Stop Press: we have just heard from the Rev Nicholas Lowton about a concert at Craswall Church on Saturday 4th February, 7.30 pm, to be given by the award winning folk artist Sam Lee. Entrance will be free with a retiring collection. To learn more about Sam and his career to date aee the previous blog.
Other News: Congratulations to Black Hill Folk for raising £275.65 for Crisis at Christmas at the singing at the Cornewell Arms and at our Folk Night at the Crown. Black Hill Folk, their partners and guests had a very successful Burns Night at the Crown Inn Longtown on January 24th with Jim Neale and his band in attendance to provide some excellent Scottish music. Our thanks go to Sheila and her staff for providing a most enjoyable spread. Our thanks also go to John Biggs for getting everything together and to all those who helped in various ways, sang, played and recited. Following on from the Wassail with Foxwhelp Morris at the Yew Tree Inn, Preston on Wye, the previous week, as Mr Kipling of Cakes fame might have said, ‘these two events seem to have belatedly rung in the New Year in a most splendid and exceedingly good manner’.
If you would like a change in your radio listening then why not try the internet radio station Folk Radio UK. This is funded by donations from the listeners and a wide variety of music is broadcast. Their website also has a great deal of news and you can subscribe to their Newsletter. Donations may be one off or on a regular basis.
Black Hill Folk will be resuming their singing practices at the Griggs by invitation of John and Bridget on Tuesday 31st January starting 7.30 - 8 p.m. and then on Wednesday 15th February starting 7.30 - 8 p.m. Should you want to join in or know someone who would, please make contact via this e-mail address.
Folk Music Nights: NEWTON CHURCH ROOM, 7th February, 7.30 p.m. Free but donation requested. All welcome, and likewise at THE CROWN, LONGTOWN Tuesday 21st February 8.00 p.m.
Visiting other Folk Clubs and Venues: Several interesting clubs have been tracked down within an hours drive so we will be reporting on any planned trips should anyone want a car share. Should you be interested in seeing the full range of clubs in this category and beyond you could start by Googling Chepstow Folk Club which will take you to the Chepstow Accoutic Music Club. Their motto is ‘Strength in Community, Quality and Consideration’
Workshops: Interest in these has proved encouraging. Other workshops can be arranged on other topics so let us know your musical interest. Should you have an idea for a workshop or would like to run one or know someone who would, then get in touch.
Bass Guitar and Guitar Workshop: Peterchurch Fire Station 18th February. Bookings are now coming in for this session. Please spread the word on this as it is open to all ages and abilities. Jim Neale holds the necessary certificate etc should under 18’s wish to attend. Full details on thia site.
Banjo and Ukulele Workshops: this is being made available depending on demand. It includes advice on purchasing an instrument, basic techniques and where to find worthwhile and free, You Tube Lessons. For those who want to practice without disturbing the household or the neighbourhood we now have ‘practice mutes’ available’. For more details make contact by e-mail.
A Workshop entitled, ‘An Introduction to Folk Music Instruments’ is also available depending on demand.
And Finally: This came in from the ever active and comprehensive Cas Smith of the Gigs Guide: Hallsway Manor is well worth checking out as it is a residential centre in Somerset running all kinds of events and weekend schools throughout the year. Here is Cas’s recommendation:
To mark the 150th Anniversary of the opening of the original West Somerset Railway between Norton Fitzwarren Junction, near Taunton, and Watchet in 1862 our neighbours at Halsway Manor, Crowcombe, are holding a weekend called Songs, Steam and Stories of the Quantocks between May 11th and 13th. There are top-line acts booked including Taffy Thomas, Tim Laycock, Tom and Barbara Brown and the Hotwells Howlers. For more information about what promises to be an excellent weekend in a wonderful Quantocks keep an eye on www.halswaymanor.org.uk.
From: John Simms [mailto:john.com@wsrail.net]
Subject: WORDS ABOUT THE HALSWAY MANOR WEEKEND
Yours Sincerely
John Simms
Commercial Department
This is probably quite enough for one Newsletter. We are sure there will be quite a lot more happening in the year to come.
Friday, 27 January 2012
Sam Lee in Concert
Sam Lee in Concert at Craswall Church, Herefordshire,
Saturday Feb 4th at 7.30
Entrance will be free with a retiring collection
Saturday Feb 4th at 7.30
Entrance will be free with a retiring collection
Sam Lee, folk singer, promoter and animateur will in late 2011 be releasing his debut album “Ground Of Its Own” a musical manifesto recognising the unique artistic journey Sam has taken and the less than conventional route getting there. Although a gifted singer, this was completely unknown to him until his first encounter with folk song some 5 years ago. This discovery of an unheard music compelled him to abandon his then career as a trained visual artist, teacher of wilderness survival and moonlighter as a burlesque dancer and embark on a journey into the songs of The British Isles. Sam is fast becoming accepted as one of the new pioneers defining the sound, sight and texture of contemporary folksong. This was reflected in his winning the 2011 Arts Foundation Award winner, which for the first time this year, honoured folk music amongst its art forms. Likewise his live band carves an new acoustic with their homemade and mongrelised instrumentation and unconventional arrangements that challenge any preconceptions of what ʻtraditionʼ should sounds like.
