unicorn magazine issue 135

After three years and twelve issues, it is with much regret that I have decided to step away from the Unicorn Magazine. The pressures of running two businesses (management consulting and cider making), a young (ish) family and a couple of other hobbies have resulted in a case of too many things to do but not enough time.

I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Clive and Mike and liaising with all of our contributors to coordinate the adverts, diary entries and miscellaneous other items that we have included. The magazine is an invaluable resource for folk and traditional music and other events in our area and I hope that you will all rally round and give Clive the support that he needs to keep it going (see his article about this on page 3).

Across our region we have a wealth of traditional activities that we should all protect and support so that they are around for our childrens

children. Those of us organising folk clubs, dances, morris sides, mummers plays, wassails, festivals, gigs, showcases and all manner of other events, dont do it for the money and fame. Im sure that sometimes, when freezing in a wet tent worrying whether the wind will finally carry everything away, we wonder why we do it at all, but do it we do and we should be proud of that.

I will continue to run Dunton Folk and to dance with Letchworth Morris Men when I can and I hope I will also be able to contribute occasionally to the magazine, but my time as editor is done. Thank you very much for the support that you have all given the magazine during the time that I have been involved. Please continue to support Clive and I hope that the magazine continues to flourish.

As ever, I hope to (still) see you round the clubs!

Simon Bailes

Editorial Staff:

Simon Bailes

Clive Batkin07771 [email protected] unicornmagazine

@hotmail.co.uk

Contact address:

2 Hill Close, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5JE

Printed by KJB UK Ltd

Editorial 1

Contents 1

Special Editorial Feature 3

Chatterbox 5

Round the Clubs 5

Feature: How To Make A Folk Festival 6

Folk Bloke 9

Sessions 10

Shall We Dance? 14

Club Profile: Folk @ The Maltings 15

Unicorn Diary 17 19

Club Index 20

The Morris Page 30

CD Reviews: 33 Chris Flegg / The Mellstock Band

Morris Diary 34 35

Broadside by Long Lankin 36

1UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORG

Unicorn Magazine 2016CB1311 July 2016

We take great care to ensure all elements of Unicorn Magazine are accurate. However, we accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes that appear. The views and opinions expressed in submitted articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Any personal views expressed in submitted articles are the writers own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Unicorn editorial team. It will be assumed that any letters sent to the magazine are intended for publication unless otherwise obviously stated.

Front cover photo by Al Rogers (www.alanrogersimages.co.uk)

Lyre, Lyre Music stand from the collection of Charles Paget Wade, Snowshill Manor

ENQUIRIES FROM DANCERS OR MUSICIANS ALWAYS WELCOME: WE PRACTICE MONDAY EVE-NINGS

ST ALBANS MORRIS

MONDAY EVENING PRACTICE SESSIONS IN ST ALBANS FROM SEPTEMBER. MEN AND WOMEN WELCOME TO DANCE MIXED COTSWOLD. COME AND TRY US OUT

CONTACT: ANDREW TORRINGTON 01727 833028OR TREVOR ADAMS 01707 883476

WWW.STALBANSMORRIS MEN.ORG.UK

UM135 UM3 St Albans Morris Ad 1.indd 1 31/5/16 01:31:13

STACEY BANJOS

REPAIRS SET-UPS & RESTORATION TO:

ACOUSTIC GUITARSELECTRIC GUITARSCLASSICAL GUITARS

BANJOS & MANDOLINS

DAVE STACEYLETCHWORTHHERTS SG6 3LF01462 683074

[email protected]

Wednesday 13th JulyAndy Wall, Ruth Bramley

& Ann Biggs11 (10 advance)

Wednesday 17th AugustClosed - no folk club!

Wednesday 14th SeptemberGreg Russell and

Ciaran Algar11 (10 advance)

Old Dispensary, 13 St Marys St., ElyCB7 4ER

01353 740999/664706www.elyfolkclub.co.uk

Ely Folk Clubpresents

2 UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAZINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS

As you may have read in the opening editorial, Simon is regrettably standing down as editor of Unicorn Magazine a sad but completely understandable situation. Producing Unicorn every quarter is truly a double edged sword both hugely rewarding yet incredibly draining in equal measure. How the original team did if for 30 plus years fills me with nothing but admiration and wonder!

The news now leaves me with a quandary as to the future of the publication, however. Much as I would love to continue it in its current form (in 2013 the new order of Mike, Simon and myself invested a lot of time and energy into the revised look and feel of the magazine and I am loathe to simply let all that hard work die out) I wonder if I have the skills and time to produce the magazine all by myself.

My current thinking on a way forward for the magazine therefore goes as follows:

The next issue (Issue 136, taking us to the end of the year) Ill endeavour to produce solo (as much as anything to see if this is a feasible way to create the magazine going forward?) and to ensure that we fulfill our obligations to existing advertisers. If this process proves a success then I will continue the publication if not then Ill have no option but to close it down.

With this in mind, Issue 136 will, through necessity, most likely be a very different beast in particular the way in which it is circulated. The primary method of distribution will be online weve been pushing this method of delivery for a while and it seems to be working well.

Ill continue to print the magazine (albeit it in reduced quantities) which will be distributed to a few key players / clubs (details to follow...)

Those wishing to receive printed copies may alternatively have to collect them from a central hub (again, details to follow...)

You can have a quantity of the magazine couriered to you directly but there will be a additional fee to cover this

I regret these likely changes (and I know they will be greeted with dismay by some of you) but if the publication has any chance at all of continuing, the current format is simply unviable (and indeed probably has been for a while...).

It may be of course that Unicorn Magazine has run its course and ceases to serve a useful purpose? Alternatively, and if you would like to see the publication continue, then I would ask for your patience and help over the next few issues.

Finally, if anyone out there would like to become involved in the publication, then please give me a call / email to discuss the necessary functions and how you can help? Onwards and upwards!

Clive

The Swan pub at Flitwick is starting a

New Folk Club! Singers and musicians of all abilities come and

practice and play!

Lets put the soul of Flitwick into the heart

of Flitwick!

Call Stepn on 07825448448 or Facebook The Swan at Flitwick

3UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135 WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORG

4 UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAZINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS

Unicorn News: Please keep signing up to our mailing list and blog so that we can keep you informed of up-to-the-minute news and information. We have had lots of positive comments from readers about how useful they have found these notifications and we feel these are likely to be even more widely used in the future.

St Michaels Street Folk Evening: Wednesday July 6th sees this years St Michaels Street folk evening. There will be dancing in the street, music in the two remaining pubs and the churchyard and on overture by St Michaels bellringers. Its a delightful event (weather not withstanding!) and more details can be found here: www.stmichaelsfolkevening.org.uk.

Richard Scruton: We were terribly saddened to hear of the death of local folk stalwart Richard Scruton recently. Richard was known by many from his frequent appearances, both solo and with others he will be greatly missed by all who knew him or saw him perform.

Knebworth Folk Roots Festival: We have just been told about this event, happening as part of the new Knebworth Country Show to be held on 9/10th July 2016. No exact details seem to exist as to the line up / format as yet but the general event will have countryside activities, championship events, entertainment and first class demonstrations in the spectacular setting of Knebworth Park. Arena events will include sheep racing, the Devils Horsemen display team and the Rockwood Dog Display team. There will also be a clay pigeon shooting festival, gun dog championships and a Terrier & Lurcher show. There will be plenty of family fun activities, plus traditional rural crafts and the Knebworth Folk Roots Festival itself. More details of the events planned for the weekend will follow shortly. Tickets prices are: Advanced: Adult: 13 Child (Under 16 Years): Free of Charge. On the Gate: Adult One Day Ticket: 15, Adult Two Day Ticket: 24. Child (Under 16 Years): Free of Charge. More details from: www.knebworthhouse.com.

