guest Musicians,Free Supper.Good Rail Links,Great Cask Beer.01254201520 For More Details
Fil Campbell at The Uppermill Folk Club, Uppermill, Oldham, Gtr Manchester
"Irish singer songwriter Fil Campbell takes an affectionate look back at the Irish folk songs of the 30s and 40s as featured in her most recent CD "Songbirds" taken from the Irish TV series of the same name. With Brendan Emmett on mandolin and guitar and Tom McFarland on percussion."
Folkworks: Christmas Champions at The Sage, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
"The return of Christmas Champions, commissioned by BBC Radio 3's Late Junction and The Sage Gateshead. Late Junction's Verity Sharp said: "With beautifully sculpted prose and carefully honed music, they seduce the minds of those who listen". Singer/instrumentalist Chris Wood and storyteller Hugh Lupton - winners of a 2006 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award - are joined by Robert Harbron (voice/concertina), John Dipper (voice/violin) and Olivia Ross (voice/viola). Their voices and instruments weave in and out of recordings of reminiscences about the tradition of putting on Mummers Plays - England's most enduring winter custom. A captivating exploration of pagan rituals and Christmas customs, featuring re-workings of established carols and new songs"
Brian McNeill at Dunfermline Folk Club, Dunfermline, Fife
"Brian McNeill's professional career spans more than three decades and he is now acknowledged as one of Scotland's great musical forces; as a songwriter, composer, producer and musical director, as well as a performer"
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Thursday 4th December 2008
John Smith at The Prince Albert, Brighton
"John Smith is a guitar man from Devon, quietly becoming recognized as one of British Folk's most exciting and distinctive voices. He is a totally independent artist whose music is mostly pastoral and full of love but sometimes as hard and bleak as the winter moors of his homeland. Whether it be playing the guitar lap style like a drum, detuning the strings mid-chorus or straight ahead rumbling fingerstyle, his playing has prompted hushed appreciation and rioutous applause all over the world. John has toured with John Martyn and Davey Graham and supported Tunng, John Renbourn, Martin Carthy and Jools Holland among others."
Joe Giltrap at The Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith, London
"Moving to London in the early seventies Joe teamed up with fiddler Malcolm Rogers who by chance had just arrived from Belfast. As Irish Mist the duo went on to dominate the London Irish music scene inspiring younger acts like The Pogues. Over the years they recorded five albums plus several singles and shared the concert stage with all the top Irish folk acts like Christy Moore, The Furies, The Dubliners, De Dannan etc. earning gold and silver discs for contributions to best selling compilation albums. Joe also writes a weekly column as well as featured articles for the London based Irish Post and is currently preparing to release a new single for Christmas."
Christmas Champions at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Jeb Loy Nichols, Michael Weston King & Peter Bruntnell at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Artist, author and musician Jeb has worked with John Martyn, Richard Thompson, Robert Cray and Horace Andy. Michael was leader of UK alt country pioneers The Good Sons and his fans include the legendary Townes Van Zandt, who covered one of Michael's songs. Peter is hailed by Rolling Stone magazine as "Britain's best-kept musical secret". Three of the finest modern singer-songwriters come together for a night of song, stories, dark humour and light melancholia."
Tom McConville at The Bridport Arts Centre, Bridport, Dorset
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick
Acoustic, Blues, Folk and Roots night at The Lime Tree, Paignton, Torquay, Devon
Rachel Taylor-Beales at Otterton Mill, Budleigh Salterton, Devon
"Rachel Taylor-Beales has a talent for story telling, with an eye and ear for the ‘real’ world around her. The mix of Folk, Jazz, Country and Americana blends to create a sublime sound that stops you in your tracks. Moving between guitar and piano led songs she weaves quirky melody and rich harmony into her narratives."
Landermason at The Anchor Folk Club, Byfleet, Surrey
"Musicians Fiona Lander and Paul Mason collectively known as Landermason started writing and recording songs together in 2000. Fiona (vocals, piano, whistles and saxophones) and Paul (vocals and guitars) have developed a unique sound displaying their undoubted talents as musicians. They also show the ability to draw influences from a number of styles and then create something new that defies rigid definition."
Horses Brawl and Olivia Chaney at The Corn Exchange, Newbury, Berkshire
Horses Brawl - The innovative instrumental duo from Norfolk have won critical acclaim from both the national music press and BBC Radio. They have performed live on The Early Music Show and were recorded in concert for Late Junction. Recent recipients of an Arts Council of England award, Horses Brawl 's music is rooted in renaissance, medieval, baroque and European folk traditions. They re-work and re-compose fragments of ancient melodies to create contemporary music which is both "Chillingly beautiful" (Properganda) and "Virtuosic and experimental" (BBC Radio 2).
Olivia Chaney - A gifted virtuoso, this young folk singer will conjure dark-eyed sailors, damsels in distress and rakish Knights from an Indian harmonium and steel-string guitar. Expect to be charmed, moved and entertained by a performer and musician of unusual depth and passion.
Brackenrigg at The Tump Folk Club, British Legion, Heath Lane, Brinklow, Warwickshire
Graham Robins at The Crossroads Blue Club, The Tower of Song, Cotteridge, Birmingham
"Graham Robins is a powerful and emotive singer–songwriter with a career spanning four decades whose heart and love of performing is still as young as yesterday with passionate and heartfelt songs that draw on years of experience and influences crossing musical borders. ‘If you want some original rootsy music, gutsy singing and understated top class accompaniment with atmosphere by the spadeful, look no further!'"
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at The Musician, Leicester
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
3 Monkeys Folk Club Presents: Bella Hardy (with Chris Sherburn) at Mount Pleasant Pub, 107 Manchester Road, Southport, Merseyside
""Bella's solo performances combine her mesmerising voice with intricate fiddle accompaniment to breath-taking effect."
Time: Doors – 1900 hrs; Concert 2000 hrs
Tickets: £7 (in advance or on the door)
Contact for information and reservations: 07841 842137 or sarahandrich@simcocks.wanadoo.co.uk
Dabbers' Session, The Oddfellows Arms, Welsh Row, Nantwich, Cheshire
A great little pub close to the canal and the town (walking distance). All singers and musicians welcome to participate.
Alternative Therapy at Gregson Lane Folk Club, Gregson Lane, Hoghton, Lancashire
Dave Gibb at South Lakes Music Promotions, Ulverston, Lancashire
"Hailing from the village of Wanlockhead in Dumfries and Galloway armed with a style of guitar playing that is best described as being as distinctive as it is effective, a voice that can carry traditional and contemporary songs and a songwriting ability that produces songs ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous he has now pretty much established himself as a regular performer throughout the acoustic/folk club, festival and concert scene."