Sam is also an award-winning promoter and live events producer through his 2010 BBC Folk club of the year ʻThe Magpieʼs Nestʼ. The Nest has played a key role in the resurgence of the creative live folk music scene and is behind many innovative concerts across London, festival stages around the UK and radio and television appearances. He also helped organise (and modelled for) the first ʻfolk featureʼ in Julyʼs edition of Vogue UK.
On an experiential note, Samʼs only real musical training has come via a unique 4 year apprenticeship under the legendary and sadly late Scottish Traveller Stanley Robertson last of the great ballad singers. Sam became the musical ʻnext of kinʼ to Stanleyʼs vast repertoire of songs and an ancient, idiosyncratic Traveller singing craft. While travelling himself he is also to be found creating ground breaking research documenting the music and stories of the Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities.
Sam is a regular teacher at Newcastle University, Goldsmiths College, the EFDSS and despite failings by both Cecil Sharp and Vaughan William’s to gain permission, holds the accolade as the first folk singer ever to teach and sing at the Royal College of Music.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Bass Guitar and Guitar Workshop on Saturday 18th
We now have full details of the Bass guitar and Guitar workshop to he held on 18th February. We are very lucky to have Jim Neale as the workshop leader who will draw on his own learning and teaching experience as well as his work with ceilidh bands. Jim plays bass guitar, guitar, mandolin and fiddle as well as being a singer.
FolkWorkshops Acoustic Guitar and Bass Workshop for Beginners of any age
Attention to all budding, acoustic guitar players and singers. I, Jim Neale, propose to organise a community workshop at the Fire Station, Peterchurch on Saturday 18th February 2012. You only need to bring an Acoustic Guitar or Bass Guitar with you. If your Bass is electric, you will need a Bass amplifier; although I have a spare Bass amplifier to share (even electric Bass guitars can be played without an amplifier!).
I would like to start with the Bass guitarists, (either acoustic or electric) at 10.00am,an hour before the acoustic six string guitarists arrive at 11.00. I feel confident that the Bass players will be able to enhance the sound of the guitars and add the ‘deep notes’ to keep us together! So when you ‘sign up’ below, please let me know your requirements. (No extra charge for Bass Players joining the acoustic guitar workshop at 11.00 am)
I have carefully chosen songs that are ideal starting points which embellish both Guitar and Bass. I will provide all material including a CD so that you can practise on your own to perfect your skills.
The aim of the Workshop is to get people playing and singing together, the most important part of creating music. With that in mind, the morning’s session is broken down into the following elements:
1. 1) Tuning the strings in standard pitch (both guitar and Bass)
2. 2) Introducing the simplest chords on the guitar and Bass pattern
3. 3) Using a plectrum and creating the rhythm pattern for the songs
4. 4) Introducing the ‘extra’ notes for the more adventurous player
5. 5) Playing together to create a community of ‘sound and song’
Please note: The number of songs we manage in the workshop is unknown at our first session. However, the method used will provide any beginner or moderate guitar player the means to play along with others and follow most guitar books with greater understanding. There will be a fee of £5.00 (students and job seekers free) to provide the CD, printing and refreshment.
To sign up for a place on this Workshop please cut and paste the the following registration details and send a printed versions to the address shown, together with a cheque for £5
............................................................................................................................................................................................
I wish to enrol for the Bass session. I understand it starts at 10.00am and finishes at 11.00am, Saturday 18 February. Please tick here...... (also tick below if you also want to attend the guitar session at no extra cost)
I I wish to enrol for the acoustic guitar session starting at 11.00am and finishing at 12.30pm Saturday 18th February. Please tick here........
My Name:
My Email:
My Address:
My Phone/Mob:
Please return these details with a cheque to the value of £5.00 to: Jim Neale
1 Meadow Heights, St.Owens Cross, Hereford, HR2 8NP info:Mob(07909524171)
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Revew: A Grand Folk Concert, Shire Hall, Hereford, Saturday November 12th: 7 to 11 pm
The Performers: My draw to this concert was to hear Roy Bailey for the first time. The reputation of this left wing singer and song writer reached me well before I had seen him perform. It is an odd thing how some artists seem to have passed one by. This is hardly surprising. Work, commuting and family life does tend to prevent one from ‘getting out more’. It was well worth the wait however since this is a man who holds values I have no difficulty identifying with. Songs and stories which were at times both very moving and amusing added up to an excellent performance. His style of guitar playing was varied and fascinating to an old ‘3 chorder’ like me. If I could have a voice like Roy’s when I reach his age I will have no complaints, and neither should my audience.
