We get together to sing folk songs & play instruments in a tolerant & relaxed atmosphere of mutual encouragement and support.
As the Olympic Summer fades it would be rather good if someone remembered one element in the opening tableau. Did we really see some country dancing and Morris Men? Is this a sort of recognition of an old English Tradition? Why is it that the English are so embarrassed by their ju own heritage? The Scots, Irish and Welsh don’t seem to have these hang ups. Sadly, we suspect that the patronising attitudes towards our folklore will continue, not withstanding that many of England’s composers drew heavily upon this heritage and would no doubt be just as puzzled as we are. It seems that the new age of the petrol head, loud mouthed crass critique of tradition is more likely to be favoured and the BBC has not done itself any credit by shutting down local folk music programmes or ‘modernising’ Mike Harding’s programme by giving him the sack. They didn’t even offer a period during which he ‘stepped aside’. This is why we think that listener supported radio like Folk RadioUK is a welcome development. Whilst grants are all very nice the folk community has in the main not only survived but has thrived on self help and long may it continue to do so. It may have to.
Having been thinking about ‘folk heritage’ for a while it was a great pleasure to be invited by Mike Newell to join the Village Quire guest list as they took part in the centenary celebration of the publication of The Folk-lore of Herefordshire by Ella Mary Leather. Having been a friend of both Ralph Vaughan Williams and Cecil Sharp her book is part of the literature right at the beginning of the preservation and revival of English folk music and dance which eventually saw the founding of the English Folk Dance and Song Society, the building of Cecil Sharpe House and the creation of the Ralph Vaughan Williams Memorial Library. Our job was to try and record the events as part of our local and folk music history.
So, the 10th of November saw us following Leominster Morris and Foxwhelp Morris along the narrow roads between Weobley, Dilwyn and Leominster marking the day with dances outside Ella’s house in Weobley, the New Inn at Pembridge and at the Cross Inn at Eardisland. A Grand Morris and Ceilidh followed at Dilwyn Village Hall in the evening. A full account for the record will appear on Tales from Under Black Hill in due course. Our thanks go to all those who made the day such a great success, especially Tony Handy of Leominster Morris http://www.leominstermorris.co.uk/ who organised the event, and folklorist Roy Palmer who read extracts from the book between songs from the Village Quire. The latter performing some new pieces in yet another brilliant performance. If all this were not enough, Hop Pickers Feast punctuated the evening with pieces from their wide and interesting repertoire and then, just as we thought the day was over, the announcement was made, ‘And now it’s Ceilidh time’!
While preparing this Newsletter we realised that it was in November three years ago, prompted by our daughter Mary that we advertised and held our first Folk Workshop at Newton Church Room. The founding participants at that evening have gradually been joined by many new friends to make the folk music community which has developed. Here is a blog recording the event: Folk music workshop in hills
And finally Hobgoblin Music has circulated the following note marking a great success for common sense:
‘Many of you will be aware of the campaign against the music licensing elements of the 2003 Licensing Act, which made it illegal for venues to host any form of live music without a license. This replaced the previous '3 in a bar' rule, which wasn't much better.
This week saw a fantastic development in music licensing law, as it became legal for live unamplified music to be played in any location (without a license), and for amplified music to be played in unlicensed venues with a capacity of 200 or less.
We are very optimistic that this will help to reverse the trend of folk clubs and sessions being closed down by zealous local authorities, as has been happening for many, many years’
With such a good piece of news all that remains to be said is to thank John and Bridget for hosting Black Hill Folk and Sheila and all her staff at the Crown Inn Longtown for continuing to make us so welcome, and to wish all supporters a Happy and Musical Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.
John and Jane Baxter
With so much dancing we were rather pleased to see this in our EFDSS magazine:
‘Dancing’, he said, ‘is most strengthening, livening, and courting movement, ‘specially with a little beverage added’!
Mr Spinks at the Tranters Christmas Party, Under the Greenwood Tree by Thomas Hardy (1872)
Past Events: There has been quite a lot going on. We are happy to report that the Rapsqillian Workshop and Concert at St. Margaret’s Church was a great success. It was very heartening to see some new faces at both events.
We were greatly entertained by the Village Choir when we saw them perform their programme High Days and Holidays on the Welsh Marches with reader Phil Smith at the unspoilt church of St.James at Llangua back on 6th October. Having seen the first performance of this programme back in April 20011 ( see Village Quire High Days for a review) this was our third hearing and was delivered with the usual high standards under the direction of Dave Newell. If you haven’t seen them see their Christmas schedule below.
FolkWorkshops supporters put a great deal of effort into making the Evening of Remembrance at St. Margaret’s Church on Saturday 10th a moving experience for all attending this unique mixture of poetry, folk song, and meditations. We have had three really good Folk Nights at the Crown Inn sessions with good attendances for the pre-session meal and a variety of singers and players making it an entertaining evening. We had 30 people at the session on the 20th November and again it was great to see so many new faces. See below for next month’s details.