Old Man Luedecke + Catherine MacLellan + Ryan LeBlanc at The Town Hall, Selby, North Yorkshire
"Fantastic triple bill, featuring three young, up-and-coming Canadian folk artists...
A banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string, and foot stomps. A rare type of musician one of such hopeful goodness, rarer still. In the tradition of solo banjo men and women of days gone-by. OLD MAN LUEDECKE sings his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense.
It is CATHERINE MCLELLAN's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen. A bona fide roots music gem.
RYAN LEBLANC is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick. With his own original material, Ryan interlaces guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of upbeat and passionate musical pieces. Ryan is known for his innovative combinations of percussive and alternative musical styles that give his compositions an extremely earthy and organic quality."
Whitby Folk Club at The Friendship Rowing Club, Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Dick Gaughan at The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
"A troubadour, a stunning singer, passionate songwriter and a guitarist with a dazzling technique, Dick has been at the cutting edge of Scottish music for almost four decades. He has been a member of Boys of the Lough, Five Hand Reel and founded and produced the short-lived but quite extraordinary ensemble Clan Alba. Well known for his forthright and long-held political views, the legendary Dick Gaughan just doesn’t do gigs which are ‘ordinary’."
Fil Campbell at The Black Swan Folk Club, York
"Irish singer songwriter Fil Campbell takes an affectionate look back at the Irish folk songs of the 30s and 40s as featured in her most recent CD "Songbirds" taken from the Irish TV series of the same name. With Brendan Emmett on mandolin and guitar and Tom McFarland on percussion."
Flossie Malavialle at Darlington Folk Club, Garden Bar, Arts Centre, Darlington
“Flossie has a voice as clear and tuneful as a lark, with a pureness of quality to stop you in your tracks in the forest of a song”
Colum Sands
“A truly impressive voice and excellent stage presence”
Tanglefoot, Canada
“Flossie’s great! She came over from France and wowed everybody with her sensational voice, her gutsy guitar style, eclectic repertoire and franglais patter” Vin Garbutt
Folkworks: Under One Sky at The Sage, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
"John McCusker, formerly of Battlefield Band, leads a super-group in a large scale composition interweaving many different styles with tradition at their core. His collaborators tonight are recent Jools Holland guest, singer Julie Fowlis; Idlewild's Roddy Woomble; percussionist (with Shoogenlifty) James Mackintosh; bassist Ewen Vernal, a central pillar in Eddi Reader's, Deacon Blue's and Kate Rusby's work; and piper/flutist/whistler Iain Mcdonald who has played with Ossian, Wolfstone and Battlefield Band. Also in the super-group is ex-Blur guitarist Graham Coxon; John Tams, "one of the ultimate British songwriters" (Mojo); Anglo- Swedish fiddler, Emma Reid; accordionist Andy Cutting, lauded for his duo with Chris Wood; and Ian Carr, whose guitar can be heard on recordings by Kathryn Tickell and Kate Rusby, to name but a few."
Gaberlunzie at The Star Folk Club, Glasgow
"Robin Watson and Gordon Menzies have been together as Gaberlunzie since the early 1970s and are well known for producing an exciting blend of modern and traditional songs. Essentially Scottish, with an emphasis on rhythm and harmony, Gaberlunzie has a wide appeal to audiences both at home and abroad. They have travelled extensively in Europe, Canada, United States, and the Middle East, taking with them not only Scottish music but also that other extra special ingredient - Scottish humour"
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Friday 5th December 2008
Teddington Acoustic Music Club at The Adelaide, Park Road, Teddington, West London
Formerly the Teddington Folk Club, TAMC is now held upstairs at The Adelaide on Park Road on the first Friday of each month, from 8.30pm to 11pm. The club is run to an open-mic format and all genres of acoustic music are welcome – traditional and modern folk music, blues, singer-songwriter, instrumental or a capella. Entry is free to audience and performers. Anyone wishing to play should turn up on the night and give their name to that month's host/MC. Contact jsporter@ndirect.co.uk to join the emailing list for regular updates.
Lynne Heraud and Pat Turner at Court Sessions, Tooting, South London
"A terrific duo, who perform mainly unaccompanied harmony, and with several racey- not to say saucy songs in their varied repertoire"
Ron Trueman-Border at Friday Folk, Orpington, Kent
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Martin Carthy at The Fisher Theatre, Bungay, Suffolk
"For more than 40 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) is 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. He's a ballad singer, a ground-breaking acoustic & electric guitarist and an authoritative interpreter of newly composed material. He always prefers to follow an insatiable musical curiosity rather than cash in on his unrivalled position. Perhaps, most significant of all, are his settings of traditional songs with guitar, which have influenced a generation of artists, including Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, on both sides of the Atlantic."
Showcase with Sunday Driver, Na Mara and The Ouse Brothers at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
Sunday Driver are well known for their enthusiasm for experimenting with new sounds, ‘bringing together the innocence of English folk and the shimmering vibrancy of Eastern influences’ (bbconline) On their recently released CD ‘In the City of Dreadful Night’, the current line-up includes clarinet, tabla, sitar, concert harp, guitar and vocals. The band has written music for several soundtracks including an award-winning BBC Radio 4 documentary ‘Leprosy: a forgotten disease’.
St Albans-based duo Na Mara, Paul McNamara (guitar and vocals) and Rob Garcia (guitar and mandolin) were last seen at a windy Broadstairs Festival, where they were supporting Cara Dillon. Their repertoire ranges from arrangements of Irish fiddle tunes for mandolin and guitar, to poignant songs and ballads arranged for voice, guitar and mandolin.
The Ouse Brothers are Rick Sanders on vocals and rhythm and Jim Gosney on lead. They have been whooping it up with an eccentric and urgent mixture of blues, country and originals for some time now. But their flame is undimmed by age or experience. Which is considerable.
Open night at The Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, High Street, Pontardawe, Swansea
"play, recite or just listen and sing choruses."
Strum-It featuring the Velvet Dukes and Neil Butler at Llanfyllin Workhouse, Llanfyllin, Powys
"Strum-It is a regular acoustic night showcasing some of the best acoustic musicians from mid-Wales and beyond. The Velvet Dukes are making a name for themselves with their distinctive brand of acoustic jazz funk and Neil Butler is an inspirational singer/song writer from Llanfylin."
Old Man Luedecke + Catherine MacLellan + Ryan LeBlanc at The George, Great Norbury St, Hyde, Cheshire
"Fantastic triple bill, featuring three young, up-and-coming Canadian folk artists...
A banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string, and foot stomps. A rare type of musician one of such hopeful goodness, rarer still. In the tradition of solo banjo men and women of days gone-by. OLD MAN LUEDECKE sings his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense.
It is CATHERINE MCLELLAN's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen. A bona fide roots music gem.
RYAN LEBLANC is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick. With his own original material, Ryan interlaces guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of upbeat and passionate musical pieces. Ryan is known for his innovative combinations of percussive and alternative musical styles that give his compositions an extremely earthy and organic quality."
Singers Night at The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford, West Midlands
Christmas Champions at The Glasshouse Theatre, Stourbridge, West Midlands
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Tom McConville at The Black Diamond Folk Club, Birmingham
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick
Joe Broughton and The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble at The Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham Conservatoire
"They lifted the roof off, playing a mixture of British and European Folk with such spirit and energy that people here keep asking for them back. They sang and danced indoors and out with breathtaking versatility. Put simply, they were brilliant and the audience loved them." Richard Hawley, Director of The Lichfield Festival
An amazing event featuring 100 musicians! Also performing are Samba Central and The Conservatoire Gospel Choir
Vin Garbutt at The Beehive Folk Club, Harthill, South Yorkshire
"This ‘must-see’ artist who has won a sheaf of Folk Awards and a legion of fans never fails to delight! His songwriting is witty and powerful and tackles thought-provoking issues. He’s an accomplished guitarist and fine whistle player, a zany wit and a superb performer."
Peggy & PJ at The Rock, Malby, South Yorkshire
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
Fil Campbell at The Baccapipes Folk Club, Keighley, West Yorkshire
"Irish singer songwriter Fil Campbell takes an affectionate look back at the Irish folk songs of the 30s and 40s as featured in her most recent CD "Songbirds" taken from the Irish TV series of the same name. With Brendan Emmett on mandolin and guitar and Tom McFarland on percussion."
Henshaws Festive Folk Night - with Pete Coe, Knaresborough Mummers, John Greaves, Claro Sword Dance & friends at Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre 50 Bond End, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire
Lush Acoustic featuring: Mark Bezerk + Carl Cape + Jamie Robb + Bill Read + David Ainsworth + Steve Deegan at Morpeth Conservative Club, 41 Newgate Street, Morpeth, Northumberland
"Lush Acoustic presents: alt folk from Mark Bezerk, finger-picking mining song classics from Bll Read, Northumbrian fiddle from Jamie Robb, and folk-blues from Carl Cape on harmonica and guitar, accompanied by 'Roguish Stranger' Steve Deegan. It’ll be LUSH!
£2.00 - 8.00pm"
Under One Sky at The Playhouse, Alnwick, Northumberland
"Under One Sky is an hour-long vocal and instrumental suite by the Scottish multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer John McCusker, performed by a dozen of Britain’s finest musicians.
Originally a joint commission by the PRS Foundation, the Scottish Arts Council and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Under One Sky sets out to explore and interweave the many different traditions, genres and influences at work across today’s dynamic UK folk scene. Bringing together an array of established and emerging talent from both sides of the Border, McCusker’s hand-picked ensemble includes Blur co-founder Graham Coxon , Idlewild vocalist Roddy Woomble and acclaimed Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis. Revered balladeer John Tams and rising star Jim Causley also feature among the singers."
Back to Calendar
Saturday 6th December 2008
Under One Sky at The South Bank Centre, London
"Under One Sky is an hour-long vocal and instrumental suite by the Scottish multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer John McCusker, performed by a dozen of Britain’s finest musicians.
Originally a joint commission by the PRS Foundation, the Scottish Arts Council and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Under One Sky sets out to explore and interweave the many different traditions, genres and influences at work across today’s dynamic UK folk scene. Bringing together an array of established and emerging talent from both sides of the Border, McCusker’s hand-picked ensemble includes Blur co-founder Graham Coxon , Idlewild vocalist Roddy Woomble and acclaimed Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis. Revered balladeer John Tams and rising star Jim Causley also feature among the singers."
Joe Broughton and The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble at The Ariel Centre, Totnes, Devon
"They lifted the roof off, playing a mixture of British and European Folk with such spirit and energy that people here keep asking for them back. They sang and danced indoors and out with breathtaking versatility. Put simply, they were brilliant and the audience loved them." Richard Hawley, Director of The Lichfield Festival
Tom McConville at The Acorn Folk Club, Minehead, Somerset
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick
The Toyhearts at Trinity Arts Centre, Trinity Road, Old Market, Bristol
"The Toy Hearts, 5 piece bluegrass band from Birmingham, England continue to go from strength to strength in 2008. Formed in 2001, by founder members Stewart, Hannah and Sophia Johnson, the band became serious contenders when they began writing their own material a few years later. Their first critically acclaimed release ‘If The Blues Come Calling’ 2006, marked the real beginning of the band as it is now; with their trademark self penned material , sweet harmony vocals and a high octane delivery."
Uiscedwr at Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
"Uiscedwr is known as one of Britain's most exciting contemporary folk bands. Featuring fiddle, guitar, vocals and the most expertly played percussion you're ever likely to hear, Uiscedwr offer a fresh and original approach to folk, bringing an energy and virtuosity to their performances that gets people screaming for more."
John Etheridge supported by Kit Holmes at The Forest Arts Centre, New Milton, Hampshire
"John Etheridge is one of the world’s most respected guitarists and his music spans a myriad of styles and influences. He was the guitarist for the celebrated jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli and he has also performed with Soft Machine, Pat Metheny, Andy Summers, Dizzy Gillespie, Nigel Kennedy and is currently in a duo with the eminent classical guitarist John Williams. This is a rare opportunity to see John performing a solo concert, which features tracks from his highly acclaimed new album I didn’t know."
"John’s special guest on this tour is Kit Holmes - a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
The Askew Sisters at Sutton Village Hall, Sutton, Bedfordshire
"The Askew Sisters are a young fiddle and melodeon duo, playing and singing traditional English music in a dynamic and exciting style. Their sheer energy and musicality is quickly leading them to become one of the up and coming stars of the new English music revival."
Mike Silver at Newhampton Folk, Wolverhampton
"A consummate guitarist with a voice to match"
Junctions: English Music Breaking Formation: featuring The Tacet Ensemble and Spiers & Boden at The Stables, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Celebrating the vital force of English music, Junctions combines the best of traditional English folk and contemporary classical music. Spiers & Boden and the Tacet Ensemble join together in concert to explore common threads in their musical languages. Alongside pieces from their own repertoires, they will be performing collaborative pieces written by Jon Boden, Ed Hughes, Alison Kay and John Spiers.