Memorable among the supporting artists was Martyn Wyndham-Read whose collection of Australian songs and stories has got me returning to this repertoire. With Remembrance Sunday just an evening away his choice of material, including references to the loss of his father in Normandy in 1944, was apt and poignant. This is a man well worth visiting on Google. For reasons which will become clear below I cannot name the other supporting artists as I had not intended to review this event so did not take a note pad. It will also become apparent why I have written this review. Consequently I can only report that the opening act, I think he was Eddie Upton as he is the only other name on the flyer I have, was an excellent starter with a good voice, guitar technique and material. I apologise for not doing him justice through lack of detail but a brief printed programme would have been nice. A fund raising opportunity, along with others, lost.
The same absence of details applies to the troupe of French singers and musicians who brought some World Music to the evening. It was very, very good, but not my cup of tea and suffered from what I regard as a failing of World Music: they never know quite when to stop. The couple from Devon, who managed to survive the failure of the PA system, sang a version of Henry Martin which sounded a bit too jolly. The absent bag pipe player referred to in their intro would no doubt have put this right. They both had strong voices and the harmonies worked very well.
Martyn Windham-Read then returned for his second set which was equally impressive but for the reasons expressed below I had to leave the event before his set ended and before Roy Bailey returned to the stage for the final set. Musically this was a lovely evening, but...
The Organisation of the Event: this was very weak and did not do justice either to the talented performers and the good causes being supported, let alone those who had paid £15 each and probably travelled some distance to hear Roy Bailey. We were assured by the person at the contact number that there would be no problem with admission on the door. This was true as, despite an impressive turn out there was room for us, but no tickets! It seemed that if one needed to take a break outside it was clearly to be done on trust. Furthermore, we were told that there was no drinks licence and so drinls were to be acquired by donation. Also, there was something mumbled about the Vegan Buffet not actually being on sale, but donations could be given. No notices about recommended donations were displayed and the dreamy youngsters behind the bar had to be reminded why they were that side of the counter. By the time we reached the barrel, the beer had run out, my friend had had a glass of wine spilt over his trousers by a member of the bar crew and I was thinking of going back to reclaim some of my donation as it now seemed excessive for 3 apple juices and a glass of bio-dynamic wine, but a moment’s thought about the good causes brought me back to my senses.
This was a pity really as my senses were about to be assaulted in several unexpected ways. Firstly, is it obligatory that children at folk or artistic events of this kind have parents who wish their kids to demonstrate the extent of their free spirits by running all over the place and talking during the performances? As did some of the adults I would add. All this, with the backing chatter from the customers and assistants at the catering tables. The announcements were unpredictable in their audibility anyway due to the intermittent failings of the PA system and the great door to the hall often being left open meant we could hear even more noise from the free spirits playing in the entrance hall below. Surely someone from the Woodcraft Folk could have organised a training evening for ‘Occupy London’ or something? If there isn’t a local group, why not? On top of all this there was no programme at all, let alone one with some biographical details about the artists (hence my limited review above) and the running order seemed to be evolving as the evening went on. Having started late the inevitable consequence was that Roy Bailey’s final set didn’t end to well past midnight. This was too late for many judging by the reduced numbers in the room. This seems disrespectful of Roy Bailey and those artists who had commitments elsewhere on Sunday. Let alone the audience. I will now stop this report on the evenings missing production values.
The Venue: I am prepared to put up with quite a bit of discomfort for a good cause but there are limits. The Shire Hall, although it was very grand in the past, is now looking rather sad and shows all the signs of a municipal white elephant. The lighting was awful. I have had a more relaxing evening with institutional lighting while waiting in the arrivals hall of Terminal Five. This was not helped by someone forgetting to put the rear lighting back down after the first surge to the bar and vegan buffet. The PA system, when working, coped well with this barn of a place, but even with most of the seats occupied it still felt a bit like having a concert in a defunct Victorian baths complex.
This discomfort was compounded by the steel chairs. To those who complain about hard pews at church and chapel events I say, ‘You ain’t felt nothin yet’. If you are going to a concert at this venue two good cushions for back and posterior protection are essential. The seating in the entrance hall downstairs for those attending court is luxurious by comparison. My free advice ( no consultancy fees here) to Herefordshire Council is to check the price of scrap metal and see what replacements can be bought on the modern commercial chair market. In the meantime I feel as though hard punishments are not confined to the court rooms below. Such was my accumulated discomforts that my endurance ran out before Roy Bailey’s last set.
Conclusion: I understand that this concert was part of a birthday celebration which had been going on for much of the afternoon. I have no problem with that, but when you invite paying members of the public, albeit for good causes, everyone deserves better. Amateur organisation and an uncomfortable venue nearly spoilt the evening for me but some great artists came to the rescue. Those planning public events on this scale should take advice from someone with experience. But I repeat my specific advice to anyone going to the Shire Hall. Don’t forget to take the cushions and possibly the shades, unless, of course, you are appearing in court.
