Folk Federation of New South Wales Inc Issue No 395 Dates For Your Diary MAY 2008 $3.00 Folk News Dance News CD Reviews
The National 2008 Genticorum superb musicians!
♫ Folk music ♫ dance ♫ festivals ♫ reviews ♫ profiles ♫ diary dates
♫ sessionsThe Folk Federation ONLINE♫ teachers - jam.org.au ♫ opportunitiesThe CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 1 In this issue Dates for your diary p4 MAY 2008 Folk Federation of New South Wales Inc Festivals, workshops, schools p7 Post Office Box A182 CD reviews p14 No t t h e Pr e s i d e n t ’s Re p o r t Sydney South NSW 1235 Front cover photograph courtesy Sue Barrett We’re sad to announce Christina Mim- ISSN 0818 7339 ABN94115759221 mocchi has recently resigned from the Presi- DEADLINE JUNE Cornstalk is the official publication of the Folk Federa- dency of the Folk Federation to take up a tion of NSW. www.jam.org Adverts - 5th May, Copy - 10th May position as Development Manager with Folk Contributions, news, reviews, poems, photograph most welcome. All care but no responsibility taken for omis- Alliance Australia. Christina has reluctantly Advertising Rates sions or errors. concluded that the new position with FAA, Advertistising required by 1st Friday of month, copy Size mm Members Non-mem combined with her new motherhood status, required by 10th month. Full page 180x250 $80 $120 means she is left with not enough hours in Contact Jim or Dallas Baxter re inserts. the day to continue the level of input neces- No part of Cornstalk may be reproduced without 1/2 page 180x125 $40 $70 sary as President of the Folk Federation. permission of the publishers. Editor, Cornstalk - Coral Vorbach 1/4 page 90x60 $25 $50 Christina has been at the helm of the Post Office Box 5195 1/8 page 45 x 30 $15 $35 Folk Federation only since the last Annual Cobargo NSW 2550 Back cover 180x250 $100 $150 General Meeting but in that time there have Email: [email protected]/Tel/Fax: 02 6493 been some significant achievements par- 6758 2 + issues per mth $90 $130 Wrap Co-ordinator ticularly in terms of publishing, promoting NSW folk artists and raising the profile of James Baxter 02 9810 4131 - [email protected] Please contact the editor for enquiries about advertising Tel: 02 FFNSW Folkmail (web) 6493 6758 folk related activities. Christina has actively Julie Bishop/02 9524 0247 Insert Rates: and enthusiastically supported these initia- Email: [email protected] Single-sheet DL size or A5. Members $70 Non-Members $130 tives, providing leadership and guidance FFNSW Committee 2007 A4, folded to DL size or A5. Members $90 Non-Members $160 as required, to ensure the Folk Federation A4 should be folded. The number of inserts per issue is limited. President, Vacant until AGM continues to play a useful and relevant role Email: [email protected] Please contact Dallas and Jim Baxter, 9810 4131. Vice President: Kate Delaney [email protected] in the folk movement. Offers of help for the wrap are appreciated. Secretary: Pam Davis 02 9955 3677 So, it’s with mixed emotions we Email: [email protected] All cheques for advertisements and inserts to be made pay- Treasurer: Bruce Cameron 02 6331 1129 able to the Folk Federation of NSW Inc farewell Christina. Our loss is the national Email: [email protected] If your important item misses Cornstalk, organisation’s gain, but the Committee Committee: Carol Hirt, Mary-Jane Field, Wayne Richmond, please remember there are also: olkmail of the Folk Federation is going to miss Jim Baxter, Dallas Baxter, Peter Miller Robinson, Terry Clinton, f Andy Busutti (members’ email list) contact Julie Bishop Christina’s contribution to the running of Membership Secretary Wayne Richmond Listserv/Jam/Mem- (02 9524 0247) [email protected]. our Federation. bership 9939 8802 (not after 8.00pm) au jam.org.au –Folk Fed website, here Bruce Cameron members can post info, articles, etc.