"The Tacet Ensemble bring imagination and sensitivity to all their performances of the music of our time" - Michael Finnissy
Spiers & Boden are "..,the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene" - the Guardian
Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies at The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham
‘Some of the greatest contemporary English folk songs since early Richard Thompson are coming from the pen of Jez Lowe’ Boston Globe
Peggy & PJ at The Spilsby Theatre, Spilsby, Lincolnshire
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
Christmas Champions at The Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, Halifax, West Yorkshire
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Yorkshire Wassail' at Hutton Le Hole Village Hall, Hutton Le Hole, North Yorkshire
An evening of Christmas themed Traditional Music,Song and Dance, Old Carols, Poetry all with a Yorkshire flavour
plus Seasonal Refreshments.
Listen to and enjoy the Christmas music , join in with the songs, hear about Christmas from days gone by with Old Carols, Trad. and Topical Folk Songs, Poetry and Drama. It all adds up to a wonderful way to start your Christmas Season.
Guest Artists include Wendy Arrowsmith, Brian Butcher,Steve Dawes, Richard Grainger, John Lawson, The Shooting Stars, Maria Silman, Graham Walker, Carole Millward, Whitby Community Choir,Christine & Jane Williamson and more.....
You can purchase tickets in advance at www.festivalonthemoor.co.uk or phone us on 01287 660200 to reserve your tickets for collection on the door. Tickets may be available on the night - but its always safest to book or reserve them!
Old Man Luedecke + Catherine MacLellan + Ryan LeBlanc at The Studio, Hartlepool, Cleveland
"Fantastic triple bill, featuring three young, up-and-coming Canadian folk artists...
A banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string, and foot stomps. A rare type of musician one of such hopeful goodness, rarer still. In the tradition of solo banjo men and women of days gone-by. OLD MAN LUEDECKE sings his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense.
It is CATHERINE MCLELLAN's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen. A bona fide roots music gem.
RYAN LEBLANC is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick. With his own original material, Ryan interlaces guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of upbeat and passionate musical pieces. Ryan is known for his innovative combinations of percussive and alternative musical styles that give his compositions an extremely earthy and organic quality."
Fil Campbell at The Davy Lamp Folk Club, Washington, Tyne and Wear
"Irish singer songwriter Fil Campbell takes an affectionate look back at the Irish folk songs of the 30s and 40s as featured in her most recent CD "Songbirds" taken from the Irish TV series of the same name. With Brendan Emmett on mandolin and guitar and Tom McFarland on percussion."
Back to Calendar
Sunday 7th December 2008
Uiscedwr at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London
"Uiscedwr are one of Britain's most exciting contemporary folk bands.
Featuring fiddle, guitar, vocals and the most expertly played percussion you're ever likely to hear, Uiscedwr offer a fresh and original approach to folk, bringing an energy and virtuosity to their performances that gets people screaming for more"
Landermason at Horsham Folk Club, Horsham, West Sussex
"Musicians Fiona Lander and Paul Mason collectively known as Landermason started writing and recording songs together in 2000. Fiona (vocals, piano, whistles and saxophones) and Paul (vocals and guitars) have developed a unique sound displaying their undoubted talents as musicians. They also show the ability to draw influences from a number of styles and then create something new that defies rigid definition."
Folk Night at Mullens, Eastbourne, Sussex
John Etheridge supported by Kit Holmes at The Rook Lane Arts Centre, Frome, Somerset
"John Etheridge is one of the world’s most respected guitarists and his music spans a myriad of styles and influences. He was the guitarist for the celebrated jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli and he has also performed with Soft Machine, Pat Metheny, Andy Summers, Dizzy Gillespie, Nigel Kennedy and is currently in a duo with the eminent classical guitarist John Williams. This is a rare opportunity to see John performing a solo concert, which features tracks from his highly acclaimed new album I didn’t know."
"John’s special guest on this tour is Kit Holmes - a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
Steve Tilston at Folk on the Moor, Ivybridge, Devon
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who
actually excels in all departments..." Froots
Joe Broughton and The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"They lifted the roof off, playing a mixture of British and European Folk with such spirit and energy that people here keep asking for them back. They sang and danced indoors and out with breathtaking versatility. Put simply, they were brilliant and the audience loved them." Richard Hawley, Director of The Lichfield Festival
Christmas Champions at The Arts Centre, Norwich, Norfolk
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
David Kilpatrick at Dinas Powys Folk Club, The Cross Keys Inn, Dinas Powys, Glamorgan
"acoustic guitarist, songwriter and singer"
Singers Night at Folk at the Manor, Wallasey, Wirral
"All singers and instrumentalists welcome
A host of musical talent from the local area and beyond.
Artists free entry - others £1."
Peggy & PJ at Lichfield Arts Centre, Lichfield, Staffordshire
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
Rachel Taylor-Beales at The Kitchen Garden Cafe, Kings Heath, Birmingham
"Rachel Taylor-Beales has a talent for story telling, with an eye and ear for the ‘real’ world around her. The mix of Folk, Jazz, Country and Americana blends to create a sublime sound that stops you in your tracks. Moving between guitar and piano led songs she weaves quirky melody and rich harmony into her narratives."
Under One Sky at The Albert Hall, Nottingham
"Under One Sky is an hour-long vocal and instrumental suite by the Scottish multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer John McCusker, performed by a dozen of Britain’s finest musicians.
Originally a joint commission by the PRS Foundation, the Scottish Arts Council and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Under One Sky sets out to explore and interweave the many different traditions, genres and influences at work across today’s dynamic UK folk scene. Bringing together an array of established and emerging talent from both sides of the Border, McCusker’s hand-picked ensemble includes Blur co-founder Graham Coxon , Idlewild vocalist Roddy Woomble and acclaimed Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis. Revered balladeer John Tams and rising star Jim Causley also feature among the singers."
Rachel Unthank and the Winterset at Sheffield Memorial Hall, Sheffield
"They might not end up being the best selling all-girl British group of all time, but they're well on their way to being the most charismatic and imaginative" Paul Morley, Sunday Telegraph
Back to Calendar
Monday 8th December 2008
Martin Simpson at The Greys Pub, Brighton, Sussex
"There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin Simpson is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving.
There is no-one who has more successfully combined the diverse elements of British, Afro-American and old-timey music than Simpson. His 15 years living in the US were well spent. In addition his own songwriting has produced some real gems, from the truck-stop epic, “Love Never Dies” to the profoundly moving “Never Any Good”."
Open Mic/ Singaround The Fox and Hounds Folk Club, Romney St, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, Kent
Norcsalordie at The Barge, Gillingham, Kent
" Upbeat, folk acoustic played with young dynamic energy."
