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Folk Diary coverage: events mostly within an approx. 30 mile radius of Totnes as the crow flies, i.e. including Exeter and Plymouth, and covering Tavistock, Okehampton and Sidmouth for example. It is the main reference for compilation of the Harberton Folk email circulars. Map links (streetmap.co.uk): yield a fully zoomable map. I'm increasing including postcodes in the venue information for those of you who rely on satnavs. To submit new Diary entries: many new Diary entries come from you, our readers. If you know of a folk event not listed below, please contact us by email giving concise details of the event, performer(s) etc., using the format below so that your item can be copied and pasted with minimal editing. Please note that no flyers, posters or images are used - send only text, no graphics. Thanks! All information is given in good faith but no responsibility can be accepted for its accuracy. Do check with the organiser before setting out on a long journey.

Southern Devon Folk Diary

Wednesday 12 March 2014 - Troubadors Garden - Bradninch Acoustic Music Club, St Disens Hall, Bradninch
Featuring excellent guitarist Phil Bird and wonderful Flautist Anna Georghiou. Details www.bradninchacousticmusicclub.org/?page_id=7.

Thursday 13 March 2014 8pm - Judy Cook - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
Judy lifts the spirit and entertains with splendid traditional ballads and songs from a huge and varied Anglo-American repertoire. www.judycook.net.  £6 performers, £7 non performers. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Thursday 13 March 2014 8pm - Jamie Smith's Mabon - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Vocals, accordion, fiddle, bouzouki, bass and drums are subtly explored by five dynamic, accomplished musicians, working traditional forms and styles anew in songs and melodies by composer Jamie Smith. Details www.calstockarts.org/thursday-13-march-jamie-smiths-mabon.

Sold out Thursday 13 March 2014 - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
A return visit from winners of Best Duo in the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Kathryn and Sean are widely recognised as two of the folk scene’s most accomplished musicians. Musical collaborators with the likes of Seth Lakeman (Sean’s younger brother), Cara Dillon, the Levellers, Kate Rusby and Show of Hands, this husband and wife duo deliver an intimacy and strength of passion in their music. Kathryn’s sublime voice and effortless delivery, combined with Sean’s gifted guitar playing and masterly arrangements make for a captivating live performance. www.kathrynrobertsandseanlakeman.com. Bookings 01395 568521. www.ottertonmill.com

Friday 14 March 2014 - Craobh Rua - Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU
Traditional Irish music at its best from Craobh Rua (pronounced Crave Ru-ah) on tour from Ireland : rousing jigs, reels and polkas with tender ballads and airs. This is a seated event. Licensed Bar. More information on www.underonesun.org.uk and www.craobhrua.com. Online booking www.wegottickets.com/event/261429.

Jamie Smith's Mabon (see www.villagesinaction.co.uk for full details, venue locations etc.)
Wales' finest purveyors of original InterCeltic music. As comfortable on a world music stage as in a folk setting, theirs is a music that travels beyond borders to explore the forms and styles of the Celtic traditions and work them anew. Through songs and melodies, from thoughtful lyrics to joyful jigs, graceful mazurkas to ecstatic munera, here is a band that can take you on an emotional journey. More than just a show, more than inspired composition and skilful arrangement, you can expect to witness the joy of creating music expressed in dynamic, virtuosic performance. Tunesmith, accordionist and lead singer Jamie is joined at the front of the stage by fiddler Oliver Wilson-Dickson (of Ian Macmillan Orchestra and Zsapora renown) and by Adam Rhodes on bouzouki. A band that draws readily on the vast range of its members' influences, but does not attempt to make 'fusion'; instead it is a constant pursuit of integrity in seeking to explore the music that gives them - and their listeners - joy. www.jamiesmithsmabon.com
Friday 14 March 7.45pm - Clyst Hydon Village Hall - tickets 01884 277338
Saturday 15 March 8pm - Chudleigh Community School Hall - tickets 01626 852553

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Monty's Maggot - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Monty's Maggot includes Old Swan Band stalwart Flos Headford (fiddle), Jeremy Tozer (melodeon), English String Band's founder Taz Tarry (fiddle), Random's Keith Holloway (bass, banjo and percussion). This is an evening for cracking-good English tunes, played with infectious rhythm, gusto and energy. . Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152. www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs/index.htm.

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Solarference - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Award-winning electronic musicians and singers Solarference perform an electrifying live soundtrack to accompany the classic 1920 silent film Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. John Barrymore stars in the renowned adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic about a Victorian scientist who turns himself into a murderous abomination. Solarference uses cutting-edge live sound manipulation to improvise and respond to the film as it unfolds. Drawing on traditional folk song and found sounds, Solarference create sublime and mysterious music, a perfect complement to this iconic film’s shadowy magic. As an added bonus, in the second part of the show Solarference will perform songs from their recent album Lips of Clay, followed by a Q&A. “Lips Of Clay is a stunning album, which seamlessly joins contemporary electronic music to traditional folk.” – Bright Young Folk. Pre-show 2-course supper available. Details www.calstockarts.org/saturday-15-february-film-night-and-supper-dr-jekyll-and-mr-hyde-featuring-solarference.

Sunday 16 March 2014 8pm – Brooks Williams – Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Music Club, Passage House Inn, Hackney Lane, Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot TQ12 3QH
Ranked one of the Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists, singer-songwriter Brooks Williams writes groove-laden songs and delivers them with an easy-going vocal style and monstrous guitar chops. Walking the line between blues and Americana, Williams has worked stages worldwide for over 25 years, amassing a staggering back-catalogue of songs, recordings and tales. “I’ve known Brooks for many years. He’s a lovely player, a lovely singer, and a great writer and a lovely man. The real thing” (Martin Simpson). www.brookswilliams.com Support by Marc Woodward ‘One of the best mandolinists I have ever heard’ Stage and Television Today, with Robin Brown. Tickets £10 available on any club night, telephone 01626 362528 or email acoustic.warehouse@gmail.com. www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Mad Dog Mcrea - Exeter Phoenix (map)
To celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Mad Dog Mcrea will raise hands, lift feet and start parties with their spellbinding recipe of folk, pop, rock, jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. They demand you to dance, whisking up whistles, fiddles and mandolins to collide in a spectacular explosion of infectious fun. They were named Best Live Act at the 2012 South West Music Awards, and the same awards in 2011 gave their album The Whirling Dervish Best Album of the Year. www.maddogmcrea.co.uk Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/mad-dog-mcrea-2

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Heartwave - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Katie Whitehouse, John Clarke & The HeartWave Chorus + Paul Hussell… and a Spooky Man! A night of songs of love, life and fishermen… a blend of original songs by Katie, John & Paul, plus a couple of surprise covers for Reg Meuross and Charlie Dore fans. A mix of acapella and accompanied songs - with flute, guitar, piano, cello and percussion. Lots of harmony! The wonderful bass, Richard Bates from the Spooky Men's Chorale, is by a stroke of lucky geography in Devon at the moment, and will be joining the chorus. Full details, ticketing etc. www.theflavel.org.uk/TheFlavel.dll/WhatsOn?Programme=1423767.. Here's a selection of songs we are likely to include https://soundcloud.com/kt-whitehouse/sets/song-selection.

Sunday 16 March 2014 8pm – Emily Smith Trio - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
The Emily Smith Trio (Emily Smith vocals/accordion/keyboards, Jamie McClennan guitar/fiddle/vocals, Matheu Watson guitar/whistle/fiddle.) One of the loveliest voices on the traditional music scene the bonnie wee lass from Dumfries and Galloway won the BBC Radio Scotland's Young Traditional Music of the Year Award in 2002. Check out a short film about Emily and her music at www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3qvDJe5EPc. Doors, bar and food from 6.30pm. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/239965.

Sunday 16 March 2014 - Judy Cook - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
Born in Virginia, now resident in nearby Maryland USA, Judy Cook has a powerful voice, a deep respect for traditional songs, and a great sense of humour. Details www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk. Tel. 01769 572514.

