“There is nothing stable in the world – uproar’s your only music“ John Keats, 1818
S
ince our first effort hit the streets in July we’ve been greatly encouraged by the many messages of support you have sent us, together with your valuable suggestions for developing the magazine. Naturally, some of you are more equivocal, while others fear that the changes introduced so far herald the ‘uproar’ of upheaval – of which, more from the quill of Long Lankin. Varied though these reactions are, they share common themes in a feeling of relief that Unicorn is continuing, together with a sense of ownership in Unicorn among the local folk community. We are extremely keen to maintain this bond, and feel that we should say more about our plans at this early stage of our tenure as editors. This should also help any of you wishing to join our growing list of contributors; the target word count for articles is 260 words. Here’s the plan: • Unicorn will remain a free publication financed by advertisers. • Our geographical focus will be on the counties of Beds, Bucks, Cambs and Herts, and neighbouring areas.
• Our primary focus for content will be on folk music and dance, whilst also taking an interest in the wider roots and acoustic scene. • We will promote future events, and will review recent events where the artists or the venue are likely to be of continuing interest to readers. • Articles (such as cd, gig and equipment reviews and interviews) will showcase local clubs, artists, organisers and businesses. • We plan to replace the current listings formats with two Diaries covering Music and Dance respectively. We don’t seek the ‘uproar’ of change for its own sake, but rather a process of evolution which preserves the essential character of Unicorn. If you feel this is in danger of being lost, tell us – we may disagree, or we may not be able to oblige, but let’s have the discussion. See you round the clubs. Simon, Clive & Mike
Editorial
1
Club Profile: The Watford Folk Club
26
Editorial Staff:
Contents
1
Advertiser Information
29
Chatterbox
5
Shall We Dance?
30
Club Profile: Moggerhanger Village Folk
7
CD Review: Ragged Staff
35
Simon Bailes 07808 535110 unicornmagazine@hotmail.co.uk
Sessions
10
Broadside by Long Lankin
36
CD Review: The Foxglove Trio
13
Feature: A Challenge to Songwriters
14
Review: Dacorum Folk Fest
15
Front cover photo by Al Rogers “Instrument in Peril #2: Flute”
17 – 19
Flute courtesy of Ruth Larbey
Unicorn Diary Club Index
20
Song: Diamonds in the Dust
22
Clive Batkin 07771 822414 clive@cbatkin.plus.com Mike Nacey 07879 024193 mi.ken@hotmail.co.uk Contact address: 10 Chapel Street, Dunton, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8RW Printed by KJB UK Ltd
© Unicorn Magazine 2013 CB1039 • September 2013
Visit our website at www.unicornmagazine.org Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
1
Concerts at St Mary Magdalene Church, Dunton, Biggleswade. 7.30 for 8.00pm - £10 (Children free) Pete Morton – Saturday 19th October
Pete’s shows are dynamic and intense, while remaining approachable and fun loving. His songs are an unruly mix of humour, politics and love.
Monthly Sessions First Tuesday of every month. March Hare, Dunton, Biggleswade, 8.00pm. Andy 01767 316 124 Simon 01767 310 424
Kristy Gallacher and Luke Jackson th
Saturday 16 November
Dunton Folk’s first double header. Two of the brightest new stars on the scene
Victorian Christmas – Blast From the Past th
Saturday 7 December
duntonfolk@hotmail.co.uk
A festive exploration of the Yuletide the Victorians would have known. An evening of music, song, stories and drama from the time of Dickens and Hardy
www.duntonfolk.co.uk
Ely Folk Club presents
Wednesday 16th October
4Square
£9 (£8 advance)
Wednesday 13th November
Steve Tilston £9 (£8 advance)
Wednesday 11th December
Paul Downes & Mick Ryan “Who Stole Christmas” £10 (£9 advance)
For latest information check out www.strawbear.org.uk or ring 01733 208245
2
Old Dispensary, 13 St Mary’s St., Ely CB7 4ER
Please mention UNicorn Magazine when replying to ads
01353 740999/664706
www.elyfolkclub.co.uk
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, R2 is a bi-monthly magazine packed with folk, roots, blues, rock, singer-songwriter and world music coverage. Our extensive, authoritative review section and entertaining, informative interview features, plus FREE cover-mounted Un-Herd CD (every issue) will keep you up to date and in the loop. We’re distributed by Comag and available at WH Smith and all good newsagents. You can also find us in numerous independent record stores and bookshops across the UK and around the world. Alternatively, order direct online: request a single issue or get yourself a special, recession-beating six-issue subscription at only £19.75 – UK rate only) at
• www.rock-n-reel.co.uk •
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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3
The Devine Family
Irish Family Band
For tour dates, biography, bookings, to hear us or purchase the latest album from the “The Devine Family”, please visit our website:
www.johndevinemusic.com Info@johndevinemusic.com
Rakes
The BARN DANCES TREFUSIS, CECIL SHARP HOUSE 2 REGENT’S PARK ROAD, NW1 7AY
Call: 0 2 0 8 5 2 7 8 4 1 9
£7 on the night 2013 doors open 7.30pm start 8pm -11pm Wednesdays Autumn 2013
25th September . 30th Ocotober November 27th . 18th December Reg Hall, Michael Plunkett, Paul Gross & Ken Lees are joined for this new series of dances by caller Steve Roud + guest callers & song spots LICENCED BAR
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
The Full English Tour marks the launch of the world’s biggest digital archive of English traditional folk music and dance tunes. Seth Lakeman, Martin Simpson, Fay Hield, Nancy Kerr, Sam Sweeney, Rob Harbron and Ben Nicholls will perform new music inspired by material which Fay Hield found in the archive.
Stevenage Sword Dancers are still going strong and celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2013. Founder Brian Kell was recently awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to music and to the community of Whittlesea, where he now lives and where he played a major role in reviving the Straw Bear Festival.
Folkstock continues to gather momentum. The inaugural Festival is attracting great interest, while the first intake of performers for the Foundation has been successfully recruited – watch this space for updates…
Unicorn Ceilidhs (advert Page 16) will hold a New Year’s Eve ceilidh at Pirton Village Hall, with The Watch and Barry Goodman calling. Tickets are £25 adults, £10 children including a two course buffet, available from Unicorn Ceilidhs or Alan on 07946 439095. See www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk.
The Straw Bear Festival (advert Page 2) will take place in Whittlesey from 10 – 12 January, featuring concerts, dancing, mummers, storytelling, poetry, a mini melodeon workshop for children, and of course the Burning of The Bear. Folk Radio: Your very own Unicorn editors recently appeared on shows hosted by both John Devine, (www.radioverulam.com) and Daria Kulesh (www.facebook.com/radiodacorum.org) – you can ‘listen again’ to the shows on the new Unicorn website, www.unicornmagazine.org. Following a successful exhibition on the history of folk in St Albans, discussions are underway about further archiving work. Please address enquiries to info@stalbansfolkmusic.org.uk. Everybody’s Dancing by Judy Barker is a collection of songs for children. Published by Carolina Music (www.carolinamusic.co.uk) at £16.00, it is a CD and handbook with words and chord symbols for use by parents, teachers of KS 1 &2 pupils and music group leaders. Well produced, clear and easy to follow, each tune is accompanied by suggested activities.
Ely: The monthly session on the last Wednesday has found a new home at The Kings Arms, St Marys Street. Contact Liam, laimdebrun@outlook.co.uk, 07905 044932. Benington: Monthly sessions on 4th Tuesdays will continue at The Bell, where the keen new manager has even had the piano tuned. Contact Kit Burgess, 01438 869435. Hemel Hempstead: Leather Bottle Folk now meets every 1st & 3rd Wednesday at The Olde Leather Bottle, HP3 8QQ, run by Keith White. Text 07847 073462 for details. Watford FC’s Song Competition (advert Page 9) has had a great response, but there’s still time to submit your entry before it closes on 18th October. The Grand Final on 15th November will be judged by a panel of seasoned folk performers. Unicorn has been spotted as far east as Bury St. Edmunds, where the lively Milkmaid club meets on Fridays. They have a full programme of guests and open mic nights, and will perform throughout the Bury Christmas Fayre at Moyses Hall. Contact Brian at folkwaller@yahoo.co.uk, and see the club website at www.milkmaidmusic.co.uk.
Staplers Country Dance Club are holding workshop at St Ippolytts Village Hall on Sunday 27th October 2 – 5pm ‘More Gary Roodman Dances’ led by John Turner, music by Paul Hutchinson, details 01582 881966.
St Albans: Wednesday sessions have for the time being moved from the White Lion, Sopwell Lane, to the White Swan, Dagnall Street, where the landlord also hosts occasional Irish music sessions and other events led by John Devine.
Cambridge Portland Folk Club are having problems with the availability of the Portland and may have to move some events to another venue – these are shown in the Unicorn diary as “venue tbc”. Please check nearer the time at their website www.portlandfolkclub.com.
Plans are in hand for New Roots 2014, the competition for young musicians under the age of 25. The closing date is 14th January 2014 and the finals will be in April at Trestle Arts Base, St Albans. See www.stalbansfolkmusic.org.uk.