Dougie MacLean at Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, Essex
“Dougie MacLean is Scotland's pre-eminent singer-songwriter and a national musical treasure” (Scotsman) who has developed a unique blend of lyrical, 'roots based' songwriting and instrumental composition. He has built an international reputation as songwriter, composer and extraordinary performer which has led to concerts and festivals all over the world including New York's Carnegie Hall, Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall and London’s Festival Theatre."
Simon Hopper at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"... telling new stories through new songs with a craftsman's eye and a poet's fist. Old England is new England, and it hurts. The songs are influenced by Brit-Folk, Joni Mitchell, Loudon Wainwright, Ron Sexsmith & Dylan.
Simon has shared the stage with Bert Jansch, John Renbourn, Clive Gregson & Iain Matthews, among others. Clive and Iain have gone on record in praising his craft."
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at Greenwich Picturehouse, London
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
Liz Simcock at Croydon Folk Song Club, Ruskin House, 23 Coombe Rd, Croydon, Surrey
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. We have seen her grow from strength to strength as a performer, and now stand easily alongside any of the female singer/songwriters working on the acoustic/folk music scene" Hitchen Folk Club
Christmas Champions at Nettlebed Folk Club, Nettlebed Village Hall, Oxford
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Bob Fox at Chester le Street Folk Club, The Smiths Arms, Brecon Hill, Chester Le Street, County Durham
"Fox always was one of the scene's superior singers and his voice is as confident and ebullient as it ever was ." Froots
John McCusker's Under One Sky at The Queens Hall, Edinburgh
"The first ever performance of "Under one Sky was performed at Celtic Connections 2007 and then again at The Cambridge Folk Festival in July 2007. From Scotland, as well as John himself, the line-up features Gaelic songbird Julie Fowlis, Norman Blake from Teenage Fanclub, Idlewild's Roddy Woomble, percussionist James Mackintosh, bassist Ewen Vernal, and Iain MacDonald on pipes, whistles and flute. The English contingent consists of singers John Tams and Jim Causley, accordionist Andy Cutting, guitarist Ian Carr and Anglo/Swedish fiddler Emma Reid. Under One Sky the album will be released later in the year."
Back to Calendar
Tuesday 9th December 2008
Dougie MacLean at Chequer Mead Arts Centre, East Grinstead, Sussex
“Dougie MacLean is Scotland's pre-eminent singer-songwriter and a national musical treasure” (Scotsman) who has developed a unique blend of lyrical, 'roots based' songwriting and instrumental composition. He has built an international reputation as songwriter, composer and extraordinary performer which has led to concerts and festivals all over the world including New York's Carnegie Hall, Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall and London’s Festival Theatre."
Sharps Folk Club at Cecil Sharp House, Camden, London
Come and join in a friendly, informal sing-around in the bar at Cecil Sharp House, 8pm. £3.00 Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regent's Park Road, NW1 7AY
Blackheath Folk Club at The British Oak, Old Dover Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 8SU
Meets every tuesday for an open mic acoustic session. All welcome.
Acoustic Open Mike Night at The Good Intent, John Street, Rochester, Kent
Zoox at The Punch & Judy, St Stephen's Street, Tonbridge, Kent
"Traditional tunes with a contemporary attitude"
Peggy & PJ at Darford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
Simon Hopper at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"... telling new stories through new songs with a craftsman's eye and a poet's fist. Old England is new England, and it hurts. The songs are influenced by Brit-Folk, Joni Mitchell, Loudon Wainwright, Ron Sexsmith & Dylan."
Allan Taylor at St Neots Folk Club, St Neots, Cambridgeshire
"Over the last three decades Allan has been at the forefront of contemporary folk song. His songs are thoughtful, melodic and sometimes romantic, and sung in a relaxed style with guitar accompaniment."
Informal singaround at Ringwood Folk Club, The Elm Tree Hightown, Ringwood, Hampshire
"tunes, songs and poems"
Uiscedwr at The Vic, Swindon, Wiltshire
"Uiscedwr is known as one of Britain's most exciting contemporary folk bands. Featuring fiddle, guitar, vocals and the most expertly played percussion you're ever likely to hear, Uiscedwr offer a fresh and original approach to folk, bringing an energy and virtuosity to their performances that gets people screaming for more."
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at Phoenix Picturehouse, Oxford
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
Barrow Sessions at The Six Bells Pub, Barrow on Humber, North Lincolnshire
20.30 onwards, singers & musicians
Tom Bliss at The Foggy Furze Folk Club, Travellers Rest, STockton Road, Hartlepool, Cleveland
"This guy has pretty well universal appeal - with his beautiful voice, his accomplished playing of several instruments and the range of his material. Tom’s songs are accessible and engaging, with humour and singable choruses, and he appeals to the traditionalists and the modernists alike. We are guaranteed a wonderful evening." Tom and Barbara Brown - Shammic Acoustic Sessions
Back to Calendar
Wednesday 10th December 2008
The Toyhearts at The Prom, Bristol
"The Toy Hearts, 5 piece bluegrass band from Birmingham, England continue to go from strength to strength in 2008. Formed in 2001, by founder members Stewart, Hannah and Sophia Johnson, the band became serious contenders when they began writing their own material a few years later. Their first critically acclaimed release ‘If The Blues Come Calling’ 2006, marked the real beginning of the band as it is now; with their trademark self penned material , sweet harmony vocals and a high octane delivery."
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at The 12 Bar, Swindon, Wiltshire
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
The Curst Sons at The Fox Goes Free, Charlton, nr Chichester, West Sussex
"Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel."
Needleandthread presents the redstar open mic, The Redstar, 319 Camberwell Road, London
"with free entrance, live music, and two for one cocktails all night, it'll be a good one.. Live music celebrated in all its forms.. if you want to play, sign ups are from seven thirty pm.. bring your instruments, and play your own songs, to an appreciative audience.. or come be a part of the crowd! We welcome all styles.. spoken word, and acoustic acts are catered fully, with a nice sound system, monitoring, and sound engineer on hand.."
"CEOL AGUS OL" at The Nightingale Public House, 51 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, East London E11 2EY
"An Evening of Traditional Irish Music every Wednesday evening from 8.30 - 11pm. All Session players welcome. Food available on the night.( 020 84530 4540 )."