Harpenden Folk Festival: Another new folk event on the horizon is happening on 27th August at the Harpenden Public Halls. Line up includes Lindisfarne, Julie Felix, Dexeter, Polly and the Billets Doux, Lindae Em, plus local acts Said The Maiden and Delta Ladies. More information and tickets available from their website here: www.harpendenfolkfestival.co.uk.

Watford Folk Club Song Competition: Watford Folk Clubs fifth annual Folk Song Competition is now open and full details and competition rules are on their website: http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com. Closing date for entries is Friday 1st October 2016 with the Grand Final on Friday 18 November 2016 with three celebrity judges to choose the winner.This is always a popular event, so mark the date in your dairy for the Grand Final on Friday 13 November 2015. They look forward to receiving your entry and to seeing you there!

(See their adverts on pages 12 & 13 of this issue for more information).

REDBOURN FOLK www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk

UPCOMING HGHLIGHTS

JULY 7th Goffee, Brown & Hyams, plus floor spots

JULY 21st Chuck & Angie Silverman, plus floor spots

AUGUST Closed for the Summer

SEPT. 8th My Sweet Patoutie, plus floor spots

SEPT. 22nd Said the Maiden, plus floor spots

OTHER DATES ARE OPEN STAGE THURSDAYS 8pm

The Hollybush, Church End, Redbourn

5WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORGUNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135

How To Make a Folk Festival

In the past 18 months Ive learnt how to make a folk festival. Fancy making your own folk festival? Its a piece of cake. Heres your simple, five-step guide.

1 See if anyone else is interested in making a folk festival. If theyre not, tell them that it wont be all that difficult. Just a few meetings, a few phone calls, that kind of thing. If they swallow this, move on to step 2.

2 Find a good pub to meet in, then assemble your committee there. Ply them with beer and goodwill and try to catch them off guard when the jobs are being given out.

3 Befriend people on your Parish Council and ask them out for a beer, on exactly the same evening that your committee is meeting. At the meeting, ply them with more beer and ask them for twice the amount of money you really want.

4 Respond to the invitation to attend the Parish Council meeting, plead your case and ask for half the amount you mentioned in the pub. When they ask for a business plan, say you are busy drawing one up, then go home and google business plan.

5 Write a business plan. Book some high profile musicians. Book a sound engineer. Investigate charitable status for your organisation, write some terms and conditions, argue, write funding applications, disagree, agree, get a graphic designer, get a web designer, get a website, get a copywriter, get a pr agent, get 50 volunteers, get three stages, organise workshops, book some catering vans, book a brewery, get lots of leaflets, give them all out, get more, give them all out, argue, get 10 teenagers to play traditional tunes for the first time, get some press coverage, write a health & safety policy, get advertisers, do risk assessments, get a Radio 3 presenter to be your Patron, get a half hour BBC studio interview, get insurance, get first aid, get bunting, organise a fund-raising barn dance, get a 16-page

festival programme, agree, disagree, get a music legend to do a fundraising concert, argue, disagree, agree, join the Association of Festival Organisers, liaise with residents, get a parking field, get some portaloos, get a storyteller, get a festival office, get clean underwear, get a therapist.

So there we are. Obviously, this five-point plan is a bit of an over-simplication, but I hope it helps.

Now please come to the Kimpton Folk Festival that we have made for you, happening on 9th July 2016. We have Kerr / Fagan, Wild Wily Barrett, Worry Dolls, Dipper / Malkin, Jacquelyn Hynes, Jaywalkers, Ben Smith, McNichol / Selby, Kelly Oliver, Emily Slade, George Papavgeris, The Foxglove Trio, BatkinHill, Malcolm Hobbs plus some beer-drinking nervous wrecks:

www.kimptonfolk.uk

Cheers!

Doug JennerChairman, Kimpton Folk Events

PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAZINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 1356

For tickets and more information visit our website: www.kimptonfolk.uk or email: [email protected]

Enjoy a day of outstanding entertainment with some of the brightest stars in the UK folk and acoustic music sceneNestling in a corner of the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, Kimpton village launches its first festival with everything from traditional English folk music and dance to high energy foot-tapping Americana and blues in a relaxed, friendly and welcoming village setting.

Dacre Rooms 12.30pm - 5.30pm Workshops led by skillful tutors Will McNicol and John Dipper among others, will help you develop and hone your skills on fiddle, ukulele and guitar.See website for updates

WORKSHOPS

Nancy Kerr AND James Fagan

MAIN STAGEConcert 1: 8Concert 2 : 12Concert 3: 16Children under 12 Free

VILLAGE GREENFree THE CHURCH5 on the doorWORKSHOPS3 on the door

TICKETS

All tickets available online or from Kimpton Corner Stores.

STAGE 2 1pm - 5pm Enjoy an afternoon of captivating song and instrumental music in the intimate concert setting of our beautiful 13th Century church. Ticket allows multiple entry throughout the afternoon.

THE CHURCH

Memorial Hall Nancy Kerr & James Fagan, two of the most acclaimed folk artists in the UK and multiple winners of BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, are joined by a stunning line-up of both established favourites and emerging young talent from around the UK. All concerts seated.

12noon - 2.45pmBen SmithKelly OliverJohn Dipper & Dave Malkin

8pm - 11.15pmJaywalkersJacquelyn Hynes TrioNancy Kerr & James Fagan

CONCERT 1 CONCERT 2 CONCERT 34pm - 6.45pmWorry DollsWill McNicol & Luke SelbyWild Willy Barretts Loose Connection

MAIN STAGE

VILLAGE GREENSTAGE 3 12noon - 7.30pm Relax and enjoy free entertainment with a real ale bar and food stalls. An open marquee will host lively music and dance from the best of local talent, culminating in a summer ceilidh for all.

FESTIVAL PATRON: FIONA TALKINGTON Writer, broadcaster and presenter of Sony Gold Award-winning programme Late Junction on BBC Radio 3.

15 min break between sets

ALL-DAY TICKET 27 Entry to all eventsLimited

availability

AN EXCITING NEW

one-day MUSIC festival

IN KIMPTON, HERTFORDSHIRE

BEN SMITH

MALCOLM HOBBS

JOHN DIPPER AND& DAVE MALKIN

EMILY SLADE

WILL MCNICOL AND LUKE SELBY

The Foxglove Trio

GEORGE PAPAVGERIS

WORRY DOLLS

JACQUELYN HYNES TRIO

DAN RAZA

Nancy Kerr AND James Fagan

JAYWALKERSwild willy

barrets loose connection

KELLY OLIVER

Batkin.Hill

TICKE

TS

ON SA

LE N

OW!

ONLINE AND FROM

KIMPTON CORNER STORES

Ticketed events will include fundraising concert, more concerts, barn dance, special shows, workshops, meet the guests, folk clubs, etc. Free events stage, dance displays, procession, song and music sessions, street theatre, etc.