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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Folk, Roots, World & Acoustic Music Autumn 2013 Sat 12 Oct
Moishe’s Bagel
Tue 15 Oct
Devon Sproule & Mike O’Neill
Thu 17 Oct
Southern Tenant Folk Union
Sat 19 Oct
Baka Beyond
Sun 20 Oct
Mary Coughlan
Tue 22 Oct
Martha Tilston & The Scientists
Mon 28 Oct
Megson & The Young ‘Uns
Mon 04 Nov
Breabach
Tue 05 Nov
The Dylan Project (feat. Dave PegG)
Mon 11 Nov
Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo
Tue 12 Nov
Martyn Joseph
Mon 18 Nov
Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman
Thu 21 Nov
Thea Gilmore
Sat 23 Nov
Sharon Shannon
Mon 25 Nov
The Leisure Society
Tue 26 Nov
Gwyneth Herbert
Sat 30 Nov
Ballaké Sissoko
Sun 01 Dec
Stornoway*
Fri 13 Dec
Adrian Edmondson and The Bad Shepherds*
J2 Bar now serving local real ales and ciders SEATED shows In j2 theatre (unless marked with *) Box Office 01223 511 511 • junction.co.uk
Cambridge junction • clifton way • cambridge • cb1 7gx
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T
rial sessions at the hall early in 2013 proved a resounding success for musicians and players alike. Music type: Basically folk - but anything goes! Admission charge: Free Guests: Singarounds. Acoustic but open mic available Venue name: Moggerhanger Village Hall Venue address: Blunham Road, Moggerhanger, MK44 3RB Parking: 12 cars plus plenty of quiet road parking Club contact: Chris Bashford • 01767 640242 • chris@mainlinksystems.co.uk • www.moggerhangervillagehall.co.uk
We named ourselves “Village Folk” and continue meeting on the first Wednesday of each month. Players come from far and wide and locally. People seem to like our professional but light-hearted and friendly approach where we not only ‘do our own thing’ but also entertain others who just come to listen. A licensed, well-stocked and reasonably priced bar adds to the attraction of a very enjoyable evening. Our monthly Wednesday evenings are for players and listening friends and all are welcome. Some folk guest events are planned, to be run separately on Saturdays and advertised as such.
UM2 Quarter Page (portrait) STACEY BANJOS 2.pdf
STACEY BANJOS REPAIRS SET-UPS & RESTORATION TO: ACOUSTIC GUITARS ELECTRIC GUITARS CLASSICAL GUITARS BANJOS & MANDOLINS BANJOS BUILT TO ORDER
DAVE STACEY 19 FIELD LANE LETCHWORTH HERTS SG6 3LF 01462 683074
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
24/4/13
11:32:08
Northampton Ceilidhs
Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Northampton NN1 5LL
SATURDAY 26 October Ceilidh Band: The Occasional Few Caller: John Green SATURDAY 30 November Ceilidh Band: Hit and Miss Caller: Jim Marriott SATURDAY 28 December Ceilidh Band: Sleeping Moggy Caller: John Turner Dancing from 8pm to 11pm Adults £9; Student £5; Accompanied under 16s FREE ; Group of 6 (paying) one free Licenced Bar Free Car Park Ruth 01933 397767, Valerie 01604 711536 John 07760 197921 www.northamptonceilidhs.co.uk
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Chesham Folk Club Club Chesham Folk White HP51AG 1AG White Hill, Hill, Chesham Chesham HP5
Every 8.15to to11.00 11.00 Every Monday Monday 8.15 23 Sept 28 Oct
Nancy Kerr and James Fagan
£10.00 £12.00
Crave Rua
£10.00 £12.00
Jez Lowe
£8.00
£10.00
Ewan Wilkinson and Sandy Brechin
£8.00
£10.00
Les Barker
£8.00
£10.00
One of the best acts on the folk circuit.
A rare chance to see the best in Irish Music in a club setting
11 Nov
The North’s premier songwriter and performer
25 Nov
New to the South, Greta songs and tunes
9 Dec
Unique, non conformist, side splittingly funny .
Other Mondays Singers nights, see Shire Folk Diary
Or www.tudorfolkclub.org.uk Limited floor spots on guest nights. For Tickets 01494 785593 to book a floor spot call 07771 727943
24 June
Al Parish
£8.00
£10.00
John Kirkpatric
£8.00
£10.00
Ex Tanglewood, understated, talented, entertaining
8 July
The Sultan of Squeeze, incomparable, warm, brilliant, be there
presents
Write a Folk Song Competition 2013 - “THIS WORKING LIFE” Could you write a new folk song? Well this is your opportunity… The Watford Folk Club invites entries for its second annual competition for song writers. For 2013 our theme will be: ‘This Working Life’. Industry, Agriculture, The Military, Life at Sea –it’s your choice. Entry details, forms and competition rules are available at: http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com/songcompetition2013.htm (Closing date for entries is Friday, October 18th 2013 with the Grand Final on Friday, November 15th)
STOP PRESS: We already have more entries than at this time last year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
FUTURE GUEST ARTISTS INCLUDE: Mick Ryan & Paul Downes, Pete Morton, Na-Mara, Pete Atkin, James Hickman & Dan Cassidy and Fake Thackeray. (Dates in Unicorn Diary)
Don’t forget our LEGENDARY SINGAROUNDS on non-guest nights! Further details at: http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/watfordfolkclub/
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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Sunday Lunchtimes STONY STRATFORD • Vaults Bar (Weekly): Jane Armour, 01908 566407
Sunday Evenings ASTON CLINTON • Oak PH (3rd): Roger, 01296 613742 HANSLOPE • Hanslope Working Men’s Club (3rd): Ivor Sayer, 01908 265902 MILTON KEYNES • see www.mksessions.blogspot.com (Weekly) MILTON KEYNES • New Inn, New Bradwell (1st): Patsy, 07932 157610 ST ALBANS • Farmers Boy, London Rd (1st): Nick, 020 8953 5231
Monday Evenings ASHWELL • Rose & Crown (1st): Ian Chandler, 01462 743091 BERKHAMSTED • George & Dragon, Northchurch (1st & 3rd – Open Mic): Mick, 01442 864533 (pub) COTTENHAM • Cottenham Club (2nd): Graham, 01353 778655 SOHAM • Cherry Tree, Fordham Rd (3rd): Claire White, 01353 720550 STONY STRATFORD • Bull Hotel (1st): Peter, www.mksessions.blogspot.com TOTTERNHOE • Old Farm Inn (9pm, weekly): 01582 661294 (pub)
Tuesday Evenings BENINGTON • The Bell (4th): Kit Burgess, 01438 869435 DUNSTABLE • Globe, Winfield St (Weekly): Maureen, 01582 512300 DUNTON • March Hare, Dunton, nr Biggleswade (1st): John Pritchett, 01767 448093 (pub) GT WILBRAHAM • Memorial Hall Social Club (3rd): Dave, 01440 783280 HISTON • Boot, Histon, nr Cambridge (1st): Dave Benford, 01223 880553 RICKMANSWORTH • Conservative Club, Bury Lane (3rd): Michael, 01923 770425 ST ALBANS • King Harry, King Harry Lane (1st, songs & tunes): Jenny, 01582 793164 TRING • Grand Junction Arms, Bulbourne, HP23 5QE (1st, Trad Irish): Mick Bushnell, 01442 891400 WOOTTON (Beds) • The Cock, MK43 9JT (8pm, broad acoustic & folk): Mike Carter Jones, 01234 768555
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Wednesday Evenings B ALDOCK • Orange Tree (8.30pm, 27/11, 18/12): Alan Hewson, 01767 683583 B ARTON-LE-CLAY • Waggon & Horses (8.30pm, 2/10, 16/10, 30/10, 13/11, 27/11, 11/12): Ann, 01582 560815 C AMBRIDGE • Six Bells, Covent Garden (8.30pm, 16/10, 13/11, 11/12, Bluegrass & Old Time): Jim, 07803 158084 E LSTREE • Waggon & Horses (2nd): Nick, 020 8953 5231 E LY • Kings Arms , St Marys St (last): Liam, laimdebrun@outlook.co.uk, 07905 044932 S T ALBANS • White Swan, Dagnall St (8.30pm, weekly, mainly music): Trevor Hacking, 01923 351739 T OWERSEY • Village Hall (3rd): Roger, 01296 613742 W ELHAM GREEN • North Mymms Social Club, AL9 7PQ (2nd): Alan Francis, 07774 859758
Thursday Evenings C ROXLEY GREEN • The Shed, rear of Sportsman PH (8.30 – 11.00, 1st, song & acoustic music): Paul K, 07970 188026 F ULBOURN • Fulbourn Folk Club, Fulbourn Sports & Social Club (1st): Robert, 01223 411187 F ULBOURN • Fulbourn Sports & Social Club, nr Cambridge (3rd): Barry, 01223 722927 H ERTFORD • Great Eastern, Railway Place (3rd): Alan Francis, 01992 410380 H UNTON BRIDGE • King’s Head (4th): Tim, 01923 264536 K IMPTON • White Horse (2nd): Doug, 07973 751039, jennerdouglas@me.com L UTON • Castle PH, LU1 3AA (weekly): Nigel Bailey, 07788 431470 T OWERSEY • Three Horseshoes (last): Grant, 01844 212322 W OBURN SANDS • Royal Oak (2nd & 4th): Vic Longhorn, 01908 582660
Friday Evenings P OTTON • Red Lion (8.30, 3rd): Phil & Jan, 01767 260041 R OYSTON • Old Bull Inn SG8 9AW (2nd): Michael Farrow, 01763 249296, www.roystonfolk.org S T NEOTS • Chequers, St Mary’s St, PE19 2TA (2nd, 8.30pm, tunes: 11/10, 8/11, 13/12): Sarah, 07857 311834, ssennett@theiet.org S TEEPLE CLAYDON • Prince of Wales, MK18 2NP (2nd – Open Mic): Charlie, 07925 145062
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Moggerhanger Village Folk Presents
STRANGEWORLD 4-piece Progressive Folk Band
Top class musicians offering the best you will hear for miles. If you have not heard them, now’s your chance.