Sunday 16 March 2014 7.30-9.30pm - Balkan and Gypsy Dance Workshop - St Matthews Church Hall, Lower Summerlands, Exeter EX1 2LJ
Katy Marchant, Steve Tyler & friends playing live music. If you know people that would like to just listen to the music please let them know as they are more than welcome to come along. Located in Newtown - free parking opposite the hall. Cost £7. For more information please call Fiona Parr 01626 821110 or Kushuma Holyoak 01837 82001.

Tuesday 18 March 2014 8pm - Dumbo Feathers - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
details tba Irish music. £4 entry on the door. Contact 01392 881105.

Cornish Traditional Music from Dalla (see www.villagesinaction.co.uk for full details, venue locations etc.)
What Dalla's live show offers you is a joyful, heartrending, life affirming performance. They invite you to share in the mischievous delight they take in playing with their Cornish tradition, and in their fascination with the world that lies behind the pieces. Their voices bring you the sometimes joyous, sometimes heartrending two and three part female harmonies of Hilary, Bec and Jen. Songs of heartbreak, loving, laughing and dying. Singing for dancing, singing for joy, singing for sheer pleasure. With intricately interwoven strings of bouzouki, mandola and mandolin, and Cornish clarinet dancing around the melodies with hypnotic grooves on the fiddle and viola. A Dalla concert is always a special experience. "Dalla's performances are both inventive and enchanting, their music celebrates Cornish culture in an upbeat and infectious voice." - The Guardian. www.dalla.co.uk
Wednesday 19 March 7.30pm - Bigbury Memorial Hall - tickets 01548 810373
Thursday 20 March 7.30pm - Holcombe Burnell Church, Longdown - tickets 01392 8112426/811816
Friday 21 March 7.30pm - Dunkeswell Village Hall - tickets 01404 891677
Saturday 22 March 8pm - Brentor Village Hall - tickets 01822 810600

Friday 21 March 2014 8pm - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - Village Hall, Station Road, Bow, nr Crediton EX17 6HU (map)
Over the last year Phil Henry & Hannah Martin's reputation has grown and their new album has had rave reviews from the music industry. Phil & Hannah won the 2013 Spiral Earth Best Duo award and have now been nominated for Best Duo in the 2014 BBC 2 Folk Awards. www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk. Contact 01363 82379. Online tickets £8(+) www.wegottickets.com/event/257634.

Friday 21 March 2014 8pm - Mick Ryan & Paul Downes - Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club, Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter EX6 7UW (map)
One of the finest duos on the folk scene. Mick Ryan – one of folk's finest voices and writer of many highly-acclaimed folk operas, including The Navvy's Wife and The Pauper's Path. www.mickryanfolkshows.co.uk. Paul Downes – one of the UK's finest multi-instrumentalists and legendary performer. Paul's new solo album, The Boatman's Cure, has been highly praised. www.pauldownes.com. Support Steve Gill + The Cornelius Family. Tickets £8 adv, £10 door, info / ticket reservations contact: leyarmsfolk@hotmail.co.uk or 01392 210983 (The Cornelius Family).

Saturday 22 March 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Rumpus - Rattery Village Hall nr Totnes TQ10 9LD
Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Morris Ring, Dartington Morris Men are running a family ceilidh 7.30-11pm with 'Rumpus' and caller Ken Hudson. A Ploughman's Supper, together with Bar facilities, and a Raffle are included. Tickets £8 (in advance please, are available from Ken Hudson on 01548 550004 or email ken[at]khudson.plus.com.

Saturday 22 March 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with The Mooncoin Ceilidh Band - Forde Hall Social Club, Newton Abbot
Charity ceilidh for The Bumala Trust who help orphans and widows in N.W. Kenya. Admittance by ticket only £7.50. Contact Anne Jenkins 01803 813221 or Anne Gill 01803 290427 for tickets.

Saturday 22 March 2014 - Barn Dance with The Sou'Westers - Harbertonford Village Hall nr Totnes
(formerly the Pete Mac Band). Bar. Everyone welcome. Tickets on sale nearer the time. Enquiries 01803 732634. Event is hosted by HSSG.

Saturday 22 March 2014 7.30pm - Mary Black / Clannad - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
Performing both separate sets and together in 15 dates across the UK, this unique concert is one not to be missed. Clannad, the Irish family group responsible for such timeless music as ‘Theme From Harry’s Game’, ‘In A Lifetime’ and ‘I Will Find You’, recently celebrated their 40th career anniversary. Their music entwines the traditional and the modern, past and future with stunningly beautiful results. With their haunting songs, mesmerizing vocals and captivating sound the group has sold over fifteen million records worldwide. For over a quarter-century, singer Mary Black has been a dominant presence in Irish music, both at home and abroad. Mary has released 11 studio albums all of which achieved platinum sales status and spawned countless hits. Her enduring success has proven that her depth of talent and her love of singing transcend the generations, as well as national and musical boundaries too. She is indeed a real Irish treasure and her talent a gift from this small island to a grateful world. www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=800

Sunday 23 March 2013 7.45pm - Richard Grainger - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Details tba Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Sunday 23 March 2014 7.30pm - Acoustic Strawbs, Curved Air & Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Three legendary bands perform their parts in the history of rock and folk all in one show! The show opens with an acoustic set from legendary folk band The Strawbs featuring original member Dave Cousins along with lead guitarist Dave Lambert, and the astonishingly versatile Chas Cronk. Together they formed the front-line of the classic 1970s line-up of the band. Next up is an exclusive rare live appearance by Curved Air, one of the most dramatically accomplished of all the bands from Britain's late 60's prog rock explosion, with original lead singer Sonja Christina. After the interval Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash will then perform classics such as 'Blowin Free' and 'Argus' and bring this exclusive supershow to a close with other Wishbone Ash classic rock anthems. An unforgettable night of folk and rock is promised. £23.50. Box office 01392 665938. www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14933

Sunday 23 March 2014 - Under Her Skin - Exeter Phoenix (map)
A family of lost souls, the jaws of a city and a boatful of raw fish, Under Her Skin fuses Deb Newbold’s highly acclaimed and charismatic storytelling voice with the double bass, fiddle, and clog dynamism of Laurel Swift. The resulting story of loss and regret is uplifting, thoroughly modern, and belly-shakingly funny. Setting an ancient selkie (seal people) folktale firmly in the here and now, Under Her Skin is a live experience of joyful irreverence, lyrical poetry, and killer riffs. With just two performers and no stage set except for a characterful double bass, a whole world is created, from a quiet cove on Scotland’s north coast to rush hour in Whitechapel. The show has been created in collaboration with musical guidance from the legendary Frankie Armstrong. ‘…a glorious, raucous, joyful show which manages seamlessly to combine the raw energy of dance, earthy social realism and the magic and wonder of myth into an entirely integrated, expertly realised evening’s entertainment.’ Debs Newbold: Storyteller, word wrangler and crowd tamer Debs Newbold’s unique voice has seen her captivate Shakespeare’s Globe, sell out at Hay Festival, and lead 200 grown adults into mischief at the Royal Festival Hall. Laurel Swift: Musician, dancer, and composer Laurel Swift is the founder and choreographer of Morris Offspring, who have appeared on BBC2′s Culture Show and stormed the South Bank. Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/under-her-skin

Thursday 27 March 2014 8.30pm - O'Hooley & Tidow - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
Since the 2012 release of their second album The Fragile (**** Guardian, Mojo, Songlines, Uncut), Yorkshire duo Belinda O’Hooley (Unthanks, Nic Jones Trio) and Heidi Tidow have become a must-see act for their ‘stunning and delightfully unconventional’ (Guardian), emotionally charged performances. This earned them a nomination for ‘Best Duo’ in the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, with The Guardian hailing them as ‘The Best Act of Cambridge Folk Festival’. As well as high praise for their beautiful, interweaving harmonies and sublime musicality, they are acknowledged as one of the strongest songwriting partnerships on the contemporary folk scene. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/250291. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

Thursday 27 March 2014 7.30pm - Julian Lloyd Webber, Cello - Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery
Tickets available online now at www.wegottickets.com/event/209325.