Tenterden folk f 2016 Tenterden, the Jewel of the Weald

Thursday 29th September to Sunday 2nd October

Morris sides and dance display teams:

CONTACT INFORMATION: Alan Castle, 15 Repton Manor Road,

Ashford, Kent TN23 3HA

Paul Cumberland T:01795 532370

Chief stewards: Kathy & Bob Drage,

Dance co-ordinator:

Guests so far: The Claque, Jim Mageean & Graeme Knights, Keith Kendrick & Sylvia Needham,

Steve Turner, The Tonic with caller Keith Leech plus more to conrm Thursday concert: Free music stage & other showcase guests: Ashford Folk Band, Captain Patch & the Mermaid

Henry Sparks, Invicta Ukulele Band, Old Country Crows, United Folk Orchestras and many more Plus our popular regular/local guests: Adrian O, Bob Kenward, Chris Roche, Gavin & Julie Atkin, Malcolm Ward, Mark Gibson, Marsh Warblers, Morrigan, Peter Collins, Roger Resch, Spare Parts, Sue Watson, & Lizzi Stephens, Travelling Folk, Vic & Tina Smith and more to conrm. Plus up to 60 Morris sides, Appalachian dancers, folk dance display teams and street theatre

*** A Days Work *** A musical drama by Mick Ryan Saturday 26th November 2016

7UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135 WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORG

Box Office: 01908 280800 www.stables.org

The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU

Leveret

Martin Hayes & Den-nis Cahill

Boo Hewerdine & Dan Whtehouse

Dougie Maclean

Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys

SaraBeth

De Temps Antan

Gilmore & Roberts

The Lindisfarne Story

June to October season now on sale!

world class music & entertainment

WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORGUNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135 9

SUNDAY LUNCHTIMES STONY STRATFORD Vaults Bar (Weekly): Jane Armour, 01908 566407

SUNDAY EVENINGS WESTON TURVILLE The Chandos (3rd): Roger Dorman, 01296 613742

MILTON KEYNES see www.mksessions.blogspot.com (Weekly)

MILTON KEYNES New Bradwell Sports Club, New Bradwell (1st): Patsy, 07932 157610

ST ALBANS Farmers Boy, London Rd (1st): Nick, 020 8953 5231

ST ALBANS Lower Red Lion, Fishpool Street (2nd): Pub 01727 855669

LEIGHTON BUZZARD The Swan, Northall (1st)

MONDAY EVENINGS ASHWELL Rose & Crown (1st): Ian Chandler, 01462 743091

CHATTERIS Chatteris Folk Club, Honest John, 24a South Park St, PE16 6AR (3rd), Acoustic music and song: Keith Cheale, 02354 652868

SOHAM Cherry Tree, Fordham Rd (3rd): Claire White, 01353 720550

STEVENAGE Our Mutual Friend (2nd): Gary Moyle, 07960 953778

TOTTERNHOE Old Farm Inn (8.30pm, weekly): Contact, 01582 661294 (pub)

TUESDAY EVENINGS ABINGTON PIGOTTS Village Hall, SG8 0SH (8-10.30pm, 3rd, admission 2 per person): George Norris, 01763 853062

AMPTHILL The Albion, Dunstable Street (2nd): Rod Ward, 01763 852 377

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

MARCH Georges Folk Club, 61 High Street, PE15 9JJ (1st), Acoustic music and song: Mark Gibson, 01354 652868

RICKMANSWORTH Conservative Club, Bury Lane (2nd): Michael, 01923 770425

ST ALBANS King Harry, King Harry Lane (1st, songs & tunes): Jenny, 01582 793164

WOOTTON (Beds) The Cock MK43 9JT (8.00pm, broad acoustic & folk): Mike Carter Jones, 01234 768555, Pub (Karen), 01234 930034

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS BARTON-LE-CLAY Waggon & Horses (8.30pm, fortnightly): Ann, 01582 560815

BENINGTON (Stevenage) The Bell (1st): Kit Burgess, 01438 869435

CAMBRIDGE Six Bells, Covent Garden (8.30pm, 2nd, Bluegrass & Old Time): Jim, 07803 158084

ELY Kings Arms, St Marys St (last): Liam, [email protected], 07905 044932

MARCH March Folk Club, Royal British Legion Club, Rookswood, 27 West End, PE15 8DP (3rd), Acoustic music and song: Keith Cheale, 02354 652868

MOGGERHANGER Moggerhanger Village Hall (7.30pm, 1st): Chris, 01767 640 242

RADLETT Cat & Fiddle, Cobden Hill, WD7 7JR (8.00pm, 2nd): Nick, 020 8207 3057

ST ALBANS White Swan, Dagnall St (8.30pm, weekly, mainly music): Rick Payman, 01727 852976

TEBWORTH Queens Head, LU7 9QB (Every 4th Wednesday): Richard Chatterley, 07790 023220

TOWERSEY Village Hall (7.30 for 8.00pm, 3rd): Andrew Leleux, 01296 615160

WELHAM GREEN North Mymms Social Club, AL9 7PQ (2nd): Alan Francis, 07774 859758

LITTLE WYMONDLEY The Bucks Head, Stevenage Road (1st): Kerry, 07877 930201

THURSDAY EVENINGS HERTFORD Great Eastern, Railway Place (3rd): Keith Acheson, 07979 841079

HUNTON BRIDGE Kings Head (4th): Tim, 01923 264536

KIMPTON The Boot (2nd & 4th): Doug, 07973 751039, [email protected]

LUTON Castle PH LU1 3AA (weekly): Nigel Bailey, 07788 431470

TOWERSEY Three Horseshoes (last): Grant, 01844 212322

WOBURN SANDS Royal Oak (2nd & 4th): Vic Longhorn, 01908 582660

FRIDAY EVENINGS AYLESBURY Queens Park Arts Centre (1st, 3rd and 5th): Amanda Diamond, 01296 424332

ST NEOTS Chequers, St Marys St, PE19 2TA (2nd, 8.30pm, tunes): Sarah, 07857 311834, [email protected]

STEEPLE CLAYDON Prince of Wales MK18 2NP (2nd, Open Mic): Charlie, 07925 145062

10 PLEASE MENTION UNICORN MAGAZINE WHEN REPLYING TO ADS UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135

1st July Spotlight Singaround with Steve Warner - 4

8th July WARP AND WEFT - 6

15th July HAMISH CURRIE- 6

22nd July BLACK SCARR - 7

29th July WINDBORNE (from USA) - 7

5th August Closed for Holidays/Festivals

12thAugust Closed for Holidays/Festivals



2nd September Singaround - 4

9th September STEVE TURNER- 8

16th September Singaround - 4

23rd September KIRSTY BROMLEY - 8

30th September New Roots Night - 5

Contact us via Facebook and email: [email protected]

or visit us at http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com

The Best of Folk, Roots and Acoustic Music

WHATS COMING UP:


FOLK SONG COMPETITION 2016Could you write a new folk song? Well here is your opportunity

The 2016 Watford Folk Club Folk Song Contest is on now!

This year's theme is "Crime & Punishment Murder most foul or fraud in glass towers? A one-way trip to the colonies or a dance with Jack Ketch?

Full details and competition rules are on our website. http://folkatthepumphouse.webs.com Closing date for entries is Friday 1st October 2016.

Grand Final on Friday 18 November 2016 with three Celebrity Judges

See our diary entries for FUTURE GUEST ARTIST dates including: Windborne (from USA), Kirsty Bromley and Bob Fox

Dont forget our LEGENDARY SINGAROUNDS too!

Find us on Facebook and Google or contact us via email: [email protected]

Redbornstoke MorrisAre looking for new recruits

No experience necessary

Friendly tuition given

Come and see us in action over the summer on ourregular pub nights - see website for details - or at the weekend of dance celebrating our 40thAnniversary on 1st -3rd July.

We practise on Monday nights during winter months at Redborne Upper School,North Site, Ampthill, MK45 2NU from 8.15pm, starting with Give it a try open

night on 12th Sept - so come and have a go with no obligation!