Peggy & PJ at The Howard Room, Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedfordshire
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
A Hoary Winter’s Night Medieval and folk carols of Ireland & England at St Mary’s Church, Warwick
"A feast of ancient Christmas and winter song from England and Ireland. Joglaresa will be including some of the really ‘dark’ ancient English songs such as variants of the Corpus Christi and Falcon Carols; their own re-workings of better known carols such as the Coventry Carol; Wexford Carols and the Irish air and hornpipe Christmas Eve. They will be joined by Irish harper Jean Kelly, Irish/Geordie singer Mick Sands for a programme of folk, traditional and medieval carols." ..More info
Christmas Champions at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Afternoon Workshop at The Travellers Rest, Draycott, Derbyshire - Free
"female acoustic folk duo"
Singers and Musicians Night at Cottingham Live, The Back Room, 73 Hallgate, Cottingham, East Yorkshire
Acoustic/Folk Session at The Railway Hotel, Pleasington, Lancashire
Starts Around 8.30pm Till Midnight.A Talented Bunch Of Musicians Perform A Wide Variety Of Music Every Week Including, Irish, Lancs, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz.
Mandolins.Banjos,Whistles.Harmonica,Bodhran.Fiddle,Guitars.
All Welcome Free Drink To Guest Musicians,Free Supper.Good Rail Links,Great Cask Beer.01254201520 For More Details
Brian McNeill at Edinburgh Folk Club, Edinburgh
"Brian McNeill's professional career spans more than three decades and he is now acknowledged as one of Scotland's great musical forces; as a songwriter, composer, producer and musical director, as well as a performer"
Back to Calendar
Thursday 11th December 2008
Rachel Unthank and the Winterset at The Union Chapel, London
"They might not end up being the best selling all-girl British group of all time, but they're well on their way to being the most charismatic and imaginative" Paul Morley, Sunday Telegraph
Allan Taylor at Orpington Folk Club, Orpington, Kent
"Over the last three decades Allan has been at the forefront of contemporary folk song. His songs are thoughtful, melodic and sometimes romantic, and sung in a relaxed style with guitar accompaniment."
Chris Wood/English Acoustic Collective: Christmas Champions at St Georges, Bristol
"Hailed as a hero of the brave new world for folk music, Chris Wood is an artist at the peak of his powers: steeped in tradition but with a fierce, modern outlook.
Christmas Champions, his latest collaboration with master storyteller Hugh Lupton and the English Acoustic Collective, lures you into the arcane world of the Mummers Play, with colourful stories, songs and dance that offer a window into a lost, magical world.
A hugely popular special commission for BBC Radio 3's Late Junction, using recorded voices of past generations, ritual theatre, seasonal song, midwinter carols, storytelling and music, this heartfelt evocation of winter will hold you spellbound.
Unmistakably and defiantly English. Unmissable.
The Anchor Inn, Cockwood, Nr Exeter, Devon
"Foot Stompin' Live Celtic Dance Music and Song"
Christmas Champions at St Georges, Bristol
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
The poems of Lorca Set to music by Keith James & Rick Foot at The Arts Centre, Bridgwater, Somerset
"A poet, playwright and friend of Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel, his homosexuality in part led to the depression which is reflected in the bleakness of some of his work. His plays and poetry were banned by the Franco regime until the 1950s. A feature film entitled “Little Ashes” will be released next year about the relationship between Dali and Lorca.
Lorca has inspired poets and songwriters for many years with both Joan Baez and Leonard Cohen recording translations of his work. In 2007 Keith James and Rick Foot released the critically-acclaimed Lorca, a CD of Keith’s settings of Lorca’s poetry together with an inspired version of Cohen’s ‘Take This Waltz’. The power and beauty of the record is breathtaking.
As a prelude to the release of their new record of Lorca settings, Poet In New York, Keith and Rick embark in October on a 21-date tour of their show featuring their interpretations of Lorca’s poetry and songs by other writers he inspired: Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake and, of course, Leonard Cohen. Selected performances will include the documentary film, García Lorca, A Death in Granada."
Peppers Ghost Christmas Show at Folk at The Royal Oak, Lewes, Sussex
"Songs, music, monologues and poems augment the wonderful Victorian Christmas
magic Lantern show with Alan & Rene Marriott, Charlotte Oliver, Richard
Spong & Roger Brasier. "
The Mandolinquents at The Arts Centre, Newbury, Berkshire
The Mandolinquents feature everything from hot swing and ragtime instrumentals from the mandolin orchestras of the 1930s: Irving Berlin, Mozart, Ravel and Tchaikovsky to lively reels and beautiful traditional Irish airs to Chinese and Brazilian folk tunes. All this played with infectious fun, off-beat humour and stunning virtuosity on mandolin, mandola, mandocello, mandobass and classical guitar, with the occasional burst of song or fiddle.
Junctions: English Music Breaking Formation: featuring The Tacet Ensemble and Spiers & Boden at The Jacqueline du Pré Music Building, St Hilda's College, Cowley Place, Oxford
Celebrating the vital force of English music, Junctions combines the best of traditional English folk and contemporary classical music. Spiers & Boden and the Tacet Ensemble join together in concert to explore common threads in their musical languages. Alongside pieces from their own repertoires, they will be performing collaborative pieces written by Jon Boden, Ed Hughes, Alison Kay and John Spiers.
"The Tacet Ensemble bring imagination and sensitivity to all their performances of the music of our time" - Michael Finnissy
Spiers & Boden are "..,the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene" - the Guardian
Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, British Legion, Heath Lane, Brinklow, Warwickshire
Zoe Mulford at The Lymm Folk Club, The Spread Eagle Hotel, 47 Eagle Brow
Lymm, Cheshire
"American-born songwriter Zoe Mulford backs her clear voice with guitar
or claw-hammer banjo. Whether her starting-point is love gone wrong or
the neglected contents of her refrigerator, her vivid storytelling and
down-to-earth humor promise listeners an enjoyable journey."
A Hoary Winter’s Night Medieval and folk carols of Ireland & England at Haden Freeman Concert Hall, Manchester
"A feast of ancient Christmas and winter song from England and Ireland. Joglaresa will be including some of the really ‘dark’ ancient English songs such as variants of the Corpus Christi and Falcon Carols; their own re-workings of better known carols such as the Coventry Carol; Wexford Carols and the Irish air and hornpipe Christmas Eve. They will be joined by Irish harper Jean Kelly, Irish/Geordie singer Mick Sands for a programme of folk, traditional and medieval carols." ..More info
Waterson: Carthy with The Devil's Interval at The Met, Bury, Lancashire
"The folk family super-group Waterson: Carthy (Norma Waterson, Martin Carthy, Eliza Carthy and Saul Rose) plus the three young singers of The Devil's Interval return with their Christmas show, 'Frost and Fire'. Singing with a natural, passionate force that can hit the unwary like a bolt from the blue, they share the stage to perform sparse, traditional festive folk songs that seem to have been dug straight from the soil: earthy, mysterious, poetic, bleakly witty, subtly erotic, original and enduring."