Saturday 12th October at
Moggerhanger Village Hall 7:00 for 8:00pm
Tickets only £10
Includes a posh ploughman’s plus fruit crumbleLicensed Bar Contact Chris or Carolyn on 01767-640242 or 640727 for tickets & information Email chris@mainlinksystems.co.uk
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
(The Raven) “A duo of subtlety and understatement. They allow the songs to do the talking” Bright Young Folk
‘The Green Lady’
Weaves beautiful traditional songs with their own unique style. Out in November with a special launch gig at Green Note Camden on Nov 25th.
www.forbesmoncrieff.co.uk
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Abbots Langley Winter Acoustic Concerts www.oldtimetim.com/alwac.htm Two special themed concerts Afternoon of Sunday 13th October
“Sharp’s Appalachian Harvest”
Afternoon of Sunday 10th November
“The Victorian Farming Year”
Brian Peters and Jeff Davies
John Kirkpatrick Abbots Langley Community Centre Gallows Hill Lane, Abbots Langley, Herts, WD5 0AP
3 pm to 5 pm - doors open 2:30pm - £8.00 CRAFT STALLS
Tea, coffee & cakes in the interval
Enquiries to ALConcerts@gmail.com Or call Tim and Lesley Brooks on 01923 264536
HADDENHAM FESTIVAL
Saturday 7th December 2013 At Haddenham Village Hall, near Aylesbury, Bucks From 4pm to 11.30pm – Doors open at 3pm
A fantastic day of music dance & song
Whapweasel (In concert and playing for the ceilidh) The Magical Christmas Tree! (Pete Morton, Maggie Boyle & Chris Parkinson)
Tom McConville & David Newey Sue Brown & Lorraine Irwing and Nick Walden John’s House • 5 Church Street • Aylesbury • Bucks HP20 2QP • Tel: 01296 415333 e-mail: john@actionfolk.co.uk • www.haddenhamceilidhs.co.uk
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
HADDENHAM CEILIDHS
The Foxglove Trio – “Diamond Glances”
at Haddenham Village Hall Near Aylesbury, Bucks
GBBH (Grimes, Brinsford, Burgess & Horsley) with Barry Goodman plus National Youth Folklore Troupe of England Nov 2 THE NEW SLIDE with Alex Cumming plus Hartbeats African Drum and Dance Group Dec 7 WHAPWEASEL with Nick Walden and Festival guests Jan 4 THE PLAYFORD LIBERATION FRONT with Bob Morgan plus CityClickers
Oct 5
CONCERTS Oct 5 ANDY CUTTING Nov 2 STEVE TURNER Dec 7 Festival See separate advert Jan 4 ISLA St. CLAIR For more details telephone 01296 415333 email john@actionfolk.co.uk or write to Haddenham Ceilidhs, John’s House 5 Church Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2QP
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
F
fion’s sparkling voice creates a champagne wave of beautiful tones delicately interweaving with the guitar, cello and melodeon of Cathy and Patrick to produce a five song journey that left me breathless after the first listen. The contrast of the rather forthright Newry Town and Betsy Bell and Mary Grey with the plaintive Cariad Cyntaf and sublime Bugeilio’r Gwenith Gwyn sandwiching the gentle Sign of the Bonny Blue Bell delivers a very well balanced CD. I confess to have a liking for songs sung in Welsh. It is such a lyrical, poetic language when spoken which when sung simply transforms into what can only be described as the language of angels. Cariad Cyntaf is a simple declaration of love. Unfortunately I get the feeling that the love is unrequited and I fear that this unfortunate chap will not realise his passion. Bugeilio’r Gwenith Gwyn finishes the CD and I suggest when you get to the end, just sit in silence for a few moments and reflect on the sadness of a young man who has had his love taken from him against both their wills. The man leaves his village only returning after dreaming that his love’s new husband has died. He finds that it is, in fact, his love that is dying of a broken heart. She dies in his arms. Listen to the song again and I challenge you not to end up in tears. It is beautiful! In short, buy this CD. And better still go and see The Foxglove Trio live. www.thefoxglovetrio.co.uk Simon Bailes
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A Challenge to Songwriters
M
aybe you want to be famous or just to impress your friends with your own compositions. Or perhaps you feel you have something worthwhile and original to say musically. So how do you get started? I did it the hard way, playing covers for years while only fiddling with songs of my own, until one day it happened – I produced something halfway decent. Encouraged, I began to write more regularly, and both the frequency and the quality of my songs steadily increased. Nine years on I have collected nearly 100 songs, most of which I regularly perform at festivals and folk gigs, and an increasing number of them have been broadcast. Instead of ploughing a lone furrow as I did, why not join a songwriting club? I belong to the Coventry Singer Songwriters group (CoventrySingerSongwriters.org), formed three years ago by Jon Harrington to get friends of all musical persuasions writing, as well as playing together regularly. The group challenges members to keep writing by every month providing a new topic to write on, and each member records a song for inclusion on a monthly group CD; a ‘best of year’ CD is also produced. A facebook page allows everyone to share ideas on songwriting and production, and helps overcome the dreaded writer’s block. I would love to start a similar group in our region. If any of you singer-songwriters – actual and potential – might be interested, get in touch and let’s see what we can start together! Mike Carter Jones (mike.carter.jones@gmail.com)
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
P
oor Hemel Hempstead has had a bad press lately, but we folkies are delighted to report that the town’s first ever folk festival was a big success! Dacorum Folk Fest, featured some big names in folk in a truly spectacular show: on 10th August, we were treated to a stellar evening lineup of headliners Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin, with George Papavgeris & Jonny Dyer, na-mara, and KARA.
In the afternoon, Tim Brooks presented his CD project ‘A Song for Herts, Bucks & Beds’ – featuring the finalists of Watford Folk Club’s songwriting competition, held last year. The CD launch party showcased fantastic local performers including Said the Maiden, Ffion and Patrick from The Foxglove Trio, Julian Mount, Helen Chinn, Bob Hines, Ray Owen, Elaine Lavery and Daria Kulesh.
The outrageously talented Henry and Martin blew the audience away with their wonderful chemistry, haunting and hypnotic songs and a virtuoso display of musical versatility. Their new album Mynd, yet to be released and described by folk icon Mike Harding as “a modern classic” was exclusively available to buy at the concert. Thanks to the effort of Hemel Hempstead Theatre Company, the whole evening went without a technical hitch.
Planning of Dacorum Folk Fest 2014 has already begun, and organizers Dacorum Arts Partnership have grand designs for an even better and bigger event. You can get involved at: www.facebook.com/DacorumFolkFest2014. Daria Kulesh
Bedfordshire Lace Morris New Dancers (female) and Musicians of both sexes are always welcome. Why not come along and have a go? We practise through the Winter & Spring terms on Tuesday evenings at 8pm, Redborne School Gym (South) Ampthill Beds Contact Lesley on 01234 293532 email:secretary@bedfordshirelace.org.uk www.bedfordshirelace.org.uk
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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FRIDAY 27th SEPTEMBER
Dance the night away . . .
Captain Swing
FRIDAY 25th OCTOBER
MIKE GRIFFITHS
with
with
A welcome return for this great 5 piece band, playing traditional and new tunes on melodeon, concertina, saxophone, recorder, guitar, bass and percussion. Excellent arrangements and a really tight sound! www.captainswing.org.uk Mike started calling ceilidhs in his university days, when still in his early twenties, and is the permanent caller for Captain Swing. Mike is a skilled dancer himself, and danced with Downes Morris. INTERVAL: Tappalachian
Unicorn
Coproliters
C E I L I D H S
Andy Rouse
FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER
Melodeon, hammered dulcimer, fiddle, flute and piano combine to give a great sound. They play mostly English tunes, with the occasional Scottish or Irish number mixed in. Hear and see them at www.coproliters.co.uk Andy has called with Coproliters for some time, has huge enthusiasm and an excellent rapport with the audience. He’s also quite good at dancing himself... Interval: Redbornstoke Morris (tbc)
THE MONTH LAST FRIDAY IN ilid hs.org.uk www.unicornce
gloworms with
CAT KELLY Gloworms is led by the indefatigable Laurel Swift on fiddle, with Colin Cotter on banjo and stompbox and Jon Brenner on piano accordion. They’ve been playing for ceilidhs for years, and really know what gets people up and dancing. Hugely enjoyable music! www.gloworms.org.uk Cat helps to run Oxfolk ceilidhs, and also plays in a band herself. Excellent caller and musician - a great night guaranteed!
