What's On: coming up in England's Mid-West counties
Coming soon to a venue near you! Great live performances from some of our finest folk, acoustic and innovative artists in England's 'mid west'. We promote live music in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Leamington, Newbury, Oxfordshire, Stratford-upon-Avon, North Somerset, Swindon and Worcestershire - or thereabouts. For tickets and more information of each gig, click on the orange website links. Looking for entertainment further afield? Then check out our nationwide music festivals listing page.
Friday 22nd March 2019 - Miranda Sykes
The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch B98 8AE: Friday 22nd March 2019
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL6 6QQ: Saturday 23rd March 2019
Banbury Folk Club, Banbury Cross Inn, Butchers Row, Banbur OX16 5JH: Wednesday 27th March 2019
Under The Edge Arts, The Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge GL12 7LD: Saturday 27th April 2019
Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ is returning to her roots. After a career spanning over twenty years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring as she started out: one woman, one bass, and one guitar. Borrowed Places is a project that draws its inspiration primarily from the songs and landscapes of her native Lincolnshire but seen through the eyes of someone who has lived away for many years.
The themes are not specific; the land changes, it grows, it shrinks, it adapts and it resists but most of all it lives and breathes. With her sensational voice, and accompanying herself, Miranda interprets the soul of the land and takes her audience on a journey that resonates with us all, wherever we live and it is one you won’t want to miss.
For details and full tour dates visit www.mirandasykes.com
The Painswick Centre, Bisley Street, Painswick GL6 6QQ: Saturday 23rd March 2019
Banbury Folk Club, Banbury Cross Inn, Butchers Row, Banbur OX16 5JH: Wednesday 27th March 2019
Under The Edge Arts, The Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge GL12 7LD: Saturday 27th April 2019
Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ is returning to her roots. After a career spanning over twenty years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring as she started out: one woman, one bass, and one guitar. Borrowed Places is a project that draws its inspiration primarily from the songs and landscapes of her native Lincolnshire but seen through the eyes of someone who has lived away for many years.
The themes are not specific; the land changes, it grows, it shrinks, it adapts and it resists but most of all it lives and breathes. With her sensational voice, and accompanying herself, Miranda interprets the soul of the land and takes her audience on a journey that resonates with us all, wherever we live and it is one you won’t want to miss.
For details and full tour dates visit www.mirandasykes.com
Saturday 23rd March 2019 - Peter Knight & John Spiers
Wychwood Folk Club, Tiddy Hall, Shipton Road, Ascott-u-Wychwood, OX7 6AG:
Saturday 23rd March 2019
In the summer of 2016, the organisers of FolkEast Festival had the grand idea of pairing Peter Knight (Gigspanner/ex-Steeleye Span) and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers (ex-Bellowhead) for a special 'one off' concert at that year's festival.
In the event, it ended up being a genuine festival highlight, with no space to be found in the Marquee and people standing five deep in pouring rain. For a few minutes at the close of their performance, with a standing ovation and roars for more, it didn't seem as though the audience was going to let them go. As the MC commented, it was one of those occasions when people could say "I was there."
It was also clear that leaving matters there was not an option, and plans were made to record an album and undertake a country-wide tour during March 2018. 2019 sees them on the road again - and tickets for this event at the popular Wychwood Folk Club are bound to sell quickly.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
Saturday 23rd March 2019
In the summer of 2016, the organisers of FolkEast Festival had the grand idea of pairing Peter Knight (Gigspanner/ex-Steeleye Span) and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers (ex-Bellowhead) for a special 'one off' concert at that year's festival.
In the event, it ended up being a genuine festival highlight, with no space to be found in the Marquee and people standing five deep in pouring rain. For a few minutes at the close of their performance, with a standing ovation and roars for more, it didn't seem as though the audience was going to let them go. As the MC commented, it was one of those occasions when people could say "I was there."
It was also clear that leaving matters there was not an option, and plans were made to record an album and undertake a country-wide tour during March 2018. 2019 sees them on the road again - and tickets for this event at the popular Wychwood Folk Club are bound to sell quickly.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
Saturday 23rd March 2019 - Brooks Williams
The Parlour Room, Manor Farm, Ardley, Bicester OX27 7NS: Saturday 23rd March 2019
In recent years Brooks has become widely respected on the UK circuit for two State Of The Union albums. These are the collaboration of Brooks and Boo Hewerdine. With just two voices and two acoustic guitars, their sound is timeless and highly accomplished.
Ranked one of the Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists, singer-songwriter Brooks Williams writes groove-laden songs and delivers them with an easy-going vocal style and monstrous guitar chops.
Walking the line between Blues and Americana, Williams has worked stages worldwide for over 25 years, amassing a staggering back-catalogue of songs, recordings and tales.
Brooks Williams stands on tradition but he doesn’t stand still. His influences fly so fast and furious they blur. Like drinking whiskey from a honey jar, you get both the sweet and the bite.
For further information and tickets visit www.brookswilliams.com
In recent years Brooks has become widely respected on the UK circuit for two State Of The Union albums. These are the collaboration of Brooks and Boo Hewerdine. With just two voices and two acoustic guitars, their sound is timeless and highly accomplished.
Ranked one of the Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists, singer-songwriter Brooks Williams writes groove-laden songs and delivers them with an easy-going vocal style and monstrous guitar chops.
Walking the line between Blues and Americana, Williams has worked stages worldwide for over 25 years, amassing a staggering back-catalogue of songs, recordings and tales.
Brooks Williams stands on tradition but he doesn’t stand still. His influences fly so fast and furious they blur. Like drinking whiskey from a honey jar, you get both the sweet and the bite.
For further information and tickets visit www.brookswilliams.com
Sunday 24th March 2019 - Seth Lakeman
The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Sunday 24th March 2019
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Tuesday 26th March 2019
Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA: Thursday 28thMarch 2019
Hereford Cathedral, Catheral Close, Hereford HR1 2NG: Saturday 30th March 2019
Seth Lakeman takes a break from the Robert Plant musical juggernaut in Autumn 2018 to release his ninth studio album ‘The Well Worn Path’ and head out on tour around the UK with a new band line-up.
The charismatic singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist found time at the beginning of the year, in between charging around the globe with Robert Plant and his band, the Sensational Space Shifters, to record his new studio album The Well Worn Path.
It’s a return to a no-nonsense, organic, classic folk-rock approach with hints of Fairport Convention, Neil Young, Nick Cave and Billy Bragg – plus Lakeman’s trademark foot-stomping, fiddle bow-shredding and soaring vocals.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.sethlakeman.co.uk
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Tuesday 26th March 2019
Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA: Thursday 28thMarch 2019
Hereford Cathedral, Catheral Close, Hereford HR1 2NG: Saturday 30th March 2019
Seth Lakeman takes a break from the Robert Plant musical juggernaut in Autumn 2018 to release his ninth studio album ‘The Well Worn Path’ and head out on tour around the UK with a new band line-up.
The charismatic singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist found time at the beginning of the year, in between charging around the globe with Robert Plant and his band, the Sensational Space Shifters, to record his new studio album The Well Worn Path.
It’s a return to a no-nonsense, organic, classic folk-rock approach with hints of Fairport Convention, Neil Young, Nick Cave and Billy Bragg – plus Lakeman’s trademark foot-stomping, fiddle bow-shredding and soaring vocals.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.sethlakeman.co.uk
Thursday 26th March 2019 - Steve Tilston
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Thursday 28th March 2018
with Jez Lowe
Born in Liverpool and raised in the Midlands, Steve made his recording debut in 1971 with the classic An Acoustic Confusion and has been turning out quality albums ever since. A celebrated artist in Britain and abroad, winning accolades in Europe, Australia and the USA, his songs have been recorded by Fairport Convention, Dolores Keane and many other illustrious performers.
He has collaborated with some of the best in both live performances and on record, and with his daughter Martha, in the charming “like father, like daughter…” show.
More recent collaborations have been with Yorkshire alt-country band The Durbervilles and a trio with harmonica player Keith Warmington, and Hugh Bradley on double bass. Steve released the critically acclaimed Happenstance with his trio in 2013, and another fine solo album Truth To Tell in 2015.
His latest (2018) recording, Distant Days - is a solo acoustic restrospective of his work.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.stevetilston.com
with Jez Lowe
Born in Liverpool and raised in the Midlands, Steve made his recording debut in 1971 with the classic An Acoustic Confusion and has been turning out quality albums ever since. A celebrated artist in Britain and abroad, winning accolades in Europe, Australia and the USA, his songs have been recorded by Fairport Convention, Dolores Keane and many other illustrious performers.
He has collaborated with some of the best in both live performances and on record, and with his daughter Martha, in the charming “like father, like daughter…” show.
More recent collaborations have been with Yorkshire alt-country band The Durbervilles and a trio with harmonica player Keith Warmington, and Hugh Bradley on double bass. Steve released the critically acclaimed Happenstance with his trio in 2013, and another fine solo album Truth To Tell in 2015.
His latest (2018) recording, Distant Days - is a solo acoustic restrospective of his work.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.stevetilston.com
Thursday 28th March 2019 - Paul McClure
Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham WR11 : Thursday 28th March 2019
Since giving up his teaching job to follow his dreams and go full time in January 2014, McClure has clocked up the miles finding places to play from Southampton to Manchester, Southend to Bristol with shows at folk clubs around the country including acclaimed performances at Wychwood and Cambridge folk clubs and Roots Music Club, Doncaster.
He has also shared the stage with such touring folk and Americana musicians as Emily Barker, Otis Gibbs (USA) Red Sky July, Sons Of Bill (USA) Red Moon Road (Canada) Edwina Hayes and The Young 'Uns.
'Rutland Troubadour' McClure accompanied the release of his new album 'Smiling From The Floor Up' with an extensive tour of not only some of the UK's best known folk/Americana venues but also a large number of house concerts hosted by fans in an attempt to both connect with his audience in a close and intimate setting and also to bring the sound of live music back into the home.
For tickets and further information visit www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk/folk-in-the-foyer
Since giving up his teaching job to follow his dreams and go full time in January 2014, McClure has clocked up the miles finding places to play from Southampton to Manchester, Southend to Bristol with shows at folk clubs around the country including acclaimed performances at Wychwood and Cambridge folk clubs and Roots Music Club, Doncaster.
He has also shared the stage with such touring folk and Americana musicians as Emily Barker, Otis Gibbs (USA) Red Sky July, Sons Of Bill (USA) Red Moon Road (Canada) Edwina Hayes and The Young 'Uns.
