Southern Devon: Folk diary   Regular folk updates by email   Latest e-circulars   Folk song clubs   Folk (pub) sessions   Folk dance clubs   Ceilidhs/barn dances   Venue database General: Devon Folk (Diary)   Links   Bicton Inn Exmouth    West Country festivals   Display dance teams (Morris etc)   French dance & music   Folk on (internet) radio: local & national   Mike Harding Folk Show   Harberton Folk history   Disclaimer   Privacy policy Contact Harberton Folk Click here to Join our Email Circulation for Regular Diary Updates covering southern Devon Recent e-circulars:   3/12/23   21/11/23 Live events happening in Harberton Folk's coverage area (essentially the southern half of Devon, and occasionally a little beyond) that I hear about will appear in the Diary listings below. Harberton Folk is 'powered by' and recommends:

Southern Devon Folk Diary

Tuesday 5 December 2023 8pm - The Exmouth Shanty Men - The Beach Pub, Exmouth EX8 1DR
Our final outing of the year at our home port of the Beach Pub in Exmouth (at the end of the esplanade, adjacent the marina). www.exmouthshantymen.com.

Saturday 9 December 2023 - Jim Causley: A Causley Christmas! - St Mary's Church, Cheriton Bishop, Exeter EX6 6HY
Details via www.jimcausley.co.uk

Saturday 9 December 2023 7.30pm - d'Accord French & Breton dance and music - St James Church Hall, Mount Pleasant Road, Exeter EX4 7AH (map)
details tba Eelgrinders www.facebook.com/groups/149787688758876.

Sunday 10 December 2023 7.45pm - Jigantics - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
Descriped as the "Cajun-kissed folk rockery", The Jigantics provide the perfect way to finish our 2023 guest programme. They are one of the liveliest bands on the scene, with foot-tapping vocals, harmonies and instrumention - guitar, bass, ukelele, squeezebox, harmonica, mandolin and percussion. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

Sunday 10 December 2023 7.30pm - The Furrow Collective - The Great Hall, Dartington Estate, Totnes TQ9 6EL (map)
'We Know By The Moon' winter tour.  Best Group BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2017. English/Scottish band consisting of four talented, individually prominent performers: Lucy Farrell (viola, voice & saw), Rachel Newton (harp, fiddle, voice), Emily Portman (banjo, concertina, voice) and Alasdair Roberts (guitars, voice). The group formed in 2013, drawn together by a shared love of traditional song and balladry inspired by England, Scotland and beyond, and an open, intuitive approach to collaboration. Signature spine-tingling harmonies and masterful storytelling. Full details www.dartington.org/event/the-furrow-collective-we-know-by-the-moon.

UPDATED Thursday 14 December 2023 7.30pm - The Great Sea Choir: Winter Songs - St Peter's Church, Wyndham Square, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 5EG
Sold out? See www.wegottickets.com/event/596038.

Thursday 14 December 2023 7.30pm - St Agnes Fountain - Beehive Arts Centre, Dowell Street, Honiton EX14 1LZ
Christmas, as they say, starts with St. Agnes Fountain. Presenting carols with a curve. Full details www.beehivehoniton.co.uk.

Thursday 14 December 2023 8pm - Russell Sinclair - B-Bar, Castle Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2NJ (map)
Blues from local guitar wizard. Free. Full details www.barbicantheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

Friday 15 December 2023 7.30pm - St Agnes Fountain - The Watermark, Erme Court, Leonards Road, Ivybridge PL21 0SZ (map)
Only a few tickets left Christmas, as they say, starts with St. Agnes Fountain: Chris While, Julie Matthews and Chris Leslie. Carols with a curve. ‘The Aggie’s’ latest album, Night Of A Million Stars was released in time for the December 2021 tour with 9 brand new songs from the band. Although the albums accompany the putting up of a thousand Christmas trees throughout Britain and around the globe as their reputation reaches further afield, it is, without question, their magical live performances that have endeared them to an ever-growing audience. Full details www.ivybridgewatermark.co.uk.