2 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220
The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 3 dates for your diary - May 2008
DATE EVENT VENUE & TIME CONTACT Thursday 1st North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club. Black Joak Morris - Cornucopia Cafe, 8pm. Old Glades- Jenny 9559 3658 (h) / 0414 903 Special Mayday Celebration. Black Joak will be dancing outside ville Hospital, cnr Victoria and Punt 259 (m), email: jdcarter@iinet. from 8pm, and this will be followed later by floorspots from Rd, Gladesville. Cars enter by bottom net.au Geoff 9816 0393 / 0421 some of the group. There will also be an opportunity for other gates in Punt Rd, take first turn left 582 975 (m) floorspots during the evening. towards Victoria Rd, then left fork and left at the top. Pedestrian ac- cess from Victoria Rd if travelling by 500/501 bus. $12 / $10. Floorspots available and BYO’s welcome. Friday 2nd Beer & Cheese Night – ‘As the Poit Sez’. The expanded ver- Bush Music Club, Hut 44, Addison Rd 9569 7244, sion of Chris Kempster’s compilation of musical settings of Law- Community Centre, 142 Addison Rd, [email protected] son poems was launched this year. Lots of good songs come Marrickville. 8-10pm. $4, $5. from many Australian poets – maybe even from yourself! Bring something to eat and drink, and songs etc on the theme. Friday 2nd Anthony McGloin - solo acoustic guitar, mandolin. + Blue Illawarra Folk Club Concert. City 4285 7417, 0413 219 112, Goose Band: Sonia Bennett’s powerful vocals and guitar, Diggers Wollongong, cnr Church & [email protected], www. multi-instrumental Max Gregory, Bruce Stavert, Andy Stavert Burelli Sts. 7.30pm. $12, $8. illawarrafolkclub.org.au/ on bass. Originals, plus songs of many genres. Whimsical, fun. www.myspace.com/bluegooseband + Heather Mandich and the Southern Alliance. Heather (vocalist, mandolin picker, infec- tious enthusiasm), Paul Brink (banjo), Ray Marshall (guitar), Mark Ballesi (dobro). Exhilarating bluegrass. Friday 2 Free lunchtime performances ‘Merry Month of May’ Program Presented by Ashfield Council (at For more information please 2008 South American and Australian Folk music - Mary Jane the small forecourt outside the post contact Anthia Hart at Ashfield Field and Julia Pokorny, Indian dancers – Sirens, Celtic music office on Level 4 of the Ashfield Mall.) Council on 9716 1866 www. – The McMahon Brothers. 12.noon – 1.30pm. ashfield.nsw.gov.au Saturday 3rd Beecroft Bush Dance with Sydney Coves. All dances taught. Beecroft Community Centre, Beecroft Helen 9626 7816, www.bushmu- Rd. 8pm-12. $17, $14, $12. sic.org.au Saturday 3rd Green Mohair Suits - energetic 3-piece bluegrass band The Shack, Tramshed Community 50413 635 856, info@shackfolk. - sometimes (inspired by Hank Williams) self-dubbed ‘mourn- Arts Centre, 1395a Pittwater Rd com ful country bluegrass’. Strong vocals, multiple part harmonies, (between car park and Ambulance guitars, banjo, mandolin. + Selalu (Trevor, Kathleen, Tully), Station), Narrabeen shopping centre. launching debut album, ‘When the World Was Young’. Acoustic Tables and chairs, candle lit atmo- guitars, bass, mandolin, banjo, 3-part harmonies, and strong, sphere. Free tea, coffee. BYO drinks, thoughtful, original songs, about life, social issues, love. nibbles. 7.30-11pm. $15. Contemporary, folk, country. + Leon Rabin, well known for melodious singing, and relaxed and humorous style. Sunday 4th Girl on a Swing - Cathy Gibson, songwriter, solo. Orignals, Cnr Darling St and Victoria Rd, jazz, blues and folk (vocals, Guitar, concertina, bouzouki and Rozelle Sydney, 11am – 2pm, Entry mandolin). Free Monday 5th Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – New vogue; live music. Call- Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30- Felicity 9456 2860, 0434 437 ers R Shaw, D Crawford. 9.30pm. $7. 522 Thursday 8th Sutherland Folk Club - Pat Drummond – a highly original Held at Sutherland District Trade Enquiries Maeve 9520 5628 singer songwriter whose music spans three decades and Union Club (Tradies), Kingsway, crosses the genres of folk, country and rock and roll. His songs Gymea (short walk from the station) are drawn from real experiences of Australia and it’s people. + from 7.30pm. Cost $10. Kids free. Chloe Hall- glorious, warm singer songwriter. floor spots welcome. Friday 9 Ashfield Municipal Council Free lunchtime performances ‘Merry West Region Chinese Association 12 For more information please Month of May’ Program 2008 - Chinese Entertainment - noon – 1.30pm contact Anthia Hart at Ashfield Council on 9716 1866 www. ashfield.nsw.gov.au