'Rutland Troubadour' McClure accompanied the release of his new album 'Smiling From The Floor Up' with an extensive tour of not only some of the UK's best known folk/Americana venues but also a large number of house concerts hosted by fans in an attempt to both connect with his audience in a close and intimate setting and also to bring the sound of live music back into the home.
For tickets and further information visit www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk/folk-in-the-foyer
Thursday 28th March 2019 - Blue Rose Code
Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Kings Heath B14 7SA: Thursday 28th March 2019
The Bullingdon Arms, Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1UE: Thursday 11th April 2019
Described as a 'major talent' by Bob Harris, Blue Rose Code is Edinburgh-born songwriter Ross Wilson.
He doesn’t write folk songs, or so he's been told. But having discovered the traditional music of the British Isles whilst in exile down south, he fell in love with what he heard. Those sounds informed what happened next.
A nomad both geographically and musically, Ross writes from the heart eschewing any specific genre.
The result is breathtaking music which shake your bones and touches your soul.
The twelve songs on the new album The Water of Leith, address themes of love, loss, travel, home, accepting the past and accepting the future are painted with colours of folk, jazz, soul and pop; an eclecitism that has seen him compared to John Martyn, Van Morrison and Tom Waits.
For tickets and further information visit bluerosecode.com
The Bullingdon Arms, Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1UE: Thursday 11th April 2019
Described as a 'major talent' by Bob Harris, Blue Rose Code is Edinburgh-born songwriter Ross Wilson.
He doesn’t write folk songs, or so he's been told. But having discovered the traditional music of the British Isles whilst in exile down south, he fell in love with what he heard. Those sounds informed what happened next.
A nomad both geographically and musically, Ross writes from the heart eschewing any specific genre.
The result is breathtaking music which shake your bones and touches your soul.
The twelve songs on the new album The Water of Leith, address themes of love, loss, travel, home, accepting the past and accepting the future are painted with colours of folk, jazz, soul and pop; an eclecitism that has seen him compared to John Martyn, Van Morrison and Tom Waits.
For tickets and further information visit bluerosecode.com
Saturday 30th March 2019 - The Jennifer Crook Trio
Pound Arts Centre, The Pound, Corsham SN: Saturday 30th March 2019
Singer/Songwriter, harpist and musician, Jennifer Crook has released a string of finely-crafted albums and performed across the UK and Europe - inlcuding a major tour with Snow Patrol - before releasing her acclaimed album 'Carnforth Station' which was produced by Stephen W Tayler (Kate Bush, Suzanne Vega).
The addition of first class musicians Mike Cosgrave (guitar, accordian), Clare Lindley (violin) and guest Stuart Bruce (electric guitar, bass) create atmospheric arrangements around Jennifer's vivid storytelling which are simply stunning.
Here latest album, 'The Year She Turns', was released in 2017 and was described as a 'magnificent musical almanac' by FATEA magazine.
For tickets and further information visit www.poundarts.org.uk
Singer/Songwriter, harpist and musician, Jennifer Crook has released a string of finely-crafted albums and performed across the UK and Europe - inlcuding a major tour with Snow Patrol - before releasing her acclaimed album 'Carnforth Station' which was produced by Stephen W Tayler (Kate Bush, Suzanne Vega).
The addition of first class musicians Mike Cosgrave (guitar, accordian), Clare Lindley (violin) and guest Stuart Bruce (electric guitar, bass) create atmospheric arrangements around Jennifer's vivid storytelling which are simply stunning.
Here latest album, 'The Year She Turns', was released in 2017 and was described as a 'magnificent musical almanac' by FATEA magazine.
For tickets and further information visit www.poundarts.org.uk
Thursday 4th April 2019 - Kate Rusby
Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA: Thursday 4th April 2019
The Royal Spa Centre, Newbold Terrace, Leamington CV32 4HN: Friday 5th April 2019
Forever proud to call herself a folk singer, Kate’s beautiful, expressive vocals never fail to connect the emotional heart of a song to that of her audience. The crossover appeal Kate enjoys is unprecedented for a folk singer and has been achieved without resort to compromise.
As early as 1999, aged just 26, Kate was named as one of the Top Ten Folk Voices of the Century. Everything she has done since has confirmed the foresight of those who bestowed that honour. From being a nominee for 1999’s Mercury prize – almost unheard of for a folk singer both then and now – for her stunningly assured second solo album, Sleepless, to 2016’s enthralling Life In A Paper Boat, Kate has stayed true to her folk and acoustic roots.
"Everybody loves Kate Rusby, not just for her lovely voice, but for the way she has moved forward while remaining true to tradition."- The Sunday Times
For tickets and further information visit katerusby.com
The Royal Spa Centre, Newbold Terrace, Leamington CV32 4HN: Friday 5th April 2019
Forever proud to call herself a folk singer, Kate’s beautiful, expressive vocals never fail to connect the emotional heart of a song to that of her audience. The crossover appeal Kate enjoys is unprecedented for a folk singer and has been achieved without resort to compromise.
As early as 1999, aged just 26, Kate was named as one of the Top Ten Folk Voices of the Century. Everything she has done since has confirmed the foresight of those who bestowed that honour. From being a nominee for 1999’s Mercury prize – almost unheard of for a folk singer both then and now – for her stunningly assured second solo album, Sleepless, to 2016’s enthralling Life In A Paper Boat, Kate has stayed true to her folk and acoustic roots.
"Everybody loves Kate Rusby, not just for her lovely voice, but for the way she has moved forward while remaining true to tradition."- The Sunday Times
For tickets and further information visit katerusby.com
Friday 5th April 2019 - The Fureys
Playhouse Theatre, High Street, Weston-Super-Mare BS23 1HP: Friday 5th April 2019
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 11th April 2019
There’s nothing like a crisis to bring a family together. Legends of Irish music and song, The Fureys decided to play together following their involvement in a road accident in Germany.
They have been entertaining audiences across the world for nearly 40 years with hit songs such as ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’ and ‘The Green Fields of France’
The brothers credit their musical ability to their parents, Ted and Nora; being well known musicians themselves, they encouraged their sons to play music from a very early age. Inevitably changes have occurred over 30 years. Their brother Paul died suddenly in June 2002 and Finbar left the band in December 1996. George and Eddie have, however, continued to delight audiences on their tours and released a new CD ‘Songs Through The Years’.
For full tour dates, visit www.thefureys.com/concerts
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX: Thursday 11th April 2019
There’s nothing like a crisis to bring a family together. Legends of Irish music and song, The Fureys decided to play together following their involvement in a road accident in Germany.
They have been entertaining audiences across the world for nearly 40 years with hit songs such as ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’ and ‘The Green Fields of France’
The brothers credit their musical ability to their parents, Ted and Nora; being well known musicians themselves, they encouraged their sons to play music from a very early age. Inevitably changes have occurred over 30 years. Their brother Paul died suddenly in June 2002 and Finbar left the band in December 1996. George and Eddie have, however, continued to delight audiences on their tours and released a new CD ‘Songs Through The Years’.
For full tour dates, visit www.thefureys.com/concerts
Friday 5th April 2019 - Jim Moray
The Other Place, Southern Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BH: Friday 5th April 2019
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Wednesday 15th May 2019
Fourteen years ago Jim Moray released an album that changed the way people perceived, played and presented English folk music. Sweet England arrived at a time when, with just a few notable exceptions, traditional music was performed much as it had been in the 1970s to an audience of insiders and aficionados. The album was received with open arms by those who understood that the music of the people has survived for centuries by being just that – an expression of the times. Absent were the familiar affectations of those who sought to preserve an invented historical aesthetic, Jim Moray was a Bowie and Blur fan singing ballads with all of his influences unfurled.
A decade and a half down the line, his latest album, Upcetera features dramatically orchestrated Child ballads reimagined as torch songs or a kind of English Fado. It’s an album that places the narrative element of these songs centre stage, with Jim Moray’s supple soaring vocal leading the listener by the hand through strange old stories.
For tickets and full tour dates visit jimmoray.co.uk
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Wednesday 15th May 2019
Fourteen years ago Jim Moray released an album that changed the way people perceived, played and presented English folk music. Sweet England arrived at a time when, with just a few notable exceptions, traditional music was performed much as it had been in the 1970s to an audience of insiders and aficionados. The album was received with open arms by those who understood that the music of the people has survived for centuries by being just that – an expression of the times. Absent were the familiar affectations of those who sought to preserve an invented historical aesthetic, Jim Moray was a Bowie and Blur fan singing ballads with all of his influences unfurled.
A decade and a half down the line, his latest album, Upcetera features dramatically orchestrated Child ballads reimagined as torch songs or a kind of English Fado. It’s an album that places the narrative element of these songs centre stage, with Jim Moray’s supple soaring vocal leading the listener by the hand through strange old stories.
For tickets and full tour dates visit jimmoray.co.uk
Saturday 6th April 2019 - Ninebarrow
Wychwood Folk Club, Tiddy Hall, Shipton Rd, Ascott-u-Wychwood, OX7 6AG: Sat 6th April 2019
with support by Odette Mitchell
Ninebarrow are a multi-award-winning folk duo, who are impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition. Described by Mark Radcliffe as sounding ‘like two halves of one voice’ and by Kate Rusby as ‘absolutely amazing’, Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere combine breath taking vocal harmonies and melodies, delivering original songs that are inspired and rooted in the landscape and history of the British Isles. As well as crafting unique and engaging original material, Ninebarrow also take a wide-range of traditional folk songs and rework them in their own, distinctive way.
In 2017, the duo were nominated at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the ’Horizon’ category for ‘Best Emerging Artist’. One of the highest accolades in their genre, it was made even more exceptional because it was only a few months prior to this that Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere relinquished their jobs as a teacher and GP in favour of a full-time music career.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
with support by Odette Mitchell
Ninebarrow are a multi-award-winning folk duo, who are impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition. Described by Mark Radcliffe as sounding ‘like two halves of one voice’ and by Kate Rusby as ‘absolutely amazing’, Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere combine breath taking vocal harmonies and melodies, delivering original songs that are inspired and rooted in the landscape and history of the British Isles. As well as crafting unique and engaging original material, Ninebarrow also take a wide-range of traditional folk songs and rework them in their own, distinctive way.