Friday 15 December 2023 7.30pm - Geoff Lakeman & Rob Murch - St Petroc`s Church, 12 Wellington Square, South Brent TQ10 9AG
The "Concertina Crooner" and the "Titan of Twang" team up in a dynamic folk/acoustic duo. Geoff teases English and Irish folk, Americana and jazz songs out of his vintage duet concertina. Rob brings the wow factor to the banjo, with his unique,punchy fingerstyle playing. Expect self-written and West Country songs, rattling folk tunes and foot-stomping ragtime and cakewalk riffs. Details, tickets etc. here. Support: Wild Goose Choir.

Saturday 16 December 2023 from 11am - The Great Sea Choir with Wheelhouse Folk Choir - Great Barn, Buckland Abbey, nr Yelverton PL20 6EY
General admission fee or NT membership www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/buckland-abbey.

Saturday 16 December 2023 7.30pm - John Kirkpatrick: Carolling & Crumpets - The Great Hall, Dartington Estate, Totnes TQ9 6EL (map)
John is one of the most prolific figures on the English folk scene, performing solo, in duos, acoustic groups and electric bands, and has established an enviable reputation as an instrumental virtuoso (melodeon, Anglo concertina and button accordion), as well as a leading interpreter of English folk music. This special seasonal show is a Christmas treat not to be missed! Full details www.dartington.org/event/john-kirkpatrick-carolling-crumpets.

Saturday 16 December 2023 8pm - Gittisham Folk Dance Club Christmas Ceilidh with Pair of Shears - Victory Hall, Broadclyst, Exeter EX5 3EE
Caller: Jane Thomas. Light refreshments available. £10 on door, or call 01404 758128 to book. Full club details see www.gittishamfolkdanceclub.org.

Saturday 16 December 2023 8pm - The Wilderness Yet - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)  
The trio combines the clear, charismatic vocals of former BBC Young Folk Award finalist Rosie Hodgson with the fine, sensitive fiddling of Rowan Piggott and the deft guitar and flute playing of Philippe Barnes. Independently, they have earned audiences’ esteem as consummate musicians; together, they weave an eclectic tapestry of traditional and original songs and tunes, from a cappella three–part harmonies to luscious instrumental
arrangements. Full details www.calstockarts.org.

Saturday 16 December 2023 7.30pm - The Lost Sound Dartmoor Folk Choir - Lustleigh Village Hall TQ13 9TA
A hearty selection of Winter and seasonal songs of festivities, feasting and jollyment! Join us for a rousing celebration of the season with 40+ singers raring to sing! Presented by Lustleigh Entertainments and Arts Project. Ticketing details to follow: www.lustleighvillagehall.co.uk.

Saturday 16 December 2023 7.30pm - The ContraBand - Marldon Christmas Tree Farm, Totnes Rd, Marldon, Paignton TQ3 1RR
details tba Support: tba / One Accord. Free parking. A Folk Plus Promotions (www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063679143279) presentation.

Saturday 16 December 2023 9pm - Wild Fenn - B-Bar, Castle Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2NJ (map)
Wild Fenn (previously known as Engel and the Mountain People) are an Indie/Folk band based in Devon, UK. Rising and falling harmonies combined with poetic lyrics paint pictures of summer nights and bygone days. Our songs are heavily inspired by the natural world and our lyrics aim to convey a subtle urgency to remember, cherish and protect our wild places. £5. Full details www.barbicantheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

Sold out Saturday 16 December 2023 - Mad Dog Mcrea - The Rum Store, Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard, Cornwall (map)
www.carnglaze.com.

Sold out Sunday 17 December 2023 - Seth Lakeman - Barbican Theatre, Castle Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2NJ (map)
In aid of Plymouth & Cornwall Cancer Fund. www.barbicantheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

Sunday 17 December 2023 - Christmas Party - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
Everyone welcome. Why not come and join us? 24 & 31 December - Club closed for Christmas.

