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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

Thursday 12 December 2013 - John Smith - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing, Voodoo Lounge. The guitar man from Devon who plays the steel-string acoustic guitar, sometimes with a slide, sometimes on his lap, sometimes de-tuning the thing mid-song, combined with his honey-on-gravel vocals, has quietly become one of the most exciting voices on the new British folk scene. Touring relentlessly as headliner and support act, he has opened shows for John Martyn, Iron and Wine, Seth Lakeman, Davy Graham, John Renbourn, David Gray, Cara Dillon, James Yorkston, Martin Carthy, Jools Holland, Tinariwen, Martin Simpson, Gil Scott-Heron and Chris Thile. Named Young Acoustic Guitarist Of The Year in 2003, he hasn’t stopped to look back, unless it’s to pick up a banjo. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/john-smith Box office 01392 667080.

Friday 13 December 2013 - Gallery Bar Special: Flash Jack - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Formed from members of the late lamented shanty crew Hanging Johnny along with other well established local singers and musicians, Flash Jack  maintain the honourable tradition of comic songs established by their illustrious predecessors and positively encourage audience participation in the form of song and dance. Their repertoire consists of shanties and ballads old and new, tragic and comic. Tunes associated with the coast and seafaring (both at home and abroad) and songs from a woman’s perspective. They also sing ballads and work songs from the land, reflecting the strong link which has always existed between the songs from coastal districts and the songs sung by the seafarers from those districts. Free entry, chatty atmosphere, bucket for the band. Doors and bar 7.30pm, music from 8.30pm. Details www.calstockarts.org/friday-13-december-a-gallery-bar-special-with-flash-jack.

Friday 13 December 2013 9pm - Mad Dog Mcrea - The New Hall, Tiverton
Jiggery folkery, hokery pokery... 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. Details www.maddogmcrea.co.uk/tour.

Friday 13 December 2013 - Medieval Christmas Feast - Hazelwood House nr Loddiswell TQ7 4EB (map)
Celebrate the countdown of Christmas in Medieval style with music, dancing, feasting and merriment. Music from Daughters of Elvin with dance specialist Ricardo Barros. Guests are welcome to dress up. Arrive 6:30pm for 7pm start. Tickets £35 call 01548 821232. Full details www.hazelwoodhouse.com/content/medieval-christmas-feast

Saturday 14 December 2013 - Great Western Ceilidh with Asha - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Caller tba. Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152.

Saturday 14 December 2013 8.30pm - Mad Dog Mcrea - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Jigery folkery, hokery pokery . . . Mad Dog Mcrea blends 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, and black flies, Mad Dog never fails to capture their audience. www.maddogmcrea.co.uk. £10 adv, £12 door. Full details, ticketing etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk.

Saturday 14 December 2013 - Matthew & Me - The Rum Store, St Neot, Liskeard, Cornwall PL14 6HQ (map)
Matthew & Me hail from the wilds of Totnes, Devon, a town known for its creative flair. Perhaps it’s this environment that inspires their music of atmospheric, haunting arrangements blended seamlessly with big, unabashed choruses and beautifully ethereal vocals. Details www.carnglaze.com/matthew--me-2013.html.

Saturday 14 December 2013 7.30pm - Maypoles to Mistletoe - Victory Hall, 15 Victoria Road, Roche, Cornwall PL26 8JF
Presented by Bodmin Folk Club. A rare appearance of a special celebration of the year's seasons in song, music, dance and prose reflecting local traditions, with lots of chorus opportunities for audience participation. With Martyn Wyndham Read, Iris Bishop, Carolyn Robson, Jim Farr plus local performers including Trigg Morris, Saffron Maids, Mike O'Conner, Moe Keast, Sylvia Watts, Liz Croe, Nigel Chapman, Alistair Brown, Dave Blayney, Mike Jurkiewicz, Roger Smith. Members of any folk club £10, non members £12. Advance booking recommended from Mike Freemantle 01752 816454.

Saturday 14 December 2013 - French & Breton Dance with Red Dog Green Dog + Wod - Chagford Jubilee Hall
£10/8 on the door. Dance workshop at 7pm, dance begins at 8pm. Bar, good vibes.

Sunday 15 December 2013 8.30pm - Exmouth Shanty Men - The Beach, Victoria Road, Exmouth EX8 1DR
After taking part in the annual 'Carols on the Quay' (6.30pm), The Exmouth Shanty Men will decamp into the warmth of The Beach pub to perform for an hour or so. This event is free and offered as a 'thank you' to the pub for offering rehearsal space this autumn and to all of our supporters and friends. All welcome. Free entry.