In 2017, the duo were nominated at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the ’Horizon’ category for ‘Best Emerging Artist’. One of the highest accolades in their genre, it was made even more exceptional because it was only a few months prior to this that Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere relinquished their jobs as a teacher and GP in favour of a full-time music career.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
Thursday 11th April 2019 - The Carrivick Sisters
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 3LD: Thursday 11th April 2019
The Carrivick Sisters are one of the UK's top young bluegrass and folk acts. Twins Laura and Charlotte perform their original songs and instrumentals along with a few carefully chosen covers on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and clawhammer banjo. Their busy touring schedule is rapidly building them a reputation for engaging and entertaining live performances with tight sibling vocal harmonies and multi-instrumental virtuosity. Having grown up in South Devon, an area rich in folk lore and legends, much of their original material is inspired by their local surroundings and history.
As well as touring all over the UK, the Carrivick Sisters have performed at major festivals in Canada and mainland Europe. They have released five studio albumsto much critical acclaim and airplay worldwide. Their 6th album, "10 Years Live" was recorded live at The Convent in Stroud and is a 10 year retrospective and celebration, with half of the album being old favourites chosen by fans and the other half previously unrecorded material.
For tickets and further information visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk
The Carrivick Sisters are one of the UK's top young bluegrass and folk acts. Twins Laura and Charlotte perform their original songs and instrumentals along with a few carefully chosen covers on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and clawhammer banjo. Their busy touring schedule is rapidly building them a reputation for engaging and entertaining live performances with tight sibling vocal harmonies and multi-instrumental virtuosity. Having grown up in South Devon, an area rich in folk lore and legends, much of their original material is inspired by their local surroundings and history.
As well as touring all over the UK, the Carrivick Sisters have performed at major festivals in Canada and mainland Europe. They have released five studio albumsto much critical acclaim and airplay worldwide. Their 6th album, "10 Years Live" was recorded live at The Convent in Stroud and is a 10 year retrospective and celebration, with half of the album being old favourites chosen by fans and the other half previously unrecorded material.
For tickets and further information visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk
Friday 12th April 2019 - Edwina Hayes
The Woodman Folk Club, Ashwood Lower Lane, Kingswinford DY6 0AB: Friday 12th April 2019
Edwina’s beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-Americana.
She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison as well as her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall.
Edwina was born in Dublin and grew up in Preston, Lancashire, before moving to the East coast of Yorkshire as a teenager, where she has been based ever since. Dividing her time between the UK and America, Edwina’s second home is Nashville where she is much loved as a songwriter and artist.
The Mile Roses is a collaborative trio in which Edwina works with fellow songwriters Simon Haworth and Kate Bramley.
For more information and full tour dates visit www.edwinahayes.com
Edwina’s beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-Americana.
She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison as well as her own gigs playing stages everywhere from Glastonbury Festival to The Royal Albert Hall.
Edwina was born in Dublin and grew up in Preston, Lancashire, before moving to the East coast of Yorkshire as a teenager, where she has been based ever since. Dividing her time between the UK and America, Edwina’s second home is Nashville where she is much loved as a songwriter and artist.
The Mile Roses is a collaborative trio in which Edwina works with fellow songwriters Simon Haworth and Kate Bramley.
For more information and full tour dates visit www.edwinahayes.com
Saturday 13th April 2019 - Jim Causley
Under The Edge Arts Centre, Wotton-under-Edge GL7 12AF: Saturday 13th April 2019
The Stables, Sotckwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Monday 9th May 2019
Jim Causley hails from Devon. He has a wonderfully rich and powerful voice and has been nominated for no less than six BBC Folk Awards and was Spiral Earth "Singer of the Year" in 2014. His unique voice and persona has made him one of the most loved musicians on today's folk scene. He sings a mixture of traditonal and self penned songs drawing on south west countryside and folklore.
2017 saw Jim working on yet another album of poetry settings, this year it is Charles Causley’s centenary and as part of the celebrations, Jim will this time be focussing on Charles’ poems for children to coincide with the republishing of his Collected Poems for Children volume.
The new album 'I Am The Song', features a large cast of musicians from the English folk scene and is a joyous celebration of fun! Cornish film-maker Jane Darke has created a biopic of Charles Causley's life featuring interviews with people who knew him as well as many well known contemporary poets including Sir Andrew Motion, Simon Armitage, Brian Patten and Roger McGough.
For tickets and more information visit www.jimcausley.co.uk/gigs
The Stables, Sotckwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU: Monday 9th May 2019
Jim Causley hails from Devon. He has a wonderfully rich and powerful voice and has been nominated for no less than six BBC Folk Awards and was Spiral Earth "Singer of the Year" in 2014. His unique voice and persona has made him one of the most loved musicians on today's folk scene. He sings a mixture of traditonal and self penned songs drawing on south west countryside and folklore.
2017 saw Jim working on yet another album of poetry settings, this year it is Charles Causley’s centenary and as part of the celebrations, Jim will this time be focussing on Charles’ poems for children to coincide with the republishing of his Collected Poems for Children volume.
The new album 'I Am The Song', features a large cast of musicians from the English folk scene and is a joyous celebration of fun! Cornish film-maker Jane Darke has created a biopic of Charles Causley's life featuring interviews with people who knew him as well as many well known contemporary poets including Sir Andrew Motion, Simon Armitage, Brian Patten and Roger McGough.
For tickets and more information visit www.jimcausley.co.uk/gigs
Sunday 14th April 2019 - Craig & Willoughby
Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Kings Heath B14 7SA: Sunday 14th April 2019
Bromsgrove Folk Club, Meadow Road, Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0JJ: Wednesday 25th April 2019
Cathryn Craig is from Richmond, Virginia and has built a strong reputation as both singer and songwriter. She is no stranger to Tennessee's Nashville recording studios, working with Chet Atkins, The Righteous Brothers, Shel Silverstein, Jorma Kaukonen and Garth Brooks.
Brian Willoughby is best known for his virtuoso performances on electric and acoustic guitar.
As well as playing with the Strawbs in the 80s and 90s, Brian has been a session player/sideman in much demand, playing with the likes of Mary Hopkin, Roger Whittaker, Monty Python, Joe Brown and Jim Diamond and Nanci Griffith.
Cathryn and Brian were nominated in folking.com's "Best Duo' category in 2017.
“They catch a mood that could produce goosebumps on sheet metal" - The Glasgow Herald
For more information visit www.craigandwilloughby.com
Bromsgrove Folk Club, Meadow Road, Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0JJ: Wednesday 25th April 2019
Cathryn Craig is from Richmond, Virginia and has built a strong reputation as both singer and songwriter. She is no stranger to Tennessee's Nashville recording studios, working with Chet Atkins, The Righteous Brothers, Shel Silverstein, Jorma Kaukonen and Garth Brooks.
Brian Willoughby is best known for his virtuoso performances on electric and acoustic guitar.
As well as playing with the Strawbs in the 80s and 90s, Brian has been a session player/sideman in much demand, playing with the likes of Mary Hopkin, Roger Whittaker, Monty Python, Joe Brown and Jim Diamond and Nanci Griffith.
Cathryn and Brian were nominated in folking.com's "Best Duo' category in 2017.
“They catch a mood that could produce goosebumps on sheet metal" - The Glasgow Herald
For more information visit www.craigandwilloughby.com
Thursday 18th April 2019 - Under The Wychwood, Every Thread, Mike Weaver
Oat Street Chapel, Oat Street, Evesham WR11 4PJ: Thursday 18th April 2019
A unique 'Folk Treble' event showcasing original material from three distinctly different acts -
Every Thread, Under The Wychwood and Mike Weaver.
Cotswolds-based Under the Wychwood play an eclectic mix of Folk, Americana and Acoustic Blues. Mark Pidgeon (guitar and vocals), Rod Craig (mandolin) and Mat Davies (bass) have become a hugely popular band in folk clubs and festivals throughout the area.
Every Thread (Zoe Titchener and Mike Weston) are an acoustic duo from Birmingham who, in the words of Left For Dead Records, "weave gorgeous melodies into lovely little nuggets of folky pop." They create a stripped-back, intimate sound with guitar, bass and female vocals.
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter from Worcestershire who is known for his self-penned songs which "exude beautiful harmonies, clear story telling and a passion for people."
Tickets and more details www.wegottickets.com/event/463723
A unique 'Folk Treble' event showcasing original material from three distinctly different acts -
Every Thread, Under The Wychwood and Mike Weaver.
Cotswolds-based Under the Wychwood play an eclectic mix of Folk, Americana and Acoustic Blues. Mark Pidgeon (guitar and vocals), Rod Craig (mandolin) and Mat Davies (bass) have become a hugely popular band in folk clubs and festivals throughout the area.
Every Thread (Zoe Titchener and Mike Weston) are an acoustic duo from Birmingham who, in the words of Left For Dead Records, "weave gorgeous melodies into lovely little nuggets of folky pop." They create a stripped-back, intimate sound with guitar, bass and female vocals.
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter from Worcestershire who is known for his self-penned songs which "exude beautiful harmonies, clear story telling and a passion for people."
Tickets and more details www.wegottickets.com/event/463723
Thursday 18th April 2019 - Skerryvore
The Cornerstone, Station Road, Didcot OX11 7NE: Thursday 18th April 2019
Skerryvore represent the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music, with a growing fanbase worldwide and with the promise of much more to come.
Take two brothers, Daniel (Accordion) and Martin Gillespie (pipes, whistles and accordion), steeped in the Scottish west coast ceilidh tradition on the Isle of Tiree, and add in friends Fraser West (drums) and Alec Dalglish (guitar and vocals), with a background in brass bands, wind bands, jazz bands, and with blues, folk and country influences, and you have the 2005, embryonic Skerryvore.
Fast forward 10 years, add Craig Espie (fiddle) and Jodie Bremaneson (bass), bring in your album producer Alan Scobie on Keyboards and mix in the Glasgow music scene – from University Applied Music courses and Traditional Music courses at the Royal Conservatoire to sell out gigs at O2 ABC – and you have a band that has already won Scottish Traditional music’s ‘Live Act of the Year’ in 2011 – they were to win it again in 2016 – and who, rightly, celebrated their decade by launching their own 6000 capacity festival.
For tickets and further information visit www.cornerstone-arts.org
Skerryvore represent the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music, with a growing fanbase worldwide and with the promise of much more to come.
Take two brothers, Daniel (Accordion) and Martin Gillespie (pipes, whistles and accordion), steeped in the Scottish west coast ceilidh tradition on the Isle of Tiree, and add in friends Fraser West (drums) and Alec Dalglish (guitar and vocals), with a background in brass bands, wind bands, jazz bands, and with blues, folk and country influences, and you have the 2005, embryonic Skerryvore.