Thursday 27 March 2014 - Tcha Limberger’s Budapest Gypsy Orchestra - Exeter Phoenix (map)
A Vibraphonic Festival event. With his beautiful voice and violin playing, Tcha Limberger is recognised as one of the most prominent and important figures in the music of the Carpathian Basin. His orchestra, in true Hungarian gypsy band style, bursts with a passion and technical virtuosity that is astounding. Tcha Limberger and his incredible six-piece band perform Csardas, verbunk and laments from the Budapest Magyar Nota Gypsy orchestra tradition of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Includes a pre-concert talk. Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/tcha-limbergers-budapest-gypsy-orchestra

Thursday 27 March 2014 - Tom McConville with Leonard Brown - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Musician of the Year (2009), Tom is a singer and fiddle player extraordinaire. Drawing on traditional music from his Newcastle home with Irish, American and Scottish influences, he creates a truly original sound combining jazz, folk, bluegrass and classical roots. Expect a heart-stopping, virtuosic performance, punctuated by Tom's inimitable Geordie wit. Playing with Scottish Accordion Champion Leonard Brown on accordion and keyboards. www.tommcconville.co.uk. Bookings 01395 568521. www.ottertonmill.com

Friday 28 March 2014 7.30pm - Mairi Campbell - Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter EX2 4AZ (map)
With Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll. Mairi Campbell is a Scottish singer and musician, born and raised in Edinburgh. Mairi has been much praised for her singing voice and musical skills, and has won several prizes. During the Scots TradMusic Awards in 2007 she was named Scots Singer of the Year, and in 2008 she won the Live Ireland Music Award for Best Female Musician of the Year, as well as the award for Best Composition of the Year. Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll are two of the leading lights of the new generation of folk artists, specialising in traditional and contemporary English music on fiddles and voices, with a particular emphasis on tunes from the South West. One of a series of concerts promoted by Wren Music on behalf of Cygnet Theatre. Each concert will be a double bill featuring a visiting folk artist and one of the musical acts associated with Wren music and its ongoing work in Devon. Full details and ticketing £12(£8) www.cygnettheatre.co.uk/blog/2011/01/30/mairi-campbell.

Friday 28 March 2014 - Salsa Celtica - Exeter Phoenix (map)
A Vibraphonic Festival event. The combination of Scotland and Ireland’s leading Celtic musicians with a stellar group of international salseros, ensures that Salsa Celtica are always a potent blend of virtuosity and energy. The group’s unique synthesis has been rapturously received around the globe, from the village halls of Scotland to the world’s greatest music festivals and concert halls. www.salsaceltica.com Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/salsa-celtica

Friday 28 March 2014 - John Langan Band - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Standing +VIP seating. High energy, unhinged, and musically extravagant, The John Langan band takes traditional acoustic idioms and delivers them with punk abandonment and virtuosic flare. Let your hair down and revel in this dynamic three piece, offering a unique sound emerging from Celtic, Gypsy Swing, Roma and Flamenco and tuned in savvy. www.thejohnlanganband.com Special guest: Sam Green. Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!the-john-langan-band/c1e0q.  Tickets also available in person from Totnes TIC.

Friday 28 March 2014 8pm - The Jigantics - Hazelwood House nr Loddiswell TQ7 4EB (map)
One of the UK and Nu Folk music's most arresting new 5 piece bands with Marion Fleetwood and Martin Fitzgibbon. A fabulous fusion of blues, roots, rocking folk and some cajun spiced Americana that will blow the socks off an audience. "Foot stomping joy tempered with only the occasional heartbreak". "Cajun-kissed folk rock". £15 (£13 conc.) Starts 8pm. Pre-concert buffet served at 6:45pm £18p/p. Please book early to avoid disappointment: 01548 821232. www.hazelwoodhouse.com

Friday 28 March 2014 - Acoustic Haven: Chartwell Dutiro and Collectress - St John's Church, Bridgetown, Totnes TQ9 5AD (map)
World-renowned mbira player Chartwell Dutiro whose music and voice is unbelievably uplifting, stunning polyrhythms and song www.chartwelldutiro.com. Collectress are a 4-piece multi-instrumentalist group with strings, keyboards, voices and all sorts www.collectress.co.uk. Tickets £8 adv (available from Sacks Wholefoods in Totnes (cash only, no commission), online at www.wegottickets.com/event/264979 , or on the door. Doors 6.30pm. Supporting ancient woodland on Dartmoor (www.thehillyfield.co.uk).

Saturday 29 March 2014 8pm - howdenjones in Concert ‘No halls barred' 2014 - Blackawton Village Hall, Vicarage Road, nr Totnes TQ9 7AY
'the beautiful music in beautiful places' Tour continues... Kate Howden and Paul Jones are songwriters who are travelling all over the country playing at Village Halls and Community Venues. They write about life and their observations of it, often poignant, sometimes humorous, and gathering new material as they travel, they captivate an audience in a unique intimate atmosphere. Their show has been described as, ‘relaxed and enchanting’ and ‘an absolute delight’, ‘their joy, talent and good humour were infectious’. ‘music for all ages’. With a variety of instruments including, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bodhran and banjo, superb harmonies and great musicianship, howdenjones will promise to give you a foot tapping and thought provoking evening with plenty of smiles! Samples at www.howdenjones.co.uk. They will be joined at this concert by Fiddler Andy Doherty, who has worked with them on numerous recording projects, and whose style directly compliments their songs and tunes. Tickets £7 from The George Inn 01803 712342 (pay by card), Blackawton Community Shop or 01803 712159.

Saturday 29 March 2014 7.30pm - Comedy from Paul Eastwood, Shanties from Old Gaffers - Rattery Village Hall nr Totnes TQ10 9LD
Cabaret evening in aid of South Brent Carnival. Doors 7pm. Ploughman’s supper with local produce, Bar with waitress service only (no corkage). A quality draw. Tickets £15 per person from Jean on 01364 73292 at any time or Doreen 01364 73650.

Saturday 29 March 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Pigs Might Fly - St James Church Hall, Mount Pleasant, Exeter EX4 7EE
Caller Bob Ridout. Fundraising ceilidh in aid of the National Autistic Society. £8 adult, £4 child £4, family ticket available - in advance 01392 436665 or on the door. Bar and buffet supper. Great raffle with tickets to many local attractions and many other items.

Saturday 29 March 2014 7.30pm - My Darling Clementine - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
The classic country duet genre is revisited by My Darling Clementine. New, self penned songs of love, hurt and betrayal made relevant to life in the 21st century ("No Matter What Tammy Said, I Won't Stand by Him") by songwriters Michael Weston King and real life wife Lou Dalgleish. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/252455. More details and ticketing options http://coffinswellevents.weebly.com. No bar, BYO drinks.

Sunday 30 March 2014 -  4 Parts Guitar: Gordon Giltrap, John Etheridge, Clive Carroll, Raymond Burley - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Four of the most influential guitarists in Britain on one stage, with spontaneous, exciting, and technically brilliant individual styles. Full details www.calstockarts.org/sunday-30-march-four-parts-guitar-gordon-giltrap-john-etheridge-raymond-burley-clive-carroll.

Thursday 3 April 2014 - Barb Jungr: Hard Rain tour - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Seated. Barb Jungr returns to the songs of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen with the release of Hard Rain this spring, an album to remind us the protest songs of the 60s and 70s are as relevant in today's world as they were half a century ago. “Possibly our best interpreter of Dylan’s songs” Billy Bragg. www.barbjungr.com Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!barb-jungr/c1g9p. Tickets also available in person from Totnes TIC.