Sunday 15 December 2013 7.45pm - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Details tba

Sunday 15 December 2013 8pm - The Albion Christmas Band - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton (map)
An evening of seasonal songs, tunes, readings and merriment from the Albion Christmas Band featuring original Fairport Convention members Ashley Hutchings on bass and vocals, Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Kellie While on guitar and vocals and Simon Care on melodeon, vocals and traditional egg-dance! Bar and food available from 6.30pm. Box office 07891 663044 or www.wegottickets.com/event/230348.
(Details of all Budleigh Assorted Tunes promotions can be found at www.eastdevonhub.co.uk/LiveMusic.)

Wednesday 18 December 2013 - Bella Hardy - Exeter Phoenix (map)
One of the most creative, prolific and original voices on the flourishing UK folk scene, she performs a combination of traditional and self penned material, and has been nominated four times in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards: winning the Best Original Song Award in 2012 for The Herring Girl. ‘Beautifully crafted and conceived with poetic flair’ The Independent. www.bellahardy.com. Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/bella-hardy

Wednesday 18 December 2013 7.45pm - Jurassic Folk Christmas Party - The Grove, Fore St, Seaton EX12 2LG (map)
Monthly open mic session plus Christmas singalong, come all ye, free admission. More info from www.eastdevonfolk.org or phone 01297 20064.

Thursday 19 December 2013 8pm - Jane Taylor - Blue Walnut Cafe, Chelston, Torquay TQ2 6HS (map)
Fresh from a live session recorded by the BBC from the infamous Maida Vale studios in London, Jane Taylor returns to The Blue Walnut Cafe with her violinist, the exceptionally talented Lizz Lipscombe, to perform a very special Winter gig in celebration of all that is the month of December. www.janetaylor.co.uk Tickets £10 adv / £12 door. 01803 394113 www.bluewalnuttorquay.co.uk. Book early!

Friday 20 December 2013 9pm - Out To Grass - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
High energy bluegrass with hot dance-along covers and foot stomping traditional tunes. Details www.wegottickets.com/event/251442.

Sunday 22 December 2013 7.45pm - Christmas Party - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Will we be able to better last year's fun 1960's themed evening? Come and find out! www.moorfolk.co.uk

Sunday 22 December 2013 - Mad Dog Mcrea - Pretoria Vaults, Okehampton
Jiggery folkery, hokery pokery... 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. Details www.maddogmcrea.co.uk/tour.

Saturday 28 December 2013 7pm - Christmas / New Year Ceilidh with Buttoned Up - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
Music by 'Buttoned Up (formerly 'Wrecks of Kildare') - Kate Fincham-Powell (caller/concertina), Les Noden (guitar & vocals) and Mick Bramich (melodeon/anglo concertina), organised by South Brent Folk. Tickets (which might make good Christmas presents) £7.50 (includes free first drink of non alcoholic fruit punch) from Artworks. Further information contact Eileen McKee 01364 73699; email: eileen.southbrentfolk@gmail.com. For further South Brent Festival events and news see www.southbrentfolk.org.

Tuesday 31 December 2013 8pm - New Years Eve Ceilidh with The Mooncoin Ceilidh Band - Strand Centre, Dawlish
In aid of Teignmouth Folk Festival. Tickets £10 adv only from Alan Brown 01626 863016 or Anne Gill 01803 290427. BYO drinks and food to share.

Sunday 5 January 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.

Thursday 9 January 2014 - Steve Knightley - Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter
Contact 01392 210983

Friday 10 January 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Brixham Theatre, TQ5 8TA (map)
Phil Beer is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, Phil was nominated for the coveted Musician of the Year title at the 2009 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Perhaps best known as a top-flight fiddler, he 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. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984-1991. Show of Hands became a full-time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards. Support: Maggie Duffy & Mike Weed. Box office 01803 882717 or online www.wegottickets.com/event/246951.

Saturday 11 January 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Lasair - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Caller tba. Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152.