Tickets only £10.00 - Singles & groups welcome The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JH
Interval: Stevenage Sword
REAL ALE BAR
Doors open 7.30pm 8.00pm till late
Dance the night YEAR away . . .
The BIG CEILIDHʼs back! Unicorn
C E I L I D H S
TUESDAY 31st DECEMBER 2013 - 8.00 p.m. to 12.30 a.m.
The WATCH with
BARRY GOODMAN
Adults: only £25.00 Children: (under 16 on the night)
£10
BOOK NOW places limited to 120 ! Phone Alan on
01582 724 261 or 07946 439 095
Superb 2-course Buffet � Grand Champagne Raffle www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk Pirton Village Hall, High Street, Pirton SG5 3PS, nr HITCHIN
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REAL ALE BAR
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Tuesday 1 ST.NEOTS • Mike Nicholson Wednesday 2 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers MOGGERHANGER • Singers, players / listeners WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 3 BEDFORD • Singaround BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Keith Harrup BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Kitty Vernon & Derek Burgess REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 4 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Open Stage with Lizzie J Taylor & Mark Gamon CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Barry Goodman and Spring Greens WATFORD • Spotlight singaround with Swift as He (New Roots finalists) Saturday 5 HADDENHAM • GBBH with Barry Goodman & National Youth Folklore Troupe of England; concert: Andy Cutting Sunday 6 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open Stage ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice HITCHIN • Slaid Cleeves (all ticket) Monday 7 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • James Findlay HITCHIN STAPLERS • AGM LEASIDERS • Club Callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Free Taster & Practice Tuesday 8 ST.NEOTS • Dick Miles Wednesday 9 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 10 BEDFORD • Local Singers & Musicians BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Graham Foster BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Gavin Atkin REDBOURN • More or Less Together, plus floor spots Friday 11 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • The Goshawk Project FRIDAY FOLK • John and Elaine Meechan and Brian Stone WATFORD • na-mara (£5) Sunday 13 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Guest night tbc HITCHIN • Chris While & Julie Matthews Monday 14 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Guest Caller: Adrian Besant LEASIDERS • Club Callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Free Taster & Practice Tuesday 15 ST.NEOTS • Dave Gibb Wednesday 16 ELY • 4Square ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Guest Caller TBA WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 17 BEDFORD • Singers Night BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Lorraine & Ced Morgan BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Singers Night REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 18 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • na-mara CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Bob Barrett and FF Band WATFORD • Singaround Sunday 20 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open stage Venue tbc, check club website ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice HITCHIN • John Tams & Barry Coope Monday 21 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Jill Bransby LEASIDERS • Talent Folk Evening ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Special guest Steve Turner WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Free Taster & Practice Tuesday 22 ST.NEOTS • Open Stage Wednesday 23 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 24 BEDFORD • Autumn Singaround BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Richard Spendlove BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Phil Hare REDBOURN • The Foxglove Trio, plus floor spots Friday 25 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Lucy Ward FRIDAY FOLK • Paul Garner ROYSTON • Gilly Darbey, support Robin Campbell WATFORD • Pete Atkin (£8 adv/£10 door) Sunday 27 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open stage Venue tbc, check club website HITCHIN • Urban Folk Quartet Monday 28 CHESHAM • Crave Rua HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Bridget McRury with music from Roger Nicholls LEASIDERS • Closed ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Free Taster & Practice Tuesday 29 ST.NEOTS • Round the Room Wednesday 30 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Club Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 31 BEDFORD • Local Performers BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Lynne Wapples BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Liz Simcock (Solo Gig) REDBOURN • Open Stage
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Friday 1 BEDFORD FINE • No Club – Half term CAMBRIDGE • Open Stage with The Staycations CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Frances Oates and The Turnabouts WATFORD • Singaround Saturday 2 HADDENHAM • The New Slide with Alex Cumming & Hartbeat African Drum and Dance Group; concert: Steve Turner Sunday 3 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open stage, Venue tbc, check club website ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice HITCHIN • Spiers & Boden (all ticket) Monday 4 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Guest Caller: Paul Garner LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 5 ST.NEOTS • Tom Lewis Wednesday 6 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers MOGGERHANGER • Singers, players and listeners WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 7 BEDFORD • Singers Night BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Terry Elvins BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer REDBOURN • The Low Lamps, plus floor spots Friday 8 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Gigspanner FRIDAY FOLK • Mike Bennett WATFORD • Singaround Sunday 10 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Guest Night tbc HITCHIN • Richard Digance (all ticket) Monday 11 CHESHAM • Jez Lowe HERGA • Liz Simcock HITCHIN STAPLERS • Barry Goodman LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 12 ST.NEOTS • Dana & Susan Robinson Wednesday 13 ELY • Steve Tilston ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8.00 The Pump House Thursday 14 BEDFORD • Local Singers and Musicians BEDFORD FDC • Caller: George Hearnden BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Nick Dow REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 15 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Stella Hensley & Chris Newman CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Wendy Harrup and FF Band WATFORD • Folk Song Competition Final (£5)
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Sunday
17 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open stage Venue tbc, check club website ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice HITCHIN • Show of Hands (sold out) Monday 18 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Colin Hume with music from Spring Greens LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Special guests James Hickman & Dan Cassidy WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 19 ST.NEOTS • Mary Humphries & Anahata Wednesday 20 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Guest Caller TBA WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8pm The Pump House Thursday 21 BEDFORD • Singaround BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Keith Harrup BISHOP’S STORTFORD • James Hickman & Dan Cassidy REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 22 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Jody Krushal, Lewis Mokler, Carl Hogsden FRIDAY FOLK • Bea Hawkins WATFORD • James Hickman & Dan Cassidy ((£8 adv/£10 door) Sunday 24 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open stage, Venue tbc, check club website HITCHIN • Martyn Joseph (all ticket) Monday 25 CHESHAM • Ewan Wilkinson & Sandy Brechin HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Denise Devonald & Barbara Gilder LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 26 ST.NEOTS • Round the Room Wednesday 27 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8pm The Pump House Thursday 28 BEDFORD • Local Performers, All Welcome BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Charles Day BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Sandy Brechin & Ewan Wilkinson REDBOURN • Fred’s House, plus floor spots Friday 29 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night, Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Open Stage FRIDAY FOLK • Bob Barrett ROYSTON • Winter Wilson, support Addison’s Uncle WATFORD • Singaround
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Sunday 1 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open Stage ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice HITCHIN • Clive Gregson Monday 2 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Terry Elvins LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 3 ST.NEOTS • Luke Jackson Wednesday 4 ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Morris Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers MOGGERHANGER • Singers, players and listeners WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8pm The Pump House Thursday 5 BEDFORD • Singers Night BEDFORD FDC • Caller: Kevin Prigmore BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Anthony John Clarke REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 6 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • The Magical Christmas Tree Tour CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Jane Pfaff and FF Band WATFORD • Helen Chinn: CD Launch (£5) Saturday 7 HADDENHAM • Whapweasel with Nick Walden & Festival Guests; concert: Festival – see advert Sunday 8 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Ceilidh with the Jumping Beans HITCHIN • Megson Monday 9 CHESHAM • Les Barker HERGA • Shep Wooley HITCHIN STAPLERS • Ann Gibson LEASIDERS • Club callers ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN • Practice night 8pm WALTHAM ABBEY • Singaround WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Practice Night Tuesday 10 ST.NEOTS • Martin Simpson Wednesday 11 ELY • Paul Downes & Mick Ryan ‘Who Stole Christmas?’ ENGLISH MISCELLANY • Country Section Practice LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Club Callers WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8pm The Pump House Thursday 12 BEDFORD • Singaround BEDFORD FDC • Caller: John Green BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Singers Night / Christmas Party REDBOURN • Penni McLaren-Walker & Brian Causton, plus floor spots Friday 13 BEDFORD FINE • Club Night Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE • Fred’s House, The Larks, Ben Smith FRIDAY FOLK • Christmas Special with Colin Hume and Spring Greens WATFORD • Fake Thackray ((£8 adv/£10 door) Sunday 15 CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND • Open Stage HITCHIN • St Agnes Fountain (all ticket) Monday 16 CHESHAM • Singers Night
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • Club Callers: Party Evening LEASIDERS • Xmas Party: Caller Lynne Whapples WALTHAM ABBEY • Christmas Party – Guests tbc Tuesday 17 ST.NEOTS • Club Christmas Party Wednesday 18 LINSLEIGHDERS • Folk Dance Group, Guest Caller TBA WATFORD WOODSIDE • Morris Practice: 8pm The Pump House Thursday 19 BEDFORD • Christmas Carols Night BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Closed for Wassailing etc. until Jan 9th REDBOURN • Open Stage Friday 20 BEDFORD FINE • No Club, Christmas Holiday CAMBRIDGE • Open Stage CAMBRIDGE CONTRA • American Contra Dance FRIDAY FOLK • Carol Singing around St Albans WATFORD • Christmas Singaround Sunday 22 HITCHIN • Albion Christmas (all ticket) Monday 23 CHESHAM • Singers Night HERGA • Christmas Party HITCHIN STAPLERS • Closed LEASIDERS • Closed WALTHAM ABBEY • Legion closed check Facebook page for information Tuesday 24 ST.NEOTS • Closed Thursday 26 BEDFORD • CLUB CLOSED for Boxing Day WATFORD WOODSIDE • 12.30 The Cricketers, Sarratt WD3 6AS Friday 27 BEDFORD FINE • No Club, Christmas Holiday CAMBRIDGE • Closed ROYSTON • Xmas Bash: Crownstreet, Said The Maiden, barn dance with The Jumping Beans WATFORD • Closed Monday 30 HERGA • Open evening HITCHIN STAPLERS • tba LEASIDERS • Closed WALTHAM ABBEY • Legion closed check Facebook page for information
We desperately need help to distribute copies of our new Unicorn Magazine to some of the 60 or so distribution locations on our list. If you could help by taking copies to your club, session or venue every quarter, please contact us. Even small deliveries will help reduce our crippling postage & petrol bills!