Dacier
Memorable among the supporting artists was Martyn Wyndham-Read whose collection of Australian songs and stories has got me returning to this repertoire. With Remembrance Sunday just an evening away his choice of material, including references to the loss of his father in Normandy in 1944, was apt and poignant. This is a man well worth visiting on Google. For reasons which will become clear below I cannot name the other supporting artists as I had not intended to review this event so did not take a note pad. It will also become apparent why I have written this review. Consequently I can only report that the opening act, I think he was Eddie Upton as he is the only other name on the flyer I have, was an excellent starter with a good voice, guitar technique and material. I apologise for not doing him justice through lack of detail but a brief printed programme would have been nice. A fund raising opportunity, along with others, lost.
The same absence of details applies to the troupe of French singers and musicians who brought some World Music to the evening. It was very, very good, but not my cup of tea and suffered from what I regard as a failing of World Music: they never know quite when to stop. The couple from Devon, who managed to survive the failure of the PA system, sang a version of Henry Martin which sounded a bit too jolly. The absent bag pipe player referred to in their intro would no doubt have put this right. They both had strong voices and the harmonies worked very well.
Martyn Windham-Read then returned for his second set which was equally impressive but for the reasons expressed below I had to leave the event before his set ended and before Roy Bailey returned to the stage for the final set. Musically this was a lovely evening, but...
The Organisation of the Event: this was very weak and did not do justice either to the talented performers and the good causes being supported, let alone those who had paid £15 each and probably travelled some distance to hear Roy Bailey. We were assured by the person at the contact number that there would be no problem with admission on the door. This was true as, despite an impressive turn out there was room for us, but no tickets! It seemed that if one needed to take a break outside it was clearly to be done on trust. Furthermore, we were told that there was no drinks licence and so drinls were to be acquired by donation. Also, there was something mumbled about the Vegan Buffet not actually being on sale, but donations could be given. No notices about recommended donations were displayed and the dreamy youngsters behind the bar had to be reminded why they were that side of the counter. By the time we reached the barrel, the beer had run out, my friend had had a glass of wine spilt over his trousers by a member of the bar crew and I was thinking of going back to reclaim some of my donation as it now seemed excessive for 3 apple juices and a glass of bio-dynamic wine, but a moment’s thought about the good causes brought me back to my senses.
This was a pity really as my senses were about to be assaulted in several unexpected ways. Firstly, is it obligatory that children at folk or artistic events of this kind have parents who wish their kids to demonstrate the extent of their free spirits by running all over the place and talking during the performances? As did some of the adults I would add. All this, with the backing chatter from the customers and assistants at the catering tables. The announcements were unpredictable in their audibility anyway due to the intermittent failings of the PA system and the great door to the hall often being left open meant we could hear even more noise from the free spirits playing in the entrance hall below. Surely someone from the Woodcraft Folk could have organised a training evening for ‘Occupy London’ or something? If there isn’t a local group, why not? On top of all this there was no programme at all, let alone one with some biographical details about the artists (hence my limited review above) and the running order seemed to be evolving as the evening went on. Having started late the inevitable consequence was that Roy Bailey’s final set didn’t end to well past midnight. This was too late for many judging by the reduced numbers in the room. This seems disrespectful of Roy Bailey and those artists who had commitments elsewhere on Sunday. Let alone the audience. I will now stop this report on the evenings missing production values.
The Venue: I am prepared to put up with quite a bit of discomfort for a good cause but there are limits. The Shire Hall, although it was very grand in the past, is now looking rather sad and shows all the signs of a municipal white elephant. The lighting was awful. I have had a more relaxing evening with institutional lighting while waiting in the arrivals hall of Terminal Five. This was not helped by someone forgetting to put the rear lighting back down after the first surge to the bar and vegan buffet. The PA system, when working, coped well with this barn of a place, but even with most of the seats occupied it still felt a bit like having a concert in a defunct Victorian baths complex.
This discomfort was compounded by the steel chairs. To those who complain about hard pews at church and chapel events I say, ‘You ain’t felt nothin yet’. If you are going to a concert at this venue two good cushions for back and posterior protection are essential. The seating in the entrance hall downstairs for those attending court is luxurious by comparison. My free advice ( no consultancy fees here) to Herefordshire Council is to check the price of scrap metal and see what replacements can be bought on the modern commercial chair market. In the meantime I feel as though hard punishments are not confined to the court rooms below. Such was my accumulated discomforts that my endurance ran out before Roy Bailey’s last set.
Conclusion: I understand that this concert was part of a birthday celebration which had been going on for much of the afternoon. I have no problem with that, but when you invite paying members of the public, albeit for good causes, everyone deserves better. Amateur organisation and an uncomfortable venue nearly spoilt the evening for me but some great artists came to the rescue. Those planning public events on this scale should take advice from someone with experience. But I repeat my specific advice to anyone going to the Shire Hall. Don’t forget to take the cushions and possibly the shades, unless, of course, you are appearing in court.