Sunday 12 January 2014 8pm - Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Miranda Sykes and Rex Preston have a unique connection - which is a pleasure to listen to and plain to see when they share a stage together. The rare fusion of double bass and mandolin makes for one of the most exciting new pairings on the acoustic roots scene. Miranda and Rex interweave timeless, well chosen covers with one or two Preston originals. Their backgrounds, as well as skilful instrumentation and warm engaging vocals have shaped their unique sound. "A musical partnership made in heaven. Scintillating, sensitive and brilliant." -fRoots magazine www.sykespreston.com £10 adv /£12 door, booking details  www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk.

Sunday 12 January 2014 7.45pm - Reg Meuross - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
An overdue return visit for this consummate singer/songwriter. Relatively low profile until 10 years ago, Reg has quietly perfected his art, producing deeply meaningful, moving songs, sung in an appealing tenor voice, with sensitive, melodic guitar accompaniment. Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Saturday 18 January 2014 8pm - Bully Wee Band with Phil Beer - Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Check them out at www.bullyweeband.com. £16. Box office (Kevin) 07771 558914 or email kevin@lodgemusicpro.co.uk.

Thursday 23 January 2014 8.30pm - Blair Dunlop - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
We are proud to announce that Exeter Folk Project's opening night will be brought to you with our first guest Blair Dunlop, winner of the prestigious Horizon Award at the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. His achingly beautiful Blight & Blossom may be one of the most memorable and melodic debut albums of recent years, but what has really marked him out from his peers is his ability to craft deceptively simple songs that connect with everyone who claps ears on them on a deeply emotional level that belies his age of 21. Tickets £10+ www.wegottickets.com/event/250287. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

Friday 24 January 2014 8pm - Elkie Brooks - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14828

Saturday 25 January 2014 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
Song and music session. All welcome, bring your instruments and voices. Another fun-filled folk evening.
Further dates for your calendar are 22 February, 29 March

Sunday 26 January 2013 7.45pm - Steve Turner - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Details tba Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk

Sunday 26 January 2014 8pm - Johnny Coppin & Mike Silver - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
Two wonderful songwriters, two vocalists who blend so perfectly together, and two very, very fine instrumentalists…former frontman/singer and songwriter of the quite brilliant Decameron, Johnny Coppin, teamed with multi-instrumentalist/songwriter and top flight vocalist Mike Silver…Coppin & Silver with an evening of beautifully crafted, beautifully executed songs and tunes packed with memorable hooks and choruses, performed by two lovely guys, two great entertainers. Full details, seating/standing options, ticketing etc. see www.wegottickets.com/event/247796.

Wednesday 29 January 2014 - Steve Knightley - Kingsand Village Hall
Steve Knightley is renowned for his strong, trademark narrative songs which reflect the escapades, hopes and fears not only of people in his native West Country but beyond and he pulls no punches when writing highly literate songs about bigger, global issues. He is the songwriting force behind Show of Hands, widely acclaimed as the finest acoustic roots duo in England and with three Royal Albert Hall sell-outs to their name but also has a very successful career a solo artist. This concert is being organised as a joint venture with the Maker with Rame Community Hall. Contact 01579 347483. Tickets www.wegottickets.com/event/250793.

Friday 31 January 2014 - Wren Music - Adventures in Music - a world and folk music series for under 5s and their grown-ups - Plymouth City Museum
Last Friday of every other month at 11am. These 45-minute events feature live music and participation in a child-friendly atmosphere, providing fun introductions to different types of music, instruments and cultures as we listen and learn together. Taking inspiration from our world cultures and social history collections, join us on an adventure as we bring the world to Plymouth. £4.50 adult. £3 child. See www.plymouth.gov.uk/museummusic for more info.

Friday 31 January 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Colebrook Parish Hall
Box office: 01363 84667

Saturday 1 February 2014 8pm - Steve Knightley - Modbury Memorial Hall
"Committed and distinctive songs of conscience, love and history" BBC Radio 2. All proceeds towards the Ermington Reading Rooms / Village Hall Project. Tickets £16 from Pickles store in Modbury, First and Last restaurant in Ermington, Crooked Spire pub in Ermington, or contact John Bower 01752 893051, email johnbower[at]btinternet.com. Doors and bar 7.15pm.