4 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 dates for your diary - May 2008
DATE EVENT VENUE & TIME CONTACT Saturday 10th Collector - ‘wins all my plaudits for playing and re-creating Fairlight Folk, 3 William St, Fairlight. 0438 091 885 the grand old music of the Australian bush’ (Andy Irvine). + Brett 7.30pm. $15, $10. Robin Wood, Sydney based folk-pop urban storyteller. + Chloe Hall, Melbourne singer songwriter, fresh from Canadian tour. Saturday 10th Central Coast Bush Dance - Irish Theme Night with Gali- East Gosford Progress Hall, Wells Robyn or Richard 4344 6484, more. Caller Pam Merrigan. All dances taught. Street & Henry Parry Drive. 7.30- Barry or Janice 4388 2253 11.30pm. $15, $12, 12-18 $8, under 12 $5. Monday 12th Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – Some ball practice, couple, Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30- Felicity 9456 2860, 0434 437 set technique. Caller Don Richmond. 9.30pm. $7. 522 Friday 16th Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Folk Club 30th Birthday concert Beatrice Taylor Hall – Community Enquiries Barry 9807 9407 Hall, Edgeworth David Ave, Hornsby Friday 16th Ashfield Municipal Council Free lunchtime performances Traditional Greek dance - Greek For more information please ‘Merry Month of May’ Program 2008 Older Womens Network Dancers, contact Anthia Hart at Ashfield Pacific Island Music - Cantside Boys Council on 9716 1866 or visit of Canterbury Boys High www.ashfield.nsw.gov.au. Greek, Italian and South American music - Con Zaharis (at the small forecourt outside the post office on Level 4 of the Ashfield Mall.) 12.noon – 1.30pm. Saturday 17th Balmain Bush Dance with Southern Cross. Caller Dave John- Rozelle Campus, Sydney College, 25 Don 9642 7950, www.bushmu- son. All dances taught. Terry St. 8pm-12. $17, $14, $12. sic.org.au Sunday 18th Ami Williamson - back from entertaining the troops in Iraq and Cat & Fiddle, 456 Darling St, Bal- 9868 6269, info@amiwilliamson. Afghanistan. A night of storytelling and wicked folk songs. main. 2.30pm. $8. com Monday 19th Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – Some ball practice, couple, Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30- Felicity 9456 2860, 0434 437 set technique. Caller Don Richmond. 9.30pm. $7. 522 Friday 23rd Ashfield Municipal Council Free lunchtime performances ‘Merry Egyptian and tribal Bellydance For more information please Month of May’ Program 2008 - Ileana and students,Turkish music contact Anthia Hart at Ashfield - Kim Sanders 12 noon – 1.30pm (at Council on 9716 1866 or visit the small forecourt outside the post www.ashfield.nsw.gov.au. office on Level 4 of the Ashfield Mall.) Saturday 24th Chloe Hall (Melbourne), accomplished songwriter with a Loaded Dog Folk Club, upstairs Sandra 9358 4886, www. beautiful voice, has toured widely, here and North America. Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, theloadeddog.org.au Well known to lovers of Australian contemporary folk music. 79 Johnston St. 8pm. $14, $12. BYO, Uplifting, thought-provoking, entertaining. + ‘We’re called supper available. the Roaring Forties, but we aren’t just puff and blow, sir We sing great songs with choruses, join in them if you know, sir ... And we sing songs of maritime and mayhem, maidens fair and sporty Old hymns and worksongs and the like, we are the Roaring Forties.’ Monday 26th Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – Some ball practice, couple, Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30- Felicity 9456 2860, 0434 437 set technique. Caller Don Richmond. 9.30pm. $7. 522 Friday 30th Ashfield Municipal Council Free lunchtime performances ‘Merry (at the small forecourt outside the For more information please Month of May’ Program 2008 - Indonesian music – Songket post office on Level 4 of the Ashfield contact Anthia Hart at Ashfield Mall.) 12 noon – 1.30pm Council on 9716 1866 or visit www.ashfield.nsw.gov.au. Saturday 31st Heritage Ball. Colonial dress, 19th century fashion. Numbers Parramatta Town Hall. 7.30pm - Don 9642 7950 limited. Details in Dance News. www.bushmusic.org.au 12.30. $55, $50; all $60 after 19 May.