Thursday 3 April 2014 - The Hokum Hotshots  - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
A first Mill visit from two of the UK’s most accomplished acoustic blues musicians Jim Murray & Pete Mason, with Jim widely regarded as one our finest slide guitarists. The Hokum Hotshots play an uplifting mix of 30’s, 40’s and 50’s country blues, west coast swing, ragtime, jazz and vaudeville. With musical careers spanning decades, this multi-instrumental pairing play everything from Steel National and Dobro Horizontal guitars, to mandolin, tiple (a 10 stringed South American instrument), ukulele and acoustic 6 stringed guitars! Expect a performance that will get your feet tapping and a smile on your face! www.hokumhotshots.co.uk. Bookings 01395 568521. www.ottertonmill.com

The Old Dance School (see www.villagesinaction.co.uk for full details, venue locations etc.)
Championed by BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris, Birmingham’s cinematic septet unleash their dueling fiddles, soaring brass crescendos, wind and vocal harmonies and earth shattering in a genre-busting live show that's leaving audiences breathless. www.theolddanceschool.com
Thursday 3 April 7.30pm - Cheriton Bishop Village Hall - tickets 01647 24789
Friday 4 April 7.30pm - Clayhidon Village Hall - tickets 01823 680347
Saturday 5 April 7.30pm - Kenn Centre, Kennford - tickets 01392 833583

Friday 4 April 2014 -  Amadou Diagne with Griselda Sanderson - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Amadou’s background as a percussionist has led him to develop a unique guitar style, which shifts from traditional African blues to an awe-inspiring display of percussive artistry. He is accompanied by the ethereal tones of the Swedish nyckelharpa and violin of Griselda Sanderson. With the addition of Daniel Gerrard’s virtuosic guitar playing and Omer Makessa from Martinique on African percussion, their energy and dynamism has delighted audiences around the UK. The group has been supported by PRS Foundation for Music, with their current tour sponsored by Carn to Cove. Full details www.calstockarts.org/friday-4-april-amadou-diagne-with-griselda-sanderson.

Saturday 5 April 2014 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
Not 29 March as previously advertised
Song and music session. All welcome, bring your instruments and voices. Another fun-filled folk evening.

Wednesday 9 April 2014 - Feast Of Fiddles - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
2014 marks the 21st year this group of musical friends have taken to the road to entertain their growing legion of fans with a show of huge dynamic range, passionate and joyful playing and a liberal dose of fun. What started as a daft idea for a folk club night has grown into a folk-rock institution with six CDs to their name, several festival appearances and sell out shows up and down the UK. Fiddlers Peter Knight (Steeleye Span), Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention), Phil Beer (Show of Hands), Brian McNeill (Battlefield Band), Ian Cutler (Bully Wee), Tom Leary (Zeus) and Garry Blakeley (Band of Two) add the large range of fiddle playing styles to the rock back-line of guitars, keyboards, sax and accordion - all held together by legendary drummer Dave Mattacks. It's a feast by nature and a feast by name which is guaranteed to be enjoyed even by the most doubting of friends dragged along! Be prepared for laughter, tears, dancing and an all round evening of fabulously entertaining live music. £16. Box office 01392 665938. www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14879

Wednesday 9 April 2014 8pm - Jurassic Folk presents: Tim Edey - Dolphin Hotel, Beer EX12 3EQ (map)
The incredible Tim Edey returns, once more by overwhelming popular demand. Tim is one of the finest multi-instrumental players of his generation in the worldwide Celtic music scene. A virtuoso on both acoustic guitar and button accordion, Tim's incredible musical ear and total technical command allows him to play the most demanding instrumentals and improvise freely in any style you throw at him. He will be accompanied by fine Scottish singer Isobel Crowe, and further members of the band will be made known closer the date. www.timedey.co.uk. Support: David Mitchell and Graham Vincent who play lively traditional music from the British Isles, mainly on Fiddle and Guitar. Much of their set is instrumental but this is mixed in with a few broadly traditional songs. www.mitchellandvincent.com. Call 01297 20064 or book online at www.wegottickets.com/event/255478. www.eastdevonfolk.org

Thursday 10 April 2014 8pm - Geoff Lakeman - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
With songs ranging from the 1920’s to Traditional to Woody Guthrie the father of 3 talented sons Geoff is a brilliant singer and Duet concertina player and a hilarious stage presence. You won’t regret a night in his company ....plus you never know who he may bring along with him. See
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bKF8FaNPp4. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Thursday 10 April 2014 7.30pm - Folk at the Flavel: Martin Simpson - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Martin is regarded as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitarists in the world. His career includes collaborations on stage and record with among many others Richard Thompson, June Tabor and Dick Gaughan. Martin has been nominated an astounding 26 times in the twelve years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and was voted Musician of the Year on two occasions. He has had a long recording career with some 14 successful albums to his name. He recently released his latest, “Vagrant Stanzas”, to wide critical acclaim. Tickets £16, £5 U18. Box office 01803 839530 or book online at www.theflavel.org.uk.

Thursday 10 April 2014 8pm - Rita Hosking - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Rita Hosking grew up in a rural area in Shasta County, California. A descendant of Cornish miners who sang in the mines, Rita grew up with deep regard for folk music and the power of the voice. Her style of country-folk has been lauded for story and sense of place. Accompanied in concert by her husband Sean Feder on dobro and banjo. Check Rita out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXHY9QYzyzs. Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259142.

Friday 11 April 2014 - Gallery Bar Special: Gareth Hedges - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Gareth brings his own brand of Delta Blues, American and Celtic Folk, Jazz classics and original songs, performed on 6, 12 string & Dobro resonator guitar. Gareth’s influences are American roots musicians including Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys, old time banjo player Clarence Ashley, ragtime blues guitarist Rev. Gary Davis and slide guitarist Mississippi Fred McDowell. Free entry, chatty atmosphere, donations to Gareth would be much appreciated. Doors and bar 7.30pm, music from 8.30pm.

Saturday 12 April 2014 - Exefest - Exeter Canalside Folk Festival
2nd year, at the Double Locks pub. With the Melrose Quartet - Multiple BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Winners Nancy Kerr and James Fagan join forces with legendary Sheffield duo Richard and Jess Arrowsmith (Crucible, Hekety, Pecsaetan) and are capturing imaginations with their bold new take on old and new English songs and tunes. Glorious four-part harmony singing combines with crunchy twin fiddles, full bodied melodeon and powerful bouzouki in a set that will leave your heart singing and your feet tapping. www.melrosequartet.co.uk. Plus The Dovetail Trio, presenting England's traditional songs with a bold and fresh approach, The Dovetail Trio explores familiar narratives and modern themes with infectious energy and a passion for musical heritage. www.facebook.com/thedovetailtrio. The Black Hares, an English folk duo who play whatever pleases them and do not rule out any musical style or genre. Whether from any part of Great Britain, Scandinavia or North America all music is considered fair game. www.blackhares.co.uk. Festival details www.exefest.com.

Saturday 12 April 2014 - Steve Tilston Trio - South Pool Village Hall, Herring Street, South Pool, nr Kingsbridge TQ7 2RP (map)
Stuart and Keith are this talented, happy bunch who bring you a wonderful mix of trad folk with US Blues. They make great music, combining the fiddle and harmonica with vocals. The trio brings out the jauntier side of Steve’s writing. They have been praised by Mark Radcliffe, Radio 2 and had an award from Mike Harding, so they are very much in demand. www.stevetilston.com. 7.00pm for 7.30pm prompt supper, followed by our guest musicians. Raffle and bar. Tickets £18, available from Maddie Marchand email madelinemarchand1[at]gmail.com, te. 01548 531979.

Saturday 12 April 2014 6.30pm – Ceilidh with Red Shed - St. Thomas Church Hall, Cowick Street, Exeter
Family friendly ceileidh presented by Exeter Quaker Meeting. For dancing, or for listening, Red Shed offer music for the feet, head and heart. Please bring contributions for a shared supper between sets (soft drinks provided). Do bring your family and friends! Limited parking available behind church and in nearby streets. Entrance by donation (suggested min. £8 pp/£20 per family - more if you can afford to, less if you can’t!).