Black Hill Folk continue their weekly practices. Having performed at both of the events at St. Margaret’s Church they are currently rehearsing pieces from their Christmas and Wassail repertoire in readiness for the weeks ahead. For more details ring John Biggs 01981 510629.
Black Hill Tune Club: Judy Mabe reports s that seven musicians gathered at the Crown Inn, Longtown in the afternoon on Thursday 8th November. ‘This month we were developing harmonies within some of our existing tunes and working on some arrangements. We made a pretty good sound’, a view confirmed by Sheila, the landlady, who was doing her book work somewhere nearby.
Future Events: With things getting a bit busy just at the moment we thought a Christmas Newsletter might be a good option. If there is something which you think should be drawn to the attention of FolkWorkshops supporters please e-mail us. If there is an important event that has gone unnoticed we can always put out a brief e-mail message.
Black Hill Folk: next practice Tuesday 27th November at 800pm.
For details ring John Biggs 01981 510629
Black Mountain Blues: Wednesday 12th December
This is the latest spin-off from 'Folkworkshops.' Last Wednesday saw a gathering of nine for 'Blues Workshop No1' . The event was kindly hosted by Bob Burson in Longtown. Participants shared their early experiences of blues music and talked about how they hoped to develop their playing and vocal skills through the workshop model. This was followed by some guitar, bass, and harmonica jamming, and some vocals, based mostly on simple 12 bar blues patterns. The verdict? Ok, plenty of work to be done but it was a lot of fun. More telling is that a date was set for 'Blues Workshop No2.
This will take place at Peterchurch Fire Station on Wednesday 12th December from 2pm -4pm. There is an outline plan for the group to meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month thereafter.
Players and vocalists of all abilities are welcome. If you are interested in playing blues music but can't make the workshops we can put you in touch with others who also meet outside the workshop setting.
For more information please contact Alan McCardle 01981 510510.
Folk Nights at the Crown Inn, Longtown, Tuesday 18th December: This is the time of year when a night out singing is so much more attractive than late night shopping, so venture out and sing and join us for our last session of 2012. While you are about it why not join the growing number of us who like to have a meal before the music starts? We aim to get the music started just after 8pm. You can ring in your order in advance by ringing 01873 860217 visit www.crowninnlongtown.co.uk.
Harpsongs: Phil Tipton, who is a loyal supporter of our sessions at the Crown, reports that at the session on 17th November the future of Harpsongs was discussed. There had been a very low turnout in the previous month and, as they had been running the sessions for 2 years, Phil thought it was time to take stock. Various ideas were put forward and adopted. We are very pleased to confirm that Harpsongs will continue as usual on every 3rd Saturday at 8.30pm but with various adjustments. So, like us, you will have to get along there to see what they are. Don’t forget to offer a car share if you can.
Black Hill Tune Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at the Crown Inn, Longtown at 2 pm and the next one (the 6th meeting) is on 6th December. Judy writes, ‘As we didn’t play any new tunes last month someone is bringing a new Welsh tune for us to learn. If anyone wants to have some idea what tunes we have been playing together, I’m happy to send them our Tune list.
I am in touch with another Tune Club in Ledbury and they are holding a Workshop led by John Kirkpatrick. He is very keen to help promote folk music workshops, and as long as they can attract about 20 people the ticket price should be quite modest. The possible dates being considered are March 2nd or 9th. If you are interested in this event or in Black Hill Tune Club please contact us.
Christmas Concerts with the Village Quire and actor Phil Smith
‘Imagine a Christmas before the inflatable plastic Santa was invented; before the flashing, LED-illuminated Rudolph and the fibre-optic Christmas tree. Imagine a time of fable, folklore and time-honoured custom, when stories were told by candlelight and, by the glow of the blazing Yuletide brand, those gathered in hearthside’s ease could sing a good old tune in four-part harmony, fine and full.
This Christmas The Village Quire and actor Phil Smith bring you songs and stories of mumming and wassailing, of misrule and mirth; rousing West Gallery anthems and intimate festive miniatures to melt your heart – an older Christmas, more stark, more true, glimpsed in the glimmering light of candle flames’
On Saturday 1st December we return to bring our Village Christmas to All Saints’ Church, Cwmbach, Glasbury. This year’s show will have lots of new mid-winter songs and stories to melt your heart, plus a good smattering of real, old Village Quire favourites. If you have never seen A Village Christmas before, then you are in for a treat; if you have, then we still hope to surprise and delight you. All will be atmospheric and candlelit and rich with the aroma of Tony and LizAnn’s excellent mulled wine – a great way to get you in the mood for the festive season! Full details are below and we look forward to seeing you there. Don’t forget to buy your tickets early as this annual concert is very popular and seating is limited. Full details: Saturday 1st December, 7.30 pm at All Saints’ Church, Glasbury (Radnor). Tickets £7 (£5 under 18s) to include mulled wine & mince pies, from Tony & LizAnn Laurie-Chiswell 01874 754308.
All proceeds to All Saints’ Church.
And if you can't make the 1st December then you've not missed us.