For further details contact Charlie: t: 01234 750829, e: [email protected] See www.redbornstoke.com for programme and further details or follow us on Facebook


Fri 1 Dance with caller Suzanne Farmer FF

Mon 4 American Evening with club callers SCD

Thu 7 Roots School Band RS Dance with caller John Green BFDFri 8 Dance with club caller FFSat 9 Forest Band with caller Anne Dunn

WFDMon 11 Dance with caller Marlen

Harrison-Jones SCDThu 14 Dance with caller Charles Day BFDFri 15 Friday Folk Band with callers

David and Rebecca Capron FFMon 18 Dance with caller Lorraine Morgan

SCDThu 21 Roots School Band RS Dance with caller George Hearnden

BFDFri 22 Garden Dance with Spring Greens FFMon 25 Dance with caller Joan Rutt SCDThu 28 Dance with caller Keith Harrup BFD

Mon 1 Garden Evening SCDThu 4 Roots School Band RSMon 8 Garden Evening SCDSat 13 Forest Band with caller Judith Inman

WFDMon 15 Garden Evening SCDThu 18 Roots School Band RSMon 22 Garden Evening SCD

Thu 1 Roots School Band RSFri 2 Dance TBC FFSat 3 Forest Band with callers Carol Hewson

and Playford Ball CFAMon 5 Dance with club callers SCDThu 8 Dance with caller TBC BFDFri 9 Dance with caller Mike Bennett FF Hornpipe Band with caller

Barry Goodman UCSat 10 Forest Band with caller John Wood

WFDMon 12 Dance with club callers SCD

Thu 15 Roots School Band RS Dance with caller TBC BFDFri 16 Friday Folk Band with Colin Hulme

FFSat 17 Fat Harry with caller Mark Elvins FCSMon 19 Dance with club callers SCDThu 22 Dance with caller TBC BFDFri 23 Club callers and AGM FFMon 26 Dance with club callers SCDThu 29 Dance with caller TBC BFDFri 30 Zesty Playford with John Sweeney FF

BFD Bedford Folk Dance Club Putnoe Heights Church, Putnoe Heights, Bedford MK41 8EB Ron Law 01234 825 574

CFA Chiltern Folk Association: Amersham Community Centre, Chiltern Ave, HP6 5AH Judith Inman 01628 486845, www.chilternfolk.org.uk

FCS Friends of Cecil Sharp House 2 Regents Park Road, London NW1 7AY Liz Hall 020 8731 8083, 07896 465 848,

FF Friday Folk The Church Hall, Marlborough Road, St Albans AL1 3XG 01727 856508, www.fridayfolk.org.uk

RS Roots School Community Center, Britten Grove, Old Farm Park, Milton Keynes, MK7 8QU John Timpany 07981 161 261

SCD Staplers Country Dance Club St Johns Community Centre, St Johns Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 9JP Cecilia Mills 01582 881966

UC Unicorn Ceilidhs St Marys Hall, Church Street, Baldock, SG7 5AE Tel: 01582 724261, 07946 439095, www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk

WFD Winchmore Folk Dance Club Trinity Church, Church Street, Enfield, EN2 6AN John Wood 020 8926 7293


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Folk at the Maltings is a monthly concert series. Some concerts feature up to three local performers and others feature a national guest with local support.

There is also usually a finalist from the annual

New Roots event for young musicians on the bill.

Most concerts are performed acoustically, although PA can be used when essential. The Maltings has an excellent auditorium with a fantastic atmosphere, tiered seating and highly effective stage lighting.

The venue also has an attractive bar and caf area open on the concert evenings.

Doors open 7.30pm, music starts at 8.00pm.

Music type:Folk & acoustic music

Meets:Usually first Friday of every month

Admission charge:10.00, 8.00 students, 6.00 under 16

Guests:Upcoming local and national acts

Venue name:The Maltings Arts Theatre

Venue address:Level 2, The Maltings, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3HL

Parking:In shopping centre car park or on street nearby

Contact:Alison MacFarlane 01727 852111 [email protected]


UnicornC E I L I D H S

St Marys Hall, Church Street, Baldock SG7 5AEDoors open 7.30 p.m.

Dancing 8.00 to 11.00 p.m.

Tickets only 10.00 - Singles & groups welcome

Dance the night away . . .

FRIDAY 24th JUNE

fat harrywith caller

adam hughesFiddle, accordion and keyboards

from Mollie, Alison and Vicproduce a full energetic soundwith celtic and blues influences.

Adam Hughes has been callingfor English, Scottish andAmerican dances for more

years than he is likely to admit,with clarity, variety, enthusiasm

- and a hint of mischief.

This promises to be a greatnight to round off the season!

Were changing to theSECOND FRIDAY in themonth from September -see website for all thedates to June 2017.

No ceilidhs in July andAugust - have a greatsummer, and see you inSeptember!

www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk

Dont forget our greatNew Years Eve Ceilidh -put it in your diariesnow! Banter with BarryGoodman calling - its aperfect end to the year!

FRIDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER

Hosepipe Bandwith caller

barry goodmanThis 4-piece bands been

playing since the early 80s, withmandola, bass guitar, melodeons,concertina, hurdy gurdy, flute,recorder, bagpipes, saxophone,bells & hammered dulcimer

between them! Really polished,varied and up-beat music.www.hosepipeband.co.uk

Barrys called many times for us,and has the perfect mix of

dances for all occasions. Itll be atop evening!

FULL BARwith REAL ALE

UC advert Jun-Sept 2016:Layout 1 17/5/16 17:57 Page 1

Frog on a Bike

Ceilidh Band Energetic English folk music

thats guaranteed to get you up and dancing.

Call: 01775 640585

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http://frogonabikeceilidhband.bandcamp.com


Fri 1 BEDFORD FINE Club Night Visitors Welcome

CAMBRIDGE Open Stage with Dave Jenkins

FRIDAY FOLK Suzanne Farmer WATFORD Spotlight singaround with

Steve WarnerSun 3 BLACK FEN Banjo Nick and Friends ENGLISH MISCELLANY Morris

and MummingMon 4 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Clog HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS American Evening

Club CallersTue 5 ST NEOTS Open StageWed 6 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Morris LINSLEIGHDERS Club Callers MOGGERHANGER Village Folk SessionThu 7 BEDFORD Singers Night BEDFORD FDC Caller John Green REDBOURN Goffee, Brown and Hyams

plus floor spots ROUNDABOUTERS Club Callers STORTFOLK Jason Rosser (Moose!)Fri 8 BEDFORD FINE AGM CAMBRIDGE George Breakfast FRIDAY FOLK Club Callers ROYSTON Showcase featuring Dave Oxley

and Dave Haynes, Purple Mondays and others

WATFORD Warp and WeftSun 10 BLACK FEN Open StageMon 11 HERGA Young Roots Finalist WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Guest Caller

Marlen Harrison-JonesTue 12 ST NEOTS Kim Lowings and

The Greenwood WHITE HORSE Peter CrossleyWed 13 ELY Andy Wall, Ruth Bramley

and Ann Biggs ENGLISH MISCELLANY Country LINSLEIGHDERS AGM Club CallersThu 14 BEDFORD Local Singers and Musicians BEDFORD FDC Caller Charles Day ROUNDABOUTERS Club Callers STORTFOLK Terence BlackerFri 15 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Smorgasballad: Vicki Swann

and Jonny Dyer FOREST FOLK Elephant in the Room

and Fern Teather FRIDAY FOLK David and Rebecca Capron

and Friday Folk Band

WATFORD Hamish Currie BLACK FEN Gig TBCSun 17 STRUMMERS1 Histon Festival - Tuesday

Night Tea Club, Christian Smith Band, Priority, Isadora

Mon 18 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Lorraine MorganTue 19 ST NEOTS Maire NiChathasaigh

and Chris NewmanWed 20 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Club Practice

All Sections LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 21 BEDFORD Singaround BEDFORD FDC Caller George Hearnden REDBOURN Chuck and Angie Silverman

plus floor spots ROUNDABOUTERS Club Callers STORTFOLK Summer Singers Night (TBC)Fri 22 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Pre Festival Concert

see website for details FRIDAY FOLK Garden Dance with

Spring Greens (phone for details) WATFORD Black ScarrSun 24 BLACK FEN Open StageMon 25 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Feature Ben Moss

New Roots Finalists HITCHIN STAPLERS Joan RuttTue 26 ST NEOTS Round the Room WHITE HORSE Kaszak and Afifi,

Jeremy HarmerWed 27 LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 28 BEDFORD Singers Night BEDFORD FDC Caller Keith HarrupFri 29 CAMBRIDGE Club tent at Cambridge

Folk Festival ROYSTON Concert - David Youngs.