Sunday 17 December 2023 8pm - Suthering and Windjammer Songs for Wintertide - Tavistock Wharf (map)
A festive collaboration with two of the finest bands on the English folk scene. The Tin Sail Collective (Suthering and Windjammer) come together for a very special Christmas collaboration for the second year in a row. After a hugely successful sell-out performance at The Barbican Theatre (Plymouth) in 2021, they return with an atmospheric, winter-themed evening of folk songs. Combining rich five-part vocal harmonies with harmoniums, whistles, flutes, piano, guitars and accordion, this exciting and dramatic collaboration is a show is not to be missed. Expect unique interpretations of traditional tunes and Christmas favourites, as well as original music from both bands. Full details www.tavistockwharf.com.

Tuesday 19 December 2023 7.30pm - Jim Causley & Sally Sedgman  - St Nicholas Priory, The Mint, Exeter EX4 3BL
Chaos at Christmas: Sally Sedgman will perform her ‘Chaos at Christmas’, or to give it its fuller title: “The Chaos Theory of Life after Christmas!” an hilarious guide to putting the festive season into perspective that everyone in the family will relate to! Join Jim Causley in celebrating the Christmas season as he entertains you with lesser known West Country carols, medieval and secular carols from around the British Isles, his own settings of moving Christmas poems by his relative, the late Cornish poet Charles Causley as well a gurt dollop of festive fun with songs of over-indulgence and even a spot of panto too! Details https://nicholaspriory.com/events/causley_christmas_23.

Wednesday 20 & Thursday 21 December 2023 8pm - Mad Dog Mcrea - Tavistock Wharf (map)
Check availability with venue Standing. Mad Dog Mcrea blend a unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. In constant demand and having played just about every festival and two-bit, jibe-arsed dive in Christendom, Mad Dog Mcrea are, in every sense of the word, a live, band. Full details www.tavistockwharf.com.

Wednesday 20 December 2023 7.30pm - Wheelhouse Folk Choir: Winter Songs - St Eustachius Church, 5A Plymouth Rd, Tavistock PL19 8AU
Join Tavistock's Wheelhouse Folk Choir for their annual charity winter concert. After their debut at Sidmouth Folk Festival this summer, the choir have gone from strength to strength. This season the choir has put together a powerful selection of songs inspired by winter; from indie-folk, to contemporary to inspiring arrangements of traditional melodies. With contemporary songs championing composers Karine Polwart, Alela Diane, Fox and the Bird, Lau, Hannah James, Kate Young, The Staves and many more. All proceeds to charity. Adv booking recommended. Full details www.wegottickets.com/event/596019.

Thursday 21 December 2023 9pm - Live music featuring The Penguins - The Old Warehouse, Prince of Wales Road, Kingsbridge TQ7 1DY
details tba

Thursday 21 December 2023 7.30pm - Jim Causley & Sally Sedgman - The Great Hall, Dartington Estate, Totnes TQ9 6EL (map)
Chaos at Christmas: Sally Sedgman will perform her ‘Chaos at Christmas’, or to give it its fuller title: “The Chaos Theory of Life after Christmas!” an hilarious guide to putting the festive season into perspective that everyone in the family will relate to! Join Jim Causley in celebrating the Christmas season as he entertains you with lesser known West Country carols, medieval and secular carols from around the British Isles, his own settings of moving Christmas poems by his relative, the late Cornish poet Charles Causley as well a gurt dollop of festive fun with songs of over-indulgence and even a spot of panto too! Full details www.dartington.org/event/jim-causley.