Dacier
Saturday, 5 November 2011
FolkWorkshops Newsletter for October/November 2011
Dear Supporter,
Ooops! What happened to October? There is no shortage of things happening. Our Tuesday practice evenings for the Black Hill Folk are now under way. It has been assumed that this would fit in with various work commitments and other meetings but please let us know if this is wrong. You will also see from below that the 2nd Tuesday of the month will be taken up by the new session at the Crown Inn, so Susie’s Song School will still be possible. Check on the Village Quire website for details of the Song School. That said, it would be a pity if anyone was excluded by inflexible meetings. Talking of sessions, the 11 of us who made it to the Longtown WI evening on the 18th October really enjoyed the experience and by all accounts so did many of the audience who came up to express their thanks afterwards. Well done everyone.
Just in case there is not enough going on for you it is always worth checking out the e-newsletters from the Borough Theatre Abergavenny and the Courtyard Hereford. There seems to be a regular supply of musical surprises. Since these can be very varied we will do nothing more than draw your attention to these excellent publications. Also, welcome to all our new followers of @FolkWorkshops. We now have 62 followers from elsewhere but only 2 from this mailing list (now numbering 60) as far as I can see. By exploring who follows us and who we follow you can build your own collection of information sources on Folk Music events throughout the border counties and beyond. Don’t forget to let us know if you think an event should be posted with us.
Upcoming Events
Sing Out and Sing Around Evenings at The Crown Inn, Longtown on Tuesday 8th November and every 2nd Tuesday of the month thereafter, weather permitting. We have always been made very welcome by Phil & Sheila at this excellent pub so let’s hope the sessions take off. Solo’s, duo’s, ensemble, instrumental performers and listeners all very welcome.
Grand Charity Folk Concert in aid of Oxfam, Water Aid, and Friends of the Earth, with ROY BAILEY and a host of others. Lots of interesting refreshments for sale including bio-dynamic Red and White Wine etc. Hereford Shire Hall: Sat 12th November, 7 p.m. ‘till late. Tickets ( £15 adults, children under 12 free) from Outback Records, Church Street, Hereford.
Friday 11th November, Armistice Day, at St. Margaret's Church 7.30 p.m. Black Hill Folk will be taking part in this evening of readings, song and meditation on the theme of Memories and Remembrance. Jim Neale will be joining us. We aim to end by 8.45 to give time for hot drinks and a chat with friends, new and old, afterwards. Entrance is Free, but all donations will be given to Royal British Legion.
Lanveynoe Church, Winter Warmer Concert, 25th November, Clodock Church, at 7.30 pm: The Pax Singers from Malvern will be signing a wide ranging selection including spirituals and folk songs. Tickets £10 ( children under 12 free). To include a glass of punch & a minced pie. Contact the Churchwardens or tickets on the door.
Carols & Crumpets at Brilley Village Hall, Fri 9th December 7.30 p.m. If you enjoyed the recent John Kirkpatrick concert, or are sorry that you missed it, he is performing at this evening of music for Christmas and Midwinter. At the moment we do not have a contact phone number, but we will post more details on @FolkWorkshops and pass the word in the usual way.
The Village Quire in Concert Saturday 10th December, All Saints Church, Cwmbach, Glasbury 7.30: Performing their annual concert of music and readings for Christmas this is an evening not to be missed. More details on their website. Simply Google Village Quire Glasbury. Please note this concert will also be staged again at the Globe, Hay on Wye on the 23rd December, also at 7.30
Annual Black Mountains Group Church Choir Coach Trip to St. David’s Hall Cardiff:14th December If you have never been to this event it is well worth the trip to hear the combined Welsh Hospitals Choirs, the Brass Ensemble of the Royal Welsh Regiment, and a celebrity guest. The latter is not usually known until nearer the date. Pick ups at Longtown Village, Clodock Church and Pandy. If you would like more details contact Bob Burson. We can always forward your e-mail if you send your request via FolkWorkhops.
Christmas Carol Singing at the Crown Inn Longtown: Friday 23rd December: From 8 pm As last year the Reverend Nicholas Lowton will be taking his keyboard to the Crown Inn Longtown to lead some Carol Singing, aided and abetted by Black Hill Folk with a few party pieces of their own. As this is the evening at the end of the last working week before Christmas it should be quite busy.
We hope to have some voice left for a quiet family Christmas and the two usual Carol Services. Will we be battling through the snow as in recent years?
So, if you are seeking a traditional Christmas there is loads of the stuff on your doorstep, hopefully with not too much of the white stuff. This seems all a bit tiring at this point but the trick is to make a happy selection. In the meantime our thanks go to John and Bridget Biggs who provided much of the above information and who are taking on some much appreciated organising due to the roller coaster ride we have had since September.