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BEDFORD • Bedford Folk Music Club Griffin PH, 174 Bedford Rd, Kempston MK42 8BL Contact: Mike Blair, 01525 404513 or 01525 404304 See us on Facebook
BEDFORD FDC • Bedford Folk Dance Club Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB Contact: Ron D. Law, 01234 825574
BEDFORD FINE • Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance Club Hazeldene Lower School, Stancliffe Rd, Bedford MK41 9AT Contact: David Cooke, 01234 823920 www.finecompanions.synthasite.com
BISHOP’S STORTFORD • Stortfolk Royal British Legion, 28 Windhill, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2NG Contact: Jon & Hilary McNamara, 01279 656664 www.beerfordbury.co.uk
CAMBRIDGE • Cambridge Folk Club Golden Hind PH, 355 Milton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1SP Contact: Marion Treby, 01638 603986, www.cambridgefolkclub.org
CAMBRIDGE CONTRA URC Hall, Cherry Hinton Rd, Cambridge CB1 7UB Contact: Hugh Stewart, 01223 368641 www.cambridgefolk.org.uk/contra
CAMBRIDGE PORTLAND: Portland Arms PH, 129 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 3BA Contact: Robin Gillan, 07847 680 560
CHESHAM • Chesham Folk & Acoustic Music Club (Tudor Folk) Whitehill Centre, Chesham HP5 1AG Contact: Bob Templeman, 07771 727943 www.tudorfolkclub.org.uk
ELY • Ely Folk Club The Old Dispensary, St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs CB7 4ER (no bar) Contact: Ruth Bramley 01353 740999/664706, www.elyfolkclub.co.uk
ENGLISH MISCELLANY: East Hyde Village Hall, Lower Harpenden Rd (B653), nr Luton LU2 9QB Contact: Helen Stamp, 020 8386 3779 www.englishmiscellany.com
FRIDAY FOLK • Friday Folk Social Dance Club Methodist Church, Marlborough Rd, St Albans AL1 3XG Contact: Bob Barrett, 01727 856508, www.fridayfolk.org.uk
HERGA • Herga Folk Club Pinner Green Social Club, Rickmansworth Rd, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 3TJ Contact: George Papavgeris 07747 768868, www.hergafolk.org
HITCHIN STAPLERS • Staplers Country Dance Club St John’s Community Centre, St John’s Rd, Hitchin SG4 9JP Contact: Cecilia Mills, 01582 881966, www.staplers.org.uk
LEASIDERS • Leasiders Folk Dance Club Blenheim Baptist Church Hall, Blenheim Cres, Luton LU3 1HB Contact: Liz Patrick, 01582 732656
LINSLEIGHDERS: Forster Institute, Waterloo Rd, Linslade LU7 2LW Contact: Mrs E.A. Corser, 01525 378010
MOGGERHANGER • Village Folk Moggerhanger Village Hall, Blunham Rd, Moggerhanger MK44 3RD Contact: Chris Bashford, 01767 640242, chris@mainlinksystems.co.uk
REDBOURN • Redbourn Folk Club Old Schoolroom, Hollybush PH, Church End, Redbourn AL3 7DU Contact: Jenny McNaught, 01582 793164 www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk
ROYSTON • Royston Folk Club Old Bull Inn, 56 High St, Royston SG8 9AW Contact: Michael, 01763 249296, www.roystonfolk.org
ST.ALBANS MORRIS MEN (Men’s Cotswold) Riverside Road, St Albans Contact: Bagman, Andrew Torrington, 01727 833028, www.stalbansmorrismen.org.uk
STONY STRATFORD • Song Loft Cock Hotel, High St, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1AH Contact: Jane Armour, 01908 566407, www.thesongloft.co.uk
ST NEOTS • St Neots Folk Club Priory Centre, Priory Lane, St Neots PE19 2BH Contact: Roger Pitt, 01234 376278, www.stneotsfolkclub.co.uk
WALTHAM ABBEY • Waltham Abbey Folk Club Royal British Legion, Brooker Rd, Waltham Abbey EN9 1HY Contact: Jan Ayres, 01992 613987 or 07799 407363 www.walthamabbeyfolkclub.com
WATFORD • Watford Folk Club Pump House, Local Board Rd, Lower High St, Watford WD17 2JP Contact: Helen Chinn, 07913 430205 http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com
WATFORD CLOG MORRIS • Pump House Clog Morris Pump House, Local Board Rd, Lower High St, Watford WD17 2JP Contact: Sue Rawlins, 01727 823791, http://pumphouseclognmorris.couk
WATFORD WOODSIDE • Woodside Morris Men Pump House, Local Board Rd, Lower High St, Watford WD17 2JP Contact: Nick Wilson, 07860 663033 www.woodsidemorrismen.org.uk
HITCHIN • Hitchin Folk Club Sun Hotel, Sun St, Hitchin, SG5 1AF Contact: Maureen Jones, 01462 812391 www.hitchinfolkclub.co.uk
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
The Song Loft
The Cock Hotel Stony Stratford
THE SUN HOTEL SUN STREET HITCHIN HERTS SG5 1AF
Milton Keynes’ Premier Music Venue: Alternate Fridays 8.15
September 12th Performers Night 20th Landermason
£2 £7
OCTOBER
October 4th Performers Night 18th Skallagrigg
November
1st Performers Night 15th
EVERY SUNDAY 8.15 - 11.00pm
6th
£2 £7
13th 20th
£2
Blair Dunlop Trio £10 in advance £12.50 on the door
27th
NOVEMBER CELEBRATING 50 YEARS (All “all ticket” events) 3rd 10th 17th 24th
December Closed
SLAID CLEEVES (This is an all ticket event) CHRIS WHILE & JULIE MATTHEWS JOHN TAMS & BARRY COOPE URBAN FOLK QUARTET
SPIERS & BODEN RICHARD DIGANCE SHOW OF HANDS (Sold Out) MARTYN JOSEPH
DECEMBER January 2014 10th Linda Watkins Band 24th Performers Night
£7 £2
Floorsingers welcome, advise phone first on guest nights.
Contacts: www.thesongloft.co.uk www.myspace.com/songloft songloft@googlemail.com Jane Armour 01908 566407
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
1st CLIVE GREGSON 8th MEGSON 15th St. AGNES FOUNTAIN (This is an all ticket event) 22nd ALBION CHRISTMAS (This is an all ticket event) If you would like a full copy of the programme, send us an email and we will put you on our emailshot list. For further details phone Maureen Jones on Hitchin (01462) 812391 goodmusic@hitchinfolkclub.co.uk www.hitchinfolkclub.co.uk
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DANCE THE MORRIS WITH
ST ALBANS MORRIS MEN
PRACTICES EVERY MONDAY EVENING IN ST ALBANS SEPTEMBER TO APRIL Try the morris: all levels welcome, dancers & musicians
Please contact Jon (01727 841385) or Andrew (01727 833028) UM3 St Albans Morris Ad 1.indd 1
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19/8/13 21:22:54
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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Sparrow
Violins
A folkie Luthier for folkies Set-Ups and Repairs for Fiddles, Violas, Cellos and Hardanger Fiddles. Fiddles and Hardangers made to commission. Hand made contemporary Fiddles for sale. Tim J. Sparrow
St.Neots, Cambridgeshire (Workshop open by appointment) Tel: 07704 836 170 Email: timjsparrow@aol.com
www.sparrow-violins.co.uk www.facebook.com/SparrowViolins
FOLK NIG GHTS Satu urday 19 Octtober – 8pm
WILD D WILLY B BARRETT’S S FRE ENCH CON NNECTION N
Tickets: £13 / £11 concession ns Frid day 1 Novem mber – 8pm
GILM MORE & R ROBERTS Tickets: £1 12.50 / £10.50 conce £ essions
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
presents
Jim Moray
The 10th Anniversary Party
Performing his groundbreaking debut album Sweet England in full with The Doret Ensemble plus a second set with very special guests
The Union Chapel, London N1 Nov 9th 2013 tickets : www.folkbytheoak.co.uk/jimmoray
10th Anniversary Edition of Sweet England with sleeve notes, bonus tracks, remixes and a limited edition 3D lenticular sleeve available from jimmoray.bandcamp.com
W
atford Folk Club is run by a committee of five – all passionate about folk music.