Sunday 2 February 2014 8pm - Phil Beer – Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Club, Passage House Inn, Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot TQ12 3QH
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 and plays in the all-star line-up, Feast of Fiddles and with Steve Knightley as the duo Show of Hands. 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. Tickets £10 available on any club night, telephone 01626 362528 or email acoustic.warehouse@gmail.com. www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

Friday 7 February 2014 7.30pm - Seth Lakeman - Exeter Cathedral
Following a hectic 2013, juggling festival appearances around the UK and in Europe with recording a new album, celebrated folk singer-songwriter and virtuoso fiddler Seth is heading to Exeter as part of a nationwide tour, playing tracks from his forthcoming new album Word of Mouth  due for release in February 2014plus other live favourites. Tickets £15 - £27 from Exeter Phoenix Box Office 01392 667080.
Also Sat 8 February at Truro Cathedral

Sunday 9 February 2014 7.45pm - Phil Beer solo - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

Sunday 9 February 2014 8pm - Jim Causley with Lukas Drinkwater - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Young Devon folk singer Jim Causley became involved with traditional music from an early age via his family, the local folk scene and an historical tradition of wassailing in his home village of Whimple, East Devon. He has become renowned for his warm, rich and mature singing voice, his natural gift for interpreting song and his wry and cheeky stage presence. While studying Traditional Music at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne he gained great interest as a solo performer in folk clubs throughout the country. Also acclaimed for his work as part of a cappella trio, The Devil’s Interval he has toured with Waterson:Carthy for six consecutive years as part of their annual Frost & Fire Christmas show. Jim's latest album Cyprus Well is a collection of poems by his distant relative Charles Causley which he has set to music. 'The finest male singer of his generation' - Mojo magazine. Jim is joined here by multi-instrumentalist and 3 Daft Monkeys' bass player, Lukas Drinkwater. www.jimcausley.co.uk £9 adv/£11 door, booking details  www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk.

Sunday 9 February 2014 8pm - The Strawbs - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
Special guests Peter Knight’s Gigspanner. Strawbs are back on the road with their full 5-piece electric line-up and with original front-line as it was in 1974 comprising leader David Cousins guitar & vocals, Dave Lambert lead guitar & vocals, and bass player Chas Cronk. For their 2014 UK tour Strawbs will be joined by Adam Wakeman, the UK’s hottest young keyboard player, and son of original Strawbs keysman Rick Wakeman, and Adam Falkner on drums. We are delighted to welcome the brilliant Gigspanner, featuring Steeleye Span fiddle virtuoso Peter Knight, as special guests for the evening. Standing with limited bookable seating. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/246677.

Wednesday 12 February 2014 7.30pm - Fairport Convention - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Hailed as the originators of British folk-rock music, Fairport Convention has been among Britain’s best-loved bands for over 45 years. With a vast musical repertoire to draw on, this concert will feature a mixture of long-established favourites and new material performed with virtuosity and passion. 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. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music an evening with Fairport Convention is sure to surprise and delight you. £20. Box office 01392 665938. www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange/index.aspx?articleid=14833

Saturday 15 February 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with The Ship Band - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Caller tba. Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152.

Sunday 16 February 2014 8pm - Laura Cantrell - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
Special guests Flats and Sharps. Country singer/songwriter Laura from Nashville, Tennessee will be accompanied by guitarist/pedal steel player Mark Spencer from Country Rock band Blood Oranges. Her debut album was much loved by the late John Peel who described it as his ‘favourite record of the last ten years and possibly of my life". She went on to record five sessions for Peel and dedicated her 2005 album, Humming by the Flowered Vine to his memory. Special guests for the evening will be the brilliant young bluegrass quartet Flats and Sharps from Penzance who, many of you will remember, took the Corn Exchange by storm last year when they supported Port Isaac’s Fisherman’s Friends. Standing with limited bookable seating. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/246554.

Wednesday 19 February 2014 8pm - The Furrow Collective - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
This new collective brings together four of the finest musicians on the UK folk scene. Featuring award-winning musicians Rachel Newton, Lucy Farrell, Emily Portman and Alasdair Roberts, this modern folk outfit approaches traditional ballads with a bold, improvisatory twist. With the backing of harp, guitar, viola, concertina, banjo, musical saw and rousing harmonies, storytelling takes centre stage. Promoting a new album release with a nationwide tour, this is the only chance to catch them in Devon or Cornwall. £14 adv/£15 door, £6 U18s. Details www.calstockarts.org/wednesday-19-february-the-furrow-collective-emily-portman-alasdair-roberts-lucy-farrell-and-rachel-newton.