Support from Old Grey Dogs WATFORD Windborne (from USA)Sun 31 HITCHIN Club tent at Cambridge

Folk Festival


Mon 1 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Garden EveningWed 3 LINSLEIGHDERS Club Callers MOGGERHANGER Village Folk SessionThu 4 BEDFORD Holiday SingaroundFri 5 BENSLOW John Playford in the

21st CenturyMon 8 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Garden EveningTue 9 WHITE HORSE Karen Johnson

and Tony ClarkWed 10 LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 11 BEDFORD Singers NightFri 12 FRIDAY FOLK Barbeque

(phone for details) ROYSTON Showcase featuring Thursdays

Band, Martin Kaszak and othersMon 15 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Garden EveningFri 16 BENSLOW Ukulele and Singing WeekendWed 17 LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 18 BEDFORD SingaroundFri 19 BENSLOW Discovering the Sounds

of BrazilMon 22 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Garden EveningTue 23 WHITE HORSE Red Velvet and The FogWed 24 LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 25 BEDFORD Local Singers and MusiciansFri 26 ROYSTON Concert - Pat Crilly and Greg

Cambourn, Daniel Nestlerode, Liz CottonWed 31 LINSLEIGHDERS Club Callers


We desperately need help to distribute copies of Unicorn Magazine to 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

the crippling postage & petrol bills!

Simply tell us what size advert you want, supply all the relevant content (text, photos,

contact details etc) and for just 20.00 per ad we will create an eye-catching and effective

design no more worries about sizing, specifi cations or artwork technicalities...

Contact the Unicorn Team for more informationor to discuss your requirements.

Or visit our websitewww.unicornmagazine.org for full detailsand examples of what we can do for you.

UM ad design service ad.indd 1 21/11/13 16:45:23

Thu 1 BEDFORD Singers NightFri 2 CAMBRIDGE Open Stage FRIDAY FOLK TBA WATFORD SingaroundSat 3 STRUMMERS2 Young Performers

Showcase James White, Emma McGrath, Gina Leonard

Sun 4 BLACK FEN Open Stage HITCHIN Richard DigenceMon 5 HERGA Terence Blacker, Chriss Flegg,

George Papavgeris WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Club CallerTue 6 ST NEOTS Dana and Susan RobinsonWed 7 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Morris LINSLEIGHDERS Club Callers MOGGERHANGER Village Folk SessionThu 8 BEDFORD Singaround BEDFORD FDC Caller TBC REDBOURN My Sweet Patootie plus

floor spots ROUNDABOUTERS Club CallersFri 9 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Marina Florence and

Ben Smith FRIDAY FOLK Mike Bennett ROYSTON Showcase featuring Bill Tarran,

Colin Frid and others WATFORD Steve TurnerSun 11 BLACK FEN Hannah Sanders and

Ben Savage HITCHIN Chris Newman and Maire

NiChathasaigh plus Rosie Hood and Ollie King

Mon 12 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Clog HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Club CallerTue 13 ST NEOTS My Sweet Patootie WHITE HORSE The Wheres Spot BandWed 14 ELY Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar ENGLISH MISCELLANY Country LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 15 BEDFORD Singers Night BEDFORD FDC Caller TBC ROUNDABOUTERS Club CallersFri 16 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Showcase see website

for details FOREST FOLK John Emil plus support FRIDAY FOLK Colin Hume and

Friday Folk Band WATFORD SingaroundSat 17 STRUMMERS3 A Retrospective of the

Music of Bryan Causton

Sun 18 BLACK FEN Open Stage HITCHIN Phil Beer plus Emily SladeMon 19 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Singaround HITCHIN STAPLERS Club CallerTue 20 ST NEOTS Damien Barber and

Mike WilsonWed 21 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Country LINSLEIGHDERS Guest Caller TBCThu 22 BEDFORD Local Singers and Musicians BEDFORD FDC Caller TBC REDBOURN Said The Maiden plus

floor spots ROUNDABOUTERS Club CallersFri 23 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Daniel Nesterode,

Gerry Colvin and Kim Rails FRIDAY FOLK Club Callers and AGM WATFORD Kirsty BromleySun 25 BLACK FEN Gig TBC HITCHIN Phillip Henry and Hannah MartinMon 26 HERGA Open Stage WALTHAM ABBEY Guests Mike Wilson

amd Damian Barber HITCHIN STAPLERS Club CallerTue 27 ST NEOTS Round the Room WHITE HORSE Fake ThackrayWed 28 ENGLISH MISCELLANY Country LINSLEIGHDERS Club CallersThu 29 BEDFORD Singaround BEDFORD FDC Caller TBC ROUNDABOUTERS Club CallersFri 30 BEDFORD FINE Club Night

Visitors Welcome CAMBRIDGE Clark and Zuppardi FRIDAY FOLK Zesty Playford with

John Sweeney ROYSTON Concert Two coats colder,

Chris Fox WATFORD New Roots Night


BEDFORD FDC Bedford Folk Dance ClubPutnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EBContact: Ron D. Law, 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com

BEDFORD Bedford Folk Music ClubKempston Hammers Sports and Social Club, 134 High Street, Kempston, Bedfordshire MK42 7BN Tel: 01234 853262Contact: Mike Blair, 01525 404513 see us on Facebook

BEDFORD Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance ClubHazeldene Lower School, Stancliffe Rd, Bedford MK41 9ATContact: David Cooke, 01234 823920 www.finecompanions.synthasite.com

BENSLOW Benslow MusicBenslow Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 9RBContact: 01462 459 446, www.benslowmusic.org

BLACK FEN Black Fen Folk ClubThe Boathouse, 14 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3AXContact: Robin Gillan, 07847 680 560, www.blackfenfolkclub.com

CAMBRIDGE Cambridge Folk ClubGolden Hind PH, 355 Milton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1SPContact: Marion Treby, 01638 603986 www.cambridgefolkclub.org

ELY Ely Folk ClubThe Old Dispensary, St Marys Street, Ely, Cambs CB7 4ER (no bar)Contact: Ruth Bramley / Andy Wall, 01353 740999 / 01353 664706 www.elyfolkclub.co.uk

ENGLISH MISCELLANY East Hyde Village Hall, Lower Harpenden Rd (B653), nr Luton LU2 9QBContact: Eileen Heylin, 01442 255862 www.englishmiscellany.com

FOREST FOLK Forest Folk and RootsThe College Arms, College Road, Cranfield, Bedfordshire, MK43 0SRContact: Trevor Dove, 07931 859 737, www.forestfolkandroots.weebly.com

FRIDAY FOLK Friday Folk Social Dance ClubMethodist Church, Marlborough Rd, St Albans AL1 3XGContact: Bob Barrett, 01727 856508 www.fridayfolk.org.uk