Fast forward 10 years, add Craig Espie (fiddle) and Jodie Bremaneson (bass), bring in your album producer Alan Scobie on Keyboards and mix in the Glasgow music scene – from University Applied Music courses and Traditional Music courses at the Royal Conservatoire to sell out gigs at O2 ABC – and you have a band that has already won Scottish Traditional music’s ‘Live Act of the Year’ in 2011 – they were to win it again in 2016 – and who, rightly, celebrated their decade by launching their own 6000 capacity festival.
For tickets and further information visit www.cornerstone-arts.org
Friday 19th April 2019 - Urban Folk Quartet
Artix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1GN: Friday 19th April 2019
The Urban Folk Quartet presents a show of high-energy, genre-defying acoustic music that will take your breath away. Comprising Joe Broughton, Paloma Trigás, Tom Chapman and Dan Walsh, the award-winning UFQ celebrate their 10th birthday in 2019 and this special show will include favourites from their back catalogue as well as a host of material from their brand new studio album.
In an age where the word “folk” encompasses everything from acoustic pop to hardcore traditional music, the use of such labels to distinguish one musical experience from another has arguably been stretched farther than ever.
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. There's a palpable electricity to a UFQ gig that surges through the band and into the crowd.” - Songlines
For tickets and further information, visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk/huntingdon-hall
or www.artrix.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/the-urban-folk-quartet
The Urban Folk Quartet presents a show of high-energy, genre-defying acoustic music that will take your breath away. Comprising Joe Broughton, Paloma Trigás, Tom Chapman and Dan Walsh, the award-winning UFQ celebrate their 10th birthday in 2019 and this special show will include favourites from their back catalogue as well as a host of material from their brand new studio album.
In an age where the word “folk” encompasses everything from acoustic pop to hardcore traditional music, the use of such labels to distinguish one musical experience from another has arguably been stretched farther than ever.
“A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. There's a palpable electricity to a UFQ gig that surges through the band and into the crowd.” - Songlines
For tickets and further information, visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk/huntingdon-hall
or www.artrix.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/the-urban-folk-quartet
Friday 19th April 2019 - The Askew Sisters
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Beckspool Rd, Bristol BS16 1NU: Friday 19th April 2019
with support from Nick Hart
Emily and Hazel Askew have become known as two of the foremost performers and interpreters of English folk music.Their live performances brim with the depth and connection not only of two sisters, but also of two musicians who have been immersed in folk music all their lives.
Together, they rework and reinterpret songs and balladry, creating breath-taking arrangements, which allow words that are hundreds of years old to resonate profoundly with contemporary audiences.
In 2014, their third album ‘In the Air or the Earth’, was released by RootBeat Records to widespread critical acclaim, including the Spiral Earth Award for Best Traditional Album 2015. Stirred by new musical experiences, the sisters now return to their duo with a fresh vision. They are spending 2018 deep in rehearsal, reconstructing and re-exploring their sound, unearthing old songs, as well as composing and creating new music. The culmination of this will be their long awaited fourth studio album, to be released in 2019.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
with support from Nick Hart
Emily and Hazel Askew have become known as two of the foremost performers and interpreters of English folk music.Their live performances brim with the depth and connection not only of two sisters, but also of two musicians who have been immersed in folk music all their lives.
Together, they rework and reinterpret songs and balladry, creating breath-taking arrangements, which allow words that are hundreds of years old to resonate profoundly with contemporary audiences.
In 2014, their third album ‘In the Air or the Earth’, was released by RootBeat Records to widespread critical acclaim, including the Spiral Earth Award for Best Traditional Album 2015. Stirred by new musical experiences, the sisters now return to their duo with a fresh vision. They are spending 2018 deep in rehearsal, reconstructing and re-exploring their sound, unearthing old songs, as well as composing and creating new music. The culmination of this will be their long awaited fourth studio album, to be released in 2019.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
Friday 26th April 2019 - Megson
St Helen's Church, Gloucester Road, Alveston, Bristol BS35 3QT: Friday 26th April 2019
Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove B60 1BH: Saturday 27th April 2019
Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music.
The husband and wife duo bring an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars.
Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo), Megson have gained fame on the British folk scene, not only for their arresting and intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. As fRoots Magazine puts it ‘if you don’t like the music here, then you have a problem.’
Summer 2016 saw the release of their much anticipated new studio album
Good Time Will Come Again, gaining them much critical acclaim. “One of the most original political folk sets of the year. Ewan MacColl would have been impressed,” said The Guardian.
For full tour dates and details visit www.megsonmusic.co.uk
Burcot Village Hall, Alcester Road, Burcot, Bromsgrove B60 1BH: Saturday 27th April 2019
Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music.
The husband and wife duo bring an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars.
Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo), Megson have gained fame on the British folk scene, not only for their arresting and intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. As fRoots Magazine puts it ‘if you don’t like the music here, then you have a problem.’
Summer 2016 saw the release of their much anticipated new studio album
Good Time Will Come Again, gaining them much critical acclaim. “One of the most original political folk sets of the year. Ewan MacColl would have been impressed,” said The Guardian.
For full tour dates and details visit www.megsonmusic.co.uk
Saturday 27th April 2019 - Daria Kulesh
Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1QR: Saturday 27th April 2019
(with Marina Osman)
Carpenters Arms, Miserden, Stroud, GL6 7JA: Wednesday 1st May 2019 (with Jonny Dyer)
Ryepiece Barnhouse, Rogers Lane, Ettington CV37 7SX: Friday 28th June 2019
With her striking voice and strong Russian and Ingush heritage, "bold, exotic, impressive" Daria Kulesh is a rising star and a unique character on the UK folk scene. Her debut album Eternal Child was described as "phenomenal" and named Runner-Up in "Best Album of 2015 from a Female Artist" by FolkWords, among numerous other accolades.
Her 2017 album Long Lost Home has won awards in the UK and in Russia, including Laurel Canyon Music's Album of the Year. It has enjoyed national radio play and incredible reviews calling it a "triumph", a "masterpiece" and "a definite contender for the best album of 2017". Mike Harding praised the The Moon and the Pilot as "one of the most beautiful new songs of the last ten years".
A hardworking and in-demand live performer, Daria offers her audiences a thoroughly engaging, entertaining and enchanting experience.
For tickets and further information visit www.daria-kulesh.co.uk/gigs
(with Marina Osman)
Carpenters Arms, Miserden, Stroud, GL6 7JA: Wednesday 1st May 2019 (with Jonny Dyer)
Ryepiece Barnhouse, Rogers Lane, Ettington CV37 7SX: Friday 28th June 2019
With her striking voice and strong Russian and Ingush heritage, "bold, exotic, impressive" Daria Kulesh is a rising star and a unique character on the UK folk scene. Her debut album Eternal Child was described as "phenomenal" and named Runner-Up in "Best Album of 2015 from a Female Artist" by FolkWords, among numerous other accolades.
Her 2017 album Long Lost Home has won awards in the UK and in Russia, including Laurel Canyon Music's Album of the Year. It has enjoyed national radio play and incredible reviews calling it a "triumph", a "masterpiece" and "a definite contender for the best album of 2017". Mike Harding praised the The Moon and the Pilot as "one of the most beautiful new songs of the last ten years".
A hardworking and in-demand live performer, Daria offers her audiences a thoroughly engaging, entertaining and enchanting experience.
For tickets and further information visit www.daria-kulesh.co.uk/gigs
Thursday 2nd May 2019 - Martin & Eliza Carthy
The Station, Silver Street, Bristol BS1 2AG: Thursday 2nd May 2019
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX: Sunday 5th May 2019
Legendary ballad singer and “arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all” (Q magazine) Martin Carthy returns to Bristol with his twice Mercury-nominated daughter Eliza. Together and apart, Martin and Eliza represent a musical dynasty “who have quietly revolutionised traditional English music” (Guardian).
“Arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all” according to Q magazine, Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s best loved figures for over 40 years. Over this time, Carthy has nurtured partnerships with the likes of Steeleye Span, Dave Swarbrick, his own wife Norma Waterson and daughter Eliza Carthy – partnerships which have spawned over 40 albums.
Eliza Carthy has become one of the most recognised artists in folk music around today, and has become its standard bearer: determined to bring folk music to the ears of a new generation, making it relevant and dazzling them with boundary-crossing performances.
Further information www.chippingnortontheatre.com or www.colstonhall.org/shows
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX: Sunday 5th May 2019
Legendary ballad singer and “arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all” (Q magazine) Martin Carthy returns to Bristol with his twice Mercury-nominated daughter Eliza. Together and apart, Martin and Eliza represent a musical dynasty “who have quietly revolutionised traditional English music” (Guardian).
“Arguably the greatest English folk song performer, writer, collector and editor of them all” according to Q magazine, Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s best loved figures for over 40 years. Over this time, Carthy has nurtured partnerships with the likes of Steeleye Span, Dave Swarbrick, his own wife Norma Waterson and daughter Eliza Carthy – partnerships which have spawned over 40 albums.
Eliza Carthy has become one of the most recognised artists in folk music around today, and has become its standard bearer: determined to bring folk music to the ears of a new generation, making it relevant and dazzling them with boundary-crossing performances.
Further information www.chippingnortontheatre.com or www.colstonhall.org/shows
Saturday 4th May 2019 - The Gerry Colvin Band
Wychwood Folk Club, Tiddy Hall, Shipton Rd, Ascott-u-Wychwood, OX7 6AG: Sat 4th May 2019
with support by Liz Simcock
Barrow-born Gerry Colvin has enjoyed a varied career in the music business - from his early days in the 1970's with a band called 'The Man Upstairs' (who toured with The Smiths) through the legendary John Peel favourite skiffle-cowpunk indie outfit 'Terry & Gerry' to his work in the early 1990's Gerry worked in Nashville as a professional songwriter and co-writing with Alison Moyet.
In 1993 Gerry formed the folk-pop band 'The Atlantics': they toured extensively including a slot at Glastonbury and in 1995 he co-founded the five piece folk band Colvinquarmby. They released six critically acclaimed albums and were voted best band at the prestigious Fairport Convention Cropredy Festival in 2009. In 2015 the original line-up of Terry and Gerry reformed and toured nationally with rock heroes Status Quo culminating with a concert at The Albert Hall!!
In 2013 Gerry released a self-penned solo album 'Jazz Tales of Country Folk' . His new CD 'Six of One half a Dozen of the Other', a collection of ten(!) brand new songs, is available now.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
with support by Liz Simcock
Barrow-born Gerry Colvin has enjoyed a varied career in the music business - from his early days in the 1970's with a band called 'The Man Upstairs' (who toured with The Smiths) through the legendary John Peel favourite skiffle-cowpunk indie outfit 'Terry & Gerry' to his work in the early 1990's Gerry worked in Nashville as a professional songwriter and co-writing with Alison Moyet.