Thursday 21 December 2023 8pm - Black Friday - B-Bar, Castle Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2NJ (map)
Special acoustic duo show. All aboard the good ship Black Friday – join her crew and captain Tom for another stormy crossing of the Celtic sea of folk-punk. Their music is influenced by their Irish and Cornish roots and their folk heroes. Catchy original songs and take on folk favourites by the likes of Flogging Molly and Pogues will keep you dancing all night. Free. Full details www.barbicantheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

Saturday 23 December 2023 7.30pm - Jim Causley & Sally Sedgman - Endecott House, High Street, Chagford TQ13 8AY
Details www.jimcausley.co.uk/product/chagford-23-dec.

NEW Thursday 28 December 2023 7.30pm - Twixt Christmas and New Year Céilidh with The Offshoot Band - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
Chill out and enjoy the music after the Christmas festivities or dance your (new) socks off. Organised by South Brent Folk www.southbrentfolk.org.uk. The Offshoot Band (from Spinach for Norman) comprises Ben van Weede (fiddle); Steve Verge (guitar); Tim Walker (bass); caller and fiddle player Kip Pratt. Doors 7pm; Raffle; Reel Ale bar. Tickets (which might make good Christmas presents) £8 from artworks. Entry includes one free non-alcoholic spiced berry drink. FFI: contact John on 01364 73117 or email: john@tinavor.co.uk.

NEW Sunday 14 January 2024 7.45pm - Detta Kenzie - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
A big hit on the Wimborne Festival main stage, Teignmouth-based Detta impresses with her beautiful, haunting voice and suberb vocal control. Accompanied sensitively on guitar by Brock Perry, she sings self-penned songs of her lover of Dartmoor, the natural world, and reworkings of ancient Celtic music. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

NEW Thursday 18 January 2024 8pm - Martyn Joseph - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
For one man and a guitar, Martyn Joseph creates a performance with a huge far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling, and passionate. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Saturday 13 January 2024 7.30pm - d'Accord French & Breton dance and music - St James Church Hall, Mount Pleasant Road, Exeter EX4 7AH (map)
Local bands night. details tba www.facebook.com/groups/149787688758876.

NEW Wednesday 17 January 2024 7.30pm - Stompin' Dave Electric Band - Bridge Inn, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0QQ (map)
Blues South West presents Stompin' Dave's Electric Band at The Bridge Inn, Topsham. 'In other parts of the world they have cyclones, tornadoes and hurricanes, in the UK we have Stompin' Dave. Dave is a phenomenal artist, a great guitar player and vocalist, and an outstanding tap dancer...' Blues in the South. Dave will be joined by Lucy Piper on Drums & Sophie Lord on Bass. Tickets £13 / full details www.thelittleboxoffice.com/thebridgeinn.

NEW Saturday 20 January 2024 - The Annual Stoke Gabriel Wassail (the 29th) is back!
A magical evening of ‘Cider, Culture & Cheer’ organised by the ‘Friends of Stoke Gabriel School’ (FOSS), the Annual Wassail  has become a very popular event. Apple Wassailing is an ancient tradition performed in many villages around 'Old Twelfth Night' to bless the cider apples and orchards and encourage a good crop in the coming year. Gates open at 4pm and there will be various related events in the village running into the evening plus music, food and cider stalls. Details to follow; see: www.facebook.com/stokegabrielwassail.

NEW Saturday 20 January 2024 8pm - Carus Thompson - Barbican Theatre, Castle Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2NJ (map)
Australian folk songwriter and storyteller returns to the UK to launch not one but two albums: 2019’s Shakespeare Avenue and 2022’s Neon Folk. Shakespeare Avenue was recorded in 2019 in Dartmoor, in the South-West of England with Mercury nominated producer Sean Lakeman. Thompson has opened for Seth Lakeman on four UK tours across the years and when it comes to embracing folk traditions you couldn’t ask for a better guide. Seth, his brother Sean, and Sean’s partner the sublime Kathryn Roberts all feature on Shakespeare Avenue. Full details www.barbicantheatre.co.uk/whats-on.