Our full list of December dates are as follows:
14/12/12 Llanbedr Village Hall, 7.30 pm - tickets from 01873 810436
15/12/12 Glanfa Stage, Wales Millennium Centre (Glanfa Stage 6.15 - 7..15 pm (FREE performance)
22/12/12 Shammick Acoustic (folk club), Pack O' Cards, Combe Martin, Devon, 8 pm - tickets from 01271 882366 (well, you might be on holiday in Devon!)
23/12/12 The Globe, Hay on Wye, 7.30 pm - tickets from 01497 821762: The Holly Bears The Crown: by Candlelight Tickets £6/£7/£8 – 01497 821762 www.globeathay.co.uk
FULL DETAILS OF THESE CONCERTS ARE ON OUR WEBSITE www.villagequire.org.uk or telephone 01497 847676
Vital Spark at Clodock Church: Friday 28th December at 7 pm. Entrance free with hot punch and mince pies afterwards. However, there will be a retiring collection. Vital Spark is a large group of singers from Malvern who sing West Gallery music and have been coming to Clodock for some years to sing in the magnificent West Gallery. This is an excellent opportunity to hear old English Carol’s by candlelight as they would have been sung before the style was replaced due to changes in fashion, and, it must be admitted, the over- fondness by some choirs for long practice sessions in the pub. You can find an article on West Gallery singing on the blog by clicking: Folk music harmony singing and west
Miscellaneous
18th December, The King and Queen, Public House, London: Bob Dylan’s Tour,50 Years On: In December 1962 Bob Dylan was in London filming Madhouse on Castle Street for the BBC ( since wiped, the film, not the Beeb) and on 18th December he started a month long tour of London folk clubs. To mark this event Tim Chipping has organised an evening at one of the pubs he visited 50 years ago. Wizz Jones will be among the guests. We have it on good authority that when Bob got to the Troubadour in Earls Court he had to pay to get in as he was not a booked guest.
Nearby upcoming Festivals to note: Gloucester Cajun,25-27th January, Cheltenham 8th-10th Feb: Nic Jones has been booked: Porthcawl Interceltic Festival 1st-3rd March.
Clog Dancing Course in Lancashire: We thought you might like to plan something to look forward to in February should your head not have cleared. Take a look at this if you would like some cheering up before you start the dreaded run up to Christmas. Well worth checking out the Lancashire Wallopers Dancing Horse
Sacred Harp Singing: With the Church of England having replaced West Gallery singing and other older forms in the mid 19th century, it will come as no surprise that similar forms of singing survived in parts of the United States. So, yes you’ve got it, it is now coming back to us. Our London correspondent spotted this and thought it would be of interest. As the site observes:
‘This singing tradition preserved forms, devices and harmonic tastes that were swept away in Europe as classical choral and sacred music evolved. In that way, I suppose it is a paradox and an anachronism – “early music” from the New World.’
http://londonsacredharp.org/
Don't Forget: Pete Coe in Concert 16th March, 2013, Black Hill Tune Club and FolkWorkshops, in association with the Globe Hay on Wye present this veteran of the club and festival circuiet.
Not to be messed. Tickets £10. More details later when you all need reminding again.
Showing posts with label Black Hill Tune Club. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Black Hill Tune Club. Show all posts
Sunday, 25 November 2012
Thursday, 4 October 2012
FolkWorkshops October Newsletter
It has been a busy month here in the hills and there are a lot of events coming up you should know about. You might also like to know what has been happening in this busy month.
But first, many thanks to those of you who have said how much you appreciate this e-Newsletter. Sometimes when we get asked what is going on or a disappointed individual has missed an event, we begin to wonder whether the attachment ever gets clicked. Many thanks also go to all those music shops we have visited. This month they include Hobgoblin Music in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music in Birmingham, Trefor Davies Music in Leominster and Marcus Music at Tredegar House. These are all excellent sources of instruments and advice, and what is more, they are welcoming places where you can buy in confidence. Marcus Music specialises in drums and makes a range of concertinas as well restoring and repairing instruments. If you are visiting the National Trust’s Tredegar House their workshop is in the row of shops near the ticket office.
Thanks also go to Sam Simmons, the editor of Folk Life, who has asked us to be correspondents for South West Herefordshire. Previously known as Folk Life West this re-launched publication is acquiring a wide circulation which currently covers the North West, Wales, the Midlands and the South West as far as the Scilly Isles. If you have any folk news please e-mail us.
Best wishes,
John and Jane Baxter
Past Events
On Thursday 6th September we went to our first session with the Black Hill Tune Club organised by Judy Mabe. Three flutes, a mandolin, guitar, banjo, a barum and wooden spoons combined to make a wonderful sound in a garden with a fine view of the Black Hill itself. Many thanks to Rhiannon for her hospitality and those who helped with the lunch. Subsequent sessions will be held at the Crown Inn, Longtown. For details of what instruments are played and the levels of ability please get in touch.
The following Sunday, singers from Black Hill Folk attended the St. Margaret’s Church, Family Harvest Festival, to sing the Guist Ploughman. With singing from the Children’s Choir and a good mixture of Harvest hymns from the congregation, a very musical morning was enjoyed by all.
