Harberton Folk's Information Service
for traditional music & dance in Southern Devon

Site updated 23 January 2012

Southern Devon
Folk Diary
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Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham at The Ariel Centre Totnes, Sunday 25 March 2012 8pm
Click here for details of how to buy your tickets (in person, cheque+SAE, online)
 

Anyone viewing this website is dependent to some extent on their computer and we thank Harberton computer specialist Andrew Hockings for supporting our voluntary activities. We recommend him for your computer needs (South Hams, Torbay, Newton Abbot, Bovey Tracey, Ashburton, South Brent and Ivybridge areas). Click logo for his website or call 01803 862847 or 07973 155913 anytime.
Harberton Folk recommends the Church House Inn (right) at Harberton near Totnes for excellent food and real ales. Additional parking at Harberton Parish Hall 150yds up the road.

The Folk Diary below covers 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 fully zoomable map.
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

Tuesday 24 January 2012 8.30pm - Lisbee Stainton - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
London-based 23yr old singer-songwriter known as ‘The English Rose With The 8-String Guitar'. She has had rave reviews including - MOJO, Uncut Magazine, The Independent on Sunday, the Daily Express and The Mirror, and GMTV announce Lisbee a star in the making; The Times declare, "Bound for Glory - ....an exquisite slice of traditional songwriting: pure and pitch perfect." www.myspace.com/lisbeestainton £4

Wednesday 25 January 2012 - Maggie Duffy & Mike Weed - Millbrook Inn, South Pool, nr Kingsbridge
for Burns Night

Wednesday 25 January 2012 - Burns Night Hootenanny! - The Woodside, 12 Gasking Street, Plymouth (map)
Celtic folk group: Three Strand Minstrelsy www.myspace.com/threestrandminstrelsy. Free entry (tickets sold for food). Music 9pm.

25-28 January 2012 - Brown Paper Ballads - Crediton Arts Centre
Folk songs have been mined on several occasions for theatrical material. Those productions, however, have tended to use the songs in an illustrative way. What Brown Paper Bag are attempting to do here is something different – to tell the stories of the songs themselves. The tales told in the songs are vibrant, shocking, hilarious and moving by turn, with some cracking tunes thrown in . Some of the plays are deeply interconnected with the songs while others have little or no remaining trace of the song which provided its starting point. Presented by Brown Paper Bag Theatre Co. featuring 15 local actors, musicians and dancers. Tickets £5 from The Bookshop 01363 774740 (incorrectly given as 77470 originally).

Thursday 26 January 2012 8.30pm - Cloud Cover - Teignmouth Folk Club, Devon Arms Hotel, Northumberland Place (map)
Free admission. Guest Night with Cloud Cover (aka Ann Darby & Steve Gill). Details from Martyn Hillstead 01626 778071.

Thursday 26 January 2012 - Bellowhead - Princess Theatre, Torquay (map)
Box Office 0844 871 3023. Online booking www.secure-ticket.co.uk/gigantic/home_bellowhead.html (if you find a cheaper option. let me know)

Saturday 28 January 2012 7pm - Plymouth Morris Men's 42nd Annual Ceilidh with 4 Feet First - Woolwell Comunity Centre, Plymouth PL6 7TR (map)
Tickets £7 (incl pasty supper) from Ray on 01752 345048 or Dan on 07794 848452. Real ale bar.

Saturday 28 January 2012 7.30pm - Winter Ceilidh with Sheer Hopody - St James' Church Hall, Mt Pleasant Rd, EX4 7AH
For Exeter Green Party. Caller Martin Hodge. www.sheerhopody.org.uk The same team that produced a fantastic danceable evening in 2011. £9, concs £7.

Saturday 28 January 2012 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
Another fun-filled folk evening at the Cross House Inn, all welcome, bring your instruments and voices. let's make it another evening to remember, we need audience as well as performers.

Saturday 28 January 2012 7.30pm - Barn Dance with 3dB Ceilidh Band - Jubilee Hall, Chagford TQ13 8DP (map)
Caller Chris Jewell. Popular annual event, for St Michael's Church. Tickets £12 (includes Ploughman's Supper) from Sally's newsagents: 9 The Square, Chagford 01647 432215.

Sunday 29 January 2012 7.30pm - Fairport Convention - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Hailed as the originators of British folk-rock music, Fairport Convention remain one of the most entertaining bands on today's concert circuit. Their sell-out gigs always attract critical acclaim and delight audiences. Fairport Convention features Simon Nicol on guitar and lead vocals, Dave Pegg on bass and backing vocals, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki and lead vocals, Ric Sanders on violin and Gerry Conway on drums and percussion. The band has won a coveted BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted Fairport's groundbreaking album, Liege & Lief, the Most Influential Folk Album of All Time.
Box office 01392 665938 www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13836

Sunday 29 January 2012 7.45pm - Miranda Sykes and Rex Preston - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill (map)
With a fabulous musical pedigree, working alongside the lies of Leon Rosselson and Show of Hands, Miranda has superb double bass and vocal skills, her complemented by the astonishing mandolin playing of Rex Preston. £7/£9. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Tuesday 31 January 2012 8.30pm - Exmouth Folk Club Showcase Night - Manor Hotel, Exmouth (map)
featuring Kat With Attitude, Graham Butterfield and Tobias Ben Jacob. Free.

