This event is for members of the Tyneside Fiddle Alliance, Hexham Village Band, Phoenix Chamber Folk Ensemble and the Redheughers Ceilidh Band

This event will bring together four of the largest community folk ensembles in the North East: Tyneside Fiddle Alliance, Hexham Village Band, Phoenix Chamber Folk Ensemble and the Redheughers Ceilidh Band. It is open to all members of these ensembles, and will be an opportunity to play together, share some favourite repertoire and perform to each other.

Playing together (1.30pm – 5.30pm)

During the afternoon, the leaders will take it in turn to teach the whole group one or two favourite tunes and/or arrangements from the repertoire of each ensemble. There will be a break in the middle for refreshments.

Supper (5.30-6.30pm)

For those that want to, we are organising a fish ‘n’ chip supper, which will be delivered to the venue. You are also welcome to bring your own food, or to leave and return in time for the evening session.

Evening concert and ceilidh (7pm – 9.30pm)

The first half of the concert will be made up of performances from the Tyneside Fiddle Alliance and the Phoenix Chamber Folk Ensemble. We will reorganise the room during the interval, so that the Redheughers and the Hexham Village Band can take it in turn to lead us all in some ceildih dancing for the rest of the evening.

Booking and cost

The cost is £10 per person, but it is important to us that the cost does not create a barrier to any of our members who wish to take part. With this in mind, there is an option on the booking form to attend for free (no questions asked). If you need to use this option, you are welcome to do so. There is also an option to pay a slighter higher rate (£15) for anyone who wishes to contribute a little more to the cost of the event. Fish and chips are optional, and at an additional cost. Please book your place by Friday 23^rd May.

Venue information

The event will take part in St Bartholomew’s Church Hall in Benton. The church is a short walk from Benton metro station, and there is quite a large car park at the church which we are welcome to use. More details are here: https://www.stbartholomews.org.uk/

Taking part

There is no expectation to prepare for the afternoon session, but we appreciate that it may feel like a lot of new material in a short space of time. With that in mind, sheet music and audio will be made available in advance so that participants who wish to do so can familiarise themselves with the material before the day. Please be aware that the afternoon session will be loud, with all four ensembles playing together. If you are sensitive to noise, you may wish to sit nearer the back. You are also welcome to step out for a break at any time.