We have also had two really good Folk Music Evenings at the Crown, Longtown, ( 3rd Tuesday of the month), the one on the 18th being attended by 21 singers and musicians. In a new departure several of us met up for a meal before the music started. By the time the first order was served there were nine of us dining together. It was agreed we would try to make this a regular option, possibly with a Folk Night Special being added for ordering in advance. More details will follow before our next session on October 16th.
We also had a different sort of Folk Music Evening at Newton Church Room on Tuesday September 11th. The evening started with the shock of the smoke alarm going off. Since there was no smoke to bring this about suspicion fell upon Bob’s Melodeon. Whatever the cause, tables had to be used to gain access to the stop button. With the result that to late comers it looked as though a meeting was being held. ‘Looks like a séance’, one was heard to remark. The tables did prove useful however since lyric sheets could be spread out and the appearance of the book, ‘101 Folk Songs for Buskers’ triggered an evening of singing down memory lane and generally ‘Goofing Around’. A most enjoyable evening was the verdict.
Finally, a small number attended the Black Hill Folk singing practice the following Tuesday at the same venue. Bob led the session very effectively by returning to our regular repertoire for general improvement in unison singing. Starting together and keeping time were emphasised and notes were taken so that all those attending next time will know where we have got to. For details of Black Hill Folk sessions ring John Biggs on 01981510629
Other Events: several supporters took part in the Craswall Fringe concert at Craswall Church where folk song was well represented among a variety of acts.
Judy Mabe took part in the singing Flash Mob for hEnergy in High Town, Hereford on 22nd September when 128 people gathered outside the Butter Market to entertain a large crowd with their harmony singing.
Finally, Judy and Bob attended the music workshop at the Globe, Hay-on-Wye on Saturday 29th. A report will appear next month.
Future Events
Abergavenny Scottish Country Dancers Wednesday Evenings 7.30 - 9.15 started on 19th Sept. For details ring 01873 850847
Saturday 6th October THE VILLAGE QUIRE will be performing their programme High Days And Holidays On the Welsh Marches with reader Phil Smith 7.30 p.m. at ST JAMES' CHURCH, LLANGUA (just on the Welsh side of the Monnow Bridge near Pontrilas). Tickets £10.00, to include a glass of wine during the interval. Further details and tickets from Eric Locke, 01981 241084. For full details of this and other Village Quire events visit http://www.villagequire.org.uk/gigs.php
Monday 8th October: ‘House Concert Abergavenny’. starting at around 7.30 pm.
Saskia Tomkins and Brandon Scott Besharah (www.2ish.net) are on tour. They play a range of instruments which include violin, nyckelharpa, guitar and hurdy gurdy and one description of their music is “heavy wood”.
If you are new to the idea of a house concert, it is a social evening where the focus is a concert. People come prepared to make a “donation” (all proceeds will go to the performers) of around £10.00 per each. You can put in more or less per head as you choose as this isn’t as formal ‘proper’ concert and we’ll provide the space, a range of chairs and some light refreshments (to include a glass of wine or soft drinks). Saskia and Brandon will no doubt have some CDs for sale.
Saturday 13th October: The Lock in Dance Show in Brecon, Theatr Brycheinioga, Brecon.
Billed as English Folk’s answer to Riverdance this show is coming to Brecon early in its long National Tour so now is your opportunity to see where modern folk dance is going. For tour dates click http://www.thelockindanceshow.co.uk/tour-dates
October 16th: Folk at the Crown Inn, Longtown. Starts from 8pm onwards but why not come early for a meal. Look out for the Folk Night Special from the Specials Board. Details to follow.
Saturday 20th October at 7.30 pm: Rapsquillian: A concert at St Margaret's Church in aid of church funds. Featuring this well known Shropshire based folk singing group performing songs from many lands, some with a harvest theme. They have had a busy summer on the festival circuit and we are fortunate to have them with us on this date. Tickets: £8
During the afternoon before the concert they will be holding a SINGING WORKSHOP from 2.30 pm in the School Room at Upper Maescoed Methodist Chapel which will be open to all. Tickets: £3
If you intend staying on after the Workshop to attend the Concert at 7.30 there will be a light supper available. There will be no charge but a donation would be much appreciated.
Please ring 01981 510629 to reserve tickets, book supper or for further details.
Tuesday 23 October, 7.30pm: Maddy Prior, Giles Lewin and Hannah James A grouping which in its pedigree includes Steeleye Span, The Carnival Band, After Hours, Kerfuffle, Demon Barbers and Hannah James and Sam Sweeney. A folk song and music evening with clogs on! £16 / £15 www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk Box Office 01584 878141
Wanted and For Sale: e-mail us, and we’ll put you in touch
Wanted: Affordable Hard Case for a student’s dreadnought acoustic guitar
For Sale: Old, fully restored 4/4 violin complete with a new bow and hard case. Available for inspection in Longtown
For sale: unpadded guitar bag suitable for up to dreadnought size. £8. It keeps the dust off! Likewise a 5 String Banjo bag, £5.