Tuesday 31 January 2012 - Stone Soup Storytelling - Plymouth
Twisted Tales
(adult storytelling, music, and poetry) - Last Tuesday of each month (Sep-Apr) at The Morley Arms on Billacombe Road, Plymouth. Doors 8.00pm, entertainment from 8.30pm. Admission £3. Adults only (16+). Plus other events. For further information please visit: www.stonesoupstorytelling.org.uk (email on website) or contact: Stone Soup - 01752 319335

Thursday 2 February 2012 - Tom McConville & David Newey - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
BBC 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. Tom's partnership with wonderful guitarist David Newey has won worldwide acclaim. Expect a heart-stopping performance, punctuated by Tom's inimitable Geordie wit. www.tommcconville.co.uk www.ottertonmill.com

Last in Devon in June 2006
Friday 3 February 2012 - The Acoustic Strawbs
-
Blackawton Village Hall, nr Totnes (map)
The front line of one of Britain's most successful and enduring folk rock bands. Doors 7.30pm. Licensed bar and ample free car parking. Tickets £12 from Steve Gale 01803 712449 or 07941 611868. Various short samples at www.strawbsweb.co.uk/ix_dlds.htm and one of their classics 'Lay Down' in full with the 'acoustic' line-up at www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP8sEeDnTwU&feature=related.

Friday 3 February 2012 8pm - Madison Violet - Victory Hall, Whimple
Since releasing their last album, No Fool for Trying, Madison Violet from Canada won the 2009 John Lennon Songwriting Contest for their track "The Ransom," took home the 2009 Canadian Folk Music Award for Vocal Group of the Year, and were nominated for multiple East Coast Music Awards and a 2010 JUNO Award for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year (Group). Enquiries 07548 278276. £8. www.myspace.com/madvioletmusic www.onawhimpromotions.co.uk

3/4 February 2012 - Wood Sisters Winter Storytelling Festival - South Devon Steiner School
Come and join the Wood Sisters to celebrate the winter festivals of Imbolc and Candlemas with a feast of myth, poetry and storytelling, meditation and ceremony, seasonal crafts and music… and delicious food! Details www.woodsisters.co.uk
(24-27 August 2012 - Westcountry Storytelling Festival - Embercombe, nr Exeter www.weststoryfest.co.uk)

Saturday 4 February 2012 8pm - Acoustic Cafe - Carlton Theatre, Teignmouth
A lively and varied evening of top quality acoustic music featuring sets by Maz Totterdell, Adelia, Adam Sweet, The Estuary Buoys and Mae and the Midnight Fairground - 5 local acts performing in aid of the Tykes Youth Theatre. Doors 7.30pm. Tickets £6 on the door. Bring your own wine drinks and nibbles. Great music, great acts, great atmosphere. Call 07768 474152 for full details.

Saturday 4 February 2012 8pm - Nicky Swann - Totnes FM Studio Lounge (map)
Doors 7pm. + special guests. Since launching her solo career in 2006 Nicky Swann has achieved a growing reputation in such a short space of time, singing from the heart and captivating audiences with her emotionally honest delivery. Bar. Details: www.livemusictotnes.com/#/whats-on/4558438373. Totnes FM, The Voice Of South Devon, Unit A, The Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN www.totnesfm.co.uk

Saturday 4 February 2012 - Reg Meuross & Bethany Porter - Plough Arts, Great Torrington
Reg Meuross earned a reputation as one of the most talented folk/roots musicians around. From gigging in village halls to playing The Albert Hall, where Mike Harding introduced him as “one of the finest singer-songwriters this country has produced”. Songs of Tom, Dick & Harry explores events that influenced the lives of some extraordinary men and women through history including Tom (poet Thomas Chatterton), Dick (Turpin) and Harry (Farr), the WW1 soldier shot for ‘cowardice’. Reg will be accompanied by the talented Bethany Porter, a brilliant and distinctive cellist and ukulele player whose sensitive and sympathetic accompaniment is sublime. Box office 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk

Wednesday 8 February 2012 8.15pm - Dave Wood - Route 2 Café Bar, Topsham (map)
In aid of The Magic Carpet Project. "It's an intimate venue - max 40 plus- and I'll be playing two decent sets (no support), allowing me space to draw on the wider range of material that reflects my writing and influences- from traditional ballads, to blues, original songs (new ones too) and beatles etc arranged wood! ( I am working up a whole evening of Beatles reinterpretations for later in the year/decade! and so there will be some new arrangements to air). £5 adv /£6 door. Email kevin@lodgemusicpro.co.uk or call box office 01395 267029 / 07771 558914

Wednesday 8 February 2012 - BBC Folk Awards
Live on BBC Radio 2 and on TV on the BBC Red Button

Thursday 9 February 2012 - Barb Jungr Sings Bob Dylan - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
Barb's Mill visit in 2011 blew us away. This internationally lauded singer returns in 2012 with her powerful performance of one of the great musical icons of the twentieth century, Bob Dylan. Described by Billy Bragg as "possibly our best interpreter of Dylan's songs", Barb has won two New York awards for her exciting live shows and a devoted cult following for her passionate singing, subtle arrangements, artistry and humour. "Superlative" (The Independent) and "Sensational" (New York Times).Accompanied by pianist Jenny Carr. www.barbjungr.com www.ottertonmill.com

Thursday 9 February 2012 8.15pm - Tim Van Eyken - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
The long awaited return of a great singer and musician to the folk scene after 3 years acting in War Horse and other productions. Award-winner solo and with Dr Faustus & Waterson Carthy. Check his sound at www.timvaneyken.co.uk and www.myspace.com/timvaneyken. Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org,