NEW Sunday 21 January 2024 8pm - The John Martyn Project - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
This is a special project where six artists come together to celebrate the music of John Martyn. Each brings their own story and connection to John’s music which adds to the fabric of the overall experience of the project. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

Sold out Sunday 21 January 2024 - Fishermans Friends - Princess Theatre, Torquay
Waiting list (at 24/10/23): https://thefishermansfriends.com/tickets.

NEW Saturday 27 January 2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Dartmoor Pixie Band - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. www.moormusic.co.uk/dartmoorpixieband.html.  BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW Sunday 28 January 2024 7.45pm - Geoff Lakeman & Rob Murch - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
Local musical supreo, Geoff once again showcasing his mastery of the duet concertina, his mellow voice and great sense of humour. Rob Murch is a member of the Dartmoor Pixie Band and an outstanding banjo player. They combine brilliantly in a mix of English and Irish folk, Americana and Ragtime. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

NEW Sunday 28 January 2024 8pm - Reg Meuross (trio) - Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Stolen From God – Reg Meuross’s song cycle unfolding the history of England’s involvement in the Transatlantic slave trade. Featuring Reg, Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne and Suntou Susso. Full details www.topshamfolkclub.org.

NEW Sunday 28 January 2024 7.30pm - Sarah McQuaid - Tavistock Wharf (map)
Singer songwriter Sarah McQuaid’s lush, chocolatey voice combines with her engaging personality, “subtle mastery onstage” (Huffington Post) and “brilliant musicianship” (fRoots) on acoustic and electric guitars, piano and (occasionally) drum to create a truly immersive experience. “One of the most instantly recognisable voices in current music … Shades of Joni Mitchell in a jam with Karen Carpenter and Lana Del Rey.” Neil March, Trust The Doc. Full details www.tavistockwharf.com.

NEW Friday 2 February 2024 7.30pm - Paul Jones & Dave Kelly - The Watermark, Erme Court, Leonards Road, Ivybridge PL21 0SZ (map)
The Blues Band are retiring from touring - but their two lead vocalists will continue with their acoustic duo concerts Ruggedly durable and timeless, the Blues is perhaps more popular today than it has ever been. Young musicians still cut their teeth on its enticing, 12-bar appeal, but its real rewards, true virtuosity, poise and knowledge, only come with age. Founder members of The Blues Band, Paul Jones and Dave Kelly’s tangled and colourful roots go way back into the true undergrowth of the tradition. As well as their own original material, they not only know and perform the work of the greats, ranging from Howling’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker through to Sonny Boy Williamson - they actually played alongside them, and enjoyed their friendship. If you’re a true Blues fan, everything you need is here. Full details www.ivybridgewatermark.co.uk.

NEW Saturday 3 February 2024 7.30pm - Moscow Drug Club - Palace Theatre, Palace Avenue, Paignton TQ3 3HF (map)
Moscow Drug Club is a curious musical place where certain elements of 1930’s Berlin Cabaret, Hot Club de France, Nuevo Tango & Gypsy Campfire meet, have a few to drink and stagger arm in arm into the darkness of some eastern European cobbled street on a mission to find the bar where Django Reinhardt & Tom Waits are having an after hours jam with the local Tziganes. Combining their original material with songs by the likes of Jaques Brel, Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits & Bertolt Brecht, provide an intoxicating & intimate musical experience. www.moscowdrugclub.com. Full details www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk/whats-on.

NEW Saturday 10 February 2024 8pm - Peter Knight & John Spiers - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)  
"There can be no doubt that both performers are among the most, if not the most, talented of their peers. I was probably not the only person to leave the venue in awe at having witnessed something very special” Fatea Magazine. "Peter Knight and John Spiers are a very special duo. They are both master musicians, each with a long and distinguished history, but there’s a special chemistry when they get together. Ancient tunes are transformed by their ability to improvise and constantly surprise, and no two performances are ever the same" Robin Denselow. Full details www.calstockarts.org.

