Chester Folk Day returns on 22nd February, offering a welcome mid-winter boost for music lovers.
The one-day event is a mini folk festival, and is run by the organisers of main Chester Folk Festival which celebrates its 50th anniversary this May.
It’s held at All Saints Church Centre in Hoole, with afternoon and evening concerts as well as music and singing, dance displays plus a ceilidh.
The event’s headliners this year are Steve Tilston with Hugh Bradley (afternoon and evening), Juniper (evening) and Vocella (afternoon).
Steve Tilston
Steve Tilston is an award-winning and much-celebrated songsmith, widely recognised within the world of folk and contemporary music. Clever lyrics, memorable melodies and outstanding guitar playing are his trademarks. He will be accompanied by bass player Hugh Bradley.
Juniper
Juniper is a dynamic band of six highly-talented young musicians who have taken the national festival scene by storm. They combine their classical and folk backgrounds to create a show full of bold, intriguing traditional and contemporary sounds.
Vocella
Vocella comprises Paul Hutchinson, Gill Redmond and Debra Hannis. Each is a highly regarded folk musician in their own right. They combine vocals, accordion and cello to play music from all over the world and make it their own sound.
Other artists
Other artists include Eskrigg (afternoon), local favourites Fiddlestone (evening), Chris and Debs Lee (afternoon) plus a ceilidh (evening) with The Time Bandits and much-loved caller Baz Parkes who will talk everyone through the dances.
Schedule
Doors open at midday and budding folk musicians aged 8-18 years will be able to bring their instruments along for a free workshop led by members of Juniper and music tutor Fluff Smith.
At 1.45pm a dance display from the Earl of Stamford Morris will take place in the main hall, leading into the afternoon concert which starts at 2.30pm.
There will be a chance to meet Vocella at 5.40pm followed by another dance display.
The evening ceilidh will then take place from 7pm until 9pm and the evening concert will run from 8pm until 10.30pm.
Tickets can be purchased from www.chesterfolk.org.uk and on the door, space permitting.