But first, many thanks to those of you who have said how much you appreciate this e-Newsletter. Sometimes when we get asked what is going on or a disappointed individual has missed an event, we begin to wonder whether the attachment ever gets clicked. Many thanks also go to all those music shops we have visited. This month they include Hobgoblin Music in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music in Birmingham, Trefor Davies Music in Leominster and Marcus Music at Tredegar House. These are all excellent sources of instruments and advice, and what is more, they are welcoming places where you can buy in confidence. Marcus Music specialises in drums and makes a range of concertinas as well restoring and repairing instruments. If you are visiting the National Trust’s Tredegar House their workshop is in the row of shops near the ticket office.
Thanks also go to Sam Simmons, the editor of Folk Life, who has asked us to be correspondents for South West Herefordshire. Previously known as Folk Life West this re-launched publication is acquiring a wide circulation which currently covers the North West, Wales, the Midlands and the South West as far as the Scilly Isles. If you have any folk news please e-mail us.
Best wishes,
John and Jane Baxter
Past Events
On Thursday 6th September we went to our first session with the Black Hill Tune Club organised by Judy Mabe. Three flutes, a mandolin, guitar, banjo, a barum and wooden spoons combined to make a wonderful sound in a garden with a fine view of the Black Hill itself. Many thanks to Rhiannon for her hospitality and those who helped with the lunch. Subsequent sessions will be held at the Crown Inn, Longtown. For details of what instruments are played and the levels of ability please get in touch.
The following Sunday, singers from Black Hill Folk attended the St. Margaret’s Church, Family Harvest Festival, to sing the Guist Ploughman. With singing from the Children’s Choir and a good mixture of Harvest hymns from the congregation, a very musical morning was enjoyed by all.
We have also had two really good Folk Music Evenings at the Crown, Longtown, ( 3rd Tuesday of the month), the one on the 18th being attended by 21 singers and musicians. In a new departure several of us met up for a meal before the music started. By the time the first order was served there were nine of us dining together. It was agreed we would try to make this a regular option, possibly with a Folk Night Special being added for ordering in advance. More details will follow before our next session on October 16th.
We also had a different sort of Folk Music Evening at Newton Church Room on Tuesday September 11th. The evening started with the shock of the smoke alarm going off. Since there was no smoke to bring this about suspicion fell upon Bob’s Melodeon. Whatever the cause, tables had to be used to gain access to the stop button. With the result that to late comers it looked as though a meeting was being held. ‘Looks like a séance’, one was heard to remark. The tables did prove useful however since lyric sheets could be spread out and the appearance of the book, ‘101 Folk Songs for Buskers’ triggered an evening of singing down memory lane and generally ‘Goofing Around’. A most enjoyable evening was the verdict.
Finally, a small number attended the Black Hill Folk singing practice the following Tuesday at the same venue. Bob led the session very effectively by returning to our regular repertoire for general improvement in unison singing. Starting together and keeping time were emphasised and notes were taken so that all those attending next time will know where we have got to. For details of Black Hill Folk sessions ring John Biggs on 01981510629
Other Events: several supporters took part in the Craswall Fringe concert at Craswall Church where folk song was well represented among a variety of acts.
Judy Mabe took part in the singing Flash Mob for hEnergy in High Town, Hereford on 22nd September when 128 people gathered outside the Butter Market to entertain a large crowd with their harmony singing.
Finally, Judy and Bob attended the music workshop at the Globe, Hay-on-Wye on Saturday 29th. A report will appear next month.
Future Events
Abergavenny Scottish Country Dancers Wednesday Evenings 7.30 - 9.15 started on 19th Sept. For details ring 01873 850847
Saturday 6th October THE VILLAGE QUIRE will be performing their programme High Days And Holidays On the Welsh Marches with reader Phil Smith 7.30 p.m. at ST JAMES' CHURCH, LLANGUA (just on the Welsh side of the Monnow Bridge near Pontrilas). Tickets £10.00, to include a glass of wine during the interval. Further details and tickets from Eric Locke, 01981 241084. For full details of this and other Village Quire events visit http://www.villagequire.org.uk/gigs.php
Monday 8th October: ‘House Concert Abergavenny’. starting at around 7.30 pm.
Saskia Tomkins and Brandon Scott Besharah (www.2ish.net) are on tour. They play a range of instruments which include violin, nyckelharpa, guitar and hurdy gurdy and one description of their music is “heavy wood”.
If you are new to the idea of a house concert, it is a social evening where the focus is a concert. People come prepared to make a “donation” (all proceeds will go to the performers) of around £10.00 per each. You can put in more or less per head as you choose as this isn’t as formal ‘proper’ concert and we’ll provide the space, a range of chairs and some light refreshments (to include a glass of wine or soft drinks). Saskia and Brandon will no doubt have some CDs for sale.
Saturday 13th October: The Lock in Dance Show in Brecon, Theatr Brycheinioga, Brecon.