HERGA Herga Folk ClubGreenwood Hall, Rickmansworth Rd, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 3TJContact: George Papavgeris, 07747 768868 www.hergafolk.org

HERTFORD The White Horse Folk ClubWhite Horse PH, Castle St, Hertford SG14 1HHContact: Pat Crilly 07971 804418, [email protected]

HITCHIN Hitchin Folk ClubSun Hotel, Sun St, Hitchin, SG5 1AFContact: Maureen Jones, 01462 812391 www.hitchinfolkclub.co.uk

HITCHIN STAPLERS Staplers Country Dance ClubSt Johns Community Centre, St Johns Rd, Hitchin SG4 9JPContact: Cecilia Mills, 01582 881966, www.staplers.org.uk

LINSLADE LinsleighdersForster Institute, Waterloo Rd, Linslade LU7 2NRContact: Mrs E.A. Corser, 01525 378010

MOGGERHANGER Village FolkMoggerhanger Village Hall, Blunham Rd, Moggerhanger, MK44 3RDContact: Chris Bashford, 01767 640242 [email protected]

REDBOURN Redbourn Folk ClubOld School Room, Hollybush PH, Church End, Redbourn AL3 7DUContact: Jenny McNaught, 01582 793164 www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk

ROUNDABOUTERSFriends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage, SG1 1UPContact: Lorna Sharpe, 01438 727 293, [email protected], www.roundabouters.org.uk

ROYSTON Royston Folk ClubOld Bull Inn, 56 High St, Royston SG8 9AWContact: Mark Gamon (showcases) 07738 183158, Chris Walls (concerts) 01763 260 556, www.roystonfolk.org

ST NEOTS St Neots Folk ClubPriory Centre, Priory Lane, St Neots PE19 2BHContact: Roger Pitt, 01234 376278, www.stneotsfolkclub.co.uk

STRUMMERS1 Acoustic GreenstageHiston and Impington Summer Festival, Histon Recreation GroundContact: Les Ray, 07903 521412, www.strummers.org

STRUMMERS2 Young Performers ShowcaseGolden Hind, Milton Road, CambridgeContact: Les Ray, 07903 521412, www.strummers.org

STRUMMERS3 CB2, Norfolk Street, CambridgeContact: Les Ray, 07903 521412, www.strummers.org

WALTHAM ABBEY Waltham Abbey Folk ClubRoyal British Legion, Brooker Rd, Waltham Abbey EN9 1HYContact: Jan Ayres, 01992 613987, www.walthamabbeyfolkclub.com,

WATFORD Watford Folk ClubPump House, Local Board Rd, Lower High St, Watford WD17 2JPContact: Julian Mount, 07778 526489, www.folkatthepumphouse.webs.com,


Unfortunately, due to space restrictions in

this issue, we have had to remove our normal section showing ad sizes, prices and formats. If you need this information, please visit our website and download our Media Pack for

complete details, or just drop us a line.

sBBaallddoocckk && LLeettcchhwwoorrtthh BBlluueess,, FFoollkk && RRooootts 88..3300ppmm WWeeddnneessddaayyss aaccccoommppaanniieedd uunnddeerr 1166ss ffrreeee

SSeeee oouurr wweebbssiittee wwwwww..mmaaddnnaannnnyy..ccoo..uukk ffoorr ddeettaaiilleedd iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn Sep 7 Fred's House 8/9/10 http://fredshousemusic.co.uk Great sound,very ne harmonies, Fred's House sounds like a nice place to be! - BBC Radio Sep 14 Open oor performers free /audience 3 An stylistically varied evening of music, from some great local and not-so-local talent. Spots can be booked in advance by calling or emailing Alan or Sue.

Sep 21 Brooks Williams (USA) 9/10/12 www.brookswilliams.com Blues and Americana legend Brooks Williams is fantastic singer, songwriter who is ranked one of the worlds Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists. classy, tasteful, bright and hugely enjoyable! - Blues Matters

Sep 28 Feature night: Two acts - all tickets 6 Mark and Cindy Lemaire (USA) www.marklemaire.com A masterclass in nger style and harmony singing - Don Hurley, Ruskin House Folk Club Malcolm Hobbs (UK) A ne singer, multi-instrumentalist and mostly a bit of a wag Malcolm is praised and loved wherever he plays. A welcome contributor to our club since 1999.

The Orange Tree, Norton Rd, Baldock, SG7 5AW www.madnanny.co.uk 01767 683583 [email protected]


Summer 2016

1 Jul Suzanne Farmer 8 Jul Club callers

15 Jul David & Rebecca Capron and Friday Folk Band

22 Jul Garden Dance with Spring Greens (phone for details)

12 Aug Barbecue (phone for details)

2 Sep TBA 9 Sep Mike Bennett

16 Sep Colin Hume and Friday Folk Band

23 Sep Club callers and AGM 30 Sep Zesty Playford with

John Sweeney

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.

Meeting Fridays from 7:45 to 10:00 pm at The Church Hall, Marlborough Road,

St Albans, AL1 3XG. www.fridayfolk.org.uk 01727 856508

Standard Friday admission 3

30th Anniversary Day of DanceSaturday, 17 September 2016

Ramrugge MorrisInterested in giving it a go?

Telephone: Cherry Carter 01438 724919

Email: [email protected]:www.ramrugge.org.uk

Play an Instrument? Dance? Sing? Want to perform? Join English Miscellany. English Miscellany the performance group is looking for additional musicians for dance and song, dancers and singers; Country, Playford, Cotswold, North West, Mumming and Traditional Song. Weekly practices friendly group overseas tours display locally loads of fun lots of support. Call 01442 255862 Mike or Eileen to find out more and extend your range.


HeadlineActsJuly12thPeterCrossleyLocalmusician,PeterCrossley,playsfiddleandguitarandisblessedwithafinevoiceandguitarskills.Hissongsarecontemporarywithgreathooksandlyricsandwellbewellentertained.

July26thKaszak&AfifiandJeremyHarmerWehaveadoubleheadlinethisweek.MartinKaszak&FaradenaAfifiareaduoperformingawidevarietyofacousticmusicinavarietyofgenres.Martinfingerpicksguitar&singsandFaradenasingsandplaysviolaandcello.Jeremyisawell-knownsinger-songwriterbothathomeandabroad.HisoriginalmaterialreflectshisexperiencesandhesingswellinbothEnglishandSpanish,goodwarmguitarplayingtoo.Songstomakeyouthink!

August9thKarenJohnson&TonyClarkKarenandTonyareaverywellrespectedduofromBishopsStortford.Karenhasagreatvoiceandplaysaweeharmonium,Tonyisanexcellentguitaristandsingerandtheyblendtogetherperfectly.Songsrangefromoriginalmaterialtofolk,contemporaryandmusichall.Expectchoruses!Anotherfineeveningpromised! August23rdRedVelvetandTheFog Wehaveadoubleheadlinetonight.CambridgefolkscenestalwartsRedVelvetaresingersDeidreMurphyandLesRaywhoperformawidevarietyofstylesincludingblues,jazzandfolk.Leswritesgreatsongsandperformswithguitar.Deirdrehasapassionateandpowerfulbluesyvoice.TheFogareoneofHertfordshiresbestkeptsecretsandoneofthebest(ifnotthebest)bandsaround.CentredaroundJeffCarpentersmultiinstrumentalismandgreatbluesvoicethebandarehighenergyandgreatfun.AccompaniedbyGrahamAnsbridgeonukebassandFrogoncajonandwashboardJeffstakeonoldstandardsandhisowncompositionswillhaveuswantingmore.Highlyrecommended!September13thTheWheresSpotBandTheWheresSpotBandareaquartetwhoserepertoirecoverstrad.andcontemporaryfolk,Americanaandabitofcountry.SongsrangefromtheiracapellaversionofaBeatlesmedleythroughtoarrangementsofsongsfromNicJones,NickelCreek,ShawnColvin,CrosbyStills&Nash,AlisonKrauss,TheStrawbsetc,excellentvoicesandmusicianship.VeryEntertaining!September27thFakeThackrayIanBembridgedonshiscordsandtweedjacketonceagainandwillperformJakeThackeraysongstohighlyentertainus.Hesgotthevoiceandguitarstylesocomealongandhaveagreattime.

TheWhiteHorseFolkClubCastleStreet

Hertford,SG141HH2ndand4thTuesdays

oftheMonth.FloorSpotsavailable.Musicstartsat8pmFREEADMISSION

[email protected]


%

email: [email protected]

Real Ale Real Cider Real Music Real Pub


Continuing the outline of the different styles of Morris dance, lets look at North West or Clog Morris. The clue is in the name: it originated in the North West of England, especially in the cotton towns and the key element of the costume are clogs, though originally shoes or boots might also have been worn.

It originated in the early 19th century with large scale industrialisation and the growth of the mill and mill towns. Initially it was associated with various local events such as rush carts processions, carnivals or Wakes (holiday weeks when the local mills closed). Later as the tradition moved away from the mills and into local societies and chapels, it may also have become associated with the Whitsun Walks. Originally the group would have been part of the larger procession, stopping as opportunity arose to dance a figure. As such the dances are very often processional in their character even if they are now danced at a single spot.

Rather than handkerchiefs or sticks, the dancers tend to carry short decorated batons, or sometimes cotton bobbins, which are shaken; slings that are spun or garlanded hoops depending upon the teams preference or dance being performed. Costumes can vary for women it is often based on a mill girls outfit while the men tend towards breeches, white shirts and broad sashes (and often waistbands as well). Hats decorated with flowers is also a common element.

The emphasis in the dances seems to be on the figures and precision in movement. Rather than the intricate stepping you see in Cotswold. The stepping is often a stylised march with knees brought up or a rant /polka step, the stamping of the metal trimmed clogs adding a percussive element to the dancing.

Originally, when as part of the Wakes procession of example, the music might have been provided by the town band. Today North West sides will usually have a band of sorts depending upon what is available but including a bass drum. The tunes used are as likely to be popular as traditional.

To my knowledge there appears to be comparatively few North West sides in the Unicorn area with only Rose & Castle, Ramrugge and Chiltern Hundreds coming to mind, though some sides, such as Bedford Morris men, also perform North West as a second string. Further afield there is Masons Apron in Oxfordshire and Black Horse & Standard in Walthamstow.

Just to complicate the picture, North West or Clog Morris is not to be confused with Clog Dance. These latter groups perform what are essentially step dances that developed in various styles across the North and Midlands and are related more to other step dance traditions such as those of the South West and Ireland. To confuse the matter further, it is also not to be confused with Fluffy or Carnival Morris which evolved from North West Morris (and is mainly found in that region) but today is more akin to cheerleading.

Chas Leslie

Here are some clever music-related conceptual photos sent to us by Tim Edwards of Kimpton.

We love the vibe of them, as well as seeing them very reminiscent of some of our cover photos.

To see more of Tims work (in full colour and full size), contact him on:edwards1812 @gmail.com


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: [email protected] www.sparrow-violins.co.uk www.facebook.com/SparrowViolins


The Road to the Rainbows EndChris Flegg

This is the third album of Chriss I have been asked to review since 2008,

and my admiration of his fine jazz guitar playing, relaxed singing voice and song writing continues to grow.

On this, his 10th album, he has just three other musicians with him, flute player Paul Chapman, double bassist Harvey Weston and percussionist Rod Brown. For me, paring the number down to three from the eight on his 2010 album Time Precious Time produces a much tighter and purposeful feel to the whole collection.

Simple thoughts are beautifully crafted, in a conversational style far more difficult to achieve than it sounds. Playing in a jazz trio has certainly honed his rhythmic and arrangement skills, from the playful Somebody or Nobody, and the sophistication of Faraway Places to the simplicity of No More a Working Man and The Coin, about his grandmothers life as a scullery maid. There is a fine re-working of Theres a Sound from an earlier album The Sound of Life; and a future classic Everybody Gets the Blues Sometime.

Culminating in a delicious, new jazz standard, I Guess Ill Have to Call it a Day, Chris has once again produced a beautifully played collection of enjoyable and deceptively simple songs with generous words and sleeve notes for would-be imitators like me!

The CD is available for 10.00 via www.chrisflegg.com or as a download from I-tunes.

Mike Blair

The Thomas Hardy Song BookThe Mellstock BandThe Serpent Press SER12

In orchestral circles, the quest for historically-informed performance has greatly enriched our understanding and enjoyment of the music of bygone ages. The Mellstock Band takes a similarly rigorous approach to the music of Thomas Hardys childhood, collecting and arranging a typical programme by researching sources such as Hardys own musical notes, his family songbook, and collections of traditional Dorset folk songs.

Director Dave Townsend (concertina) is joined by regular collaborators Tim Hill (clarinet) and Phil Humphries (trombone, serpent), plus Caroline Butler (baroque violin). All four sing, as do guests Ian Giles and Mandy Townsend, while Michael Taylor adds bass drum. The blend of instruments helps create a convincing period feel, in which the serpent (a curious brass-woodwind mongrel) strikes a particularly distinctive note, gruff but warm like a socially awkward country squire. The singing is equally evocative, not polished and precise but lusty and informal - more music hall than concert hall.

The result is a hugely entertaining melee of songs, carols and dance tunes, punctuated by readings (by Charles Spicer) of extracts from Hardys novels. If forced to pick a favourite track Id plump for The Cobblers Song/ Fancy Lad, but this album is best appreciated as a whole programme. I hesitate to pronounce it authentic a term fraught with difficulty but this sounds exactly like I would imagine a village-green gathering in Hardys time, with all its bustle, colour and vibrancy.

Mike Nacey

Ahuge thank you to everyone out there who sends us their CDs for review and comment. We constantly get sent a good number and are sorry to have such limited space in each issue for reviewing them. To help in that regard, we have a (relatively)

strict policy for which CDs we review. As with most areas of the magazine, we tend to only feature recordings made by artists living in, working in or having a significant link with our covering area. When you send in CDs, it would therefore help us greatly if you could outline how your offering fits within our criteria.