In 1993 Gerry formed the folk-pop band 'The Atlantics': they toured extensively including a slot at Glastonbury and in 1995 he co-founded the five piece folk band Colvinquarmby. They released six critically acclaimed albums and were voted best band at the prestigious Fairport Convention Cropredy Festival in 2009. In 2015 the original line-up of Terry and Gerry reformed and toured nationally with rock heroes Status Quo culminating with a concert at The Albert Hall!!
In 2013 Gerry released a self-penned solo album 'Jazz Tales of Country Folk' . His new CD 'Six of One half a Dozen of the Other', a collection of ten(!) brand new songs, is available now.
For tickets and further information visit www.wychwoodfolkclub.com
Sunday 5th May 2019 - Cara Dillon
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Sunday 5th May 2019
Nettlebed Folk Club, Village Hall, High Street, Nettlebed RG9 5DD: Monday 24th June 2019
Born in Dungiven in 1975, surrounded and infused with the rich cultural heritage of her native County Derry, Cara has risen to become one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world. Possessing a rare and unique voice that has been lauded since her very beginnings winning the All Ireland singing trophy aged only 14.
Together with her husband and musical partner, Sam Lakeman, Cara has succesfully steered an eclectic musical path defying the typical pigeonholes that hinder most artists in her genre.
Celebrated for entwining traditional and contemporary elements she has earned both commercial success and astonishing critical acclaim.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.caradillon.co.uk/gigs
Nettlebed Folk Club, Village Hall, High Street, Nettlebed RG9 5DD: Monday 24th June 2019
Born in Dungiven in 1975, surrounded and infused with the rich cultural heritage of her native County Derry, Cara has risen to become one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world. Possessing a rare and unique voice that has been lauded since her very beginnings winning the All Ireland singing trophy aged only 14.
Together with her husband and musical partner, Sam Lakeman, Cara has succesfully steered an eclectic musical path defying the typical pigeonholes that hinder most artists in her genre.
Celebrated for entwining traditional and contemporary elements she has earned both commercial success and astonishing critical acclaim.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.caradillon.co.uk/gigs
Thursday 9th May 2018 - The Budapest Café Orchestra
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 9th May 2019
Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury RG14 5BD: Tuesday 21st May 2019
Hugely entertaining with immense skill and profound musicianship, The Budapest Café Orchestra have won acclaim from fans, fellow musicians and critics alike for their electrifying and entertaining shows.
The Budapest Café Orchestra is a hybrid super acoustic band for the 21st Century, led by jazz violin superstar Christian Garrick, and playing traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music from across the
Balkans and Russia. Mournful Klezmer melodies, raucous Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czadas are all encountered alongside beautiful ballads, such as the theme to Schindler's List and Andy Statman's haunting Flatbush Waltz.
Evoking vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires - plus a few surprises along the way - a show by the BCO will make you want to book that holiday down the Danube.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury RG14 5BD: Tuesday 21st May 2019
Hugely entertaining with immense skill and profound musicianship, The Budapest Café Orchestra have won acclaim from fans, fellow musicians and critics alike for their electrifying and entertaining shows.
The Budapest Café Orchestra is a hybrid super acoustic band for the 21st Century, led by jazz violin superstar Christian Garrick, and playing traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music from across the
Balkans and Russia. Mournful Klezmer melodies, raucous Romanian Doinas and Hungarian Czadas are all encountered alongside beautiful ballads, such as the theme to Schindler's List and Andy Statman's haunting Flatbush Waltz.
Evoking vivid images of Tzigane fiddle maestros, Budapest café life and gypsy campfires - plus a few surprises along the way - a show by the BCO will make you want to book that holiday down the Danube.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.budapestcafeorchestra.co.uk
Saturday 11th May 2019 - Keith Hyett
Cranham Village Hall, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8HP: Saturday 11th May 2019
with Helen Hill
Keith Hyett's musical influences are many and varied, from the rock music of his teenage years, to classical favourites by Bach and Beethoven, to flamenco and folk music, all are in there, which means that his music is appreciated by a wide audience.
His self-composed guitar pieces will take you for a walk through a forest on a moonlit night, with a clearing where you get a panoramic view of the moon and stars.
Another big influence on Keith is poetry. Keith has used the poetry of Thomas Hardy, and other English poets, all of whose work has given inspiration for rhythm and melody. The first piece he composed in this way is a piece called 'Timing Her', which has a call and answer feel to it. Like a lot of Keith's music it is quite a moody piece, and in the right venue can catch peoples imagination, and take their breath away.
Further information and full tour dates www.keithhyettguitarist.co.uk
with Helen Hill
Keith Hyett's musical influences are many and varied, from the rock music of his teenage years, to classical favourites by Bach and Beethoven, to flamenco and folk music, all are in there, which means that his music is appreciated by a wide audience.
His self-composed guitar pieces will take you for a walk through a forest on a moonlit night, with a clearing where you get a panoramic view of the moon and stars.
Another big influence on Keith is poetry. Keith has used the poetry of Thomas Hardy, and other English poets, all of whose work has given inspiration for rhythm and melody. The first piece he composed in this way is a piece called 'Timing Her', which has a call and answer feel to it. Like a lot of Keith's music it is quite a moody piece, and in the right venue can catch peoples imagination, and take their breath away.
Further information and full tour dates www.keithhyettguitarist.co.uk
Friday 17th May 2019 - The Dovetail Trio
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Beckspool Rd, Bristol BS16 1NU: Friday 17th May 2019
with support from Road Not Taken
Presenting England's traditional songs with a bold and fresh approach, The Dovetail Trio explores familiar narratives and modern themes with infectious energy and a passion for musical heritage.
The new collaboration effortlessly combines the distinctive voices and acclaimed instrumental talents of BBC Radio 2 Folk Award nominee Jamie Roberts, BBC Performing Arts Award winner Rosie Hood, and Newcastle Folk Degree alumnus Matt Quinn.
The Dovetail Trio’s debut album Wing of Evening was released on 4th September 2015 on RootBeat Records. The album features a number of unusual versions of traditional English songs alongside an American folk story, a traditional Scottish whaling song, and even a French/Canadian tune set. Tight vocal harmonies and skilled musicianship make this an exciting debut album.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
with support from Road Not Taken
Presenting England's traditional songs with a bold and fresh approach, The Dovetail Trio explores familiar narratives and modern themes with infectious energy and a passion for musical heritage.
The new collaboration effortlessly combines the distinctive voices and acclaimed instrumental talents of BBC Radio 2 Folk Award nominee Jamie Roberts, BBC Performing Arts Award winner Rosie Hood, and Newcastle Folk Degree alumnus Matt Quinn.
The Dovetail Trio’s debut album Wing of Evening was released on 4th September 2015 on RootBeat Records. The album features a number of unusual versions of traditional English songs alongside an American folk story, a traditional Scottish whaling song, and even a French/Canadian tune set. Tight vocal harmonies and skilled musicianship make this an exciting debut album.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
Sunday 19th May 2019 - Emily Barker
The Prince Albert, Rodborough, Stroud GL5 3SS: Sunday 19th May 2019
Emily Barker is best known as the writer and performer of the award-winning theme to the hit PBS Masterpiece drama Wallander starring Kenneth Branagh. Growing up in rural Western Australia, Barker fell in love with American roots music from the soul of Aretha Franklin to the country of Gillian Welch and Emmylou Harris.
Her travels led her to settling in the UK, where she has released a succession of critically acclaimed albums, including Nashville-recorded Applewood Road with Amy Speace and Amber Rubarth. Her latest solo album Sweet Kind of Blue was recorded at Sam Phillips Recording Service in Memphis with Grammy winning producer Matt Ross-Spang (Margo Price, Jason Isbell, Mary Chapin Carpenter).
From country-soul ballads to the unfettered joy of the bluesy ‘Sunrise’, the album has been lauded as Barker’s best yet and features contributions from some of Memphis’ finest musicians.
For tickets and further information visit www.emilybarker.com
Emily Barker is best known as the writer and performer of the award-winning theme to the hit PBS Masterpiece drama Wallander starring Kenneth Branagh. Growing up in rural Western Australia, Barker fell in love with American roots music from the soul of Aretha Franklin to the country of Gillian Welch and Emmylou Harris.
Her travels led her to settling in the UK, where she has released a succession of critically acclaimed albums, including Nashville-recorded Applewood Road with Amy Speace and Amber Rubarth. Her latest solo album Sweet Kind of Blue was recorded at Sam Phillips Recording Service in Memphis with Grammy winning producer Matt Ross-Spang (Margo Price, Jason Isbell, Mary Chapin Carpenter).
From country-soul ballads to the unfettered joy of the bluesy ‘Sunrise’, the album has been lauded as Barker’s best yet and features contributions from some of Memphis’ finest musicians.
For tickets and further information visit www.emilybarker.com
Friday 24th May 2019 - Edgelarks
Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1GN: Friday 24th May 2019
The Wardrobe Theatre, West Street, Bristol BS2 0DF: Tuesday 4th June 2019
Ace Space, St Nicholas Road, Newbury RG14 5PR: Friday 14th June 2019
Firmly established on the roots and acoustic scene, the ‘’bravely original’’ (The Guardian) duo blends British traditional music with Indian classical slide guitar, stomping beatbox and harmonica to blistering effect. The latest album, by the same name Edgelarks, takes the idea that thresholds, despite often being places of marginalisation, are also places of change – and therefore places of hope. That in the end, we have far more in common than things that divide us, because we are all liminal – we are all just passing through. Phil & Hannah have also made a huge impact with The Gigspanner Big Band and the Band of Love.
Keen, curious and concerned intellects are at work here. Hannah Martin is an enthralling singer; Phillip Henry plays all manner of guitars and the harmonica, terrifically Julian May, Songlines *****
Tickets and further information www.artrix.co.uk
The Wardrobe Theatre, West Street, Bristol BS2 0DF: Tuesday 4th June 2019
Ace Space, St Nicholas Road, Newbury RG14 5PR: Friday 14th June 2019
Firmly established on the roots and acoustic scene, the ‘’bravely original’’ (The Guardian) duo blends British traditional music with Indian classical slide guitar, stomping beatbox and harmonica to blistering effect. The latest album, by the same name Edgelarks, takes the idea that thresholds, despite often being places of marginalisation, are also places of change – and therefore places of hope. That in the end, we have far more in common than things that divide us, because we are all liminal – we are all just passing through. Phil & Hannah have also made a huge impact with The Gigspanner Big Band and the Band of Love.