Thursday 20 February 2014 8.30pm - Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
Winners of the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar are two of the most talented and up and coming folk musicians in the UK. In 2011 multi-instrumentalist Ciaran (Fiddle, Bouzouki, Guitar, Vocals) met and joined forces with Greg (Vocals, Guitar, Bouzouki, English Concertina) to form a duo with an "amazing level of energy, ability and stagecraft". Both come from musical households and were regulars at folk festivals, clubs and sessions from early ages. Cia was a member of Celtic music band TRI as well as becoming an All-Ireland and All-Britain fiddle champion on several occasions whilst Greg’s musical career began as a solo artist, initially supporting acts such as Lau, Karine Polwart and Kerfuffle and increasingly playing gigs in his own right. Their backgrounds give Cia and Greg a wide range of influences, the duo performing pieces from Traditional collections, contemporary writers and self-written tunes and songs. Tickets £7+ www.wegottickets.com/event/250290.

Saturday 22 February 2014 7.30pm - Acoustic Strawbs - Blackawton Village Hall, Vicarage Road, nr Totnes TQ9 7AY (map)
The last time the Strawbs played here, the gig sold out and, since then people have been begging to get them back - they are simply unique and quite incredible legends of music. They will be supported by Dartmouth's own (and they're very welcome to keep them!) Nauti Buoys. Shanties and similar songs of the sea as you've never heard them before - and probably won't want to hear again! Adv tickets £12 from Steve Gale 01803 712449 or for credit card sales from the George Inn call 01803 712342. Door price £15 (if any left). Licensed bar. Free off-street parking.

Saturday 22 February 2014 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
Song and music session. All welcome, bring your instruments and voices. Another fun-filled folk evening.
Further date for your calendar: 29 March

Saturday 22 February 2014 - Josienne Clark & Ben Walker - St Bartholomew Church, Coffinswell, Newton Abbot TQ12 4SS
Radio 2 Folk Awards 2014 nominated for Best Duo and Horizon Award. Josienne's jewel-like voice finds the nuance and melancholy in the simplest phrase and effortlessly sends it straight to your heart. Ben's musical tact and mastery of the guitar provide the perfect setting and allow the song centre-stage. Their work together combines an exquisite command of their instruments with lyrics steeped in the tradition of English songwriting, and in ageless stories of love and loss. Though influenced by greats such as Sandy Denny, Richard and Linda Thompson, Nick Drake, Bert Jansch and June Tabor, their new album 'Fire and Fortune' marks two musicians who have resolutely found their own path through traditional English music. This is timeless stuff, and its purity will stay with you long after the last note fades. "One of the hottest tickets in folk" Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio 2 Folk Show. Tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/249903.

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

Friday 28 February 2014 - Steve Knightley - Bow Village Hall
Steve Knightley is renowned for his strong, trademark narrative songs which reflect the escapades, hopes and fears not only of people in his native West Country but beyond and he pulls no punches when writing highly literate songs about bigger, global issues. He is the songwriting force behind Show of Hands, widely acclaimed as the finest acoustic roots duo in England and with three Royal Albert Hall sell-outs to their name but also has a very successful career a solo artist. Contact 01363 82379. Tickets www.wegottickets.com/event/250484.

tbc Friday 28 February 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Plough Arts Centre, Gt. Torrington
Standing. Details tba. Box office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk.

tbc Saturday 1 March 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Plough Arts Centre, Gt. Torrington
Details tba. Box office: 01805 624624 www.theploughartscentre.org.uk.

tbc Sunday 2 March 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Barnfield Theatre, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Details tba. Box office 01392 271808. www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk.

Wednesday 5 March 2014 8pm - Oysterband - Exeter Corn Exchange (map)
Details tba. £18. Box office 01392 665938.

Friday 7 March 2014 - Peter Knight's Gigspanner - Brixham Theatre, TQ5 8TA (map)
details tbA

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

Sold out Sunday 9 March 2014 8pm - Spiers & Boden - Topsham Folk Club, Matthews Hall, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
See 'Final/Farewell Tour' announcement on www.spiersandboden.com. Contact details www.topshamfolkclub.co.uk.

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.

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Monty's Maggot - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Caller tba. Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152.

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.

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

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.

Saturday 29 March 2014 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
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)
details tba

Saturday 26 April 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Bedlam - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Caller tba. Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152.

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

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.

Sunday 18 May 2014 - Steve Knightley - Lympstone Village Hall
Contact 07771 558914

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

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.

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 Saturday 13 September 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Bow Village Hall, nr Crediton EX17 6HU (map)
details tba Box office 01363 82379.

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.

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