Billed as English Folk’s answer to Riverdance this show is coming to Brecon early in its long National Tour so now is your opportunity to see where modern folk dance is going. For tour dates click http://www.thelockindanceshow.co.uk/tour-dates
October 16th: Folk at the Crown Inn, Longtown. Starts from 8pm onwards but why not come early for a meal. Look out for the Folk Night Special from the Specials Board. Details to follow.
Saturday 20th October at 7.30 pm: Rapsquillian: A concert at St Margaret's Church in aid of church funds. Featuring this well known Shropshire based folk singing group performing songs from many lands, some with a harvest theme. They have had a busy summer on the festival circuit and we are fortunate to have them with us on this date. Tickets: £8
During the afternoon before the concert they will be holding a SINGING WORKSHOP from 2.30 pm in the School Room at Upper Maescoed Methodist Chapel which will be open to all. Tickets: £3
If you intend staying on after the Workshop to attend the Concert at 7.30 there will be a light supper available. There will be no charge but a donation would be much appreciated.
Please ring 01981 510629 to reserve tickets, book supper or for further details.
Tuesday 23 October, 7.30pm: Maddy Prior, Giles Lewin and Hannah James A grouping which in its pedigree includes Steeleye Span, The Carnival Band, After Hours, Kerfuffle, Demon Barbers and Hannah James and Sam Sweeney. A folk song and music evening with clogs on! £16 / £15 www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk Box Office 01584 878141
Wanted and For Sale: e-mail us, and we’ll put you in touch
Wanted: Affordable Hard Case for a student’s dreadnought acoustic guitar
For Sale: Old, fully restored 4/4 violin complete with a new bow and hard case. Available for inspection in Longtown
For sale: unpadded guitar bag suitable for up to dreadnought size. £8. It keeps the dust off! Likewise a 5 String Banjo bag, £5.
Friday, 31 August 2012
FolkWorkshops Early September Newsletter
Being born in the town or country doesn’t always mean your preference will remain with your birthplace. There are however a lot of people who don’t like the countryside at all or don’t want to stay there for long. Like medical emergencies often happening after 4 am, the urban itch usually kicks in after a predictable 18 months to two years. Many of our folk songs are about the countryside but many are now about every kind of place and person. You will see where this is going if you have a look at this: http://tinyurl.com/c37fyzh By the time you read this nonsense we should have written and performed our first draft of a song based on this story.
That said, whether town or country, not enough people get out and do things together as part of a community. Are we losing the knack of living together in a community? Judging by some of the dormitory villages we seem to have acquired in recent years that could be happening. Surely TV isn’t that good to keep you away from a good pub, choir, WI, or other communal activity? Sadly it often is, especially when some people will have spent up to 4 hours a day commuting to Cardiff, Swansea, or Worcester. Not mention the demands on those who work locally and especially during lambing, hay making and harvest times. The chance to get out for an evening would be a luxury. So, whether you live in a town or the country, we all need to get out more. Provided we can drive or can get a lift our rural location doesn’t stop us getting to all sorts of folk events of the sort listed below.
John and Jane
PS: this newsletter has taken so long to prepare it is going out now! Look out for the low flying typos.
Events:
Jim Neale tells us of a Food and Craft Fair at Broome Farm: on Sunday 2nd September, starts at 10.00am Free Entry Take the A49 towards Ross-on-Wye . Enter the village of Peterstow; the first LEFT turn (immediate) is to Peterstow Church; the second Left Turn (30 metres) is to Broome Farm. Down the lane for 200m and turn Right into the Farm...Stewards on duty. The Food and Craft fair A Swing Band plays mid morning. Fiddle Guitar and Double Bass.It was brilliant in previous years.
Singing Lessons in Garway
Individual tuition with experienced teacher
All ages and levels of ability welcome
Piano lessons (to Grade 3) and music theory (to Grade 5) also offered
For further information, or to arrange a no-obligation introductory lesson, contact: Jane Bovell, BA(Hons), Dip ABRSM Tel: 01600 750700 Mob: 07904 530641
Folk Evenings at the Crown Inn, Longtown: 3rd Tuesday of the month from 8.pm. All singers and musicians will be made very welcome at this sing around session. The next meet is Tuesday 18th September.
Harp Songs: Harp Inn, Glasbury 3rd Saturday of the Month: Next meeting 15th September:with a good contact through Phill Tipton and his visits to the Crown Inn Longtown every 3rd Tuesday, there are regular visits from this side of the boarder. Their Basque Musicians Evening achieved full house. All those who were there said it was a great evening and were brilliant. Four of us went this last Saturday and had a very pleasant evening with a few other singers just dropping in for the first time. An excellent landlord and good lighting.
Many thanks to Phil for making contact with us for the sessions at the Crown Inn. He always has new and interesting songs and his methods of getting to Longtown have gained everyone’s respect. He has also kindly passed on all the details of this FolkWorkshops Newletter, our Blogs and our @FolkWorkshops twitter feed on his own e-circular for Harp Songs regulars.