Best wishes from,
John & Jane Baxter
To receive this e-mail directly or for any details please send your e-mail via the Comments. Your address will be collected before monitoring and will not be published
Ooops! What happened to October? There is no shortage of things happening. Our Tuesday practice evenings for the Black Hill Folk are now under way. It has been assumed that this would fit in with various work commitments and other meetings but please let us know if this is wrong. You will also see from below that the 2nd Tuesday of the month will be taken up by the new session at the Crown Inn, so Susie’s Song School will still be possible. Check on the Village Quire website for details of the Song School. That said, it would be a pity if anyone was excluded by inflexible meetings. Talking of sessions, the 11 of us who made it to the Longtown WI evening on the 18th October really enjoyed the experience and by all accounts so did many of the audience who came up to express their thanks afterwards. Well done everyone.
Just in case there is not enough going on for you it is always worth checking out the e-newsletters from the Borough Theatre Abergavenny and the Courtyard Hereford. There seems to be a regular supply of musical surprises. Since these can be very varied we will do nothing more than draw your attention to these excellent publications. Also, welcome to all our new followers of @FolkWorkshops. We now have 62 followers from elsewhere but only 2 from this mailing list (now numbering 60) as far as I can see. By exploring who follows us and who we follow you can build your own collection of information sources on Folk Music events throughout the border counties and beyond. Don’t forget to let us know if you think an event should be posted with us.
Upcoming Events
Sing Out and Sing Around Evenings at The Crown Inn, Longtown on Tuesday 8th November and every 2nd Tuesday of the month thereafter, weather permitting. We have always been made very welcome by Phil & Sheila at this excellent pub so let’s hope the sessions take off. Solo’s, duo’s, ensemble, instrumental performers and listeners all very welcome.
Grand Charity Folk Concert in aid of Oxfam, Water Aid, and Friends of the Earth, with ROY BAILEY and a host of others. Lots of interesting refreshments for sale including bio-dynamic Red and White Wine etc. Hereford Shire Hall: Sat 12th November, 7 p.m. ‘till late. Tickets ( £15 adults, children under 12 free) from Outback Records, Church Street, Hereford.
Friday 11th November, Armistice Day, at St. Margaret's Church 7.30 p.m. Black Hill Folk will be taking part in this evening of readings, song and meditation on the theme of Memories and Remembrance. Jim Neale will be joining us. We aim to end by 8.45 to give time for hot drinks and a chat with friends, new and old, afterwards. Entrance is Free, but all donations will be given to Royal British Legion.
Lanveynoe Church, Winter Warmer Concert, 25th November, Clodock Church, at 7.30 pm: The Pax Singers from Malvern will be signing a wide ranging selection including spirituals and folk songs. Tickets £10 ( children under 12 free). To include a glass of punch & a minced pie. Contact the Churchwardens or tickets on the door.
Carols & Crumpets at Brilley Village Hall, Fri 9th December 7.30 p.m. If you enjoyed the recent John Kirkpatrick concert, or are sorry that you missed it, he is performing at this evening of music for Christmas and Midwinter. At the moment we do not have a contact phone number, but we will post more details on @FolkWorkshops and pass the word in the usual way.
The Village Quire in Concert Saturday 10th December, All Saints Church, Cwmbach, Glasbury 7.30: Performing their annual concert of music and readings for Christmas this is an evening not to be missed. More details on their website. Simply Google Village Quire Glasbury. Please note this concert will also be staged again at the Globe, Hay on Wye on the 23rd December, also at 7.30
Annual Black Mountains Group Church Choir Coach Trip to St. David’s Hall Cardiff:14th December If you have never been to this event it is well worth the trip to hear the combined Welsh Hospitals Choirs, the Brass Ensemble of the Royal Welsh Regiment, and a celebrity guest. The latter is not usually known until nearer the date. Pick ups at Longtown Village, Clodock Church and Pandy. If you would like more details contact Bob Burson. We can always forward your e-mail if you send your request via FolkWorkhops.
Christmas Carol Singing at the Crown Inn Longtown: Friday 23rd December: From 8 pm As last year the Reverend Nicholas Lowton will be taking his keyboard to the Crown Inn Longtown to lead some Carol Singing, aided and abetted by Black Hill Folk with a few party pieces of their own. As this is the evening at the end of the last working week before Christmas it should be quite busy.
We hope to have some voice left for a quiet family Christmas and the two usual Carol Services. Will we be battling through the snow as in recent years?
So, if you are seeking a traditional Christmas there is loads of the stuff on your doorstep, hopefully with not too much of the white stuff. This seems all a bit tiring at this point but the trick is to make a happy selection. In the meantime our thanks go to John and Bridget Biggs who provided much of the above information and who are taking on some much appreciated organising due to the roller coaster ride we have had since September.