Keen, curious and concerned intellects are at work here. Hannah Martin is an enthralling singer; Phillip Henry plays all manner of guitars and the harmonica, terrifically Julian May, Songlines *****
Tickets and further information www.artrix.co.uk
Thursday 30th May 2019 - Nick Hart
Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham WR11 4QH: Thursday 30th May 2019
The Wardrobe Theatre, West Street, Bristol BS2 0DF: Wednesday 5th June 2019
Nick Hart is a folk singer deeply rooted in the English tradition. Raised in a family of morris dancers, Nick played instrumental music for many years before discovering his passion for traditional song. Whilst studying for an ethnomusicology degree, he began to explore the large body of recordings of traditional singers from the second half of the 20th century, and this led to several years of fevered study and many nights spent at folk clubs and festivals, honing his skills as an unaccompanied singer.
Nick’s initially hardline attitude to the accompaniment of folk songs has softened over the years, but his love of the nuances of traditional singing informs his minimal guitar accompaniment, and his songs are delivered with a great emphasis on storytelling. His repertoire of songs, drawn largely from his native East Anglia, reflect his understanding of both the depth and breadth of material within the English tradition and he is fast acquiring a reputation as an engaging and entertaining performer.
2017 saw the release of his first solo album, Nick Hart Sings Eight English Folk Songs.
For more information visit fancourtmusic.com/nick-hart
The Wardrobe Theatre, West Street, Bristol BS2 0DF: Wednesday 5th June 2019
Nick Hart is a folk singer deeply rooted in the English tradition. Raised in a family of morris dancers, Nick played instrumental music for many years before discovering his passion for traditional song. Whilst studying for an ethnomusicology degree, he began to explore the large body of recordings of traditional singers from the second half of the 20th century, and this led to several years of fevered study and many nights spent at folk clubs and festivals, honing his skills as an unaccompanied singer.
Nick’s initially hardline attitude to the accompaniment of folk songs has softened over the years, but his love of the nuances of traditional singing informs his minimal guitar accompaniment, and his songs are delivered with a great emphasis on storytelling. His repertoire of songs, drawn largely from his native East Anglia, reflect his understanding of both the depth and breadth of material within the English tradition and he is fast acquiring a reputation as an engaging and entertaining performer.
2017 saw the release of his first solo album, Nick Hart Sings Eight English Folk Songs.
For more information visit fancourtmusic.com/nick-hart
Saturday 8th June 2019 - Steve Ashley
Number 8 Arts Centre, High Street, Pershore WR10 1BG: Saturday 8th June 2019
Oat Street Chapel, Oat Street, Evesham WR11 4PJ: Saturday 14th September 2019
Steve Ashley's 1974 debut album Stroll On is widely regarded as one of the most influential recordings of its genre. With new songs that blazed a trail uniting traditional influences with contemporary life, it was described in Melody Maker as “The most sensational album since folk became contemporary”. Over thirty years on, his album Time and Tide was described in fROOTS magazine as 'a modern day masterpiece.'
Since he started performing live again, there has been renewed interested in his material - classic songs which have been covered by the likes of Martin Simpson, Fairport Convention, Wizz Jones, Phil Beer, Grace Notes and St Agnes Fountain. In 2015 Steve released a highly acclaimed album, This Little Game, a stripped back recording with just vocal and guitar - the way his gigs are these days. It was listed as one of the Telegraph's folk albums of the year. His eleventh CD, One More Thing was released in 2018.
For tickets and full tour dates, visit www.steveashley.co.uk
Oat Street Chapel, Oat Street, Evesham WR11 4PJ: Saturday 14th September 2019
Steve Ashley's 1974 debut album Stroll On is widely regarded as one of the most influential recordings of its genre. With new songs that blazed a trail uniting traditional influences with contemporary life, it was described in Melody Maker as “The most sensational album since folk became contemporary”. Over thirty years on, his album Time and Tide was described in fROOTS magazine as 'a modern day masterpiece.'
Since he started performing live again, there has been renewed interested in his material - classic songs which have been covered by the likes of Martin Simpson, Fairport Convention, Wizz Jones, Phil Beer, Grace Notes and St Agnes Fountain. In 2015 Steve released a highly acclaimed album, This Little Game, a stripped back recording with just vocal and guitar - the way his gigs are these days. It was listed as one of the Telegraph's folk albums of the year. His eleventh CD, One More Thing was released in 2018.
For tickets and full tour dates, visit www.steveashley.co.uk
Friday 14th June 2019 - Rick Kemp
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 3LD: Friday 14th June 2019
Rick Kemp is obviously best known to most as a member of the legendary folk/rock band Steeleye Span, but alongside and before and after that association Rick has had a varied and exciting life in music.
The evening will consist of his many reminiscences and stories of that time. Some will feature famous names we all will know, but perhaps the most interesting will be of people and events that we have never heard about.
Rick Kemp is, as many will be aware, a superb songwriter and the evening will include many of his excellent songs.
It will be a absorbing evening from someone with an excellent story to tell and a tremendous dry wit that draws laughter from his audience.
For tickets and further information, visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk/huntingdon-hall
Rick Kemp is obviously best known to most as a member of the legendary folk/rock band Steeleye Span, but alongside and before and after that association Rick has had a varied and exciting life in music.
The evening will consist of his many reminiscences and stories of that time. Some will feature famous names we all will know, but perhaps the most interesting will be of people and events that we have never heard about.
Rick Kemp is, as many will be aware, a superb songwriter and the evening will include many of his excellent songs.
It will be a absorbing evening from someone with an excellent story to tell and a tremendous dry wit that draws laughter from his audience.
For tickets and further information, visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk/huntingdon-hall
Saturday 15th June 2019 - Steve Knightley
Wychwood Folk Club, Tiddy Hall, Ascott-u-Wychwood OX7 6AG: Saturday 15th June 2019
Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1GN: Friday 21st June 2019
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 3LD: Thursday 11th July 2019
Steve Knightley is an English singer, songwriter and acoustic musician. Since 1992 he has been one half of possibly the UK's most successful Folk/Roots duos – 'Show of Hands'. His partner Phil Beer is widely regarded as one of the world's finest acoustic multi-instrumentalists, and Steve is himself one of the finest songwriters on the international circuit.
At the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Steve and Phil received a prestigious double accolade when they were named ‘Best Duo’ and also clinched the ‘Best Original Song’ award for Steve’s punchy ‘Arrogance Ignorance and Greed’ title track which has gone on to be one of the most acclaimed – and continually topical! – songs in the SoH repertoire.
“Formidable operators in the roots arena. A class act” - The Independent
"One of England’s greatest singer songwriters” - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
For full tour dates and further information www.steveknightley.co.uk
Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1GN: Friday 21st June 2019
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 3LD: Thursday 11th July 2019
Steve Knightley is an English singer, songwriter and acoustic musician. Since 1992 he has been one half of possibly the UK's most successful Folk/Roots duos – 'Show of Hands'. His partner Phil Beer is widely regarded as one of the world's finest acoustic multi-instrumentalists, and Steve is himself one of the finest songwriters on the international circuit.
At the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Steve and Phil received a prestigious double accolade when they were named ‘Best Duo’ and also clinched the ‘Best Original Song’ award for Steve’s punchy ‘Arrogance Ignorance and Greed’ title track which has gone on to be one of the most acclaimed – and continually topical! – songs in the SoH repertoire.
“Formidable operators in the roots arena. A class act” - The Independent
"One of England’s greatest singer songwriters” - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
For full tour dates and further information www.steveknightley.co.uk
Wednesday 19th June 2019 - Gordon Giltrap
The Theatre, Spring Street, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL: Thursday 19th June 2019
with special guest Carrie Martin
Recently awarded an MBE in the 2019 New Year’s Honour List for services to Music and Charity, legendary British Guitarist Gordon Giltrap will be performing a select series of shows across the UK.
Over five decades, Gordon Giltrap has graced the music business with his dedication to his craft and his affection for his audience. This innovative guitarist is back out on the road performing many of his incredible songs with incredible arrangements in what promises to be an electrifying solo acoustic show. Expect to hear classics such as Heartsong and Lucifer’s Cage alongside new material from his latest album ‘The Last of England’.
A show guaranteed to enthrall guitar aficionados, acoustic enthusiasts and music lovers in general, don’t miss the chance to see one of the UK’s most important and influential guitarists in action.
For tickets and further infomation visit www.chippingnortontheatre.com
with special guest Carrie Martin
Recently awarded an MBE in the 2019 New Year’s Honour List for services to Music and Charity, legendary British Guitarist Gordon Giltrap will be performing a select series of shows across the UK.
Over five decades, Gordon Giltrap has graced the music business with his dedication to his craft and his affection for his audience. This innovative guitarist is back out on the road performing many of his incredible songs with incredible arrangements in what promises to be an electrifying solo acoustic show. Expect to hear classics such as Heartsong and Lucifer’s Cage alongside new material from his latest album ‘The Last of England’.
A show guaranteed to enthrall guitar aficionados, acoustic enthusiasts and music lovers in general, don’t miss the chance to see one of the UK’s most important and influential guitarists in action.
For tickets and further infomation visit www.chippingnortontheatre.com
Friday 21st June 2019 - Kim Lowings, Town Musicians of Bremen, Mike Weaver
The Old Baptist Chapel, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ: Friday 21st June 2019
An evening of original, contemporary and traditional music from FATEA-nominated Kim Lowings, folk and roots trio Town Musicians of Bremen and singer-songwriter Mike Weaver.
With The Greenwood, Kim Lowings has firmly rooted herself into the British folk scene. Their sound is “punchy and authentic” (Mike Harding) and cleverly combines original songs with familiar traditional tales highlighting the continued relevance of tradition today. Kim will be solo at this event.
Town Musicians of Bremen are Andrew Lowings (Bouzouki, and Kim's father!) Leon Gormley (Guitar & Cittern) and Lewis Jones (Nyckelharpa & Melodeon). They play with soul, humour and dexterity, producing sounds which are equally traditional and contemporary, and immensely enjoyable.
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter from Worcestershire who is known for his self-penned songs which "exude beautiful harmonies, clear story telling and a passion for people."
Tickets available from https://www.wegottickets.com/event/462206
An evening of original, contemporary and traditional music from FATEA-nominated Kim Lowings, folk and roots trio Town Musicians of Bremen and singer-songwriter Mike Weaver.