Friday 10 February 2012 9pm - Claude Bourbon - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
A breathtaking acoustic fusion of blues, jazz, folk, classical and Spanish guitar from a stunning guitar virtuoso from France. Tickets 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/150833. www.b-bar.co.uk

Friday 10 February 2012 8pm - Darren Fisher - Totnes FM Studio Lounge (map)
+ support. Doors 7pm. Crossing the borders of folk and rock, Darren is making waves across Europe and recently returned from a tour of the USA He's back in the south west to delight you with his new material. Darren truly is a class act www.myspace.com/darrenfishermusic. Bar. Details: www.livemusictotnes.com/#/whats-on/4558438373. Totnes FM, The Voice Of South Devon, Unit A, The Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN www.totnesfm.co.uk

Saturday 11 February 2012 8pm - Great Western Ceilidh with Red Shed - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter (map)
Caller Pete Langley. £9 and concs. To book, call Alan Jones on 01392 217152 or email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk. Further details: www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs

Saturday 11 February 2012 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Up The Creek - Kings Arms, Fore Street, Kingsbridge
Caller Ken Hudson. 'Up The Creek' are Nigel and Sarah Sture. Bar. Tickets £8 (includes sandwich supper), from Kingsbridge Information Centre or call 01548 854407. Nearest parking top of Fore Street or Cookworthy Car Park – access from Cookworthy Road only.

Saturday 11 February 2012 8.30pm - Dave Swarbrick- George Hotel, South Molton (map)
Bookings/info 01769 572514. www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk

Saturday 11 February 2012 - Phil Beer Band - Electric Palace, Bridport
Only 4 dates on this year's tour, and this is the closest to Devon.

Sunday 12 February 2012 7.45pm - Damien Barber & Mike Wilson - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill (map)
The pairing of the lead singer from the "Demon Barbers" with a member of the renowned Wilson family from Teeside was bound to be successful and so it proves. Great songs, both traditional and modern, expertly sung and accompanied. £8/£10. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Wednesday 15 February 2012 - Folk Night with guests - Rolle Arms, Lower Budleigh, East Budleigh EX9 7DL (map)
"We have started Folk Night again on the 3rd Wednesday of every month it's not a session at the moment, however if people would like it to be one we will start one up again on the first Wednesday of every month as before. But first things first, The Rolle Arms folk night with be hosted by The Otter River Bush Band, and they will have special guests every month. Music starts around 8 to 8.30pm." www.therollearms.webs.com 01395 442012

15-18 February 2012 - Eduardo Niebla (Duo) - touring southern Devon through 'Villages In Action'
Amazing Flamenco-jazz guitar virtuoso, a master of today's generation; technically superb, poignantly poetic, supernaturally talented. Inspired by tours to India, the Middle East, his adopted Yorkshire homeland and his mother, Eduardo presents his stunning new album "My Gypsy Waltz" together with music from his acclaimed 30 year career - intricately brilliant, passionate flamenco infused with a myriad of Eastern colors and a Gypsy-jazz edge. Music samples at www.eduardoniebla.com. Appearing at Bigbury (15/2), tickets 01548 810373; Milton Combe (16/2) tickets 01822 854865; Scoriton (17/2) tickets: 01364 631288; Stokeinteignhead (18/2) tickets 01626 873650/873178. Full details www.villagesinaction.co.uk.

Thursday 16 February 2012 - Steve Knightley - Exeter Phoenix (map)
One half of Show of Hands, Steve is touring solo with special guests Philip Henry and Hannah Martin. ‘Committed and distinctive songs of conscience, love and history’ – BBC Radio 2. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Friday 17 February 2012 - Reg Meuross & Bethany Porter - Milverton Music Club, nr Taunton
www.milvertonmusic.co.uk

Saturday 18 February 2012 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Klezmer band "Kevara" - Cheriton Bishop Village Hall, nr Crediton (map)
Caller: Pam Hayes. Life enhancing joyful music to dance to. No need for a partner, and easy steps that everyone can do! Admission £8 (concs £6). Enquiries: 01647 24789

Sunday 19 February 2012 8pm - Kris Drever with Eamonn Coyne - Topsham Folk Club, Globe Hotel (map)
Kris Drever is a talented guitarist and singer from the Orkney Islands whose debut solo album ‘Black Water’ won him the Horizon Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2007. He is also an awards winner with Lau, the band he plays in with Aidan O’Rourke and Martin Green, winning ‘Best Group’ in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Kris is joined here by multi-instrumentalist Eamonn Coyne. £10. Call Brian Lewis on 01404 44498 to reserve tickets. www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk

Sunday 19 February 2012 8pm - Jeff Davis (USA) with Brian Peters (UK) - Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge (map)
Long term collaborators in exploring and making real the authentic music which got its strong stomach from travelling to and fro across the Atlantic: port to port, ranch to farm, mine to mine, pub to saloon, back and forth, over and again down the years. Great singers and multi-instrumentalists with virtuoso skills on fiddle, guitar, banjo, and reeds. www.jeffdavisoldmusic.com www.brian-peters.co.uk £10 advance booking: 01548 856601. £15 door. 20% off booked pre-concert meals, on: 01548 852345. More at www.shamstrad.co.uk.