Steve Tilston's Trades Roots with
The Durbervilles at The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
"...that very rare combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who
actually excels in all departments..." Froots on Steve Tilston
“..their particular take on roots music from Cajun to country rock (is) informed by genuine folk sensibility and reinforced by considerable instrumental skill….don’t miss them.” Living Tradition on The Durbervilles
Whitby Folk Club at The Friendship Rowing Club, Church Street, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Yorkshire Wassail' at Yarm Fellowship Hall, Yarm, Nr Stockton on Tees, North Yorkshire 7:30pm
An evening of Christmas themed Traditional Music,Song and Dance, Old Carols, Poetry all with a Yorkshire flavour
plus Seasonal Refreshments.
£6/ Conc £4.50 /Child £3.50 Licensed Bar & Festive Snacks On Sale
Listen to and enjoy the Christmas music , join in with the songs, hear about Christmas from days gone by with Old Carols, Trad. and Topical Folk Songs, Poetry and Drama. It all adds up to a wonderful way to start your Christmas Season.
Guest Artists include Wendy Arrowsmith, Brian Butcher,Steve Dawes, Richard Grainger, John Lawson, The Shooting Stars, Maria Silman, Graham Walker, Carole Millward, Whitby Community Choir,Christine & Jane Williamson and more.....
You can purchase tickets in advance at www.festivalonthemoor.co.uk or phone us on 01287 660200 to reserve your tickets for collection on the door. Tickets may be available on the night - but its always safest to book or reserve them!
Dave Gibb at The Cutty Wren Folk Club, Skelton, Cleveland
"His playing has evolved into a sound and style that is all his own. Bluesy, folky, jazzy or straightforward headdownandbuggerthesubtlety fingerpicking styles are all in evidence.
Lyrically Dave's songwriting is rooted firmly in the traditions and history of Scotland and its people. Musically he draws on both traditional and contemporary sources, especially the finger picking styles of his heroes "
Folkworks: Koshka - Russian Winter and Gypsy Fire at The Sage, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
"Koshka intersperses vibrant, enthralling gypsy music with tales and anecdotes about the seasonal traditions of a culture very different to our own. Koshka is Russian fiddlers Oleg Ponomarev (formerly of Loyko) and Lev Atlas (Scottish Opera) and Scottish jazz guitarist Nigel Clark. They are outstanding musicians, standing at the cutting edge of gypsy music and taking it to new levels, described by the Celtic Connections festival as "a mesmerising mix of virtuosity, playfulness and intensity which should not be missed".
"Their version of world, gypsy and jazz sends a huge emotional surge that never lets up, twinned with masterly musicianship." The Daily Telegraph"
Back to Calendar
Friday 12th December 2008
Folk in the Foyer at The Arts Depot, Finchley, North London
"Barnet Folk Club presents Folk in the Foyer hosted by J.J. Dunne"
Various artists including Liz Simcock at The Kalamazoo Klub, Crouch End, London
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. We have seen her grow from strength to strength as a performer, and now stand easily alongside any of the female singer/songwriters working on the acoustic/folk music scene" Hitchin Folk Club
Lyra Celtica at The Moore or Less Folk Club, Pig’s Ear, the Three Sisters, Rainham, Kent
“Lyra Celtica....good fun and quality music.” .......... Living Tradition
Ron Trueman-Border at The Jenny Lind 69,High St. Hastings, Sussex
"Ron employs a wealth of musical forms and influences to produce songs that vividly portray an Everyman's vision of life in the 21st century" Steve Clarke
Christmas Champions at The Forest Arts Centre, New Milton, Hampshire
"Christmas Champions was originally written for BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction. Now a live multimedia show has been commissioned by The Sage Gateshead and will be touring in December 2007. BBC Folk Award winning duo Chris Wood and Hugh Lupton are joined by The English Acoustic Collective and Olivia Ross in a performance that mixes the recorded voices of past generations with ritual theatre, seasonal song, storytelling and music in a celebration of England’s most enduring midwinter custom: The Mummers Play.
The show combines the music of midwinter, both choral and instrumental, with new songs and re-workings of established carols, worked into field recordings of Herbie Smith's reminiscences of mumming in the Medway valley at the turn of the last century. Hugh Lupton's narrative constantly contextualises the music and the singers reciprocate, weaving and compounding imagery, parable and drama. It is the true, native, vernacular mystery play and this performance, directed by Tim Dalling, brings it vividly to life."
Open House at Bodmin Folk Club, Bodmin, Cornwall
"Evenings when there are no featured guest artists, but an evening for local and visiting singers, musicians etc, to perform in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere - usually a lively and stimulating experience... or if you don't wish to perform and prefer to listen, you are equally welcome."
Special traditional Christmas Concert with Stantchester Quire at The Manor Hotel, The Beacon, Exmouth, Devon
Red Ruth at Folk at The Pumphouse, Watford, Hertfordshire
"Formed in Jan 2008 by singer/songwriter Ian Rigg, Red Ruth completed it's final line up in June, when rehearsals for both the live shows and the debut album began in earnest. With a line up of amazing and renowned UK folk musicians, Red Ruth are tipped to be the next big thing on the folk festival scene."
John Etheridge supported by Kit Holmes at The New Greenham Arts Centre, Newbury, Berkshire
"John Etheridge is one of the world’s most respected guitarists and his music spans a myriad of styles and influences. He was the guitarist for the celebrated jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli and he has also performed with Soft Machine, Pat Metheny, Andy Summers, Dizzy Gillespie, Nigel Kennedy and is currently in a duo with the eminent classical guitarist John Williams. This is a rare opportunity to see John performing a solo concert, which features tracks from his highly acclaimed new album I didn’t know."
"John’s special guest on this tour is Kit Holmes - a singer/songwriter and rising guitar star. Her music fuses a broad range of influences from pop to folk, blues and soul. Kit's latest album, Catch The Echo, which features the legendary double bass player Danny Thompson was given a 5 Star Review by Maverick. Kit’s music has been played on both the Bob Harris and Andy Kershaw Show and she was recently asked to give a master-class at Paul McCartney’s LIPA."
''Full of warmth…an absolute delight"
The Albion Band at Norden Farm Arts Centre, Maidenhead, Berkshire
"After eight years of sell-out Christmas shows, this special four piece band of Fairport Convention and Albion Band members, including Simon Nicol and Ashley Hutchings, take you once more on a guided tour through traditional English Christmas song, music, dancing and celebration.
Playing in the band tonight as a special guest will be multi-instrumentalist, Guy Fletcher. There is also new album from Kellie, Ashley and 'The Simon's', to reflect the new material in the show.