Music type: Acoustic, blues, roots, modern & traditional folk Admission charge: Singarounds: £4, Guest Nights :£8 adv / £10 door Guests: Guests & singarounds on alternate weeks Venue name: The Colne River Room Venue address: The Pump House Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Watford, Herts WD17 2J Parking: Free (but spaces can be limited) Club contact: Helen Chinn • 07913 430205 • http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/watfordfolkclub
We attract large audiences for our guest acts and enthusiastic singers; we have an enviable reputation for the quality and quantity of our floor singers / players and for headlining new and established folk performers. Major folk artists have played here and requested return bookings, while our “home grown” floor singers get better & better. October 2013 marks the Club’s fifth birthday. Club members performed at this summer’s St. Alban’s Folk Festival, also playing clubs & festivals around the three Counties and beyond. We are proud to be part of a wonderful musical tradition and our Song Competition is one small contribution to this amazing heritage. See the diary section for programme details & to find out more, visit our website / facebook pages. Better still, come along one Friday night – we’d love to see you!
The Priory Centre, St. Neots, PE19 2BH Every Tuesday 8.15pm
Email – stneotsfolkclub@aol.com Telephone - 01234 376278 www.stneotsfolkclub.co.uk
Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct
1 Mike Nicholson Nov 5 Tom Lewis 8 Dick Miles Nov 12 Dana & Susan Robinson 15 Dave Gibb Nov 19 Mary Humphreys & Anahata 22 Open Stage Nov 26 Round the Room 29 Round the Room Dec 3 Luke Jackson Dec 10 Martin Simpson (non-members £14, members £12) Dec 17 Club Christmas Party Dec 24 & 31 – Club Closed
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Advertisement Sizes: Please note that from March 2013 we changed our adverts sizes and prices to the following shown below. Prices are for supplied, correctlysized, press-ready artwork: Quarter page (portrait) £22.00 Trim size: 63.5mm (W) x 92mm (H) Half page (landscape) £35.00 Trim size: 134mm (W) x 92mm (H) Half page (portrait) £35.00 Trim size: 63.5mm (W) x 191mm (H) Full Inner page (no border) £55.00 Trim size: 134mm (W) x 191mm (H) Full Inner page (with border) £60.00 Trim size: 148 x 210mm Bleed size: 151 x 216mm Inside Front or Back Cover (with or without border) £67.00 • No border: Trim size: 134mm (W) x 196mm (H) • With border: Trim size: 148mm (W) x 210mm Bleed size: 154mm (W) x 216mm (H) Back Cover (with or without border) £75.00 • No border: Trim size: 134mm (W) x 196mm (H) • With border: Trim size: 148 x 210mm (no bleed) Bleed size: 154 x 216mm Front Cover Banner Trim size: 148 x 50mm Bleed size: 154 x 56mm
£50.00
Diary Entries These include free entry in the Club Index. Price per quarter: £13.00 Bespoke Advert sizes If you have a specific size or shape of advert in mind, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will accommodate you if we can and give you a quotation. Advertorial We can also offer advertorial features if required – please contact us for further information or to discuss your exact requirements.
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Advert Size Explanation: Here are some brief explanations of the Trim, Bleed and Recommended Safe Area categories and how they should be applied to your advertisements: Trim Size: This is the final / actual size of the ad, either when it is placed within the bounding box (for stand alone ads), or after the publication has been cut to size (148mm (W) x 210mm (H)) for those ads with bleed. Bleed Size: For ads that have elements that extend to the very edge of the trimmed page, 3mm of ‘bleed’ needs to be added, which is then trimmed off when the publication is cut to size). Recommended Safe Area: To prevent any areas of the ads from being obscured by the bounding box, we recommend (but do not insist) that any important items such as text, photos etc that do not bleed off etc, are kept within a 3–5mm border from the inside trim size of the ad. Full page (with bleed) ads we suggest have a 7mm recommended safe area. Bounding Box Shapes As part of the new design, look and feel for the publication, we have introduced a couple of options for the boxes your ad will sit within (Options 1 & 2, as shown on page 13 of the Media Pack). You can either specify which you prefer, or we will apply these at our discretion. As a preference we will be using the rounded corner version of the box (Option 1), so please bear this in mind when designing your ad. Please note that we will be adding the black line around the box shape in-house – it is therefore preferred that you leave this off you ad design.
Take advantage of our 10% discount for four issues booked & paid for in advance – any size!
Artwork Formats: All artwork is printed in mono / grayscale, ideally at 300dpi. Acceptable artwork formats include (in order of preference): • Press Ready PDF • Packaged InDesign Files • .EPS files (Adobe Illustrator or similar vector formats / software) • TIFFs • High Res JPEGS • .PSD files (Adobe Photoshop format) • Packaged Quark files • Word files (please also include with the file any images / graphics / photos / logos / fonts used) • We can also scan from a correct size mono print (although please note we cannot be held responsible for the quality of the reproduction from this process) lease note we cannot guarantee P the accuracy of artwork reproduction unless any file is accompanied by a PDF proof, screen grab, or printed proof sent to us by post. Advert Design: We can design and typeset advertisements for you to produce a professional and eye-catching layout. Charges for this are £20.00 per ad, per edition – please contact Clive to discuss your exact requirement. Advert ‘Helpdesk’: If you need any help in setting your ad, preparing it for print or simply need a bit of guidance / advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time and we will help you through the process. Advert Templates: To help you put your ads together, we have ready-made templates for all the ad sizes, in a variety of acceptable formats. Please visit our website to download these, or contact us directly and we will send them to you.