With The Greenwood, Kim Lowings has firmly rooted herself into the British folk scene. Their sound is “punchy and authentic” (Mike Harding) and cleverly combines original songs with familiar traditional tales highlighting the continued relevance of tradition today. Kim will be solo at this event.
Town Musicians of Bremen are Andrew Lowings (Bouzouki, and Kim's father!) Leon Gormley (Guitar & Cittern) and Lewis Jones (Nyckelharpa & Melodeon). They play with soul, humour and dexterity, producing sounds which are equally traditional and contemporary, and immensely enjoyable.
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter from Worcestershire who is known for his self-penned songs which "exude beautiful harmonies, clear story telling and a passion for people."
Tickets available from https://www.wegottickets.com/event/462206
Friday 21st June 2019 - Kitty Macfarlane
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Beckspool Rd, Bristol BS16 1NU: Friday 21st June 2019
with support from Louis Campbell
Kitty Macfarlane is a songwriter and guitarist from Somerset, whose music is rich with visual imagery and written with an eco-eye. From the starling murmurations on the Somerset Levels to the lowly eel's epic transatlantic migration, and the small part we ourselves play in a much bigger picture, her songs are bound by the underlying theme of mankind's relationship with the wild.
Kitty's highly anticipated debut album Namer Of Clouds, released September 2018 and produced by Sam Kelly and Jacob J Stoney, gathers inspiration from the sky to the seabed. Carried by a voice 'as clear as a mountain stream' (FRUK), her lyrics touch on intervention and rewilding, climate change and migration, and woman’s historical relationship with textiles and the land.
The album is augmented by all kinds of ‘found sound’ recorded in locations from Somerset to Sardinia – birdsong, waterfalls, the click of knitting needles - and bookended by sounds of the wild.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
with support from Louis Campbell
Kitty Macfarlane is a songwriter and guitarist from Somerset, whose music is rich with visual imagery and written with an eco-eye. From the starling murmurations on the Somerset Levels to the lowly eel's epic transatlantic migration, and the small part we ourselves play in a much bigger picture, her songs are bound by the underlying theme of mankind's relationship with the wild.
Kitty's highly anticipated debut album Namer Of Clouds, released September 2018 and produced by Sam Kelly and Jacob J Stoney, gathers inspiration from the sky to the seabed. Carried by a voice 'as clear as a mountain stream' (FRUK), her lyrics touch on intervention and rewilding, climate change and migration, and woman’s historical relationship with textiles and the land.
The album is augmented by all kinds of ‘found sound’ recorded in locations from Somerset to Sardinia – birdsong, waterfalls, the click of knitting needles - and bookended by sounds of the wild.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
Saturday 13th July 2019 - Kim Lowings & The Greenwood
Harwell Village Hall, High Street, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0XE: Saturday 13th July 2019
Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley DY12 2AE: Sunday 25th August 2019
Inspired by the folk tradition, Kim Lowings and The Greenwood perform their songs with a contemporary twist. Their live shows are an energetic blend of original compositions and traditional songs.
Kim Lowings, Andrew Lowings, Tim Rogers and Dave Sutherland bring together their multi-instrumental skill and individual experience resulting in an innovative and sensitive approach to arrangements. The motivation is to keep the tradition alive and to share their own tales.
The group began as a collective in 2011 with Kim and her Dad, Andrew, collaborating with Midlands musicians. Since then the Greenwood has become an established four-piece on the British folk scene.
Their recorded work includes their debut album This Life (2012), EP Deepest, Darkest Night (2013) and their latest album Historia (2015) heralded as "Absolutely captivating” R2 Magazine. A new album Wild & Wicked Youth was launched in September 2017.
For more information visit kimlowings.com
Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley DY12 2AE: Sunday 25th August 2019
Inspired by the folk tradition, Kim Lowings and The Greenwood perform their songs with a contemporary twist. Their live shows are an energetic blend of original compositions and traditional songs.
Kim Lowings, Andrew Lowings, Tim Rogers and Dave Sutherland bring together their multi-instrumental skill and individual experience resulting in an innovative and sensitive approach to arrangements. The motivation is to keep the tradition alive and to share their own tales.
The group began as a collective in 2011 with Kim and her Dad, Andrew, collaborating with Midlands musicians. Since then the Greenwood has become an established four-piece on the British folk scene.
Their recorded work includes their debut album This Life (2012), EP Deepest, Darkest Night (2013) and their latest album Historia (2015) heralded as "Absolutely captivating” R2 Magazine. A new album Wild & Wicked Youth was launched in September 2017.
For more information visit kimlowings.com
Friday 19th July 2019 - Jack Rutter
Downend Folk Club, Frenchay Village Hall, Beckspool Rd, Bristol BS16 1NU: Friday 19th July 2019
with support from Ellie Gowers
Still in his mid 20s, Jack Rutter (Moore Moss Rutter, Seth Lakeman band, Jackie Oates band) is a highly respected singer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist making music within the British folk tradition. The recent release of his debut solo album, which is a collection of eleven traditional folk songs, produced by Joe Rusby and recorded completely solo and live in the studio with no overdubs, has been received with across the board acclaim and recognition.
Jack grew up in the Holme Valley area of West Yorkshire, a place steeped in a wealth of traditional
song and since graduating from Newcastle University with a BSc degree in Countryside Management in 2014, he’s gone on to forge a hugely successful career playing music professionally in various guises across Britain and Europe. In this new solo outing, the BBC award winning musician delivers folk
songs with a rich, unassuming Yorkshire charm and an easy going stage presence.
His debut album - Hills - is out now.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
with support from Ellie Gowers
Still in his mid 20s, Jack Rutter (Moore Moss Rutter, Seth Lakeman band, Jackie Oates band) is a highly respected singer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist making music within the British folk tradition. The recent release of his debut solo album, which is a collection of eleven traditional folk songs, produced by Joe Rusby and recorded completely solo and live in the studio with no overdubs, has been received with across the board acclaim and recognition.
Jack grew up in the Holme Valley area of West Yorkshire, a place steeped in a wealth of traditional
song and since graduating from Newcastle University with a BSc degree in Countryside Management in 2014, he’s gone on to forge a hugely successful career playing music professionally in various guises across Britain and Europe. In this new solo outing, the BBC award winning musician delivers folk
songs with a rich, unassuming Yorkshire charm and an easy going stage presence.
His debut album - Hills - is out now.
For tickets and more details visit www.downendfolkclub.co.uk
Saturday 20th July 2019 - Mike Weaver
Micheldean Parish Church, Mitcheldean GL17 0HU : Saturday 20th July 2019
at 2.30pm, part of the Mitcheldean Festival showcase concert
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter originally from Cheltenham, but now living in Worcestershire. He is a writer and illustrator by day and an acoustic performer by night, presenting his own melodic songs which draw upon both contemporary and traditional influences. After a break of over twenty years, Mike returned to songwriting and performing in 2013 and released a CD of original songs spanning three decades in August 2014. Since his 'come back' he has played at a variety of events across southern England and the Midlands, and has been ranked as high as number two in the Reverbnation UK Folk Charts.
Mike's CD 'The Others' was launched in early 2016, and tracks from it have received radio play on folk music stations in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. A single from the album, 'Pembrokeshire Fair', was included on Acoustic Magazine's cover CD in May 2016. An EP of four new songs followed in 2017, and he is currently working on new material which will be recorded later this year.
For further information visit www.mitcheldeanfestival.fod.uk
at 2.30pm, part of the Mitcheldean Festival showcase concert
Mike Weaver is a singer-songwriter originally from Cheltenham, but now living in Worcestershire. He is a writer and illustrator by day and an acoustic performer by night, presenting his own melodic songs which draw upon both contemporary and traditional influences. After a break of over twenty years, Mike returned to songwriting and performing in 2013 and released a CD of original songs spanning three decades in August 2014. Since his 'come back' he has played at a variety of events across southern England and the Midlands, and has been ranked as high as number two in the Reverbnation UK Folk Charts.
Mike's CD 'The Others' was launched in early 2016, and tracks from it have received radio play on folk music stations in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. A single from the album, 'Pembrokeshire Fair', was included on Acoustic Magazine's cover CD in May 2016. An EP of four new songs followed in 2017, and he is currently working on new material which will be recorded later this year.
For further information visit www.mitcheldeanfestival.fod.uk
Wednesday 31st July 2019 - Lindisfarne
Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park, Banbury OX16 2PA: Wednesday 21st July 2019
Legendary 70s folk-rock pioneers Lindisfrane return to form with a classic five-piece line up of long-time members fronted by original founder-member Rod Clements on vocal, mandolin, fiddle and slide guitar.
With a repertoire of unforgettable songs like Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home and a reputation for live performance second to none, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanise festival and concert audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get the crowd on their feet and singing along.
The current line up is original member Rod Clements (vocals, mandolin, fiddle and Guitar), Steve Dagget - who joined the band in in 1986 - on vocals, keyboard and guitar, bass palyer Ian Thomson and guitarist Dave Hull-Denholm (who have been members since the mid 1990s) and ex-Roxy Music drummer Paul Thompson.
For tickets and further information visit www.themillartscentre.co.uk
Legendary 70s folk-rock pioneers Lindisfrane return to form with a classic five-piece line up of long-time members fronted by original founder-member Rod Clements on vocal, mandolin, fiddle and slide guitar.
With a repertoire of unforgettable songs like Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home and a reputation for live performance second to none, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanise festival and concert audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get the crowd on their feet and singing along.
The current line up is original member Rod Clements (vocals, mandolin, fiddle and Guitar), Steve Dagget - who joined the band in in 1986 - on vocals, keyboard and guitar, bass palyer Ian Thomson and guitarist Dave Hull-Denholm (who have been members since the mid 1990s) and ex-Roxy Music drummer Paul Thompson.
For tickets and further information visit www.themillartscentre.co.uk
Monday 5th August 2019 - Fairport Convention
Trades & Labour Club, West Bar Street, Banbury OX16 9RR: Sunday 24th February 2019,
Monday 5th & Tuesday 6th August 2019.
After more than fifty years on the road Fairport Convention’s passion for live performance has never wavered. The August dates will be the traditional warm up for the band's Cropredy Fetival, showcasing
the band’s musical sophistication and instrumental virtuosity during a fascinating journey through their inspiring and extensive repertoire.
Renowned as the founding fathers of British folk-rock music, Fairport Convention has maintained consistently high standards for over five decades and remains as entertaining as ever.
The current Fairport line-up features Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin and Gerry Conway on drums and percussion.