Albion Christmas is a seasonal mixture of carols, seasonal songs, spoken word, humorous readings and dance."
Rhiannon Giddens & Sxip Shirey at The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
"Giddens (female voice of African-American string band The Carolina Chocolate Drops) and Shirey (legendary underground folk guitarist and composer) play their instruments as if they were one, weaving melody and rhythm from many influences - Appalachian, opera, Gaelic, hip-hop - and with a bag of tricks including triple-extended penny whistles, mutant harmonicas and human beatboxing you'll never know what to expect!"
Coup de Grass and Tony Carling at Cambridge Folk Club, Cambridge
Keith Pearson's Coup de Grass is an exciting mix of all that is great in Bluegrass and in Folk. Their music, which ranges from fast, dazzling banjo, guitar and harmonica solos to ballads of exceptional beauty is just a part of what makes them one of the most popular and sought after acts currently playing the clubs and concert stages. Time and time again, at concerts and festivals, people come up to the band after a show and say "I didn't realise how much I liked that kind of music until I heard this band."
Tony Carling is as unique an artist as you could wish for, a warm engaging and totally relaxed performer. His song writing brings to life in sometimes hilarious fashion the observations and characters he has met from growing up around the children’s homes in South London and working in the building trade. So come with an open mind and be prepared to leave with a new song in your heart!
Peggy & PJ at The Fisher Theatre, Bungay, Suffolk 01986 897130
"Fairport Convention’s Dave Pagg and Little Johnny England’s P.J. Wright take to the road again. These two principle and influencial figures on the folk-roots scene join forces again.
"I hope the title explains our approach," says PJ. "There will be a mix of my songs from Hedge of Sound, some Little Johnny England material, some of Peggy's songs and tunes from various sources, and a smattering of Sandy Denny and Fairport. We might even throw in a bit of Jethro Tull. Alongside this original material, we hope to play some cover versions of our favourite songs down the years." The acoustic instrumentation will include guitars, bouzouki, mandolin, dobro, harmonica and bass. “Add Peggy’s skills as a raconteur and one or two of my duff jokes and it should be an idiosyncratic, rocking evening of fun for all the family” says P.J."
A Hoary Winter’s Night Medieval and folk carols of Ireland & England at Artrix, Bromsgrove
"A feast of ancient Christmas and winter song from England and Ireland. Joglaresa will be including some of the really ‘dark’ ancient English songs such as variants of the Corpus Christi and Falcon Carols; their own re-workings of better known carols such as the Coventry Carol; Wexford Carols and the Irish air and hornpipe Christmas Eve. They will be joined by Irish harper Jean Kelly, Irish/Geordie singer Mick Sands for a programme of folk, traditional and medieval carols." ..More info
Mark Robinson at The Brewtown Folk Club, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire
Singer Songwriter
Uiscedwr at The Ropewalk, Barton Upon Humber, Lincolnshire
"Uiscedwr is known as one of Britain's most exciting contemporary folk bands. Featuring fiddle, guitar, vocals and the most expertly played percussion you're ever likely to hear, Uiscedwr offer a fresh and original approach to folk, bringing an energy and virtuosity to their performances that gets people screaming for more."
Xmas Party - Guest - The Yorkie Bartram Experience (May Contain Nuts) at The Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, High Street, Pontardawe, Swansea
Ticketed Event
Martin Wyndham-Read at Chesterfield Folk Club, Chesterfield, Derbyshire
"English by birth, Martyn first developed his great interest in folksongs of the outback when he went to Australia in the early 1960's.
There, while working on the South Australian sheep station "Emu Springs", he gained first hand experience of life as a bush worker and at the same time fell in love with Australia and it's music."
The Bogtrotters at The Met, Bury, Lancashire
"Musical direction leans mainly towards their own arrangements of traditional Irish and Scottish music and a mixture of country and cajun along with modern material combined with original songs composed by Tim Flaherty and other band members."
Trades Roots with Rachel Unthank and the Winterset at The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
"They might not end up being the best selling all-girl British group of all time, but they're well on their way to being the most charismatic and imaginative" Paul Morley, Sunday Telegraph
Tom McConville at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth, Nr Richmond, North Yorkshire
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick
Vin Garbutt at Darlington Arts Centre, Vane Road, Darlington
"This ‘must-see’ artist who has won a sheaf of Folk Awards and a legion of fans never fails to delight! His songwriting is witty and powerful and tackles thought-provoking issues. He’s an accomplished guitarist and fine whistle player, a zany wit and a superb performer."
Jim Byrne at The Hidden Lane Cafe, Glasgow
"Acoustic, bluesy folk and country style songs of love, heartbreak and the Scottish weather."
(CD Launch with Acoustic Butterfly and Aidan MacEoin)
Back to Calendar
Saturday 13th December 2008
Dave Swarbrick at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, The Exmouth Arms, Starcross Street, Euston, London
" Britain's premier folk fiddler"
Rachel Unthank and the Winterset at The Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Bristol
"They might not end up being the best selling all-girl British group of all time, but they're well on their way to being the most charismatic and imaginative" Paul Morley, Sunday Telegraph
Open Night at Shammick Acoustic Sessions, The Castle Inn, High Street, Combe Martin, North Devon
Meltdown Ceilidh featuring Florida with caller Nick Walden at Clair Hall, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, Sussex
£9/£8 concs.
Youth Student discount STILL operating - ONLY £5 for full-time students under 25yrs old.
(supported by SEFAN with additional support from Hobgoblin Music)
The Curst Sons at The Green Note, Parkway, Camden, London
"Inspired by American traditional music with an added shot of urban grit and dose of wry humour the Sons powerful rootsy songs combine Old Time, Hillbilly and Hellfire Gospel."
Oxfolk Ceilidh with Boldwood with Fee Lock and Cat Kelly (Christmas Spectacular - Dress to Impress!) at Kennington Village Hall, Kennington, near Oxford, OX1 5PG
"Boldwood offer dynamic dancing and brilliant musicianship. New to the dance scene, Boldwood come with an impressive pedigree, and a unique repertoire from the 18th century - a golden age for English music when "folk" and "classical" worlds cohabited easily. They bring a robust and baroque edge to irresistible rhythms. This Christmas special sees a classy callers double act from Fee Lock and Cat Kelly. All together a very posh and polished dance!"
Red Ruth at The Pump House, Watford, Hertfordshire
"7 piece acoustic folk band that play original and traditional folk"
John Etheridge supported by Kit Holmes at The Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham, Hampshire
"John Etheridge is one of the world’s most respected guita |