Best wishes from,
John & Jane Baxter
To receive this e-mail directly or for any details please send your e-mail via the Comments. Your address will be collected before monitoring and will not be published
Wednesday, 21 September 2011
FolkWorkshops September Newsletter
September is the month which marks the slowing down of the festival season and the settling down for the winter evening sessions. This is not to say that things are any quieter on the events front as you can see from the various events guides. But first a quick look back at the month just gone.
Sian and I made two trips to Kent. The first to buy an upgrade banjo and the second to hear our great niece sing with the Wallingford Choir during their week’s residency at Canterbury Cathedral. On both occasions Jane and I sang at the Faversham Folk Club’s singaround evenings (by invitation in the sense we invited ourselves: that is how it works), and it confirmed the value of the informal and tolerant approach. The second session was made up of totally different people to the first, but the talents were equally impressive with people travelling from various parts of the county to attend. On both occasions it was clear that a lot of original writing is going on as well as songs being passed on from one singer to another without any clear indication of where they have come from. There were no inhibitions about reading the words from a sheet on a music stand, (apparently some Folk Clubs can be quite snooty about this) or coming along with homemade instruments or exotic instruments. Jane and I did a number with the banjo and psaltery; another couple did several pieces with dulcimer and guitar while another couple sang beautiful harmonies and original songs to a homemade amplified electric lute!
Incidentally, some of us are beginning to take the ‘workshop’ idea a bit further. John is in the process of getting the things together to build a ‘dulcijo’ while another is tracking down plans for building a ‘cigar box’ guitar. However, don’t hold your breath as such things take a while!
We have had some encouraging feedback regarding our singing at the Songs and Poems Among the Flowers evening at St.Margarets and there are plans for other occasional events of this kind. Thank you again to all those who took part.
The other highlight of the summer was our caravan/stand at the Longtown Show (complete with the new @FolkWorkshops banner) which drew a lot of people, including a good few youngsters. It got a bit hectic at times but it was most rewarding and we made some new friends. One husband may well find that he will building a dulcimer for his wife as a Christmas present while one youngster is looking forward to a banjo in his Christmas stocking if Dad keeps his promise. Thanks to all those who turned up to help and sing and to all those visitors who made it worthwhile. We have been asked back for next year if we can make it.
Various plans are being made to resume our evenings at Newton Church Room and occasional evenings at the Crown in Longtown and elsewhere. Regular singers have already been given the new collection of songs for our winter programme. It is never too late to start so let us know if you want to be added to the list of those to be notified of rehearsal sessions.
EVENTS
The first events will of course be the Workshop with the Village Quire at St. John’s Newton on Wednesday 28th September at 7.30 and their concert in St. Margaret’s Church on Saturday 1st October at 7.30.If you want to take part in beautiful harmonising please come to the workshop. Tickets are £5 for the workshop and £10 for the concert. A combined ticket is £13. You can reserve your tickets by phoning John on either 01981510629 or 01981510388. We have attached a poster if you have room to display it somewhere such as in your car etc.
Our other fixture is a FolkWorkshops session with the Longtown WI on Tuesday 18th September at 7.30. The aim will be to get as many people singing as possible as incited by our regular singers and songs, aided and abetted by a glass of wine or two. In between songs there will be short explanations of the folk repertoire and instruments. We will take as many instruments with us as possible by way of display items as well as for accompaniment. Sadly, the ‘dulcijo’ is not expected to be ready by then.
Susie’s Song School the Song School again on Wednesday, October 5th, 7.30 - 9.30, and will run fortnightly. If there are any songs that you fancy doing, or any queries, please let Susie know. Details will be avaia;lable on the Viggae Quire Website.
John Kirkpatrick Workshop and Concert, 15th October: John Kirkpatrick
Vocal workshop and concert
The Victorian Farmer’s Year in Song
Gwernyfed High School, Three Cocks
LD3 0SG Contact: Dave or Cheryl on 01497 847676
Workshop 2 - 5 pm
Concert 7.30 pmTickets £7.50 concert only / £10 workshop only / £15 combined workshop and concert.This will be a brilliant event for those wanting to learn more about folk song and to have a pleasant evening out. For booking details visit http://www.villagequire.org.uk
So, at the beginning of our third year, let’s hope we continue to grow, get more people singing and playing, but most important of all, that we have an enjoyable time in the process. Perhaps you will be encouraged by the following quote from the latest English Folk Dance and Song Society Magazine in an article written by Sarah Morgan of Craig Morgan Robson regarding one aspect of our activities. I know it strikes a familiar note for some of us,
‘The community choir movement is one of the huge musical success stories of our time. Underpinned by egalitarian principles that singing is our birthright, and that everyone’s voice is of value...these open access choirs (which anyone can join without an audition or music reading skills) can be found the length and breadth of the country...many do not even use the term ‘choir’ lest it should be off-putting for those whose experience of singing in schools was to be told ‘stand at the back and mime’.
Keep on singing and strumming!