NEW Sunday 11 February 2024 4.30pm - Peter Knight & John Spiers - Maker with Rame Community Hall, Fore St., Kingsand, Cornwall PL10 1NS (map)
“An extraordinary collaboration between two musicians at the absolute top of their game. This is an adventure that takes in musical detours you'd be mad to ignore” Tradfolk; “A beautiful snapshot of two musicians at the pinnacle of their craft. Listeners will find themselves lost in something magical; anyone will struggle to find something as masterful as this for a long, long time” Bright Young Folk. The exquisite explorations of the liminal space that exists between traditional and classical music is what makes the music of Peter Knight and John Spiers so compelling and beguiling, ultimately rendering genres irrelevant. As a duo, they have developed into the most thrilling exponents of traditional tunes and songs, repurposing the material as jumping-off points into the most enchanting exploration. Full details www.wegottickets.com/event/598490.

NEW Sunday 11 February 2024 8pm - The Magpie Arc - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
The Magpie Arc is a cross-Border band out of Sheffield and Scotland, featuring the multi-award-winning talents and wide musical influences of Nancy Kerr, Findlay Napier, Tom Wright, Alex Hunter and Martin Simpson (on electric guitar!), formed from the idea of bringing together a group of established folk musicians who would mix their song-writing styles and musicianship in a full-on electric band to create new sounds. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Saturday 24 February 2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Amber Fire - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. www.devon-ceilidhs.com. BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW Sunday 25 February 2024 7.30pm - Fairport Convention - Exeter Corn Exchange, George St, Exeter EX1 1BU (map)
Since their formation in 1967. During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same - Fairport’s passion for performance. The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals. Fairport will be joined on stage by former member Dave Mattacks on drums. Full details www.exetercornexchange.co.uk/whats-on.

NEW Wednesday 6 March 2024 - Show of Hands: Full Circle Part II - Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
details tba www.showofhands.co.uk.

NEW Friday 8 March 2024 7.30pm - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Ashburton Arts Centre, West Street, Ashburton TQ13 7DT
‘Almost A Sunset‘, their latest album, is a collection of thoughtful, varied songs that range from re-worked traditional ballads to the off-piste storytelling style that has become their trademark. Recorded in their studio on Dartmoor, at Devon pace over the course of a year, the couple explore favourite characters, childhood memories and deep emotion to pull together a collection of songs that demonstrate their musical versatility, a sharp interest in the world around them and their own unique perspective on the folk genre. Full details www.wegottickets.com/event/598429.

NEW Sunday 10 March 2024 8pm - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
‘Almost A Sunset‘, their latest album, is a collection of thoughtful, varied songs that range from re-worked traditional ballads to the off-piste storytelling style that has become their trademark. Recorded in their studio on Dartmoor, at Devon pace over the course of a year, the couple explore favourite characters, childhood memories and deep emotion to pull together a collection of songs that demonstrate their musical versatility, a sharp interest in the world around them and their own unique perspective on the folk genre. Full details www.wegottickets.com/event/599624.

NEW Sunday 10 March 2024 7.30pm - Cerys Hafana - Barrel House, 59 High St, Totnes TQ9 5PB (map)
Triple harpist/multi-instrumentalist and singer from Machynlleth in mid Wales, Cerys mangles, mutates and transforms traditional music to forge a new, unique modern Welsh sound all of her own. She will be playing songs from her latest album Edyf (The Guardian Folk Album Of The Year), alongside some brand new material. Cerys has won over audiences from Green Man to the Eisteddfod and from BBC 6 Music Festival to Celtic Connections with her magical, progressive sound. Full details www.barrelhousetotnes.co.uk.