Tuesday 21 February 2012 8.30pm - Thunderbridge Bluegrass Boys - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
Somerset's finest "All acoustic, foot stompin' stuff". Original performance in the traditional bluegrass style. One of the most exciting and innovative bands on the bluegrass circuit. Combining the tradition of a single-mic performance with all-acoustic instruments, blistering four-part harmonies, a strong original & classic setlist and a no-compromise determination to always give a top notch, 100% performance. www.myspace.com/thunderbridgebluegrass £4

Thursday 23 February 2012 - Gary Fletcher - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
For over 25 years Gary has been best known as the bass player in the hugely successful, Glastonbury headlining group, The Blues Band, led by Paul Jones. More recently, Gary has pursued a solo career and has rapidly established himself as a wonderfully talented singer songwriter in his own right. Championed by BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris, Gary is a performer of, "strong, personal, meaningful blues... a writer who isn't afraid to tell it like it is" (Blues Matters). Expect emotionally honest lyrics delivered with impeccable musicianship. www.garyfletchermusic.net www.ottertonmill.com

Friday 24 February 2012 7pm - Steve Banks with John Risdon - Stoke Gabriel Village Hall (map)
"All the Way Fro’ France: tales of maritime smuggling and very special visitor – Napoleon Bonaparte”. An evening of fascinating historical anecdotes from John about smuggling on the Devon coast and the “Billy Ruffian”, the ship of the line that brought Bonaparte to Torbay en route to exile in St Helena, interwoven with traditional and brand new songs and tunes from Steve (www.bluejewel.info) . Tickets from Stoke Gabriel Post Office.

Sunday 25 February 2012 7.45pm - David Newey - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill (map)
First rate young singer/songwriter/guitarist, David is a former finalist in the BBC Young Folk Musician of the Year awards, is much in demand as a guitar teacher and often tours with/accompanies the excellent Tom McConville. £7/£9. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Saturday 25 February 8.30pm - North Sea Gas - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
Scottish band. Bookings 01769 572514. www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk

Thursday 1 March 2012 - Chris Smither - Exeter Phoenix (map)
The American folk/blues singer songwriter and guitarist tours with a new album. www.myspace.com/chrissmither £14.50. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Friday 2 March 2012 - Beth Jeans Houghton - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. The Geordie alt-folk singer songwriter is touring alongside the release of her debut album on Mute Records. ‘... a sound that is Vashti Bunyan
crossed with Nico and Laura Marling’ The Guardian. www.myspace.com/bethjeanshoughton  www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

tbc Friday 2 March 2012 - Phil Beer - Plough Arts, Great Torrington
details tba

Saturday 3 March 2012 7pm - BBC Concert Orchestra with Seth Lakeman - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
The BBC Concert Orchestra brings the spirit of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to the South West for the party of the year, with special guest Seth Lakeman. Great music with some BBC Concert Orchestra favourites, from the magical Sorcerer’s Apprentice, to a medley of the very best James Bond hits. A rousing Pomp and Circumstance March by Elgar and music from Carousel. Seth Lakeman brings you a fresh new take on some of his most popular tracks. Then, families from Devon and Cornwall unite to form the 200-strong Devon and Cornwall Family Orchestra & Chorus! Based on folk tunes close to the hearts of its members, the Family Orchestra’s will perform a brand new piece with the BBC Concert Orchestra. Join the party, book your tickets now! £10 Full details www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=596

Saturday 3 March 2012 8pm - Andy Clarke & Steve Tyler - Hazelwood House nr Loddiswell (map)
Folk singer & member of the ‘Mooncoin Ceilidh Band’ Andy Clark & ‘Daughters of Elvin’ member Steve Tyler will be coming to Hazelwood for an evening of traditional English songs & music. The night will feature performances with the hurdy-gurdy, citern, guitar and bouzouki. £15/£12 01548 821232 www.hazelwoodhouse.com. Pre-concert 6.45pm buffet supper available, booking essential.

Saturday 3 March 2012 8pm - Katie Marie & Keith Jones - Totnes FM Studio Lounge (map)
Doors 7pm. UK based multi-instrumentalist and songwriter performing her own original compositions with a unique style of jazz-tinged folk that has plenty of soul. Katie has captivated audiences with her percussive guitar style and deeply emotive vocals. Katie will be performing songs from her brand new album 'Bedtime Stories'. 'Katie Marie is a funky Joni Mitchell in disguise.' Heather Corcoran, Coffee House Tour. Bar. Details: www.livemusictotnes.com/#/whats-on/4558438373. Totnes FM, The Voice Of South Devon, Unit A, The Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN www.totnesfm.co.uk

Sunday 4 March 2012 - Steve Knightley - Blackmore Theatre, Exmouth (map)
One half of Show of Hands, Steve is touring solo with special guests Philip Henry and Hannah Martin. ‘Committed and distinctive songs of conscience, love and history’ – BBC Radio 2. Box office 01395 227887

Wednesday 7 March 2012 8.15pm - Tim Edey Collective - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
Tim Edey is quite simply the best exponent on both button accordion and guitar in the Celtic music genre. A double 2012 Folk Awards nominee. Samples at www.myspace.com/timedey. Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org,

7-10 March 2012 - Tatcho Drom - touring southern Devon through 'Villages In Action'
Tatcho Drom, which means "true journey" in the Romany tongue, is a London-based quintet playing acoustic music from the Balkans and beyond with the flair and passion of generations past. They bring an infectious energy, spirit and humour to their performances, often enchanting their audiences onto the dance floor. Music samples: www.myspace.com/tatchodrom. Appearing at: South Milton (7/3); Clyst Hydon (8/3); Combeinteignhead (9/3); Bow nr Crediton (10/3).  Full details www.villagesinaction.co.uk.