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OCTOBER Sat 5 G BBH with Barry Goodman and National Youth Folklore Troupe of England; concert: Andy Cutting • HC D eo Volente with Caller Lynn Render • SCD Sat 19 J ohn Graham and friends with Terry Phipps • CC Fri 25 C oproliters with Andy Rouse • UC Sat 26 T he Occasional Few with Caller John Green. 8-11pm Adults £9, Student £5, Accompanied under 16s FREE; group of 6 paying 1 free • NC Sun 27 F amily Dance, Toucan Play with Val and Ian McFarlane • CAC Wed 30 R eg Hall, Michael Plunkett, Paul Gross, Ken Lees, Caller Steve Roud, £7 on the night, 8 – 11pm, doors 7.30pm • RBD NOVEMBER Sat 2 P layford Ball, Shane and Julia Day with Alan Davies • CFA T he New Slide with Alex Cumming plus Hartbeat African Drum and Dance Group; concert Steve Turner • HC T urnabouts with Caller Frances Oates • SCD Sat 9 O range & Blue with Caller Colin Hume 7.30 – 11pm, £7, Food available • BFC T am Lin with Caller Alan Hewson • ASJ Sat 16 T he Occasional Few with Caller Lynne Render • BFD M ollie and Ali with Caller Mark Elvins • FF Wed 27 R eg Hall, Michael Plunkett, Paul Gross, Ken Lees, Caller Steve Roud, £7 on the night, 8 – 11pm, doors 7.30pm • RBD Fri 29 G loworms with Cat Kelly • UC Sat 30 C hristmas Dance with Momentum and Caller Chris Turner • LFD H it and Miss with Caller Jim Marriott. 8 – 11pm Adults £9, Student £5, Accompanied under 16s FREE, group of 6 paying 1 free • NC DECEMBER Sat 7 W hapweasel with Nick Walden and Festival Guests; concert: Festival – see separate advert • HC M omentum with Caller Andrew Swaine • SCD Sun 8 J umping Beans with Caller tbc • PFC
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Thur 12 C hristmas Dance with Keith Wright & Spring Greens • SAA Wed 18 R eg Hall, Michael Plunkett, Paul Gross, Ken Lees, Caller Steve Roud, £7 on the night, 8 – 11pm, doors 7.30pm • RBD Sat 28 C hristmas Ceilidh with Sleeping Moggy and Caller John Turner. 8 – 11pm Adults £9, Student £5, Accompanied under 16s FREE, group of 6 paying 1 free • NC Tue 31 T he Big Ceilidh: The Watch with Barry Goodman (at Pirton Village Hall SG5 3PS) • UC
ASJ A drian & Sally Jones: Greenaway School, Garden Walk, Royston SG8 7JF. sally@sallad.co.uk BFC Bedford Fine Companions: Newnham Middle School, Polhill Ave, Bedford MK41 9DT. 01234 823920 finecompanions@huntspath.plus.com BFD Bedford Folk Dance Club: Putnoe Heights Church, Putnoe Heights, Bedford MK41 8EB. Ron Law 01234 825574 CAC Chiltern Folk Assoc.: Amersham Common Village Hall, White Lion Rd, Amersham HP7 9JD. 01628 486845 CC Chesham Folk Dance Club: The Guide HQ, Bury Lane, HP5 1HX. 01494 785191 CFA Chiltern Folk Assoc.: Amersham Community Centre, Chiltern Ave, HP6 5AH. 01628 486845 FF Friday Folk: St Albans High School for Girls, Townsend Avenue, AL1 3SJ, Bob Barrett 01727 856508 HC Haddenham Ceilidhs: Haddenham Hall, nr Aylesbury. 01296 415333. john@actionfolk.co.uk LFD Linsleighders Folk Dance Group: Wing Hall, Wing, Bucks LU7 0NN. 01525 378010 NC Northampton Ceilidhs: Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Rd, Northampton NN1 5LL. Ruth 01933 397767, Valerie 01604 711536, John 07760 197921, www.northamptonceilidhs.co.uk PFC Portland Folk Club: Portland Arms, 129 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 3BA. 07847 680560 RBD Rakes Barn Dances: Trefusis, Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regents Park Rd, NW1 7AY. 020 8527 8419 SAA St Albans Abbey: Homewood Rd. UR Church Hall, Sandpit Lane, AL1 4BH. 01727 834977 SCD Staplers Country Dance Club: Parish Hall, Waterdell Lane, St. Ippolytts SG4 7RB. 01582 881966 UC Unicorn Ceilidhs: Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Rd, Biggleswade SG18 8JH. 01582 724261, 07946 439095, www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Box office: 01908 280800 Box office: 01908 280800 Book online: www.stables.org Box 01908 280800 Bookoffice: online: www.stables.org Book online: www.stables.org
THE FULL ENGLISH at The Stables THE FULL ENGLISH at The Stables THE at The Stables The Full FULL English isENGLISH a major new project from EFDSS (English Folk Dance & Song Society)
Full English is a biggest major new EFDSS (English Folk Dance Song tunes, Society) toThe create the world’s freeproject digital from archive of traditional English folk &songs, The Full English is a major newfree project from EFDSSof(English FolkEnglish Dance &folk Song Society) to create the world’s biggest digital archive traditional songs, tunes, dances and customs. to createand the customs. world’s biggest free digital archive of traditional English folk songs, tunes, dances The Stables is delighted to be working with EFDSS to bring a programme of workshops, dances and customs. The Stables is delighted to be working with EFDSS to bring aEnglish programme ofregion. workshops, lectures, training and community events The Fullprogramme to this The Stables is delighted to be working withinspired EFDSS by to bring workshops, lectures, training and community events inspired by The aFull English toofthis region. lectures, training and community events inspired by The Full English to this region.
FOLK SONG IN ENGLAND STUDY DAY FOLKSONG SONG INENGLAND ENGLAND STUDYDAY DAY Saturday 16 November, 10am–4pm FOLK IN STUDY
THE FULL ENGLISH PROJECT THE FULL PROJECT Wednesday 30ENGLISH October, 8pm THE FULL ENGLISH PROJECT
THE FULL ENGLISH – THE ENGLISH THE FULL FULLWORKSHOP ENGLISH–– SINGING SINGING WORKSHOP SINGINGfolk WORKSHOP Traditional carols, winter songs and other
OTHERGREAT GREATNIGHTS NIGHTS OTHER OTHER GREAT NIGHTS OFFOLK FOLKCOMING COMING OF UPUP OF FOLK COMING ATTHE THESTABLES… STABLES…UP AT AT THE STABLES…
Saturday 16 November, 10am–4pm For ages 15+ Saturday 16 November, 10am–4pm For ages 15+ Tickets: For ages£10 15+(includes refreshments Tickets: £10(includes (includes refreshments and sandwich lunch) refreshments Tickets: £10 and sandwich lunch) Aand one-day course aimed primarily at people who sandwich lunch) one-day course aimed people who already have a liking for,primarily orprimarily interest English folk AA one-day course aimed atatin, people who already have a liking for, or interest in, English already liking for, in, English song andhave whoa would likeortointerest learn more aboutfolk itsfolk songand and whowould would like learnmore more about song who like totolearn about itsits roots, development and the essential part it has roots,development development andin the essential part it has roots, and the essential part it has played in communities this country. playedinleaders incommunities communities this country. played ininthis country. Course Steve Roud and John Howsen Course leaders SteveRoud Roud andJohn John Howsen Course leaders Steve and Howsen are leading collectors, researchers and writers are leading collectors, researchers and are leading collectors, researchers and writers on English folk music and traditions. writers on onEnglish Englishfolk folkmusic musicand andtraditions. traditions.
Traditional folk winter other Traditional folkcarols, carols, wintersongs songsand and other seasonal singing delights seasonal singing delights seasonal singing delights Sunday 8 December, 10am–4pm Sunday 10am–4pm Sunday8£10 8December, December, Tickets: (includes10am–4pm sandwich lunch Tickets: £10 (includes Tickets: £10 (includessandwich sandwichlunch lunch and refreshments) and refreshments) and special refreshments) This day for community choirs and singers This special day for community choirs and singers This specialtoday for community choirs favourites, and singers is a chance explore some traditional is a chance to explore some traditional favourites, is a chance to explore some traditional favourites, as as some some rediscovered rediscoveredsongs songsand andbrand brand as well well as as well as some rediscovered songs and brand new arrangements. The day will be led by Sarah new arrangements. The day will be led by Sarah new arrangements. The dayamount will beofledexperience by Sarah Morgan who brings a huge Morgan who brings a huge amount of experience Morgan who brings a hugechoir amount of experience as aa performer, community choir director and as performer, community director and as asong performer, community choir director and folk specialist. Suitablefor forcommunity community choir folk song specialist. Suitable choir folk song specialist. Suitable for community choir members, choir leaders leaders andsingers singers withananinterest interest members, choir and with members, choir leaders and singers with an interest in a cappela harmony harmonysinging. singing. in a cappela harmony singing. Places can be be booked bookedby bycalling callingthe theStables Stables Places can be booked by calling the Stables box office. box office.
Wednesday 30 October, 8pm Tickets: £21, £22.50 Wednesday 30 October, 8pm Tickets: £21, £22.50 Some of the£22.50 top names in folk have joined together Tickets: £21, Some of the names in folk have joined together for an tour toinperform music inspired by Some of 11-date the top top names folk have joined together for toLakeman, perform music inspired Full11-date English. Seth Martin Simpson, forThe an an 11-date tourtour to perform music inspired by by The Full English. Seth Lakeman, Martin Fay Hield, Nancy Kerr, Sam Sweeney, RobSimpson, Harbron The Full English. Seth Lakeman, Martin Simpson, Fay Hield, Nancy Kerr, Sam Sweeney, Rob Harbron Fay Hield, Kerr, Sweeney, Harbron and BenNancy Nicholls willSam perform newRob music and Ben Nicholls will perform new music and Ben Nicholls will perform new music and arrangements inspired by material within and arrangements inspired by material within and arrangements inspired by material within the archive. archive. thethe archive.
MARTIN TAYLOR & MARTIN SIMPSON MARTIN TAYLOR & MARTIN SIMPSON MARTIN & MARTIN SIMPSON Sunday 29TAYLOR September Sunday 29 29 September Sunday September AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH AL STEWART AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH AL STEWART AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH AL STEWART Wednesday 9 October Wednesday 9 October Wednesday 9 October CARA DILLON CARA DILLON CARA DILLON Wednesday October Wednesday 2323 October Wednesday 23 October URBAN FOLK QUARTET URBAN FOLK QUARTET URBAN FOLK QUARTET Wednesday 20 November Wednesday 20 November Wednesday 20 November OYSTERBAND OYSTERBAND OYSTERBAND Wednesday November Wednesday 2727 November Wednesday 27 November OPERA NORTH: CROWS’ BONES OPERA NORTH: CROWS’ BONES OPERA CROWS’ BONES Monday 16 December Monday 16NORTH: December Monday 16 December
online bookings subject to ticket processing fee fee Handling charges charges apply applyto toall allconcert concertbookings bookingsand and online bookings subject to ticket processing Handling charges apply to all concert bookings and online bookings subject to ticket processing fee
since 1976
BRITAIN’S FOLK & ACOUSTIC SPECIALISTS Our nine shops stock all kinds of acoustic & folky musical instruments from Britain and around the world! Expert staff are always on hand to give you free, friendly advice. Try the intruments for yourself! Each shop has a huge and varied stock of new and secondhand instruments SUPPO R MUSIC TING LIVE Sidmo FESTIVALS u Crawle th, Cornwall , y Riseley , Oxford, BM , Ten G, Broads terden, St Ive tairs an s d more ,
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
YOUNG MISCELLANY FOLK DANCE GROUP OPEN DAY – SUNDAY 6th OCTOBER 2013 10.30am to 12.30pm – free to all Park Hall, Leyton Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2LX Come and watch us display, join in the fun and maybe learn some of our dances.
North West – Cotswold & Border Morris – Step Clog – Stave Broom Dance – Rapper – Molly – Country – Maypole We are currently keen to welcome new members aged 6 to 18 to join our lively and friendly group, either as dancers or as musicians. No dancing experience needed.
* * * * * * * * * *
RAPPER WORKSHOP – SUNDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2013 10.30am to 12.30pm – venue as above All are welcome, both children and adults, to learn how to do rapper sword-dancing with an experienced, award winning side. Cost £5 for non-YM Members. For both events, please contact: Lynda 01707 324413 or Chris 01727 751555 Website: www.youngmiscellany.co.uk
Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
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London Barndance Saturday 19th October 8 p.m. Mark Elvins Corporate Fiddle Saturday 9th November 8 p.m. Adam Hughes Chesapeake Saturday 14th December 8 p.m. Geoff Cubitt Fat Harry
All dances are held at Cecil Sharp House 2 Regents Park Road London NW1 7AY Further details from Andrew and Jane: 01628 633962 home@barndance.org
Tickets: £10 (EFDSS £9, LBC & concs £8) www.barndance.org
Autumn 2013 If you enjoy a lively barn dance, you'll find Friday Folk is a great way to meet like-minded people and have fun. Newcomers are always welcome. And there's no need to bring a partner. From 7:45 to 10:00 pm at the Methodist Church Hall, Marlborough Road, St Albans, AL1 3XG. www.fridayfolk.org.uk – 01727 856508 Standard Friday admission £3
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4 Oct Barry Goodman and Spring Greens 11 Oct John and Elaine Meechan and Brian Stone 18 Oct Bob Barrett and FF Band 25 Oct Paul Garner 1 Nov Frances Oates and The Turnabouts 8 Nov Mike Bennett 15 Nov Wendy Harrup and FF Band 16 Nov Saturday Special. Mark Elvins, Mollie and Ali. At St Albans High School. 19:30 to 23:00 22 Nov 29 Nov 6 Dec 13 Dec
Bea Hawkins Bob Barrett Jane Pfaff and FF Band Christmas Special with Colin Hume and Spring Greens 20 Dec Carol Singing around St Albans
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Unicorn Magazine: issue 124
Ragged Staff – “Kiss The Shore”
I
have heard Ragged Staff a few times live, and am pleased to report they sound exactly the same on “Kiss the Shore”. This is important, because too many acoustic musicians take liberties with their own sound – just because the studio allows them to. Apart from some very discreet reverb and the occasional added instrument, this collection is au naturel. With Caroline Riches on fiddle and vocals, Ned Lawton on uilleann pipes, whistles and vocals, and Mike Nacey on bouzouki, octave mandola and banjo, they have no need of artificial aids. They are all consummate musicians in their own right.
For instance, their version of “Si Bheag Si Mhor” is the best I have heard in a long time, and the subtlety of “Rosebud in June”, sung by Caroline is a joy. An unfamiliar version of “The Nightingale” – borrowed from Cara Dillon – has some wonderful instrumental interludes on fiddle and pipes. And their closing “Never Ending Road” by Loreena McKennitt is simply beautiful. When a song demands separate male and female voices, it can be difficult to find a key that suits both. I suspect a degree of compromise, for instance, on the otherwise excellent “Keys of Canterbury”; and I prefer Ned’s fine voice on his own compositions “The Whaler” and “We Drank Mimosas”, than when slightly overstretched, as in “Star of the County Down”. But these are minor gripes – they are fine musicians, with a fine collection of songs and tunes. More info on the CD release from www.ragged-staff.co.uk. Mike Blair
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Feedback Wanted? A delve into Long Lankin’s own post-bag
P
eople have been very good to the new editors with their feedback on the changes wrought on the Unicorn. My own “post bag” has been a bit more varied and forthright. Surprisingly they are actually printable, mainly because most of it was intercepted and deleted – GCHQ do a good job checking my e-mails. Of course most readers don’t actually send messages, particularly if they don’t like the changes. They just sit and brood quietly in a corner over their bitter beer, muttering mutely about whatever, with just a few coherent words escaping the black hole of their distaste, “mutter … mutter… bloody know-alls… mutter… mutter… don’t know a thing… mutter mutter… piss-up in a brewery”. Some readers have been very supportive, “Best thing since sliced bread,” writes Miss Claudy Banks of Green Willow, “perfect with jam or marmalade.” Others though find the new Unicorn less absorbent than before. Most have expressed concern about the quality of the finish. The glossy paper, the layout, the use of colour is just too professional for a folk journal. The folk scene has always been a bit rough and ready with a make-do approach: people are quite happy to gather in a pub bar or back room and make their own entertainment. Quality is not the issue – the essential element is participation whether that is playing along, joining in the chorus or “having a go” at singing a song. Arbuthnot “Lord” Randal comments, “The Unicorn just does not look like the sort of thing I could knock out on my home printer, not that I ever wanted to but it is nice to think I could!”
A few have even refused to accept copies of the new look Unicorn, thinking that something that flashy cannot possibly be a freebie. These correspondents wonder how the operation is being financed – it cannot possibly be from the advertising revenue – and their conclusions vary from the conspiracy theorist to the downright paranoid. One theory is that it is being funded by the CIA as a way of identifying left-wing sympathisers (on the vague premise that folk song is “of the people” and has always been associated with protest and challenge to authority). More fanciful is the suggestion from one Fanny Frail that the pages have been treated with a chemical that over time will cause the regular readers’ fingers to blister preventing them from playing their instruments and thus bringing down the whole folk scene. Who might be behind such a plot is unclear though if a chemical could be developed that selectively had this effect on accordionists and bodhran players, there would be any number of possible suspects. There you go then. It shows a certain guts or foolhardiness to change things, especially for folkies whose whole reason for living is to keep the tradition alive. If you are reading this it means I have managed to fight my way through the mob of pitchfork and fiery torch armed mob of villagers surrounding the Unicorn office to deliver this piece to the editors. >JGFL ;
GN=J
Others have wondered whether the editors are seeking to broaden the appeal, to attract a wider range of readers and thus advertisers. Miss Jenny Lind of Bampton for example writes, “Mark my words, running profiles about local folk clubs is only the start. Once they have exhausted these as a source of material (and let’s be honest it won’t take long) they will be onto the R&B clubs and Country & Western. Before you know it they will be advertising line dancing.”
CB1029
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Folk London / Unicorn Magazine_Layout 1 05/07/2013 17:50 Page 1
Folk sounds best at Cecil Sharp House www.cecilsharphouse.org 2 Regent's Park Road, London, NW1 7AY
Autumn gigs Rhiannon Giddens & Leyla McCalla
Sharon Shannon
Thursday 3 October, 7.30pm
“Her instrumental technique is remarkable, yet looks effortless; and her smile could light up a small fishing village by itself.” – The Guardian
Thursday 14 November, 7.30pm
A rare opportunity to see this duo, of Carolina Chocolate Drops fame, perform in the UK. Tickets £14
Tickets £18
Sam Carter & Catherine McLellan
Chris Wood Saturday 16 November, 7.30pm
Wednesday 16 October, 7.30pm
BBC Folk Singer of the Year 2011 performs songs from his newly released album, None The Wiser.
Experience Canadian and English folk music at its best. Tickets £12
Tickets £14
Blowzabella
A Celebration of Graeme Miles
Celebrating 35 Years Saturday 12 October, 7.30pm This legendary folk ensemble returns to London for an exclusive show celebrating 35 years together.
Saturday 23 November, 7.30pm With The Unthanks, The Wilsons, The Young’uns, Martyn Wyndham Read and Iris Bishop, Mike Nicholson and Robin Dale.
Tickets £15.50 | £5 under 16s
Tickets £18
Martyn Joseph Thursday 28 November, 7.30pm
The Full English Tour
A unique and powerful singersongwriter whose music stays with you long after the show has ended.
Thursday 31 October, 7.30pm Seth Lakeman, Martin Simpson, Fay Hield, Nancy Kerr, Sam Sweeney, Rob Harbron and Ben Nicholls.
Tickets £15
Belshazzar's Feast
Tickets £17
Wednesday 11 December, 7.30pm A folk-filled Christmas show from this wickedly inventive duo.
Hot Club of Cowtown
Tickets £13
Wednesday 6 November, 7.30pm
Ticket info
These purveyors of American folk bring their western swing to London for what is sure to be knees-up show!
www.musicglue.com/cecilsharphouse gigantic.com | wegottickets.com ticketline.co.uk | 0844 888 9991
Tickets £17.50 Promoter
Supporters
facebook.com/EFDSS
Partners
@TheEFDSS | #CecilSharpHouse