The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 5 New South Wales - Regional and ACT - May Friday 2nd The Marji Curran Trio; Adam Hole ... A rootsy The Folkus Room, Southlands Sports Club bluesy night Friday 9th DJ Gosper’s ‘Glory Box’ (with The Blues Cowgirls The Folkus Room, Southlands Sports Club and the KarismaKatz) Friday 9th Selulu at the Merry Muse + Geoffrey Graham Merry Muse. Polish White Eagle Club, 28 Turner Street, Canb 8pm Saturday 10th The Lurkers, Shoalhaven Folk Club Enq. Jane Richter (02) 4421 5887 Friday 16th Full Circle. Canberra’s exciting Celtic-Australian Merry Muse. Polish White Eagle Club, 28 Turner folk band. + Humbug St, Canb. 8pm Saturday 17 Saturday Arvo Jazz 2pm - 5pm ... with The Black The Folkus Room, Southlands Sports Club Mountain Jazz Band Friday 18th Yuin Folk Club, Chloe Hall Valley Edge Cafe, Princes Highway Cobargo Coral Vorbach 6493 6758 Friday 23rd The Transylvaniacs and friends The Folkus Room, Southlands Sports Club Friday 23rd Neil Murray, + support act Johnny Huckle Merry Muse, Polish White Eagle Club 28 Turner St, Canberra 8pm Friday 30th King Curly and The Doomsday Piano with some The Folkus Room, Southlands Sports Club friends of theirs Friday 30th Blackboard Night Merry Muse 30th Birthday night, Polish White Eagle Club, Turner St, Canb.
Chloe Comes To the Gong! “Young and Jacksons’’ the pub where Melbournians call, BUT Nudity is a bit old hat these days, To drink with their ‘Chloe’ who hangs on the wall. except in Melbourne where it is still quite She’s a legend, a beauty, she’s lithe and she’s tall, rare- probably because of the weather. And as for her clothes- why she wears none at all. What’s all this got to do with the Folk But this Melbourne ‘Chloe’, is really quite boring Club Concert at the city Diggers on Sat An inanimate portrait, She never goes touring, Night at 7.30pm (17th May)? There’s a new Melbourne Chloe, with voice pure and rare Well Nothing really! And she’ll sing at the ‘Diggers’, make sure that you’re there Except that we have a great concert with Bigruss Melbournian Songstress and songwriter Chloe Hall. Don’t get your There are some pundits who reckon, that a cultural adventure hopes up because I am assured Chloe will be performing fully in Melbourne is to have a pie at an AFL match and a beer with clothed. Chloe’s CD ‘White Street’, has received Rave reviews in Chloe in the upstairs Bar of Young and Jacksons Hotel. Chloe of the SMH. course is a Melbourne icon and mascot for the HMAS Melbourne. Also on the bill is the Illawarra’s best ‘Old-timey/Bluegrass’ She’s an extremely fine work of art, she is an ingénue, a nymph, a band, South bound train and Claire Roberts with great voice and celebrity. She is Chloe, the famous nude portrait which has graced great Celtic Songs.Also Claire Roberts Southbound Train $8 the walls of the Young and Jackson Hotel since 1909 and was (Members) $12 (Others) and of course there’s Coopers on Tap. painted by French Artist Jules Lefebre about 1875. Throughout her life, Chloe has kept company with artists, poets, wharfies, Prime Ministers and drunks, soldiers, sailors, Chloe Hall will also be performing at The Loaded celebrities, bushies, labourers and art connoisseurs. Her history Dog (24th May) involves transformation, death, intrigue, love, war, depression and The Yuin Folk Club, Cobargo 16th May 7.30pm passion.