Thursday 8 March 2012 8pm - Martin Carthy - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes (map)
The one and only! Advance tickets £9 available until end January only to regular members of Totnes folk club as a thank-you to them for their support for the club. Remaining tickets will be on general release from 1st Feb. Call Anne Gill 01803 290427 for reservations.

Thursday 8 March - Patsy Metheson & Becky Mills - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
Both former members of the award winning female acoustic group Waking the Witch, Patsy and Becky combine traditional and contemporary folk, acoustic blues, R & B, jazz and rock, with intricate vocal harmonies, natural chemistry, and an engaging charm and humour. The sound they create has been called "painting by song" (Leith FM). Greatly respected within the folk world and with a dedicated following, their "honeycomb vocals" and "plaintive guitar" (Halifax Courier) make for a spellbinding evening of music. www.patsymatheson.co.uk www.ottertonmill.com

Thursday 8 March 2012 7.30pm - The Dubliners - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
50th anniversary! www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=600

Friday 9 March 2012 7.30pm - Johnny Coppin & Mike Silver - New Theatre, Exeter (map)
The combination of Johnny’s and Mike’s guitars gets right to the heart. £10. Booking details: www.cygnetnewtheatre.com/blog/2011/03/18/silver-coppi/

Saturday 10 March 2012 8pm - Great Western Ceilidh with Asha - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter (map)
Callers Jackie Allan & Dave Jolly. £9 and concs. To book, call Alan Jones on 01392 217152 or email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk. Further details: www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs

Friday 16 March 2012 8pm - Fisherman's Friends - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
English folk music has enjoyed a renaissance in the last decade, especially in the West Country. Now, after their success at the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award, these Shanty men of Port Isaac are out on the road to delight and enthral audiences with their voices in an incredibly rousing and joyful set of shanties and Cornish folk songs. The authentic sound of the shanty can be heard loud and clear via the mighty, brawny chorale of The Fisherman's Friends. Be prepared to have your ears blown clean off. Between them, they are five baritones, two top tenors, two second tenors, and one bass, who make a fat sound, a full sound and a solid wall of sound. The Fisherman's Friends from Port Isaac have delighted visitors and locals there for more than 15 years, with almost 300 live performances under their belts and a major album release. www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13981
Box office 01392 665938

tbc Friday 16 March 2012 - Maggie Duffy & Mike Weed - Newton Ferrers
details tba www.villagevarieties.co.uk.

Friday 16 March 2012 8pm - Blue Jewel - Barnfield Theatre, Exeter (map)
(Clifford Room) A group of top south Devon musicians brought together at the beginning of 2010 by Steve Banks (member of the Carnival Band, best known for their UK Christmas tours with folk legend Maddy Prior). Steve’s sublime violin playing and vocals are beautifully complemented by Pat Butterly on double bass and Scott McGowan on acoustic guitar (there will be no drums for this concert). The programme will include tracks from their album “Dart Songs”, a celebration of the natural beauty and history of the Dart estuary in music and song. You can listen to tracks at their website (www.bluejewel.info). The concert will be a feast of variety – stirring ballads, fast and furious Irish jigs and reels, fantastic arrangements of songs by great names such as James Taylor, the Incredible String Band and Monty Python! With their fine musicianship, great songs and tunes, and engaging stage presence, Blue Jewel have been met with a rapturous response – “Better than James Taylor!”, “We were blown away by your performance!”, “You have a wonderfully rich, smooth voice, like Bailey’s Irish Cream – we wanted to recommend you to everyone!”. This will be a real treat of beautiful, soulful, uplifting acoustic music. Tickets £9. Box office 01392 270891 www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

Friday 16 March 2012 8.30pm - Craobh Rua - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
St Patrick tour. Bookings 01769 572514. www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk

Saturday 17 March 2012 - Mad Dog Mcrea - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. A St Patrick’s Day special - sixpiece band blending a unique mixture of celtic folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz and bluegrass into an infectious sound. www.myspace.com/maddogmcrea  £10.50. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Saturday 17 March 2012 8pm - Elkie Brooks - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Box office 01392 665938 www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13702

Saturday 17 March 2012 7.30pm - Lucy Ward - St Mary's Church, Brixton PL8 2AN (map)
+ support. Lucy has a phenomenal voice and is twice nominated in this year's Radio 2 Folk Awards. She plays guitar and concertina and has a lovely array of material that takes in both modern and traditional folk as well as her own pieces. www.lucywardsings.com Tickets £6, reservations to PCC secretary on 01752 881638. Refreshments available. All concerts www.brixton-village.co.uk/folkconcerts.htm. All proceeds towards much needed repairs and building work.

Saturday 17 March 2012 8pm - Simon Scott - Totnes FM Studio Lounge (map)
+special guest. Doors 7pm. Multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter Simon is a stalwart of the south west music scene. Now on the solo trail Simon offers a compelling mix of folk, rock, jazz and funk incorporating all the influences he has taken in over the years. So sit back, relax, and enioy. Bar. Details: www.livemusictotnes.com/#/whats-on/4558438373. Totnes FM, The Voice Of South Devon, Unit A, The Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN www.totnesfm.co.uk

tbc Sunday 18 March 2012 3.30-6.pm - Beesounds - Underwood Discovery Centre, Beeson, TQ7 2ED, nr Kingsbridge (map)
Including Steve Banks (Maddy Prior's Carnival Band, Blue Jewel etc.) 4.30pm. Details from valeriebelsey@gmail.com or ring 01803 866916.