Sunday 13 April 2014 8pm - Steve Tilston Trio - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Award winning singer-songwriter Steve Tilston celebrates the release of his new CD Happenstance. The writer of the classics The Slipjigs and Reels, The Naked Highwayman, A Pretty Penny and The Reckoning is on as fine form as ever. Winner of the Best Original Song accolade at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards last year, plus appearances on Later with Jools Holland, BBC Four’s Songwriters’ Circle and four-star reviews in the media there are no signs of him slowing down just yet. Perhaps best known for his song-writing prowess, Steve is also a blinding, dazzling guitarist with a style echoing the elaborate rhythmic 'folk baroque' of Bert Jansch and Davy Graham, but also drawing from folk, blues and roots music to create a sound that has been called quintessentially Tilston. Flesh all that out with Bristol music scene stalwarts and old pals, harmonica maestro Keith Warmington and violin virtuoso Stuart Gordon and you can expect something fabulous. 'The trio setting brings out the jauntier side of Tilston's writing, while giving an opportunity for him to demonstrate his instrumental skill.' - The Guardian. www.stevetilston.com £10 adv/£12 door, booking details  www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk.

Tuesday 15 April 2014 8pm - Andy Clarke - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
details tba £4 entry on the door. Contact 01392 881105.

Thursday 17 April 2014 8pm - Malcolm Holcombe - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina, Malcolm Holcombe is being recognized by the contemporary U.S and European folk/americana community as a performer of national stature, and an uncommonly unique guitarist/vocalist about whom Rolling Stone magazine says: "Haunted country, acoustic blues and rugged folk all meet [here]..." Check Malcolm out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMVSM8hrxDE. Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259143.

Saturday 19 April 2014 8pm - Pete Morton - Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club, Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter EX6 7UW (map)
One of the UK's finest songwriters of emotionally-driven songs delivered with a distinctive voice. One of his highly-acclaimed songs "Another Train" (see www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh5Ilhs-SF4) has been recorded by several performers. Pete also performs with Maggie Boyle, Chris Parkinson and Roger Wilson, among others. www.petemorton.com. Support: DevonBird www.devonbird.co.uk  + The Cornelius Family. Tickets £8 adv, £10 door, info / ticket reservations contact: leyarmsfolk@hotmail.co.uk or 01392 210983 (The Cornelius Family).

Saturday 19 April 2014 -  The Sweet Lowdown - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Nominated by the Canadian Folk Music Awards as Vocal Group of the Year 2013, The Sweet Lowdown blend original songwriting and three-part harmonies with an old-time instrumental groove. This award-winning acoustic roots trio from Victoria, B.C. creates a unique yet timeless sound that takes listeners on a pleasurable and memorable journey. Full details www.calstockarts.org/saturday-19-april-the-sweet-lowdown.

Wednesday 23 April 2014 8pm - Jurassic Folk presents: Exmouth Shantymen - Dolphin Hotel, Beer EX12 3EQ (map)
A rousing Shanty Night in the seafaring village of Beer, the songs and the beer will be flowing! Call 01297 20064 or book online at www.wegottickets.com/event/261148. www.eastdevonfolk.org

Thursday 24 April 2014 - Blackheart - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Seated. + special guests. In 4 years British multi-instrumentalist duo Blackheart have recorded three albums, enjoyed airplay in nearly every country in the world and played successful tours of UK, Ireland, Germany, the Netherlands plus two headline tours of Australia and New Zealand. Their music and unique sound shun categorisation, combining acoustic instruments and the voice of Chrissy Mostyn with ancient synthesisers, effects, atmospherics and electronica to create a new brand of avant-garde ethereal folk. Their highly personal, haunting music is flavoured with piercing observations and penetrating lyrics which, as Australia's Western Star commented, “Take their audiences from uplifting to heartbreaking in a single song.” Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!blackheart/c1g22.

Friday 25 April 2014 - Urban Folk Quartet - Calstock Hall, The Quay, Calstock PL18 9QA (map)
details tba www.calstockhall.com

Friday 25 April 2014 9pm - Will McNicol - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Will began playing guitar at the age of six, and since then has gone on to become UK Acoustic Guitarist of the Year (2011) and a Fellow of Trinity College London for his playing and compositions. He has released three albums of original material, and has gigged up and down the country; whether it be headlining his own solo shows, or supporting artists from Pierre Bensusan to Mumford & Sons. Will's music is influenced by styles from all over the world, and he has developed his own unique sound, with Celtic folk being the underlying inspiration behind a large majority of his own pieces. His performances have been described as "beautifully flawless", as he swaps between nylon and steel string guitars to show the sheer variety of tone guitars can offer. www.willmcnicol.co.uk. Tickets £4 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259361.

25-27 April 2014 - Budleigh Guitar Festival - Budleigh Salterton
The Public Hall, St Peter’s Church & selected venues around the town. Fri evening only, Sat/Sun 12 noon til close. Featuring: Martin Barre (Friday), Tommy Emmanuel (Saturday); Glenn Tilbrook (Sunday); . Plus: Clive Gregson, Mark Griffiths & Andy Roberts (3 Boxes); B.J.Cole; Peter White; Chris Foster; John James; John Etheridge; Philip Henry; Sam Carter; Chris Woods, Nick Harper, and Flats & Sharps. Concerts, workshops, open mic, full bar, stalls, all-day food. For further details email: info@gypsymusicpromotions.co.uk. Box Office/enquiries: 01395 443419 or 07891 663044. Online ticketing options www.wegottickets.com/f/7163.

Friday 25 April 2014 - Geoff Lakeman - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
A rare solo appearance by Geoff. Details www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk. Tel. 01769 572514.

Saturday 26 April 2014 - Jenna Witts & Amy Newton - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
Jenna Witts & Amy Newton have performed together on several occasions and are always well received!! They are local girls with an international reputation. Their songwriting is sensational and their voices blend to perfection. Details www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk. Tel. 01769 572514.

Saturday 26 April 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Bedlam - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
To finish the season with a bang, a visit by some old friends. A vibrant and pulsating sound, blending traditional British, French and self-penned tunes with driving rhythms and powerful harmonies. Don't miss it! . Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152. www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs/index.htm.

Saturday 26 April 2014 7.30pm - An evening with Matt Harvey & Jim Causley - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
A South Brent Folk Festival event: Matt Harvey is a well-known writer and poet. Devon folk singer Jim Causley has been involved with the local folk from an early age. He studied Jazz & Popular Music at Exeter College he went on to study Traditional Music at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. He is renowned for his warm, rich and mature singing voice (quoted as being akin to the fruitiest of real ales!) his natural gift for interpreting song and his wry and cheeky stage presence. He has recorded a number of CDs most recently ‘Cypress Well’ - song settings of poems by his ancestor Charles Causley and has been a nominee for BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Reel Ale bar. Tickets £10 adv from artworks www.artworksouthbrent.co.uk or £12 door. Information: Eileen McKee tel 01364 73699 email: eileen.southbrentfolk@gmail.com. One of a number of events organised throughout the year to support the South Brent Folk Festival (July 11/12 2014).

Sunday 27 April 2014 7pm - Coco & The Butterfields - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
A truly colourful, energetic and crowd-stamping act to be reckoned with, featuring beatboxer EupheX and performing their own unique fusion of Folk, Pop and Hip Hop, or “Fip Fok” to their fans. Within a year CATB had earnt themselves the title of the UK’s best unsigned act, (winners of Live and Unsigned 2012) collecting several more song writing awards, 250,000 YouTube hits and shared a stage with internationally renowned artists King Charles, Bastille and The Pogues. The ultimate eclectic collective, CATB find extraordinary musical integrity and balance in an ensemble of exquisite charm and quirk. Tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/257696. No bar, BYO drinks.