Sian and I made two trips to Kent. The first to buy an upgrade banjo and the second to hear our great niece sing with the Wallingford Choir during their week’s residency at Canterbury Cathedral. On both occasions Jane and I sang at the Faversham Folk Club’s singaround evenings (by invitation in the sense we invited ourselves: that is how it works), and it confirmed the value of the informal and tolerant approach. The second session was made up of totally different people to the first, but the talents were equally impressive with people travelling from various parts of the county to attend. On both occasions it was clear that a lot of original writing is going on as well as songs being passed on from one singer to another without any clear indication of where they have come from. There were no inhibitions about reading the words from a sheet on a music stand, (apparently some Folk Clubs can be quite snooty about this) or coming along with homemade instruments or exotic instruments. Jane and I did a number with the banjo and psaltery; another couple did several pieces with dulcimer and guitar while another couple sang beautiful harmonies and original songs to a homemade amplified electric lute!
Incidentally, some of us are beginning to take the ‘workshop’ idea a bit further. John is in the process of getting the things together to build a ‘dulcijo’ while another is tracking down plans for building a ‘cigar box’ guitar. However, don’t hold your breath as such things take a while!
We have had some encouraging feedback regarding our singing at the Songs and Poems Among the Flowers evening at St.Margarets and there are plans for other occasional events of this kind. Thank you again to all those who took part.
The other highlight of the summer was our caravan/stand at the Longtown Show (complete with the new @FolkWorkshops banner) which drew a lot of people, including a good few youngsters. It got a bit hectic at times but it was most rewarding and we made some new friends. One husband may well find that he will building a dulcimer for his wife as a Christmas present while one youngster is looking forward to a banjo in his Christmas stocking if Dad keeps his promise. Thanks to all those who turned up to help and sing and to all those visitors who made it worthwhile. We have been asked back for next year if we can make it.
Various plans are being made to resume our evenings at Newton Church Room and occasional evenings at the Crown in Longtown and elsewhere. Regular singers have already been given the new collection of songs for our winter programme. It is never too late to start so let us know if you want to be added to the list of those to be notified of rehearsal sessions.
EVENTS
The first events will of course be the Workshop with the Village Quire at St. John’s Newton on Wednesday 28th September at 7.30 and their concert in St. Margaret’s Church on Saturday 1st October at 7.30.If you want to take part in beautiful harmonising please come to the workshop. Tickets are £5 for the workshop and £10 for the concert. A combined ticket is £13. You can reserve your tickets by phoning John on either 01981510629 or 01981510388. We have attached a poster if you have room to display it somewhere such as in your car etc.
Our other fixture is a FolkWorkshops session with the Longtown WI on Tuesday 18th September at 7.30. The aim will be to get as many people singing as possible as incited by our regular singers and songs, aided and abetted by a glass of wine or two. In between songs there will be short explanations of the folk repertoire and instruments. We will take as many instruments with us as possible by way of display items as well as for accompaniment. Sadly, the ‘dulcijo’ is not expected to be ready by then.
Susie’s Song School the Song School again on Wednesday, October 5th, 7.30 - 9.30, and will run fortnightly. If there are any songs that you fancy doing, or any queries, please let Susie know. Details will be avaia;lable on the Viggae Quire Website.
John Kirkpatrick Workshop and Concert, 15th October: John Kirkpatrick
Vocal workshop and concert
The Victorian Farmer’s Year in Song
Gwernyfed High School, Three Cocks
LD3 0SG Contact: Dave or Cheryl on 01497 847676
Workshop 2 - 5 pm
Concert 7.30 pmTickets £7.50 concert only / £10 workshop only / £15 combined workshop and concert.This will be a brilliant event for those wanting to learn more about folk song and to have a pleasant evening out. For booking details visit http://www.villagequire.org.uk
So, at the beginning of our third year, let’s hope we continue to grow, get more people singing and playing, but most important of all, that we have an enjoyable time in the process. Perhaps you will be encouraged by the following quote from the latest English Folk Dance and Song Society Magazine in an article written by Sarah Morgan of Craig Morgan Robson regarding one aspect of our activities. I know it strikes a familiar note for some of us,
‘The community choir movement is one of the huge musical success stories of our time. Underpinned by egalitarian principles that singing is our birthright, and that everyone’s voice is of value...these open access choirs (which anyone can join without an audition or music reading skills) can be found the length and breadth of the country...many do not even use the term ‘choir’ lest it should be off-putting for those whose experience of singing in schools was to be told ‘stand at the back and mime’.
Keep on singing and strumming!
Monday, 22 August 2011
Welcome to Our Tales
While you are here why not try our search facility and see what else might interest you. Looking back over the subject covered we seem to be a wide ranging sort of blog. I am not sure I still agree with some of the older articles on politics and elections but they are part of the record and it would be against my instincts to delete them. I have always found librarions who want to get rid of some of tjheir holdings rather disconcerting as how do they know what might be of interest in the years to come. On the other hand I have snapped up a few treasures thanks ot their shortsightedness.
Dacier
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