Rapsqillian: publicity has now been placed in several outlets and posters will soon be available. John Biggs writes, ‘On the evening of SATURDAY OCTOBER 20TH we shall be holding a concert in St Margaret's Church which will feature the well known Shropshire based folk singing group, 'RAPSQUILLION'. Seven singers and instrumentalists will perform songs from many lands loosely based around the theme of harvest. They will have had a busy summer on the music festival circuit and we are indeed fortunate to have them with us on this date.
All proceeds will go towards the proposed improvements to facilities at St Margaret's Church.
During the afternoon before the concert they have agreed to hold a SINGING WORKSHOP in the School Room at Upper Maescoed Methodist Chapel which will be open to all.
Further details of times and charges of both of these events will appear in the September FolkWorkshops Newsletter. If however you want to reserve tickets in advance please telephone 01981 510629 .
Flash Mob for hEnergy High Town, Hereford 22nd September
Look out for a massive harmony singing flash mob for High Town on Saturday 22 Sep as part of a hEnergy event. There will be a free two hour workshop 10am to 12 mid day at the Shire Hall, led by Neil Pigott and Jess Ryan-Phillips, to teach a four part song which will then appear in High Town as a flash mob at 12.30 (just after the clock strikes!).
While we would like to have members from local singing groups involved we also want it to be entirely open to anyone who fancies a go.
Any ideas you have that could assist us in spreading the word would be welcome and please do come and join us in any case. We will be singing a very beautiful and powerful four part harmony piece reflecting the local environment and landscapes. Neil Pigott
The Courtyard Hereford: Spiers and Boden, 25th September at 8pm. It looks as though Nightjar has survived and is back for the winter, so check the publicity from the Courtyard.
The Globe, Hay on Wye: 29th September There is going to be a Welsh Tune Workshop at the Globe Theatre in Hay on Saturday 29 September. (2 classes: Beginners and more advanced) The workshop will be in the afternoon and this will be followed by an ‘open’ evening session. Gary Northeast, melodeon player is probably going to run the beginners class; this is to be confirmed. This looks like it will be a big event for those learning an instrument within the range of instruments being catered for. More details later’
Early Notice: PETE COE at the Globe, Hay on Wye Saturday 16th March 2013: With a session after. More details later but keep this evening clear if you want to hear a true troubadour from the club and festival scene. This event is a joint promotion by Black Hill Tunes and FolkWorkshops in association with the Globe, Hay on Wye.
Black Hill Folk: continue to get together for group singing rehearsals and for the sessions at the Crown Inn, Longtown every 3rd Tuesday of the month. New singers always welcome. For details ring John Biggs on 01981510629
The Black Hill Tune Club meets on the first Thursday of the month. This is a fast growing group attracting several supporters wanting to develop their playing skills for playing instruments together. The next meeting will be at Rhiannon and Simon Taylor’s house near Longtown on Thursday 6, September at the earlier time of 11.30. (Light lunch provided £3. Wine £1.50) Subsequent Thursday meetings will be at The Crown, Longtown 2-4pm. For details of what instruments are played and the levels of ability.
EFDSS: Why not sign up for their e-Newsletter. Lots of interesting things going on this winter especially if you are planning a pre-Christmas trip to London. We have just received our quarterly magazine from HQ & there is so much going on it reinforces what has just been said about any plans you might have for venturing forth, whether locally or further afield.
Halsway Manor: A National Study Centre: check this place out on Google if you would like a weekend residential folk music course of some kind. Details are on the internet and we now follow each other on twitter.
@FolkWorkshops For those who might have any interest, our twitter feed, has now reached over 100 followers. For those who don’t ‘get’ twitter a good deal of information is available to folk enthusiasts via this medium as an examination of our followers list will show. It is up to the subscriber what they want to use it for and how much they want from it.
That said, whether town or country, not enough people get out and do things together as part of a community. Are we losing the knack of living together in a community? Judging by some of the dormitory villages we seem to have acquired in recent years that could be happening. Surely TV isn’t that good to keep you away from a good pub, choir, WI, or other communal activity? Sadly it often is, especially when some people will have spent up to 4 hours a day commuting to Cardiff, Swansea, or Worcester. Not mention the demands on those who work locally and especially during lambing, hay making and harvest times. The chance to get out for an evening would be a luxury. So, whether you live in a town or the country, we all need to get out more. Provided we can drive or can get a lift our rural location doesn’t stop us getting to all sorts of folk events of the sort listed below.
John and Jane
PS: this newsletter has taken so long to prepare it is going out now! Look out for the low flying typos.
Events:
Jim Neale tells us of a Food and Craft Fair at Broome Farm: on Sunday 2nd September, starts at 10.00am Free Entry Take the A49 towards Ross-on-Wye . Enter the village of Peterstow; the first LEFT turn (immediate) is to Peterstow Church; the second Left Turn (30 metres) is to Broome Farm. Down the lane for 200m and turn Right into the Farm...Stewards on duty. The Food and Craft fair A Swing Band plays mid morning. Fiddle Guitar and Double Bass.It was brilliant in previous years.