Tickets and further information www.fairportconvention.com
Monday 5th & Tuesday 6th August 2019.
After more than fifty years on the road Fairport Convention’s passion for live performance has never wavered. The August dates will be the traditional warm up for the band's Cropredy Fetival, showcasing
the band’s musical sophistication and instrumental virtuosity during a fascinating journey through their inspiring and extensive repertoire.
Renowned as the founding fathers of British folk-rock music, Fairport Convention has maintained consistently high standards for over five decades and remains as entertaining as ever.
The current Fairport line-up features Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin and Gerry Conway on drums and percussion.
Tickets and further information www.fairportconvention.com
Friday 30th August 2019 - Road Not Taken
The Old Baptist Chapel, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ: Friday 30th August 2019
with special guest Mike Weaver
Road Not Taken are a rising folk quartet from North Bristol who are making a name for themselves on the festival circuit. They first came together as friends working together to promote Downend Folk Club several years ago, and have since playaed a variety of venues up and down the country.
Anita Dobson (vocals), Ant Miles (guitar and keyboards), Claire Hamlen (fiddle), Joe Hamlen (multi instrumentailist) released their debut EP Back Into Storyland in April 2016, and since then have been working on a variety of contemporary and traditional material drawn from English folk roots.
This Autumn they will be touring their first full album, which will be released to coincide with the first gigs. This will be road Not Taken's first visit to Tewkesbury, where they will be supported in the atmospheric Old Baptist Chapel by local singer-songwriter (and old friend) Mike Weaver.
For tickets, please visit www.wegottickets.com/event/457811
with special guest Mike Weaver
Road Not Taken are a rising folk quartet from North Bristol who are making a name for themselves on the festival circuit. They first came together as friends working together to promote Downend Folk Club several years ago, and have since playaed a variety of venues up and down the country.
Anita Dobson (vocals), Ant Miles (guitar and keyboards), Claire Hamlen (fiddle), Joe Hamlen (multi instrumentailist) released their debut EP Back Into Storyland in April 2016, and since then have been working on a variety of contemporary and traditional material drawn from English folk roots.
This Autumn they will be touring their first full album, which will be released to coincide with the first gigs. This will be road Not Taken's first visit to Tewkesbury, where they will be supported in the atmospheric Old Baptist Chapel by local singer-songwriter (and old friend) Mike Weaver.
For tickets, please visit www.wegottickets.com/event/457811
Saturday 14th September 2019 - Phil Beer
Shutlanger Village Hall, Shutlanger, Towcester NN12 7RU: Saturday 14th September 2019
Phil is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles. But his skills don’t stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals.
He played his first gig at 14 and started working as a duo with Paul Downes in 1974 (their re-union Live at Nettlebed CD was released four years ago on the Talking Elephant label). He was then in the Arizona Smoke Revue and a key member of Johnny Coppin’s band. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984-1991.
Show of Hands became a full-time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and who were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards.
For tickets and more informaion visit www.showofhands.co.uk/phil-beer-tour-dates
Phil is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles. But his skills don’t stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals.
He played his first gig at 14 and started working as a duo with Paul Downes in 1974 (their re-union Live at Nettlebed CD was released four years ago on the Talking Elephant label). He was then in the Arizona Smoke Revue and a key member of Johnny Coppin’s band. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984-1991.
Show of Hands became a full-time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and who were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards.
For tickets and more informaion visit www.showofhands.co.uk/phil-beer-tour-dates
Saturday 19th October 2019 - Charlie Dore
Ace Space, St Nicholas Road, Newbury RG14 5PR: Saturday 19th October 2019
Although best known as a respected songwriter for others, Charlie Dore enjoys a multi-faceted career that includes acting, comedy-improvisation, writing for radio and composition for film and TV as well as performing live. Her band, with school friend Julian Littman graduated to the pub circuit from where she was signed by Island Records in 1978. She made her first album in Nashville and London and released a single, Pilot of the Airwaves, which became a hit in the US.
Since then she has made eight albums, one per decade for the 80's ('Listen' for Chrysalis) and 90's (Things Change, Black Ink), during which time she also returned to acting and started writing for other artists. She became one of a handful of UK songwriters to have success across diverse genres with songs covered by George Harrison, Tina Turner, Lisa Stansfield, Celine Dione and a UK Number One for Jimmy Nail, 'Ain't No Doubt.'
Charlie’s current album, Dark Matter - her ninth - has won both Album of the Year and Best Lyrics from the US Indie Acoustic Project.
For tickets and further information visit www.acespace.org.uk
Although best known as a respected songwriter for others, Charlie Dore enjoys a multi-faceted career that includes acting, comedy-improvisation, writing for radio and composition for film and TV as well as performing live. Her band, with school friend Julian Littman graduated to the pub circuit from where she was signed by Island Records in 1978. She made her first album in Nashville and London and released a single, Pilot of the Airwaves, which became a hit in the US.
Since then she has made eight albums, one per decade for the 80's ('Listen' for Chrysalis) and 90's (Things Change, Black Ink), during which time she also returned to acting and started writing for other artists. She became one of a handful of UK songwriters to have success across diverse genres with songs covered by George Harrison, Tina Turner, Lisa Stansfield, Celine Dione and a UK Number One for Jimmy Nail, 'Ain't No Doubt.'
Charlie’s current album, Dark Matter - her ninth - has won both Album of the Year and Best Lyrics from the US Indie Acoustic Project.
For tickets and further information visit www.acespace.org.uk
Friday 25th October 2019 - Oysterband & June Tabor
St George's, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR: Friday 25th October 2019
Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA: Tuesday 12th November 2019
Oysterband and June Tabor reunite for a fiteen date UK tour this Autumn. The ‘Fire and Fleet’ Tour will take in some of the most stunning venues in the country.
One of the most exciting collaborations in folk music, June Tabor & Oysterband, resumes this autumn for a major tour. With separate distinguished careers to pursue, their appearances together are necessarily rare, so this is a must-see opportunity to catch them live.
The majesty and control of June’s voice combine with the passion of John Jones’ singing and the dynamic drive of Oysterband to illuminate dark traditional ballads and contemporary classics alike – audiences will witness their moving duet version of Joy Division’s Love Will Tear Us Apart, widely regarded as the best-ever reinterpretation of that much-covered track. Songs from their seminal 1990 album Freedom & Rain and their multi-award-winning 2011 follow-up Ragged Kingdom will of course be featured, plus exciting new material.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.fireandfleet.com
Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA: Tuesday 12th November 2019
Oysterband and June Tabor reunite for a fiteen date UK tour this Autumn. The ‘Fire and Fleet’ Tour will take in some of the most stunning venues in the country.
One of the most exciting collaborations in folk music, June Tabor & Oysterband, resumes this autumn for a major tour. With separate distinguished careers to pursue, their appearances together are necessarily rare, so this is a must-see opportunity to catch them live.
The majesty and control of June’s voice combine with the passion of John Jones’ singing and the dynamic drive of Oysterband to illuminate dark traditional ballads and contemporary classics alike – audiences will witness their moving duet version of Joy Division’s Love Will Tear Us Apart, widely regarded as the best-ever reinterpretation of that much-covered track. Songs from their seminal 1990 album Freedom & Rain and their multi-award-winning 2011 follow-up Ragged Kingdom will of course be featured, plus exciting new material.
For tickets and full tour dates visit www.fireandfleet.com
Tuesday 5th November 2019 - Andy Irvine
Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 3LD: Friday 5th July 2019
Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, his voice one of a handful of truly great ones that gets to the very soul of Ireland. He has been hailed as "a tradition in himself". A musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained his highly individual performing skills throughout his over 50-year career.
As a soloist, Andy fills the role of the archetypal troubadour with a show and a travelling lifestyle that reflect his lifelong influence, Woody Guthrie. To quote The Irish Times, "Often copied, never equalled", his repertoire consists of Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dances and a compelling canon of his own self-penned songs.
Ever the man for new pastures, in the last decade, Andy has played concerts in Moscow, Mexico City, Newfoundland, Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua as well as undertaking extensive tours of Japan, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Argentina and Chile.
For tickets and further information visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk
Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, his voice one of a handful of truly great ones that gets to the very soul of Ireland. He has been hailed as "a tradition in himself". A musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained his highly individual performing skills throughout his over 50-year career.
As a soloist, Andy fills the role of the archetypal troubadour with a show and a travelling lifestyle that reflect his lifelong influence, Woody Guthrie. To quote The Irish Times, "Often copied, never equalled", his repertoire consists of Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dances and a compelling canon of his own self-penned songs.
Ever the man for new pastures, in the last decade, Andy has played concerts in Moscow, Mexico City, Newfoundland, Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua as well as undertaking extensive tours of Japan, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Argentina and Chile.
For tickets and further information visit www.worcesterlive.co.uk
Saturday 23rd November 2019 - Martyn Joseph
Wychwood Folk Club, Tiddy Hall, Ascott-u-Wychwood OX7 6AG: Saturday 23rd November 2019
Martyn Joseph is a completely unique and mind blowing artist. Take everything you think you know about singer songwriters….and rip it up. For one man and a guitar he creates a performance with a huge far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling and passionate. Be it to two hundred people or twenty thousand, he blows the crowd away night after night.
He is gifted with the rare ability to speak to the soul with his expressive and poignant lyrics and has a career spanning 30 years, 32 albums, over a half a million record sales and thousands of live performances.
Compared to Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews, he has created his own style and reputation as a mesmerising performer and stands in his own right, built on a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives. A unique talent driven by passion, social awareness and love for his trade, he’s a jaw dropping guitar player who has developed a unique percussive style, teamed up with a powerful show stopping voice.
For further information and full tour dates, visit www.martynjoseph.net
Martyn Joseph is a completely unique and mind blowing artist. Take everything you think you know about singer songwriters….and rip it up. For one man and a guitar he creates a performance with a huge far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling and passionate. Be it to two hundred people or twenty thousand, he blows the crowd away night after night.
He is gifted with the rare ability to speak to the soul with his expressive and poignant lyrics and has a career spanning 30 years, 32 albums, over a half a million record sales and thousands of live performances.
Compared to Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer, Bruce Cockburn and Dave Matthews, he has created his own style and reputation as a mesmerising performer and stands in his own right, built on a reputation for giving what thousands have described as the best live music experience of their lives. A unique talent driven by passion, social awareness and love for his trade, he’s a jaw dropping guitar player who has developed a unique percussive style, teamed up with a powerful show stopping voice.
For further information and full tour dates, visit www.martynjoseph.net