Neil Murray
Anthony McGloin King Curley 6 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 Festivals, Workshops, Schools folk news dance news 23rd - 25th May Carpathian Tours Heritage Ball A Celtic Cultural Experience Sally Corry (from Transylvaniacs, and The Bush Music Club will hold its 2008 Lake MacQuarrie, email [email protected], Martenitsa) will be taking tours again Heritage Ball in Parramatta Town Hall ph/fax 02 4943 3436 this year - for the following dates, so far: on Saturday 31st May; with music again 8 Day Transylvania ‘Basic’ Tour, 2nd- 6th-9th June provided by the Heritage Ensemble, fresh 9th August; 4 Day Slovakia, 18th-21st 38th Top Half Folk Festival, Kakadu, NT. from playing for the Colonial Ball at the October; 7 Day Rom Tour, dates TBC. For www.topendfolkclub.org, Jayne 08 8985 National Folk Festival. The programme an itinerary, or booking forms, or inter- 3570, [email protected] will include old and new favourite dances est in any of the tours at a different date, 5th-9th June and tune sets. Dress in colonial splendour, [email protected] Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts in your favourite 19th century fashion. No wwww.henrylawsonfestival.asn.au practice is necessary, but some dances will 6th - 9th June Martin Louis be included in the weekly dance workshop Sessionfest (Note:) At Bargoed Wildlife at Pennant Hills. Tickets (incl. light supper Reserve, Swansea. off Galgabbee Rd Banjo Champion and refreshments) are $55, $50 for BMC for more info contact Bilbo: 4958 4033 or members – until 19th May, then all are $60. Again Ticket numbers will be limited. You can 12th -14th September For the third time, Martin Louis has taken buy them at club dances, the weekly club Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival (Performer out Winning honours in the Banjo sec- music and dance workshops or by sending bookings are closing soon) tion of the Australian National Bluegrass a cheque to the Bush Music Club, GPO Contact Jane Richter kvfolk@bigpond. Championships, held in Tamworth during Box 433, Sydney 2001, with your address com, (02) 4421 5887 the Annual Country Music festival in and the name/s of people attending. Pic- 17th - 21st September 2008. Contest judges were Mick Albeck, tures of previous balls are at www.humph. Turning Wave Festival Rod McCormack, Kym Warner and Trev org/heritage/ There will be a post-Ball pic- Warner. Historic town of Gundagai nic on Sunday 1st June at Lake Parramatta www.turningwave.org.au or 02 9489 5786 from 11am - BYO. 3rd - 6th October Uranquinty Folk Festival. www. uranquintyfolk.com/ (02) 6029 2156 Folk Alliance Australia 19th October Folk Alliance Australia is very happy to ‘Poor Person’s Ball’ Illawarra Folk In The Foothills announce the appointment of Christina The Central Coast Bush Dance and Enq. [email protected] Mimmocchi to the position of Develop- Music Association 24th - 26th October ment Manager. is planning a Formal Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival, www. Christina will be looking after the de- Colonial Themed dorigo.com./festival or festival@dorrigo. velopment and broadening of the FAA Bush Dance, or Poor com, ph: 02 6657 2988 agenda every Monday, Wednesday and Person’s Ball, on 8th 7th - 9th November Friday. November, at East Festival of Irish Music - Fleadh Nua 2008 Early tasks will comprise of coordinating Gosford, to the music Goulburn Traditional Irish Music · