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December 2010 Events Guide
Please bear in mind that every effort is made to ensure that the details below are accurate, however some events are cancelled/sell out etc so please check with the venues/clubs before travelling long distances. Please email us to include your event listings and these will be added as soon as possible.

To return to the main events guide and for events this month click here

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Thursday 2nd December 2010

Tom McConville and David Newey at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
"Tom is a great player, and a terrific singer, he happens to be a number one bloke too. Tom plays as Tom is, with honesty and passion, and an obvious love for the fiddle and traditional music." Dave Swarbrick

The Lantern Society at The Betsey Trotwood, Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3BL 8.30 pm
"'Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou's Lantern Society is rightly billed as London's Finest Folk Club. Upstairs in the convivial surroundings of the Dickensian Betsey Trotwood, in the City of London, the finest folk from all over the capital and beyond congregate to regale one another with story and song. Although first and foremost what they nobley achieve is to have a good old knees up.'
The night is accompanied by the Lantern Society Radio Hour, a fornightly online free radio show bringing you the best performances from the lantern society stage."

Brixham Folk Night at The Ernie Lister Bar, Quayside Hotel, King Street Brixham. Devon
Resident live folk band playing electric/acoustic folk and roots. Guests very welcome to perform in the middle of the evening.
Accompaniment can sometimes be provided if required. Lots of different styles featured.
All welcome.

John Kirkpatrick at Whitstable Folk Club, Whitstable, Kent
"BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2010 Musician of the Year. One of the most prolific figures on the English folk scene, performing solo, in duos, acoustic groups and electric bands, and has established an enviable reputation as an instrumental virtuoso and session musician."

The Mersea Session at The Coast Inn, West Mersea, Essex
If you are looking for the rockingest acoustic session in Essex, it's on at the Coast Inn, in West Mersea, 8 miles south of Colchester, every Thursday night. The acoustic of the venue is excellent, wooden floor, no soft furnishings and varied ceiling heights. The beer is excellent, currently Green King IPA, Mersea Island Brewery's Yo Boy! and Maldon Gold, Champion Beer of Britain 2007. But be warned, musician seats fill up fast, as do the remainder for listeners/drinkers, so it's wise to arrive about 8pm. And don't expect an early night - the music usually finishes about 11.30. Music style is widely varied, from Irish, Scottish, English and American tunes to bluegrass, jazz and rock, with songs from many genres. It is a completely inclusive session, with no cliques or rules, just respect for fellow singers and musicians.

The Floozies at The Cavendish Hall Thurston, Suffolk
"Based in Suffolk, The Floozies play mainly original acoustic material with unusual combinations of instruments. If you like Eddie Reader, Beth Orton, Karine Polwart then this is the band for you. The Floozies are well known for their energetic contemporary folk, melting sensitive lyrics with cool jazzy riffs and ethnic percussion. "

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Traditional Song Session at The Kitchen Garden Café, York Road, Birmingham
"Traditional music sessions take place in pubs all over the city but traditional singing is also alive and well. Here's a chance to sing and listen to traditional songs in a friendly and informal environment."

Beeston Acoustic Night at The Commerical Inn, 19 Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottinghamshire
Singing songs and playing tunes
All welcome - Thursday nights upstairs
Contact niallb@live.co.uk for more details


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Friday 3rd December 2010

Open House at Swindon Folk Singers Club, Swindon, Wiltshire
"You can come along and just listen, or you can sing a song or play a tune. Our material is mainly traditional, but with a large smattering of songs from the current folk scene, as well as other stuff.
We welcome performers of all abilities. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging, so come along and have a go! It doesn’t matter how good you are – we all had to start somewhere!"

Pete Coe at Wessex Acoustic Folk Club, Blandford Royal British Legion, Blandford, Dorset
"Pete is a singer, songwriter, melodeon, banjo, dulcimer and bouzouki player, bandleader, arranger, broadcaster, dance caller, teacher, step dancer, entrepreneur, folk club organiser, record label boss, sallow-faced wit, raconteur and all-round good guy"

Sam Carter at Guildford Institute Folk Club, Guildford, Surrey
"A startlingly perceptive and self-assured young singer and guitarist from the English midlands, Sam Carter has spent the last few years busily honing his craft both as a writer and performer, studying guitar with Martin Simpson and touring with Bellowhead whilst holding down his post as Emerging Artist in Residence at London’s Southbank Centre. Armed with a ‘killer voice’ (Nitin Sawhney) and the ability to play his guitar ‘like a harp’ (Time Out), as well as an unerring ability to put his personal experiences into a wider perspective, the east London-based songsmith made his mark with his debut album ‘Keepsakes’ released August 2009.Picking up from where the intricate guitar and ‘haunting’ (Eliza Carthy) storytelling of his EP ‘Here In The Ground’ (released April ’08 via Proper) left off, ‘Keepsakes’ is a collection of ten songs of rare depth and detail that belie their author’s tender years. That’s not to say that ‘Keepsakes’ doesn’t pack a punch; Sam kicks the album into life with ‘Yellow Sign’ spitting a fiery tale of east end violence over breakneck and impossibly intricate fingerstyle guitar work."

Reg Meuross at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Throughout his career, guitarist and singer REG has played the role of musical straight man with fun outfits like the Panic Brothers and Hank Wangford, but he has always had a parallel career as a major writer, performer and actor. Now firmly established as a solo performer, Reg’s gently-rocking, melodic, country-tinged songs are never 'in your face' but seem to plant themselves in the mind. His new CD 'All This Longing' is an all-acoustic album containing 12 beautiful original songs. Featuring Reg on a variety of instruments and also Andy Cutting on accordion, Bellowhead’s Paul Sartin on violin, Jackie Oates on viola, Fairground Attraction’s Roy Dodds on percussion and Simon Edwards on bass, it’s one of Mike Hardings faves! "

Liz Simcock at Friday Folk Club, Orpington, Kent
"Liz is a great songwriter and gorgeous singer with a relaxed and very endearing stage presence. She is going from strength to strength as a performer and stands alongside any of the female singer/songwriters currently working on the acoustic/folk music scene. In '99 she featured on the excellent Playpen Album of New Acoustic Music alongside Eliza Carthy, Billy Bragg and Eddy Reader, but now concentrates on her solo studio career or performing in the trio with Ian Newman (bass) and Warwick Jones (guitar)."

Singers Night at The Valley Folk Club, Pontardawe, West Glamorgan

The Hale & Hearty Folk Club at The Cross Keys Hotel, Milnthope, Cumbria. 8:30pm
An open door folk club of 25 years standing guaranteeing a lively and entertaing evening of both contemporary and traditional folk song in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. We have a residency of ten established perfomers who host the evenings in turn.

Singers Night at The Rolling Hills Folk Club, Melrose, Scottish Borders


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Saturday 4th December 2010

Mary Jane at The RMA Tavern, Cromwell road, Eastney, Southsea, Hampshire
"MARY JANE play a highly original blend of acoustic & electric psychedelic folk-rock."

The Mighty Zulu Nation at Birdsedge Village Hall, Birdsedge, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
“Amazing full-on African harmonies from this charismatic bunch of Zulu performers. Christmas and the season as it's celebrtated in the Townships of Durban, in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Don't expect an African take on the tired old carols, instead expect a high-octane party which includes music, percussion and dance linked by stories eloquently told. Here's music for the joy of it."

Peter Knight's Gigspanner at Rose Theatre at Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, Lancashire
"Having now clocked up almost 40 years with Steeleye Span, fiddle player Peter Knight's name and reputation are known to most people with an interest in traditional music. Now with his own trio Gigspanner, Peter is joined by guitarist Roger Flack and Afro-Percussionist Vincent Salzfaas, exploring traditional music with energy, brilliance and spontaneity."


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Sunday 5th December 2010

Rebet Asker - Greek Roots Series at Green Note, Camden, London Doors 1:00pm
"Rebet Asker is a restaurant/music venue which has seen all the great Greek musicians and songs from the 20th Century pass through it. The walls of this little place place in a small side street by Peiraeus harbour have witnessed the history of the Greek Rebetiko as it has evolved over the last 100 years and through this series of Sunday matinees, bouzouki player Pavlos Carvalho will be joined by special guests to recreate some of the magic."

George Papavgeris and Los Marbles at Walthamstow Folk Club, Walthamstow, East London

Uiscedwr at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
“Uiscedwr (pronounced "ish-ka-dooer") is a trio which plays British folk music influenced by world music. The group was originally based in Manchester and went on to win the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award in 2002.
Their first album gained them a nomination for the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2005. By this time, Uiscedwr was mixing British folk music with a strong Celtic bias with other influences including jazz, European folk and world musics."

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

Open Mic Folk Night at The Nelson Tavern, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset
Open mic night hosted by Alex Hall, a local artist.
All artists who take part are eligable for a free pint / small glass of wine / soft drink at the bar once they've played.
It's a great, growing, laid back night in a cosy non-judgemental environment. All artists are welcome, with artists so far playing anything from covers of The Beatles to more folk-styled self-written songs.

Get Rhythm Presents... Americana Unplugged, at The Foundry, 13-14 Foundry St Brighton, BN1 4AT
Every Sunday from 7.30 the best Americana and American roots artists from Brighton, Sussex and beyond play live and unplugged.
The atmosphere and acoustics of this comfy, candlelit, intimate space make it perfect for listening to completely acoustic Americana

Suntrap at Hitchin Folk Club, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
"Suntrap have developed a distinctive sound. Once described as Fairport meets Fleetwood Mac, the songs clearly take influence from both English folk and Americana. Bert Jansch-like guitar coupled with big ‘wall of sound’ vocal harmonies and a strong dose of driving fiddles."

James Hollingsworth at The Queens Head Inn, St. James Street, Monmouth, Monmouthshire
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006

Steve Turner at The Raven Folk Club, Chester, Cheshire
"A shining example of the music the British folk scene is capable of producing."
FRoots

The Pines at On The Ride, Henry Boons, Westgate, Wakefield, West Yorkshire
"In a world swimming in singer/songwriters, it's difficult to rise above the masses and create a truly unique sound that captures ears and stimulates the mind. The Pines are a band that has taken on this feat, honing their musical craft to near perfection with a sound that wavers on the edge of traditional acoustic/roots music, but embraces the nuances of today's indie-rock and blues music."


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Monday 6th December 2010

Sarah McQuaid at MondayMonday, Clerkenwell, London
"Renowned for her warm, engaging stage presence, Sarah McQuaid is a versatile and beguiling performer. In addition to her own elegantly crafted originals, she interprets traditional Irish and Appalachian folk songs, Elizabethan ballads, 1930s jazz numbers, surprise covers and lively guitar instrumentals with panache and poignance."

Rebetiko Jam Session at The Horseshoe, Clerkenwell Close, London EC4 (Farringdon tube)
A monthly Rebetiko jam session is held on the first monday of every month
Entry is free. All are welcome to play, dance, sing or listen to the music at London's best Greek music party night.
Contact Andy on 07910 160 114 or Chris on 07950 660361. E mail andy@rebetikoodysseyband.com or Christopherjones99@yahoo.co.uk

Fay Hield at Croydon Folk Club, Croydon, Surrey
"Fay came to fame with the Witches of Elswick and then took time out to complete her PhD and discover motherhood. Now she is returning with Ron Harbron (concertina: Enlgish acoustic collective) and Sam Sweeney (fiddle: Kerfuffle and Bellowhead). They serve a spicy stew of songs! The sound is at once crafty and nimble, airy and graceful, full of zest and nuance, sensitive to the tradition yet utterly distinctive. Fay leads with a voice whose rough edges are still thrillingly intact, and which goes straight to the living heart of the songs."

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

David Ferrard at at The Tudor Folk Club, Chesham, Buckinghamshire
"Born to a Scottish father and an American mother, David Ferrard is a veritable 'one-man transatlantic session'. He broke onto the British folk scene in 2006 with his rootsy folk songs which, whilst contemporary, evoke the 60s folk revival when singer-songwriters original output blended with traditional material. His strong, catchy melodies and commitment to social issues make his music both accessible and meaningful."


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Tuesday 7th December 2010

Seend Acoustic Club at Seend Community Centre, Rusty Lane, Seend, Wiltshire
£2 entrance, £1 for performers for open floor evenings, more for spotlight nights depending on the act. Completely acoustic, no amps. Drinks at club prices, plenty of car parking. Telephone Malcolm Shipp on 01380 827041 or 07894 707965 .

Joe Broughton & Kevin Dempsey at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"These two virtuosi of guitar and fiddle like to do their own thing, when they're not earning their crusts in big bands, jazz-rock, pop and soul gigs and the likes of Whippersnapper and the Albion Band. Joe has been playing since he was in the pram and has a PhD in circus skills and mad banter. Kevin has been around a bit longer and has played a few more notes. Musically they're tighter than two coats of paint. Expect anything!"

Belshazzar's Feast at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
Blending folk with classical music and comedy plus the odd music hall song thrown in. If you like Mozart, Beethoven, Elvis Presley and The Spinners avoid them - you have been warned!
In 1995 Paul Hutchinson (accordion) and Paul Sartin (oboe, violin and vocals) shared a musical passion borne out of the desire to earn sufficient money to support their extravagant lifestyles. Their amazing musicianship coupled with wry humour stunned audiences around Europe and the States. After a brief sabbatical, they're back!"

Folk at The Greyhound at the Greyhound, Flempton Nr. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk
Folk Session, All Welcome

The Globe Acoustic Sessions at The Globe Pub, Winfield Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
All styles are welcome, it's totally acoustic and we have everything from bluegrass, contemporary self-penned and trad folk going on.
contact email is flashmeister84@gmail.com

Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"all singers, musicians & listeners welcome "

Open Mic at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Martyn Wyndham-Read at Great Knight Folk Club, Northampton
Martyn Wyndham-Read has been involved with folk music for over forty years. In his late teens he headed off to Australia where he first heard, the old songs sung by some of the station hands at Emu Springs and the need to know more of them and where they came from grew. Subsequently he toured throughout Australia, before returning to England to collaborate on the "Leviathan" album in the late 1960's. The "Maypoles to Mistletoe" followed in the early 1970's.
Martyn is currently working with Shirley Collins on "Down the Lawson Track" featuring stories, poems/songs of the great Australian Poet of the People, Henry Lawson. His CD Jackeroo portrays his life so far through songs both old and new.


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Wednesday 8th December 2010

Folk at The Bull at The Bull, The Street, Woolpit, Nr. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk
Folk Session, All Welcome

Folk Session at The White Horse Inn, Edwardstone, Suffolk
All Welcome

'Folk, Roots and Blues' at Falcon Inn, Hinstock, Market Drayton, Shropshire
Good music, company, beer and food, need more info call John 07800 663 953

Edwina Hayes at The Musician, Leicester
Nanci Griffith - 'A wonderful young woman, so gifted and full of song, with a voice as sweet as the angels'


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Thursday 9th December 2010

Miranda Sykes at Islington Folk Club, Clerkenwell, London
“Double bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes is best known in her mysteriously incongruous role as the 'third person' in the duo Show of Hands!
As an artist in her own right, Miranda continues to surprise audiences with her musical versatility, and demonstrates her ability as a guitarist and interpreter of song, slipping effortlessly between genres. She has a strong repertoire of songs and is currently developing material for her 5th solo album project. She is joined by Rex Preston, a virtuoso mandolin player who's musicality and fluid style augments Miranda’s songs beautifully."

Chris Newman and Maire Ni Chathasaigh at The King’s Place Arts Centre (Hall One), Kings Cross, London 0207 520 1490
"The singing and playing are so moving, so wonderfully executed with such technical brilliance and beauty... that they actually bring tears to one's eyes... a lasting and unforgettable memory" - Irish Music Magazine

Irish Traditional Folk Session at The Drifwood Spars, Trevaunance Cove, St. Agnes, Cornwall 8:30 onwards
All Welcome

The Mersea Session at The Coast Inn, West Mersea, Essex
If you are looking for the rockingest acoustic session in Essex, it's on at the Coast Inn, in West Mersea, 8 miles south of Colchester, every Thursday night. The acoustic of the venue is excellent, wooden floor, no soft furnishings and varied ceiling heights. The beer is excellent, currently Green King IPA, Mersea Island Brewery's Yo Boy! and Maldon Gold, Champion Beer of Britain 2007. But be warned, musician seats fill up fast, as do the remainder for listeners/drinkers, so it's wise to arrive about 8pm. And don't expect an early night - the music usually finishes about 11.30. Music style is widely varied, from Irish, Scottish, English and American tunes to bluegrass, jazz and rock, with songs from many genres. It is a completely inclusive session, with no cliques or rules, just respect for fellow singers and musicians.

Singaround at The Tump Folk Club, Coombe Social Club, Brinklow Road, Coventry, West Midlands

Dumbles Folk Singaround at The Dumbles Pub, Westhorpe, Southwell, Nottinghamshire
"At the Dumbles Folk we welcome all musicians, singers, poets and listeners"

Beeston Acoustic Night at The Commerical Inn, 19 Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottinghamshire
Singing songs and playing tunes
All welcome - Thursday nights upstairs
Contact niallb@live.co.uk for more details


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Friday 10th December 2010

Open House at Swindon Folk Singers Club, Swindon, Wiltshire
"You can come along and just listen, or you can sing a song or play a tune. Our material is mainly traditional, but with a large smattering of songs from the current folk scene, as well as other stuff.
We welcome performers of all abilities. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging, so come along and have a go! It doesn’t matter how good you are – we all had to start somewhere!"

Malinky at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"Few Scottish folk bands have made such an impact in recent years as Malinky. Born out of the Edinburgh session scene of the late '90s, the band soon emerged as the leading young group focusing on Scots song. Over the last decade Malinky have gone on to become one of the most distinctive and accomplished bands on the Scottish and International folk scene. Comprising STEVE BYRNE (vocals, guitar, bouzouki), FIONA HUNTER (vocals, cello), DAVE WOOD (guitar, bouzouki, vocals) and MIKE VASS (fiddle, vocals) their song-based repertoire features tastefully inventive instrumentation and sparkling freshness, combining a deep knowledge of tradition with a subtly creative approach. They breathe new life into centuries-old ballads from Scotland's north-east, alongside original songs and fiddle tunes and are one of Scotland’s best young groups. "If indeed it is the destiny of every child born in Scotland to be a folk musician, Malinky should be added to the milk" said R2 magazine."

Get Rhythm Presents...Hootenanny @ The Worlds End, Brighton
Every 2nd Friday of the month at The Worlds End, London Rd, Brighton - not only will there be some truly amazing country, bluegrass and Americana bands (plugged IN) but also Straw & Bunting! From 8, free entry + pass the hat


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Saturday 11th December 2010

Ben Paley and Tab Hunter at The Cellar Upstairs Folk Club, Euston, London
"American, English and klezmer songs and tunes with fiddle and guitar"

James Hollingsworth at The John Harvey Tavern, Bear Yard, Cliffe High Street, Lewes, East Sussex
"James Hollingsworth’s main stage set on the Saturday afternoon of the festival ranged from what was grounded in the traditional – a voice buzzing in the ear, the familiar plucked guitar – to what seemed to border on the celestial, as both voice and a much effected, but delicately measured, acoustic guitar swept back and forth across the arena. James’ performance was captivating…truly so, as many followed him to the intimate surroundings of the Bar Stage later in the afternoon, where an equally diverse mixture of songs and styles was in evidence." - Abbey Mill Folk Festival, 2006

Martha Tilston at Whitstable Folk Club, Whitstable, Kent
"Martha Tilston is a captivating performer, an enchanting singer-songwriter blessed with a gloriously clear and seductively beautiful voice. Weaving her magic spell over listeners wherever she plays - from the concert hall to the campfire, from folk clubs to main festival stages - she is a rare gem who has the power to draw an audience into her world and create an intimate space where her words and music dance and delight, leaving all those present with a smile, a warm feeling inside, and a few issues to ponder, too."

The Bounty Hounds at The Greyhound, Flempton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
Suffolk based folk rock combo


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Sunday 12th December 2010

Miranda Sykes at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
“Double bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes is best known in her mysteriously incongruous role as the 'third person' in the duo Show of Hands!
As an artist in her own right, Miranda continues to surprise audiences with her musical versatility, and demonstrates her ability as a guitarist and interpreter of song, slipping effortlessly between genres. She has a strong repertoire of songs and is currently developing material for her 5th solo album project. She is joined by Rex Preston, a virtuoso mandolin player who's musicality and fluid style augments Miranda’s songs beautifully."

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

Open Mic Folk Night at The Nelson Tavern, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset
Open mic night hosted by Alex Hall, a local artist.
All artists who take part are eligable for a free pint / small glass of wine / soft drink at the bar once they've played.
It's a great, growing, laid back night in a cosy non-judgemental environment. All artists are welcome, with artists so far playing anything from covers of The Beatles to more folk-styled self-written songs.

Get Rhythm Presents... Americana Unplugged, at The Foundry, 13-14 Foundry St Brighton, BN1 4AT
Every Sunday from 7.30 the best Americana and American roots artists from Brighton, Sussex and beyond play live and unplugged.
The atmosphere and acoustics of this comfy, candlelit, intimate space make it perfect for listening to completely acoustic Americana

Singers and Musicians Acoustic session at The Bell Inn, Newport Road, Tong Shropshire (12 noon and 4pm) 01952 850210
The event will be held in our function room on the 1st floor, Food is available all day from 12 noon, Carvery etc between 12 noon and 3PM,full menu and specials there after until 9.30pm.
Open Fires lit throughout the winter months.
Admission is FREE


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Monday 13th December 2010

Crayside Folk Club, at The Seven Stars, Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, Kent
Informal Session/Singaround

Miranda Sykes and Rex Preston at Boston Folk Club, Boston, Lincolnshire
'Miranda has been described as a ‘musical chameleon’ reflecting the way that she so easily slips between musical genres as diverse as folk, jazz and rock / pop. She continues to build a solo repertoire of contemporary and narrative songs that are showcased to critical acclaim on her recent album “Bliss”.'


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Tuesday 14th December 2010

Miranda Sykes at Hoy At Anchor Folk Club, The Ship Hotel, New Road, Leigh On Sea, Essex
“Double bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes is best known in her mysteriously incongruous role as the 'third person' in the duo Show of Hands!
As an artist in her own right, Miranda continues to surprise audiences with her musical versatility, and demonstrates her ability as a guitarist and interpreter of song, slipping effortlessly between genres. She has a strong repertoire of songs and is currently developing material for her 5th solo album project. She is joined by Rex Preston, a virtuoso mandolin player who's musicality and fluid style augments Miranda’s songs beautifully."

The Globe Acoustic Sessions at The Globe Pub, Winfield Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
All styles are welcome, it's totally acoustic and we have everything from bluegrass, contemporary self-penned and trad folk going on.
contact email is flashmeister84@gmail.com

Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"all singers, musicians & listeners welcome "

Open Mic at The Vernon Arms Folk Club, 21 Locko Rd, Spondon. Derby

Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland


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Wednesday 15th December 2010

St Agnes Fountain at Marlborough Folk Roots, Marlborough, Wiltshire
Chris Leslie, David Hughes, Chris While and Julie Matthews start the festive season with their popular Christmas show, now celebrating its tenth year. Early booking is advised.
Tickets £16 from 01672 512465 or Sound Knowledge, Hughenden Yard, High Street, Marlborough.

Megson at Baldock and Letchworth Folk Club, Baldock, Hertfordshire

The duo Megson are fast becoming hot property on the British folk and roots scene, and their three albums On The Side, Smoke Of Home and Take Yourself A Wife have chronicled that blossoming creative talent. Since their genesis in 2004 they’ve played up and down the country at folk clubs and festivals, supporting bands such as Show of Hands and Seth Lakeman. Now their tour dates sell out and they’ve received nominations for Best Duo in the 2009 & 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
"For my money Megson are amongst the most exciting trailblazers of British contemporary folk." Seth Lakeman

Birmingham Storytelling Cafe featuring: The Twelve Ways of Christmas at The Kitchen Garden Cafe, York Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham
“Here are some Christmas Tales for you to enjoy and use this coming Festive Season Come along and share come along and share Christmas stories and songs and some good Café Christmas far"

Miranda Sykes at The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham
“Double bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes is best known in her mysteriously incongruous role as the 'third person' in the duo Show of Hands!
As an artist in her own right, Miranda continues to surprise audiences with her musical versatility, and demonstrates her ability as a guitarist and interpreter of song, slipping effortlessly between genres. She has a strong repertoire of songs and is currently developing material for her 5th solo album project. She is joined by Rex Preston, a virtuoso mandolin player who's musicality and fluid style augments Miranda’s songs beautifully."


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Thursday 16th December 2010

The Lantern Society at The Betsey Trotwood, Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3BL 8.30 pm
"'Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou's Lantern Society is rightly billed as London's Finest Folk Club. Upstairs in the convivial surroundings of the Dickensian Betsey Trotwood, in the City of London, the finest folk from all over the capital and beyond congregate to regale one another with story and song. Although first and foremost what they nobley achieve is to have a good old knees up.'
The night is accompanied by the Lantern Society Radio Hour, a fornightly online free radio show bringing you the best performances from the lantern society stage."

Wokingham Folk and Blues Club at The Hope and Anchor, Station Road, Wokingham , Berkshire
"If you play an acoustic instrument and/or sing and love performing, the Wokingham Folk and Acoustic Blues Club is for you.
The inspiration of Bruce Neil and Chris Jones, the Club is designed to provide a forum where like-minded musicians can come together, exchange ideas and play for and with each other."

The Mersea Session at The Coast Inn, West Mersea, Essex
If you are looking for the rockingest acoustic session in Essex, it's on at the Coast Inn, in West Mersea, 8 miles south of Colchester, every Thursday night. The acoustic of the venue is excellent, wooden floor, no soft furnishings and varied ceiling heights. The beer is excellent, currently Green King IPA, Mersea Island Brewery's Yo Boy! and Maldon Gold, Champion Beer of Britain 2007. But be warned, musician seats fill up fast, as do the remainder for listeners/drinkers, so it's wise to arrive about 8pm. And don't expect an early night - the music usually finishes about 11.30. Music style is widely varied, from Irish, Scottish, English and American tunes to bluegrass, jazz and rock, with songs from many genres. It is a completely inclusive session, with no cliques or rules, just respect for fellow singers and musicians.

Megson at The Acoustic Club, The Half Moon, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

The duo Megson are fast becoming hot property on the British folk and roots scene, and their three albums On The Side, Smoke Of Home and Take Yourself A Wife have chronicled that blossoming creative talent. Since their genesis in 2004 they’ve played up and down the country at folk clubs and festivals, supporting bands such as Show of Hands and Seth Lakeman. Now their tour dates sell out and they’ve received nominations for Best Duo in the 2009 & 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
"For my money Megson are amongst the most exciting trailblazers of British contemporary folk." Seth Lakeman

Beeston Acoustic Night at The Commerical Inn, 19 Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottinghamshire
Singing songs and playing tunes
All welcome - Thursday nights upstairs
Contact niallb@live.co.uk for more details


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Friday 17th December 2010

Christmas Party with Keith Donnelly at The Ram Folk Club, Thames Ditton, Surrey
"That rare commodity – a comedian who doesn’t swear, offend or annoy but who is extremely funny! Suitable for all, this is mayhem of the gentle kind. And he sings and plays guitar too! Bold, frank, incensed with myrrth"

Miranda Sykes at Norwich Folk Club, Norwich, Norfolk
“Double bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes is best known in her mysteriously incongruous role as the 'third person' in the duo Show of Hands!
As an artist in her own right, Miranda continues to surprise audiences with her musical versatility, and demonstrates her ability as a guitarist and interpreter of song, slipping effortlessly between genres. She has a strong repertoire of songs and is currently developing material for her 5th solo album project. She is joined by Rex Preston, a virtuoso mandolin player who's musicality and fluid style augments Miranda’s songs beautifully."

Malinky at Reeth Memorial Hall, Reeth nr Richmond, North Yorkshire
"With their stunning fourth album Flower & Iron, Malinky celebrate their tenth anniversary and introduce a newly revamped line-up, meanwhile underscoring their reputation as one of Scotland’s most distinctive and accomplished folk bands. While retaining their hallmark song-based repertoire, performed by three superb lead vocalists and arrayed with tastefully inventive instrumentation, Malinky today unite seasoned maturity with sparkling freshness, casting their musical net wider than ever."

The Hale & Hearty Folk Club at The Cross Keys Hotel, Milnthope, Cumbria. 8:30pm
An open door folk club of 25 years standing guaranteeing a lively and entertaing evening of both contemporary and traditional folk song in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. We have a residency of ten established perfomers who host the evenings in turn.


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Sunday 19th December 2010

Hank Wangford at Twickfolk, Twickenham, West London
“If Daniel O'Donnell is the brightly scrubbed face of British country music then Hank Wangford is its guilty conscience, its dark and troubled grubby soul. Hank has picked at the miserable underbelly of country music for over twenty years, inspiring others like Billy Bragg, The The and The Alabama Three and other alt.country musicians. He has spread the word with his two television series, "Big Big Country" and "The A to Z of C&W" and his books "Lost Cowboys" and "Hank Wangford Vol 3 The Middle Years"."

Waterson Carthy at Blackheath Halls, Blackheath, South East London
"A special seasonal celebration with England’s first family of folk! Drawing from the calendar of English ritual and ceremonial song, Waterson:Carthy present a remarkable collection of deep winter songs rooted in folk beliefs and rural practices. Tonight they are again joined by Jim Causley, Lauren McCormick and Emily Portman."

Singers/Musicians Night at Wheal Dream Folk, Wendron, Nr. Helston, Cornwall
There is a warm welcome for all singers and musicians. Or, just come along and enjoy the best Folk Music in West Cornwall

Open Mic Folk Night at The Nelson Tavern, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset
Open mic night hosted by Alex Hall, a local artist.
All artists who take part are eligable for a free pint / small glass of wine / soft drink at the bar once they've played.
It's a great, growing, laid back night in a cosy non-judgemental environment. All artists are welcome, with artists so far playing anything from covers of The Beatles to more folk-styled self-written songs.


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Monday 20th December 2010

Dogan Mehmet and support from Laura Victoria at MondayMonday, The Green Note, Camden, London
"Dogan Mehmet, along with his backing band the Deerhunters, creates an Anglo-Turkish, Gypsy-Punk style mix of traditions and strong acoustic grooves. A diverse mixture of Southern English and Turkish folk songs, self-penned material and driven tunes from English Morris as well as Cypriot traditions give Dogan his own captivating sound. His talent and confidence belie his young age and he makes a storm wherever he goes with his effervescent personality and huge enthusiasm for life and for his music."
Laura Victoria - "Songs of love affairs, tea, shipwrecks and imaginary worlds accompanied by cello playing that veers between moving melancholy airs, punchy rock riffing and slap bass."

Haconby Hare Traditional Music Sessions, at The Hare & Hounds pub, 2 West Road, Main St, Haconby, Bourne, Lincolnshire
"These are cracking evenings of traditional music - mainly english polkas, jigs, reels, hornpipes and waltzes, played on acoustic-only instruments, typically fiddles, melodeons, guitars, flutes, bodhrans and even the odd hammered dulcimer and double bass."


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Tuesday 21st December 2010

Malinky at Dartford Folk Club, Dartford, Kent
"Few Scottish folk bands have made such an impact in recent years as Malinky. Born out of the Edinburgh session scene of the late '90s, the band soon emerged as the leading young group focusing on Scots song. Over the last decade Malinky have gone on to become one of the most distinctive and accomplished bands on the Scottish and International folk scene. Comprising STEVE BYRNE (vocals, guitar, bouzouki), FIONA HUNTER (vocals, cello), DAVE WOOD (guitar, bouzouki, vocals) and MIKE VASS (fiddle, vocals) their song-based repertoire features tastefully inventive instrumentation and sparkling freshness, combining a deep knowledge of tradition with a subtly creative approach. They breathe new life into centuries-old ballads from Scotland's north-east, alongside original songs and fiddle tunes and are one of Scotland’s best young groups. "If indeed it is the destiny of every child born in Scotland to be a folk musician, Malinky should be added to the milk" said R2 magazine."

The Globe Acoustic Sessions at The Globe Pub, Winfield Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
All styles are welcome, it's totally acoustic and we have everything from bluegrass, contemporary self-penned and trad folk going on.
contact email is flashmeister84@gmail.com


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Tuesday 28th December 2010

Rag Mama Rag at The Hoy at Anchor Folk Club, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"France based Rag Mama Rag perform traditional country blues with songs from Tampa Red, Leadbelly, Robert Johnson and Blind Boy Fuller together with self-penned material."

The Globe Acoustic Sessions at The Globe Pub, Winfield Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
All styles are welcome, it's totally acoustic and we have everything from bluegrass, contemporary self-penned and trad folk going on.
contact email is flashmeister84@gmail.com

Singers Night at The Brown Cow Folk Club, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
"all singers, musicians & listeners welcome "

Singers Night at Cramlington Folk Club, Dewley, Cramlington, Northumberland


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