Monday 28 April 2014 8pm - The Fureys & Davey Arthur - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Renowned for their hit songs 'I will love you', 'When you were sweet 16', 'The Green fields of France', 'The old man', 'Red rose café', 'From Clare to here', 'Her father didn't like me anyway', 'Leaving Nancy', 'Steal away' etc, the Fureys & Davey Arthur have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 36 years. They are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. Their folk / middle of the road based songs and music has received standing ovations in some of the biggest concert halls in the world. Their emotive songs stir many emotions....tears and laughter, sadness and joy. A Fureys concert is always a night to remember. £18. Box office 01392 665938. www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14592

Monday 28 April 2014 8pm - Jim Moray Band - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Jim Moray is one of the most consistently inventive musicians working in English traditional music today. Winner of five BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, after five ground-breaking albums he now finds himself at the forefront of a new folk revival in the UK, and hailed as a pivotal influence by a new generation of folk musicians. In 2013 he celebrated both 10 years since his landmark debut album Sweet England and the success of his 2012 career best Skulk. Now he brings material from his forthcoming album of traditional ballads out on the road for an evening of storytelling music at its best. “This new set shows him moving towards the mainstream, relying on his fine, distinctive voice rather than shock tactics… One of the folk scenes great originals” The Guardian. Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/jim-moray.

Tuesday 29 April 2014 8pm - Folk Club Extra: Chris Foster (tbc) - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
This will be the third visit to the club from one of the English traditions finest guitar players and singers. Chris is a master of the art. See www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWtRpESIv30. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Tuesday 29 April 2014 - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - Exmouth Folk Club, Manor Hotel, Exmouth EX8 2AG (map)
Over the last year Phil Henry & Hannah Martin's reputation has grown and their new album has had rave reviews from the music industry. Phil & Hannah won the 2013 Spiral Earth Best Duo award and have now been nominated for Best Duo in the 2014 BBC 2 Folk Awards. www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk. Contact 01395 269232. Doors 8:15pm.

Saturday 3 May 2014 8pm - Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain - Riverside Leisure Centre, Exeter
Exeter Corn Exchange goes big! Due to the high demand for tickets for previous shows we're moving to the Riverside Leisure Centre for this concert. UKoGB is warm, entertaining and funny. This all-strumming, all-plucking, all singing ensemble is an unforgettable musical force. You may never think about music in the same way once you've been exposed to the Ukes. With their vast repertoire the players believe all genres of music are available for reinterpretation - as long as they are played on the ukulele. From Charlie Parker to the Sex Pistols through Johann Sebastian Bach, the Orchestra take you on a world tour with only hand luggage.... Box office 01392 665938. Details www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14928.

Saturday 3 May 2014 7.30pm - Nick Harper - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
Nick recently released his 8th studio album 'Riven'. An epic recording with legendary producer Tchad Blake at the helm. Nick has also found time to play on new recordings with Lana Del Rey, Newton Faulkner and Steven Wilson. "One of the finest guitarists of his generation, his soaring vocal range and propensity for epic song place him somewhere between Rufus Wainright and Jeff Buckley. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/256919. No bar, BYO drinks.

Saturday 3 May 2014 7.30pm - The Simon & Garfunkel Story - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Direct from London’s West End, award winning actor Dean Elliott (Buddy Holly in “Buddy -The Musical”) and a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time in this 50th Anniversary Celebration. Using both original photos and film footage, ‘The Simon and Garfunkel Story’ also features a full live band performing all their hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more. If you’re a fan of beautiful music then this is an evening not to be missed! www.thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/the-simon-and-garfunkel-story.

Saturday 10 May 2014 7.30pm - Sea Shanty Evening with The Old Gaffers - Thurlestone Parish Hall TQ7 3LY
The Kingsbridge-based shanty crew will be in fine voice for this concert in support of The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. BYO supper and drink. Raffle. Coming with friends? Why not reserve a table. Tickets £12. Contact Vida Alexander 01548 561182.

Sunday 11 May 2014 8pm - Paul Downes & Phil Beer - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
A rare reunion concert for Paul and Phil - not to be missed. Paul's sensitive and yet fun approach to his live performances puts him among the most respected artists on the British acoustic music scene today. He has played on around 250 albums in bands (Arizona Smoke Review, Joyce Gang, Brighton Taverners) duos, (with Phil Beer, Mick Ryan, Maggie Boyle) and as a session musician and has just released his fifth solo album. "…central to the texture is the unflinchingly expert guitar of Paul Downes" -fRoots magazine www.pauldownes.com Phil is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best known as a top flight fiddler but his skills don’t stop there. He also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals. "Phil is a multi instrumentalist of extraordinary talent who can also produce and engineer a recording to a high standard." -Living Tradition magazine www.philbeer.co.uk £12 adv /£147 door, booking details  www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk.

Thursday 15 May 2014 6.30-11.30pm - Steve Knightley - River Cottage, Trinity Hill Road, Axminster
Songs and food from the English Countryside. This intimate concert will be complimented by a delicious seasonal meal cooked up by the River Cottage chefs. Tickets £75. Details www.rivercottage.net/shop/product/steve_knightley_at_river_cottage. 

Friday 16 May 2014 - Eliza Gilkyson - Milverton Music, Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU
Our most requested guest ever is over on tour from the USA. www.milvertonmusic.co.uk/page2.html

Saturday 17 May 2014 - Urban Folk Quartet - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
+ special guests. The Quartet: Joe Broughton (fiddle/mandolin), Paloma Trigas (fiddle), Frank Moon (guitar/oud) and Tom Chapman (cajon). In an age where the word “folk” encompasses everything from Laura Marling to hardcore traditional music, the use of such labels to distinguish one musical experience from another, whilst still useful, has arguably been stretched farther than ever. The Urban Folk Quartet’s distinguishing features have much less to do with the traditional idea of genre. Yes, this is fiddle-led music that draws heavily from celtic dance forms and traditional song but from there on in it is unlike any folk band you have ever heard. Just as English country dance unassumingly met with big band jazz musicianship in the mid 20th century, The UFQ’s approach to the folk ethos is to embrace any and every influence that genuinely makes sense of their time and place and makes sense in their music. From funk grooves to middle eastern melodies, afrobeat to north Indian rhythms. Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!urban-folk-quartet/c1zyq.

Sunday 18 May 2014 4pm - Steve Knightley - Lympstone Village Hall, School Hill, Lympstone, Exmouth EX8 5JY (map)
This year Steve is turning his back on large theatres and major concert venues in order to bring his songs to village halls and community venues throughout the land. The ' Grow your Own gig ' tour will find him in out-of-the-way locations from Cornwall to the Borders and he sees this very much as a return to the rural roots of his music. "With so many songs about people who live and work in the countryside and the day to day issues they face -it will be great to actually perform them in their spiritual homes." Send your cheque (£16) payable to Kevin Henderson, Lodge Music Promotions, Woodbury Business Park, Woodbury, Exeter EX5 1AY. Please enclose SAE and contact email address and phone no. Contact 07771 558914, email kevin@lodgemusicpro.co.uk. Doors 3.15pm.

Thursday 22 May 2014 - Luke Jackson - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
Luke is a rising 19 year old Roots singer/songwriter from Canterbury, Kent , and 2013 sees him nominated for both the Horizon Award for Best Emerging Talent and the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award. With a bold, show stopping voice and honed guitar skills, Luke is a confident and captivating performer demonstrating an astonishing maturity. He has been making ripples on the live acoustic scene supporting such luminaries as Show of Hands, Paul Brady, Chris Wood, Steve Knightley, Lucy Ward and Boo Hewerdine and playing Sidmouth, Bristol and Trowbridge festivals. www.lukepauljackson.com. More details and tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/258808. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

Saturday 24 May 2014 7.30pm - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
2014 BBC Folk Awards Best Duo Nominees. "On hearing the first notes of the first track I knew that I was listening to a modern classic. One of the most exciting albums I've heard in years" Mike Harding. "Subtle, atmospheric, bravely original" The Guardian. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/256922. No bar, BYO drinks.