Sunday 18 March 2012 - Jim Moray - Exeter Phoenix (map)
The award-winning young folk musician is known for his re-imagining of English traditional music blended with orchestral flourishes, guitars and electronics. www.jimmoray.co.uk £12.50. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Tuesday 20 March 2012 8.30pm - Rosie Eade & Davey Malone - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
Rosie Eade "Folk-Pixie": Solo musician, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, playing lively and evocative life inspired songs of her own, interspersed with carefully chosen traditional songs, all arranged around her love of folk, rock and thrashing her old nylon strung guitar. Equally at home within the folk, rock and acoustic genres. www.myspace.com/rosieeade. Davey Malone (AKA Hobo Jones) Davey has a unique combination of Raw Trash Folk, Acoustic Punk, and Comedy. Blending originals and quirky re-worked covers, he can tailor his vocal style to suit. A wonderful counterpoint to Rosie but they combine their performances to great effect. www.myspace.com/dirtydavey

Wednesday 21 March 2012 - Gretchen Peters - Exeter Phoenix (map)
The Grammy-nominated Nashville country/folk singer-songwriter releases her eighth album in early 2012. Hello Cruel World will also feature contributions from Rodney Crowell and members of Robert Plant’s Band of Joy. www.myspace.com/gretchenpeters www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Wednesday 21 March 2012 - Folk Night with guests - Rolle Arms, Lower Budleigh, East Budleigh EX9 7DL (map)
"We have started Folk Night again on the 3rd Wednesday of every month it's not a session at the moment, however if people would like it to be one we will start one up again on the first Wednesday of every month as before. But first things first, The Rolle Arms folk night with be hosted by The Otter River Bush Band, and they will have special guests every month. Music starts around 8 to 8.30pm." www.therollearms.webs.com 01395 442012

Thursday 22 March 2012 - Craig & Willoughby - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
Cathryn Craig and Brian Willoughby have an undisputed musical pedigree, having worked with The Righteous Brothers, Mary Hopkin, Joe Brown, The Strawbs and Nanci Griffith. Drawing on a wealth of different musical styles and history, their duo sound is best described as "Anglicised Americana", and combines Cathryn's soaring vocals with Brian's sublime guitar playing. Cathryn and Brian share stories from their careers among simply outstanding songs, to create a magical and memorable night. www.craigandwilloughby.com www.ottertonmill.com

Friday 23 March 2012 8pm - Andy Cutting - Church House, South Tawton, nr Okehampton (map)
A musician's musician: a soulful and technically outstanding melodeon practitioner with an ear for a fine tune. Many of his tunes have been purloined along the way: some considered contemporary classics on the folk scene. Seven Stars nearby, or BYO drinks. Small venue, please advance book, £7 via www.liveandacoustic.co.uk.

Friday 23 March 2012 8pm - Mike Harding - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
"Me, A Guitar & Some Daft Stuff". Box office 01392 665938  www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13841

Friday 23 March 2012 7.30pm - Joan Baez - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
Since she began her legendary residency at Boston's famed Club 47 and her debut at the 1959 Newport Folk Festival, Joan Baez remains a musical force of nature whose influence is incalculable - marching on the front line of the civil rights movement with Martin Luther King, singing on the first Amnesty International tour, standing alongside Nelson Mandela when the world celebrated his 90th birthday in London's Hyde Park. http://www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=601

Saturday 24 March 2012 7.30pm - Exmouth Shanty Men - Lympstone Village Hall (map)
Charity concert. All profits to Village Hall funds. Bar/doors open 7pm. Tickets £8 available from Viv and Tony Day 01395 268653.

Sunday 25 March 2012 8pm - Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham - Ariel Centre, Totnes (map)
Presented by Harberton Cricket Club (supported
by Harberton Folk). Tickets £15, students/U18s £12. Click here for ticketing details

Sunday 25 March 2012 8pm - Vin Garbutt - Topsham Folk Club, Globe Hotel (map)
Powerful, hugely moving, warm, humane, inspired, funny and gut wrenchingly honest. These are just some of the superlatives used to describe Vin's performance. This international, award winning, singer songwriter is completing his 42nd year on the road. He is forever in demand and his shows are continually sell outs, so get your tickets early! £10. Call Brian Lewis on 01404 44498 to reserve tickets. www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk

Thursday 29 March 2012 – Mark Butcher & Matt Taylor - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
Inspired by life, love and family, Mark and Matt create a modern twist on the best traditions of blues, soul and R'n'B. An ex-England batsman, Mark's debut album "Songs from the Sunhouse" received wide critical acclaim from, among others, Eric Clapton, who described it as "great stuff". Mark has guested with the likes of: Bill Wyman, Albert Lee, John Etheridge, and dueted with Sarah Brightman. Duo partner Matt is a highly respected guitarist, who has performed with Sam Brown, Boy George, Suggs, Mica Paris, Tony Christie, and Paul Young. Mark says, "music is about making you feel good," and together, this duo promise to do just that. www.ottertonmill.com

Saturday 31 March 2012 8pm - Blue Jewel - South Brent Village Hall (map)
Blue Jewel are an exciting folk-acoustic band formed by Steve Banks (Maddy Prior & the Carnival Band, Chanter). The set will include tracks from their album Dart Songs, storming jigs and reels, and covers of some classic acoustic songs. £8/£6. Box office details and sample tracks at www.bluejewel.info. “Amazing instrumentals… subtlety and imagination… a memorable and enjoyable album.” - ‘What’s Afoot Magazine.

Saturday 31 March 2012 7pm - Open Dance with PHOENIX - Marldon Village Hall (map)
For the TOADS Theatre Company. Dancing until 10.30pm. Tickets £8 including light refreshments (BYO drinks). Tickets available from nigel@phoenixbarndance.com.

Saturday 31 March 2012 8pm - Appalachia - George Hotel, South Molton (map)
A Shammick Abroad concert. Bookings 01769 572514. www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk

Wednesday 4 April 2012 8.15pm - Lucy Ward - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
Brilliant young singer, double nominee for 2012 Folk Awards, she could turn the dictionary into a song to die for. Headed for great things, catch her now! www.lucywardsings.com Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org,

Thursday 5 April 2012 - Rag Mama Rag - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
A welcome return for Mill favourites Rag Mama Rag. Husband and wife duo, Ashley and Deborah, deliver a barnstorming mix of 20's and 30's Mississippi Blues and ragtime, alongside original compositions. Playing everything from lapsteel and bottleneck guitar, to dobro, ukulele, washboard, harmonica, spoons and African drum, they'll have your feet tapping and a smile on your face! www.webring.org/hub/blues www.ottertonmill.com

Friday 6 April 2012 7.30pm - Feast of Fiddles - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Feast of Fiddles is a musical entertainment like no other - six of the UK's finest fiddle players in a band of 11 which includes Dave Mattacks - the grandfather of folk rock drumming. Peter Knight of Steeleye Span, Chris Leslie of Fairport Convention, Brian McNeill, Ian Cutler, Tom Leary and Garry Blakeley bring their own individual styles together to visit many musical genres in a show that has a wide dynamic range and will have you dancing in the aisles and perhaps even shedding a tear. The 2012 tour is the band's 19th annual outing and the critical acclaim gets louder every year. Bring even your sceptical friends, they won't be disappointed.
Box office 01392 665938 www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13842

Sunday 15 April 2012 - Andy Irvine - Grapevine, Exmouth
Doors 7pm, stage approx. 9.15pm. His is literally as big a name as you can imagine in the folk music world. In a career spanning 45 years, his biography and multiple musical associations reading like a who's who of traditional Irish Music, having been an integral part of great bands such as Sweeney's Men, the legendary Planxty alongside Christy Moore, Donal Lunny and Liam O'Flynn, Patrick Street with Jackie Daly, Arty McGlynn and Kevin Burke, as well as acclaimed solo work and collaborations with the likes of Paul Brady and Dick Gaughan. www.grapevineexmouth.com. Tickets £14 plus booking fee at www.wegottickets.com/event/151047 (no adv tickets at venue).

Thursday 19 April 2012 - John Renbourn & Robin Williamson - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. £15.50 advance. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Saturday 21 April 2012 8pm - Great Western Ceilidh with Panjandrum - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter (map)
Caller Gordon Potts. £9 and concs. To book, call Alan Jones on 01392 217152 or email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk. Further details: www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs

Sunday 22 April 2012 8pm - Jeana Leslie & Siobhan Miller - Topsham Folk Club, Globe Hotel (map)
Jeana and Siobhan are two talented young singers and musicians who are recognised as shining new stars on the Scottish Music scene focusing strongly on traditional, contemporary and self-penned song. Jeana (fiddle, Hardanger fiddle, piano, vocal) and Siobhan (vocal, piano, dance) met while studying at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama. Since winning the 2008 BBC Young Folk Award they have toured to great acclaim throughout the UK and Europe. £8. Call Brian Lewis on 01404 44498 to reserve tickets. www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk

Wednesday 25 April 2012 - Brass Monkey - Bridport Arts Centre
The only (vaguely) SW tour date (probably)

Thursday 26 April 2012 7.30pm - Richard Grainger & Chris Parkinson - St Mary's Church, Brixton PL8 2AN (map)
+ support. Richard has an unforgettable voice quality and a great repertoire; Chris is one of the most talented and respected accordion and melodeon players in the business. They are a terrific combination! www.myspace.com/richardgrainger www.chrisparkinsonmusic.co.uk Tickets £6, reservations to PCC secretary on 01752 881638. Refreshments available. All concerts www.brixton-village.co.uk/folkconcerts.htm. All proceeds towards much needed repairs and building work.

Wednesday 2 May 2012 8.15pm - Sunjay Brayne - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
Unbelievably mature guitar and song for his 18 years, Sunjay is definitely one to watch, and is nominated for the 2012 BBC Radio2 Young Folk Awards. More about him at www.sunjaybrayne.com and on YouTube.
Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org

Wednesday 9 May 2012 - Blazin Fiddles - Brewhouse Theatre, Taunton
The only SW tour date (probably)

Thursday 10 May 2012 8pm - Brian Peters - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes (map)
First visit from the brilliant singe/songwriter/guitarist/squeezebox player. www.myspace.com/brianpetersfolk Information Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

Thursday 10 May 2012 - The Martin Marley Band - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. £12.50. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk Tel. 01392 667080

Saturday 12 May 2012 8pm - Robin & Bina Williamson - Hazelwood House nr Loddiswell (map)
The concert will feature them collaborating in an East meets West style of vocal harmonies that they’ve become known for. Enjoy original and traditional pieces from Celtic, Indian, Old Timey & English Roots on Harp, Bowed Psaltery & more. Tickets £15 (£12 conc.). Pre-concert 6.45pm buffet supper available, booking essential. www.hazelwoodhouse.com 01548 821232.

Sunday 13 May 2012 7.30pm - Davey Arthur & The Fureys - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Legends of Irish music the Fureys & Davey Arthur, will be making their debut concert appearance at the Exeter Corn Exchange during 2012. The band were formed in 1978 literally by accident. George, Paul and Davey were playing in Denmark with their own band called the Buskers and Eddie and Finbar, while touring in Germany were involved in a road accident. When George, Paul and Davey got news of the accident they immediately travelled to Germany to be with their brothers. They then decided that they should all be playing together and this was the start of the Fureys and Davey Arthur. The band have had a string of hits including When you were Sweet Sixteen, The Green Fields of France, Red Rose Café, The Old Man, Steal Away, Her Father didn't like me anyway, Clare to Here and Leaving Nancy. The Fureys & Davey Arthur are responsible for some of the most stirring music ever to capture the public imagination. Their folk based music has received standing ovations in some of the biggest concert halls of the world.
Box office 01392 665938 www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13843

Sunday 13 May 2012 8pm - Bayou Seco - Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge (map)
Jeannie McLerie and Ken Keppeler out of Silver City, New Mexico, singing from Cajun, Hispanic, cowboy and mountain traditions, with stunning accompaniment on fiddles, guitars, banjos and all kinds of reeds. www.bayouseco.com. Book tickets from 4 weeks in advance at big discounts on 01548 856601. Concert-goers with a reserved table get 20% meals discount. Reserve with the pub on 01548 852345.

Sunday 20 May 2012 8pm - Gigspanner - Topsham Folk Club, Globe Hotel (map)
www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk

tbc Saturday 26 May 2012 8pm - Fairport Convention - The Watermark, Ivybridge (map)
Tickets not yet on sale - you'll probably hear first here when they are.

Sunday 27 May 2012 7.30pm - Peggy Seeger - Northcott Theatre, Exeter (map)
Stocker Road EX4 4QB. Peggy Seeger is considered to be one of North America's finest female folk singers. She can make traditional ballads or sea shanties sound timeless, yet as current as if written yesterday, accompanying herself on guitar, banjo, concertina, dulcimer or piano. Whether singing songs about ecology and the state of the world, love and life, or feminism and women’s issues, she is pure passion and commitment.“One of the most important people who ever graced and shaped the British folk scene” fRoots magazine. Tickets £14 from www.exeternorthcott.co.uk/page/peggy-seeger or 01392 493493. A benefit concert for Devon's folk arts charity Wren Music, of which Peggy Seeger is an Honarary Patron. www.wrenmusic.co.uk

Friday 1 June 2012 7.30pm - Sarah McQuaid  - St Mary's Church, Brixton PL8 2AN (map)
+ support. "Brilliant musicianship, a warm and welcoming stage presence and a voice as rich, matured and knowing as the finest thrice-distilled Irish malt whiskey." www.sarahmcquaid.com  Tickets £6, reservations to PCC secretary on 01752 881638. Refreshments available. All concerts www.brixton-village.co.uk/folkconcerts.htm. All proceeds towards much needed repairs and building work.

Tuesday 5 June 2012 - Blue Jewel at Exmouth Festival
details tba

Wednesday 6 June - Jess Morgan - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
Jess writes and sings songs that are living, breathing and scream out to be played live. Drawing on both British and American folk tradition, her distinctive voice and dynamic guitar playing have gained her impressive support all over the UK and Europe, 2012 is going to be a great year for Jess. www.jessmorgan.co.uk
Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org

Wednesday 4 July - Paul Downes - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
One of the most respected artists on the folk scene, Paul's songs and guitar playing are an absolute delight. More about him at www.pauldownes.com and elsewhere on the web.
Presented by Jurassic Folk & Acoustic. £5 adv / £6 door, details www.eastdevonfolk.org

tbc Saturday 14 July 2012 - South Brent Folk Day
details tba

Sunday 15 July 2012 8pm - Debby McClatchy, solo - Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge (map)
She’s back again! One of our most frequent and popular American visitors: a much admired singer, playing unsurpassed 5-string banjo accompaniment (and, probably, one of my guitars too)! www.debbymcclatchy.com. Book tickets from 4 weeks in advance at big discounts on 01548 856601. Concert-goers with a reserved table get 20% meals discount. Reserve with the pub on 01548 852345.

24-27 August 2012 - Westcountry Storytelling Festival - Embercombe, nr Exeter
Details www.weststoryfest.co.uk)

Sunday 26 August 2012 8pm - The Carrivick Sisters - Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge (map)
Our own award-winning south Devon musical phenomenon with bluegrass flavouring from Salcombe, now based in Bath, continuing to make an ever-increasing impact nationwide and abroad. The singing is superb and the instrumental work astonishing. www.thecarrivicksisters.wordpress.com. Book tickets from 4 weeks in advance at big discounts on 01548 856601. Concert-goers with a reserved table get 20% meals discount. Reserve with the pub on 01548 852345.

Sunday [tba] November 2012 - Ira Bernstein & Riley Baugus - Crabshell Inn, Kingsbridge (map)
America’s finest, most acclaimed step-dancer with the music man from the sound track of Bafta, Grammy and Oscar-winning film "Cold Mountain" and honoured guest on albums by Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss and Robert Plant, amongst many others. Book tickets from 4 weeks in advance at big discounts on 01548 856601. Concert-goers with a reserved table get 20% meals discount. Reserve with the pub on 01548 852345.

Sunday 9 December 2012 - return of a popular Christmas show - Devon venue tba
details tba

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