Singing Lessons in Garway
Individual tuition with experienced teacher
All ages and levels of ability welcome
Piano lessons (to Grade 3) and music theory (to Grade 5) also offered
For further information, or to arrange a no-obligation introductory lesson, contact: Jane Bovell, BA(Hons), Dip ABRSM Tel: 01600 750700 Mob: 07904 530641
Folk Evenings at the Crown Inn, Longtown: 3rd Tuesday of the month from 8.pm. All singers and musicians will be made very welcome at this sing around session. The next meet is Tuesday 18th September.
Harp Songs: Harp Inn, Glasbury 3rd Saturday of the Month: Next meeting 15th September:with a good contact through Phill Tipton and his visits to the Crown Inn Longtown every 3rd Tuesday, there are regular visits from this side of the boarder. Their Basque Musicians Evening achieved full house. All those who were there said it was a great evening and were brilliant. Four of us went this last Saturday and had a very pleasant evening with a few other singers just dropping in for the first time. An excellent landlord and good lighting.
Many thanks to Phil for making contact with us for the sessions at the Crown Inn. He always has new and interesting songs and his methods of getting to Longtown have gained everyone’s respect. He has also kindly passed on all the details of this FolkWorkshops Newletter, our Blogs and our @FolkWorkshops twitter feed on his own e-circular for Harp Songs regulars.
Rapsqillian: publicity has now been placed in several outlets and posters will soon be available. John Biggs writes, ‘On the evening of SATURDAY OCTOBER 20TH we shall be holding a concert in St Margaret's Church which will feature the well known Shropshire based folk singing group, 'RAPSQUILLION'. Seven singers and instrumentalists will perform songs from many lands loosely based around the theme of harvest. They will have had a busy summer on the music festival circuit and we are indeed fortunate to have them with us on this date.
All proceeds will go towards the proposed improvements to facilities at St Margaret's Church.
During the afternoon before the concert they have agreed to hold a SINGING WORKSHOP in the School Room at Upper Maescoed Methodist Chapel which will be open to all.
Further details of times and charges of both of these events will appear in the September FolkWorkshops Newsletter. If however you want to reserve tickets in advance please telephone 01981 510629 .
Flash Mob for hEnergy High Town, Hereford 22nd September
Look out for a massive harmony singing flash mob for High Town on Saturday 22 Sep as part of a hEnergy event. There will be a free two hour workshop 10am to 12 mid day at the Shire Hall, led by Neil Pigott and Jess Ryan-Phillips, to teach a four part song which will then appear in High Town as a flash mob at 12.30 (just after the clock strikes!).
While we would like to have members from local singing groups involved we also want it to be entirely open to anyone who fancies a go.
Any ideas you have that could assist us in spreading the word would be welcome and please do come and join us in any case. We will be singing a very beautiful and powerful four part harmony piece reflecting the local environment and landscapes. Neil Pigott
The Courtyard Hereford: Spiers and Boden, 25th September at 8pm. It looks as though Nightjar has survived and is back for the winter, so check the publicity from the Courtyard.
The Globe, Hay on Wye: 29th September There is going to be a Welsh Tune Workshop at the Globe Theatre in Hay on Saturday 29 September. (2 classes: Beginners and more advanced) The workshop will be in the afternoon and this will be followed by an ‘open’ evening session. Gary Northeast, melodeon player is probably going to run the beginners class; this is to be confirmed. This looks like it will be a big event for those learning an instrument within the range of instruments being catered for. More details later’
Early Notice: PETE COE at the Globe, Hay on Wye Saturday 16th March 2013: With a session after. More details later but keep this evening clear if you want to hear a true troubadour from the club and festival scene. This event is a joint promotion by Black Hill Tunes and FolkWorkshops in association with the Globe, Hay on Wye.
Black Hill Folk: continue to get together for group singing rehearsals and for the sessions at the Crown Inn, Longtown every 3rd Tuesday of the month. New singers always welcome. For details ring John Biggs on 01981510629
The Black Hill Tune Club meets on the first Thursday of the month. This is a fast growing group attracting several supporters wanting to develop their playing skills for playing instruments together. The next meeting will be at Rhiannon and Simon Taylor’s house near Longtown on Thursday 6, September at the earlier time of 11.30. (Light lunch provided £3. Wine £1.50) Subsequent Thursday meetings will be at The Crown, Longtown 2-4pm. For details of what instruments are played and the levels of ability.
EFDSS: Why not sign up for their e-Newsletter. Lots of interesting things going on this winter especially if you are planning a pre-Christmas trip to London. We have just received our quarterly magazine from HQ & there is so much going on it reinforces what has just been said about any plans you might have for venturing forth, whether locally or further afield.
Halsway Manor: A National Study Centre: check this place out on Google if you would like a weekend residential folk music course of some kind. Details are on the internet and we now follow each other on twitter.
@FolkWorkshops For those who might have any interest, our twitter feed, has now reached over 100 followers. For those who don’t ‘get’ twitter a good deal of information is available to folk enthusiasts via this medium as an examination of our followers list will show. It is up to the subscriber what they want to use it for and how much they want from it.
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