NEW Wednesday 13 March 2024 7.30pm - Spiers & Boden - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
The much-loved, award-winning pair, described by The Guardian as ‘the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene’, are back on the road with a few select dates in 2024. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

tbc Friday 15 March 2024 8pm - John Kirkpatrick - Exeter Folk & Acoustic Music Club
details tba

NEW Friday 15 March 2024 7.30pm - SykesMartin - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
SykesMartin is the new collaboration from two of the UK’s finest folk singers. Miranda Sykes  (Show of Hands) and Hannah Martin (Edgelarks, Gigspanner Big Band, Saltlines) draw on the tradition to form a set of songs that celebrate the power of two voices singing in harmony. Double bass, fiddle, banjo and guitars all come together around the duo’s vocal arrangements, taking their deep knowledge of roots music, adding a contemporary twist, and then singing these old songs back to their heart. Delivering beautiful ballads and rousing chorus songs, this set showcases two mesmerising storytellers joining voices to create a spine tingling testimonial to our shared musical heritage. Full details www.theflavel.org.uk.

NEW Saturday 16 March 2024 7pm - Mad Dog Mcrea St Patrick's - Plymouth Pavilions
Balcony seating and standing. Featuring Flanagan's School of Irish Dance. Mad Dog Mcrea blend a unique mixture of folk rock, pop, gypsy jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. From self-penned songs of adventure, drinking, love and life, to traditional songs of gypsies, fairies, legless pirates and black flies – Mad Dog never fail to capture their audience with their infectious songs. Full details www.plymouthpavilions.com.

NEW Saturday 16 March 2024 7.30pm - Barron Brady - Marldon Christmas Tree Farm, Totnes Rd, Marldon, Paignton TQ3 1RR
details tba Support: Time & Tide. Free parking. A Folk Plus Promotions (www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063679143279) presentation.

NEW Friday 22 March 2024 8pm - Miranda Sykes & Hannah Martin - Church House, South Tawton, nr Okehampton EX20 2LQ (map)
Miranda Sykes, a renowned singer and bass player, has a 20-year career with notable collaborations in the folk and roots world. Hannah Martin, known for her work in the BBC Folk Award-winning duo Edgelarks, is praised for her exceptional voice and versatility on various instruments. Together, they form a remarkable musical duo with impressive backgrounds in the folk music scene. Full details www.thelittleboxoffice.com/liveandacoustic.

NEW Sunday 24 March 2024 - Spirit of the Drum - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
Matching rhythmic delicacy with gut-wrenching power and stylised choreography that makes it as much a spectacle for the eyes as the ears, Kagemusha Taiko present “Spirit of the Drum”, a show themed on courage, and which is an uplifting celebration of the human spirit. Doors 7.30pm.  Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Saturday 30 March 2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Chris Toyne - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW Friday 5 April 2024 7.30pm - The Longest Johns - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
The Longest Johns have been singing shanties and folk songs together for years, having bonded over sea shanties in their native Bristol a decade ago. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Saturday 6 April 2024 7pm - Fisherman's Friends - Plymouth Pavilions
Full details www.plymouthpavilions.com.

tbc Saturday 6 April 2024 - Ian Bruce & Silvington - Bickleigh Suite, Woolwell Community Centre, Darklake Lane, Roborough, Plymouth PL6 7TR
Contact John Connor 07939 411985.

NEW Saturday 13 April 2024 7.30pm - Sound of the Sirens - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
Singer-songwriting duo based in Exeter, who have cemented themselves as firm favourites as “one of the UK’s finest folk acts”. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Thursday 18 April 2024 8pm - John Smith - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
Steeped in the lineage of British folk and American guitar music, taking his cue from Richard Thompson, John Martyn and Ry Cooder, Smith has evolved and pioneered a transatlantic blend of guitar techniques. His deeply romantic and vivid songwriting, combined with his innovative guitar work, have won him a loyal following. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music. Tickets on sale 18 or 19 October.