Sat 2 Weekend WICKET BROOD Potty Festival, Sheringham, Norfolk

Tue 5 8pm BALDOCK Orange Tree, Baldock

8pm WHITCHURCH The Ggeorge and Dragon, Quainton, HP22 4AR

Wed 6 8pm BEDFORD The Cock, Broom

8pm WICKET BROOD St Michaels Folk Evening, St Albans

7pm WHITCHURCH St Michaels Folk Evening, St Albans, AL3 4SH

Thu 7 8.15pm LETCHWORTH Three Tuns, Ashwell, SG7 5NL

9.15pm LETCHWORTH Bushel and Strike, Ashwell, SG7 5LY

Sat 9 WHITCHURCH Bushey Parish Fair, WD23 1BD

Tue 12 8pm BALDOCK The Chequers, Stotfold. Guests Hemlock Morris

8pm WHITCHURCH The Hampden Arms, Great Hampden, HP16 9RQ

8pm WICKET BROOD The Cricketers, Redbourn, AL3 7NO

Wed 13 8pm BEDFORD The Sun Inn, Felmersham

8pm WHITCHURCH The Swan, Bushey, WD23 3EE

Thu 14 8.15pm LETCHWORTH The Fox, Willian, SG6 2AE

9.15pm LETCHWORTH The Three Horseshoes, Willian, SG6 2AE

Sat 16 1pm BALDOCK Berden Fete

All Day WICKET BROOD Day of Dance, St Albans

Tue 19 8pm BALDOCK The North Star, Welwyn. Guests Tappalation

8pm WHITCHURCH The Half Moon, Wilstone, HP23 4PD

8pm WICKET BROOD The Grand Junction Arms, Bulbourne, HP23 5QE

Wed 20 8pm WHITCHURCH The Green Man, Sandridge, AL4 9DD

9.15pm WHITCHURCH The Queens Head, Sandridge, AL4 9DD

Thu 21 TBC BEDFORD Toddington Tour

7.45pm LETCHWORTH Tour of Toddington - guests of Redbornstoke Morris

Tue 26 8pm BALDOCK Fighting Cocks, St Albans. Guests of Wicket Brood Morris

8pm WHITCHURCH The Broad Leys, Wendover Road, Aylesbury, H21 9LB

8pm WICKET BROOD Ye Ole Fighting Cocks, St Albans, AL3 4HE

Wed 27 8pm WHITCHURCH Three Blackbirds, Flamstead, AL3 8BS

9.15pm WHITCHURCH The Chequers, Caddington, LU1 4AF (with Caddington Blues)

Thu 28 8pm BEDFORD The Stone Jug, Clophill

8.15pm LETCHWORTH Stone Jug, Clophill, MK45 4BY

Sat 30 All Day BALDOCK Phoenix Day of Dance, Rickmansworth

All Day WICKET BROOD Phoenix Day of Dance, Rickmansworth

All Day WHITCHURCH Rickmansworth Folk Day

All Day WICKET BROOD Phoenix Day of Dance, Rickmansworth

All Day WHITCHURCH Rickmansworth Folk Day


Tue 2 8pm BEDFORD The Pheasant, Bedford

8pm WHITCHURCH The Old Farm Inn, Totternhoe, LU6 1RE

8pm WICKET BROOD The White Hart, Whelpley Hill, HP5 3RL

Sat 13 WICKET BROOD Private Ceilidh, Toddington

Tue 16 8pm WICKET BROOD The Kings Head, Hunton Bridge, WD4 8RE

Thu 18 8.15pm LETCHWORTH Pig and Abbott, Abington Pigotts, SG8 0SD

Sat 20 All Day WICKET BROOD Scarecrow Festival, Flamstead

Sun 21 All Day BALDOCK Wimpole Hall

Tue 23 8pm WICKET BROOD the Gate, Bricket Wood

Thu 25 8.15pm LETCHWORTH Lordship Arms, Benington, SG2 7BX

Wed 31 8pm WHITCHURCH The White Horse, Hedgerley, SL2 3UY

Sat 3 TBA WHITCHURCH Framlinham - Ring Meeting hosted by East Suffolk Morris Men

Mon 5 8pm WHITCHURCH White Hart Tap, St Albans, AL1 1LQ (guests of St Albans Morris Men)

Tue 6 8pm WICKET BROOD Border Morris Practice

Thu 8 Week BALDOCK 20th Anniversary Tour, Guernsey

Sat 10 Weekend WICKET BROOD Swanage Folk Festival

Sun 11 12.30pm WHITCHURCH The Woodman, Wil Hill, AL9 6EA


Sat 17 Weekend BALDOCK Bedfordshire Steam Fair, Old Warden, Bedfordshire

Sat 17 All Day LETCHWORTH Ramrugge Day of Dance, North Herts


Wed 21 8pm WHITCHURCH Woodside Open Evening, Pump House, WD17 2JP


Wed 28 8pm WHITCHURCH Morris Practice, Pump House, WD17 2JP

UNICORN MAGAZINE: ISSUE 135

BALDOCK Midnight Morris Cotswold, Border, Raglan, MixedContact: Julie Dawson 01462 712 818 www.baldockmidnightmorris.org.uk

BEDFORD Morris Men Cotswold Contact: Ian Daye 01582 883 009 / Phil Nicholson 01234 772 295, www.bedfordmorrismen.org.uk

LETCHWORTH Morris Men CotswoldContact: Andrew Harper 01462 440 683 [email protected] www.letchworthmorris.org.uk

WOODSIDE Morris Men CotswoldContact: Nick Wilson 07860 663 033 www.woodsidemorrismen.com

WHITCHURCH Morris Men CotswoldBagman: John Bush 01296 641 [email protected] www.whitchurchmorris.org.uk

WICKET BROOD Border MorrisSt Stephen Parish Centre, Station Rd, Bricket Wood AL2 3PJContact: Penny Simpson Giles [email protected] www.wicketbrood.org.uk

WWW.UNICORNMAGAZINE.ORG 35

A recent rummage through the family archive has uncovered the lost dances of the Piddle-on-the-Wall Morris Men who disappeared while on a dance tour in 1866. I have been asked to share them in the hope that somebody can reconstruct and restore this long lost set of dances in what is the 150th anniversary of the incident. Certainly the tradition has never been performed since that fatal tour and was never properly collected. Yet there are references to it in the books of antiquarians: Boswell for example, in his little known Tour of the Scottish Borderlands described the dances as a most sublime and perfect demonstration of border manhood while the Duke of Morpeth (or at least the pubs regulars) maintained it was a glorious demonstration of will over adversity.

There appears to be two, possibly four, dances. Certainly there are notes for two chorus figures and it seems as if each could be done with or without sticks depending upon whether or not the dancers had been disarmed by the local constabulary. The dances generally follow the usual Cotswold pattern and the notes describe them as not unlikened to Bledington but without the fancy bits and more robust in the attack. The double steps are noted as being as one would expect of a spring lamb while the single stepping is more unto a cycling parson than a rat-stamping farmer.

All the dances have the same figures:

Up and Down as if shadowing your opponent

Gypsy firm of eye yet without staring down your opponent

Back unto Back firm and stiff of movement

Around neither giving nor taking ground yet keeping your place

Finish all facing the musician and shouting no obscenities.

Sticking: For the stick dances, the sticking pattern is vague with the only instruction being to strike alternately at every opportunity yet in time to the music and to block as needed so as not to be struck. While dancing the sticks are held at the ready.

There is little direction about the music beyond it is desirable and aids the dancers and that it is preferably a tune the musician knows. For authenticity they ought, I suppose to be tunes with a Border / North Eastern association.

I would be interested to hear from any side that thinks it could recreate these dances.

Long Lankin

The first dance is noted as Lankins Knot. For the first half (or Fit) of the chorus the notes refer to four counts of four

On the first count of four first corners swap places

On the second count of four first corners turn to face up & down the set while second corners change places.

Third count of four the middles pass shoulders and turn out while the second corners turn to face up and down the set

On the last count of four the middles turn so that the whole set has realigned on the horizontal

The second half of the chorus is less clear stating All return to place as best ye can with corners making as if to star and the middles going out and around like the hands of a clock

The second dance, Lankins Gauntlet, has a much simpler chorus and appears to be progressive.

The bottom pair dance between and around their respective middle and top pairs, striking and blocking as they pass. They thence cast out and up between the middle and top pair striking as before and ending in top place on the opposite side. Note for simplicity only the track of no.6 is shown. The next chorus begins with a new bottom pair.

Lankins KnotChorus First Fit No. 5 does the same

Lankins Gauntlet


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