Peta Webb and Ken Hall
Peta Webb, a Londoner with an Irish background, formed her highly-acclaimed individual vocal style through the influence of Irish traditional singers, especially Margaret Barry, Sarah Makem and Sarah and Rita Keane. Peta believes firmly in the importance of learning directly from traditional singers wherever possible and has taken part in many collecting trips. Ken Hall, originally from Liverpool, started singing at the Islington Folk Club and was much influenced by Bob Davenport, Reg Hall and the traditional singers he heard there. He later developed an interest in the Northern Irish singing style of Joe Holmes and Len Graham, Kevin Mitchell and Roisin White as well as the satirical and humorous songs of Sean Mone.
In a review of their CD ‘As Close As Can Be’ (Fellside) in Living Tradition, Roy Harris comments: ‘Peta and Ken … sound natural and at home with everything they sing whether solo or in duet … each [has] a fine voice … Every track is a gem.’
Owen Woods
In support is New Roots finalist 2011 Owen Woods, a solo melodeon player, who performs traditional music from all over the world. Schooled in classical piano from an early age, he rediscovered folk music and picked up the melodeon some 9 years ago. Now playing for ceilidhs regularly, Owen has developed a personal style of performance, marrying tunes from different cultures and different periods. Prepare for strange time signatures, fluctuating rhythms and lush harmonies.
Bring your own refreshments. Tea and coffee available. Reserve tickets via the contact box on the ‘About the club’ page.
Sisters Jane and Amanda Threlfall are joined by musician Roger Edwards in fresh and vibrant interpretations of traditional English folk songs: ‘Sometimes delicate, sometimes bold, sometimes beguiling, sometimes refined but always with an ear to the nature of the song’ (English Song and Dance). Their harmonies have been described as ‘faultless’ (Cheltenham Folk Festival). Accompaniment is on bouzouki, fiddle and guitar, augmented by the skillful concertina playing of Roger Edwards.