NEW Saturday 24 April 2024 8pm - Martin Simpson - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)  
The remarkable intimate solo performances Martin gives go from strength to strength – every gig is a masterclass. He travels the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, giving rapt audiences passion, sorrow, love, beauty, tragedy and majesty through his playing. Martin is known as a guitarist of formidable talent. Equally at home playing English traditional folk, American folk and blues and his own compositions, he is consistently named as one of the very finest fingerstyle guitar players in the world. Full details www.wegottickets.com/event/600555.

NEW Saturday 27 April  2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Banned From The Moor - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. www.moormusic.co.uk/dartmoorpixieband.html.  BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW 3-5 May 2024 - Mad Dog Mcrea Weekender - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
Mad Dog Mcrea are pleased to announce the headliners for the third Mad Dog Mcrea Weekender at Exeter Phoenix. Friday: dub-reggae group The Barefoot Bandit will make you want to dance; Saturday: Ríoghnach Connolly & Honeyfeet will bring everything from big-band swing to Alabama blues-tinged folk; Sunday: headlined by Mad Dog Mcrea themselves. Plus more tba. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Sunday 12 May 2024 7.30pm - The Fureys - Exmouth Pavilion, The Esplanade, Exmouth EX8 2AZ (map)
Full details www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/the-fureys.

NEW Friday 17 May 2024 7.30pm - Show of Hands: Full Circle Part II - The Rum Store, Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard, Cornwall (map)
details tba www.showofhands.co.uk.

NEW Saturday 18 May 2024 7.30pm - Show of Hands: Full Circle Part II - Exeter Cathedral
After 30 years of non-stop touring, fans across the nation are in for a treat as Steve Knightley and Phil Beer return to where it all began, in village halls, folk clubs, small arts centres, and community venues. This gig promises to be a true celebration of their dedication to their roots, their music, and the communities that have supported them. Steve and Phil will then be taking a well-deserved break. They plan to pursue solo projects, explore new creative horizons, and recharge their artistic batteries. This marks the end of an era, but it also heralds exciting new beginnings for two of the folk world’s best loved musicians, Show of Hands. Full details www.exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/show-of-hands-full-circle-tour, www.showofhands.co.uk.

NEW Saturday 25 May 2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Phoenix - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. www.phoenixbarndance.co.uk. BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW Thursday 13 June 2024 8pm - Charm of Finches - Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
Australian sister duo delivers intricate folk-pop that is simultaneously graceful and darkly bewitching. Their seamless blood harmonies traverse melancholy and wonder in equal measure. Winners of the Australian Folk Music Awards Best Folk Album (2022) and Music Victoria Best Contemporary Folk Act (2021), their music has been nominated twice for the prestigious Australian Music Prize. Full details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

NEW Saturday 15 June 2024 7.30pm - The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican - Beehive Arts Centre, Dowell Street, Honiton EX14 1LZ
British comedy folk and parody band from Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Formed in 2006, they claim to be the hardest working comedy band in the UK, having played over 1250 shows throughout the UK. Full details www.beehivehoniton.co.uk. (plenty of tickets appear to be sold already)

NEW Saturday 29 June 2024 8pm - Ceilidh with Red Shed - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a season of ceilidhs / barn dances featuring local bands and callers. www.redshed.co. BYO water / alcohol. There is a voluntary pricing system (£15 supporter / £10 standard / £8 reduced); U16 £4; U10 free - see www.exeterceilidhs.net for details and full programme. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

NEW 16-18 August 2024 - Beautiful Days 21st Festival - Escot Park nr Exeter
Tickets on sale Monday 6 November 2023 10am
Beautiful Days is the Levellers’ family music festival organised by DMF Music since its inception in 2003. Proudly independent, Beautiful Days has no sponsorship or funding. In 2023 we celebrated our 20th Anniversary with tickets selling out in April for the 17,500 capacity event – the capacity remains the same for 2024. www.beautifuldays.org

NEW Sunday 22 September 2024 2-5pm - d'Accord Boat Trip - Exmouth
details tba d'Accord French & Breton dance and music. The d'Accord! boat trip from Exmouth returns!

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
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