Saturday 24 May 2014 - Baka Beyond - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. After 20 years of mixing African and Celtic music in equal measures Baka Beyond has become one of the finest danceable bands around, creating the sound of the global village. Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/baka-beyond

25-31 May 2014 - John Jones & The Reluctant Ramblers: Two Moors, Two Seas
The latest in the acclaimed series of walking tours with Oysterband's John Jones: a week of music and walks, open to all. Full details, ticketing where applicable etc. www.j-rr.org/two-moors-two-seas-2014-walking-tour-2. Some great lunchtime pub locations too. Summary:
Sunday 25 May: Exmoor walk, then on stage at Barnstaple's North Devon Beer Festival
Monday 26 May: Barnstaple - Bideford - Gt. Torrington, show at Plough Arts Centre
Tuesday 27 May: Tarka Trail, evening gig at Tally Ho Inn, Hatherleigh
Wednesday 28 May: Tarka Trail, then set from the band plus session and ceilidh at Drewe Arms, Drewsteignton
Thursday 29 May: Two Moors Way to Holne, evening show at Barrel House, Totnes
Friday 30 May: Holne to Ivybridge, whole day on the Moor, weather permitting, evening show at The Watermark, Ivybridge
Saturday 31 May: Erme-Plym Trail and SW Coast Path to Noss Mayo, with a closing session at The Swan Inn, Noss Mayo.

Wednesday 28 May 2014 8pm - Folk Club Extra: Jeff Warner - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
From dancing dolls to concertina to guitar to frailing banjo Jeff sings songs collected by his parents in the Appalachian mountains of New England. See www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Jeff%20Warner%20folk&sm=3. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Sunday 1 June 2014 7pm - Blair Dunlop - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
Blair Dunlop is a 21-year old captivating vocalist, phenomenal guitarist and over the past year has emerged as one of the UK’s finest singer-songwriters. Blight & Blossom is a truly stunning debut album from an artist who has firmly established himself in a very short time. Following the release of the album in Autumn 2012 Blair won the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/257498. No bar, BYO drinks.

tbc Friday 6 June 2014 8pm - Phil Beer solo - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Details tba www.calstockarts.org.

Thursday 12 June 2014 8pm - Pete Coe - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
If you have never seen the one man folk festival that is Pete Coe you will be in for a rare treat. Pete is a true star of the folk stage. See www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuJt6lbt0_g. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Thursday 12 June 2014 (?)7.30pm - Rory Mcleod - St Bartholomews Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS (map)
Rory Mcleod - ex-circus clown and fire eater. A one man soulband, poet and storyteller, singing his own unique upbeat dance stories. A modern travelling troubadour using tap shoes, acappella, harmonica, guitar, trombone, spoons, finger cymbals, bandorea, djembe and various percussion instruments! "You don't listen to McLeod you travel with him" City Hub, Sydney (Australia). Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/256930. No bar, BYO drinks.

13-15 June 2014 - Moor Merriment: A Weekend of Dartmoor Music & Dance - Lustleigh
Friday evening concert with Jim Causley, Martin and Shan Graebe. Saturday: Day of Dance with Beltane, Cogs and Wheels, Heather and Gorse, and Tinners. Dartmoor Broom and Step Dancing; evening ceilidh with the Dartmoor Pixie Band. Sunday: early evening concert. 'The Dartmoor Cantata' and 'Giant Bolster of Haytor' Lustleigh Village Choir, Westerleigh Orchestra, children's choirs from Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead. Further information from Alexa Mason 01647 277498. Website coming soon.

Thursday 19 June 2014 - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
One of the most exciting and innovative duos to appear on the folk/roots/acoustic scene in recent years. They have been nominated for 'Best Duo' in the 2014 BBC Folk Awards. Phillip Henry is one of the UK's top slide guitarists and harmonica players. Over the past decade he has immersed himself in the music of the Deep South of America, traditional music of the British Isles, and Indian classical music. Specializing in lap slide techniques, his masterful Dobro playing draws together these diverse influences to create a truly unique voice that has been described as "Stunningly good" (Dick Gaughan), and "utterly captivating" (Steve Knightley). His innovative harmonica style combines country blues and folk styles with beat-boxing to create a jaw dropping and much coveted 21st century harmonica sound heavily steeped in tradition. Hannah Martin writing mainly on fiddle, viola, and banjo, and drawing on the traditions of the British Isles is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Devon. Her songs weave folklore and legend old and new with beautiful melodies, creating haunting compositions delivered with "a bold and beautiful singing style all her own" (BBC Radio Two). www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk More details and tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/258808. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

Saturday 21 June 2014 6pm - Celebrating Cicely - Bow Congregational Church, nr Crediton
A folk concert celebrating Cicely Fox Smith using her poems/words set to music. Starring. Martyn Wyndham-Read, Moira Craig, Tom Lewis, Mike Warman, Di Franklin, Jackie Williams, Jim Saville, Peter & Barbara Snape, Chris Mason, Chris & Bev Arscott, Hilary Bix, Liz Crow & Shake a Leg, Danny & Joyce McLeod, Nigel Chapman & Gideon Barrett, Bill Wilkes, Barrie Mathers, Jim Glover & Chris Skinner. More details www.cicelyfoxsmith.org.uk. Online ticketing www.wegottickets.com/event/262780.

Wednesday 25 June 2014 8pm - Steve Knightley - Exeter Golf & Country Club, Countess Wear, Topsham Road, Exeter EX2 7AE
In aid of Hospiscare, the Exeter-based cancer charity, and chosen charity for the year of the club's president. Tickets £16 (may be collected at the Club’s Reception, or posted). Contact 01392 874139 or info@exetergcc.co.uk.

Thursday 26 June 2014 7.30pm - Folk at the Flavel: Richard Digance - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Richard Digance started out in the folk clubs but by the early 1980’s he was a television regular and for several years he had his own ITV series and his unique blend of humour and music led to a BAFTA Nomination and Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. With over 30 albums to his name, Richard has in recent years built a terrific following in the folk clubs and on the summer festival circuit. He is also a regular at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival earning a coveted ‘Pick of the Fringe’ accolade. Tickets £16, £5 U18. Box office 01803 839530 or book online at www.theflavel.org.uk.

Thursday 3 July 2014 - Steve Knightley - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
Ticket availability not known (gig date gleaned from Steve's website). www.ottertonmill.com

Sunday 6 July 2014 8pm – The Home Service - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
Plus special guest 'War Horse' song man Bob Fox. The brilliant 8-piece Home Service featuring vocalist John Tams, songwriter for the hit stage production of 'War Horse' now touring to packed houses everywhere, plus the fabulous guitar of Graeme Taylor. BBC Best 'Live' Band.  www.homeserviceband.co.uk; www.bobfoxmusic.com Standing with limited bookable seating. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/245987.

11-12 July 2014 - South Brent Folk Festival
www.southbrentfolk.org Provisional programme:
Friday 11 July: Family ceilidh
Saturday 12 July: Singing, music, dancing and workshops throughout the day in various village venues focusing on the Old School Centre.
Saturday 12 July: Evening headline concert at 7.30pm in the Village Hall with ‘Pilgrims Way’ (Four piece band comprising Edwin Beasant (melodeons, guitar, bass), Lucy Wright (vocals, fiddle); Tom Kitching (fiddle, mandolin, vocals) and Jon Loomes (Cittern, Guitar, Hurdy-Gurdy, Concertina)) and the Will Pound Band led by harmonica player and multi-instrumentalist Will Pound, who was nominated for ‘Musician of the Year’ in this year’s BBC Folk Awards.

Sunday 13 July 2014 7.45pm - Maggie Duffy & Mike Weed - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
details tba www.maggieandmike.co.uk Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

tbc Sunday 13 July 2014 8pm – Paul Downes – Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Music Club, Passage House Inn, Hackney Lane, Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot TQ12 3QH
details tba www.pauldownes.com.Tickets available on any club night, telephone 01626 362528 or email acoustic.warehouse@gmail.com. www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

Friday 18 July 2014 - Coope, Boyes & Simpson - Milverton Music, Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU
Possibly the best accapella trio on the acoustic music scene. www.milvertonmusic.co.uk/page2.html

Thursday 24 July 2014 - Gigspanner - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
details tba Bookings 01395 568521. www.ottertonmill.com

Sunday 27 July 2014 - Phil Beer - Kingsand Community Hall, Kingsand, Cornwall PL10 1NS
Phil Beer is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best-known as a top-flight fiddle player and plays in the all-star line up "Feast of Fiddles". But his skills don't stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals. This concert is being organised as a joint venture with the Maker with Rame Community Hall. Details www.wegottickets.com/event/263723.

1-8 August 2014 - Sidmouth Folk Week
Tickets are now on sale, with early bird discounts. Join the Sidmouth emailing list for regular updates throughout the year. www.sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk

8-10 August 2014 - Dartmoor Folk Festival - South Zeal
Artists announced, to date, include: New Rope String Band (Friday), Lady Maisery, Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar (winners of the BBC Young Folk Awards 2013), Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, The Old Fashioned, Bill Whaley and Dave Fletcher, Chalktown and Pete White's Suitcase Circus.
Other artists attending include Trevor Organ's Cracking Crockery, The Dartmoor Pixie Band, Tony Beard, Entertainingly Different, Dave Wills, various morris and dance teams, plus more to be confirmed.
The festival will include a packed programme of concerts, a ramble on Dartmoor, a ceilidh, folk service, craft displays, dances, a Children's Festival, a Dartmoor Fayre, music hall, pub sessions and music, song and dance workshops. Competitions include the Dartmoor Broom Dance championships and Dartmoor Stepdance Championships.
It was 37 years ago that the festival was founded by the late Bob Cann, who lived in the parish of South Zeal. He had the dream of a folk event on his doorstep that would help to revive and preserve the traditions of Dartmoor.It was the traditional music, dance, song and crafts of the area that formed the basis for the first festival and they still remain for the association which runs the festival today. Since it was founded it has grown so that it can invite some of the best folk artists around, whilst maintaining its reputation for being a relaxed, friendly and traditional festival. For further details about the Festival, or to enquire about booking tickets, telephone 01837 840102 or visit the website: www.dartmoorfolkfestival.co.uk

15-17 August 2014 - Beautiful Days Festival - Escot Park, east of Exeter
Weekend tickets on sale now (no day tickets). www.beautifuldays.org

18-22 August 2014 - Joe Broughton's 7th Annual Folkworld Course - Rattery Village Hall nr Totnes TQ10 9LD
We do hope that you will join us for another fantastic Folkworld week. Last year the course was full and this year we will be limiting the places further as Paloma will only be able to be with us part time (due to having an 8 week old baby at that point!). Course Director: Joe Broughton. Student age range: 10-21 years. Cost: £220 total. Deposit £50 payable on booking (non-refundable), balance £170 paid on 18th August. For more information please don't hesitate to contact Joe direct: joebroughton@talktalk.net. To book please send a cheque for your non-refundable deposit to Joe Broughton, 19 Loxley Road, Birmingham, B67 5BL and clearly state your name and name of student(s) and your email address. Course sessions: 18/1 10am-4pm, 19/8 1.30-4.15pm (no morning session), 20/8 10am-4.15pm, 21/8 10am-4.15pm, 22/8 10am-5pm (3pm concert - all welcome)

Friday 5 September 2014 7.30pm - James Taylor - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
Legendary five-time Grammy Award winner James Taylor. Details www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=879. Tickets only available - if still available - from the box office 0845 146 1460.

Thursday 11 September 2014 8pm - Bob & Gill Berry - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
A Wiltshire duo with great voices and wicked sense of humour. Great chorus songs from these two. See www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YJiZokL0ts

Saturday 13 September 2014 8pm - Phil Beer solo - Bow Village Hall, nr Crediton EX17 6HU (map)
Details, tickets etc. www.wegottickets.com/event/259071. Box office 01363 82379.

Saturday 13 September 2014 8pm - Blackheart - Landscove Victory Hall, nr Ashburton
Samples www.blackheartmusic.co.uk. details tba

Sunday 14 September 2014 8pm - Altan - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
With very special guests guitar supremo Chris Newman and on the Irish harp Máire Ní Chathasaigh. Budleigh Assorted Tunes are absolutely delighted to welcome one of the all-time, top flight traditional Irish bands …a fabulous repertoire of Irish language songs and all the reels and jigs, the craic, the blarney and all the joy that only the unique heritage that is Irish traditional music can bring to the concert stage. In the course of their long and distinguished career, they have worked with musicians as diverse as Dolly Parton, Enya, The Chieftains, Bonnie Raitt and Alison Krauss. Standing with limited bookable seating. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/254565, earlybird tickets until 17 August. Doors and bar (and food - call for details) open 6.30pm.

Saturday 20 September 2014 8pm - Blackheart - Tipton St John Hall, nr Sidmouth
Samples www.blackheartmusic.co.uk. details tba

Friday 26 September 2014 8pm - Blackheart - Broadwoodkelly Hall, N of Okehampton
Samples www.blackheartmusic.co.uk. Contact 01837 83625.

Sunday 28 September 2014 8pm - Dervish - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
With special guest Paul Metsers. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted)

Saturday 4 October 2014 7.30pm - Jackie Oates - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
Jackie Oates is a singer and fiddle player who has become one of the top names in the national folk scene including winning two BBC Folk Awards. Her CDs ‘Jackie Oates’; ‘The Violet Hour’; ‘Hyperboreans’; ‘Saturnine’ and ‘Lullabies’ have attracted wide critical acclaim as well as collaborative work with various other projects including ‘The Imagined Village’ and ‘The Cecil Sharp Project’. Jackie headlined the sell out concert during the 2012 South Brent Folk Festival and as she now lives in Oxford this will be a welcome return for her to Devon. [tbc: Jackie will be accompanied by Tristan Seume from the Jackie Oates Band.] Reel Ale bar. Tickets £10 adv from artworks www.artworksouthbrent.co.uk or £12 door. Information: Eileen McKee tel 01364 73699 email: eileen.southbrentfolk@gmail.com. One of a number of events organised throughout the year to support the South Brent Folk Festival (July 11/12 2014).

Friday 17 October 2014 - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Milverton Music, Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU
Popular return visit. www.milvertonmusic.co.uk/page2.html

Sunday 16 November 2014 8pm - Peter Knight's Gigspanner - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
A bedrock of British traditional music is to be expected from Steeleye Span’s legendary fiddle player Peter Knight, but 'Gigspanner’s' musical reach also draws on Eastern European, French, African and Aboriginal influences. Peter is joined by two equally talented musicians, guitarist Roger Flack and afro-percussionist Vincent Salzfaas. Samples at ???. www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk

Sunday 16 November 2014 8pm – Reg Meuross – Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Music Club, Passage House Inn, Hackney Lane, Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot TQ12 3QH
details tba www.regmeuross.com Tickets available on any club night, telephone 01626 362528 or email acoustic.warehouse@gmail.com. www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

Saturday 16 November 2014 7pm - Bellowhead - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
After their special sell-out 10th Anniversary shows at The Royal Albert Hall and Manchester Bridgewater Hall, award-winning big band Bellowhead are delighted to continue the celebrations with the announcement of their biggest ever UK tour. Details www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=905

Friday 21 November 2014 8pm - Joan Armatrading - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
"I will never retire but this will be the last major tour that I will undertake. For the first time these concerts will be me solo on stage playing the guitar, piano and singing. I want these concerts to be a special lively interactive one to one experience. I have absolutely enjoyed the last 42 years of performances but now, with my final major tour, I want to capture a unique memory for both myself and the audience." Box office 01392 665938 or online www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14892.

Saturday 22 November 2014 8pm - Blackheart - Bickington Hall, nr Newton Abbot
Samples www.blackheartmusic.co.uk. details tba

tbc Sunday 7 December 2014 - St Agnes Fountain - local venue tba
details tba

Sunday 14 December 2014 8pm - All On A Winter's Night - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
A feast of songs, carols, stories & folklore presented by Johnny Coppin (vocals, keyboards and guitar), Paul Burgess (violin and recorders) and Mick Dolan (guitars). Full details, ticketing etc. see www.wegottickets.com/event/264983.

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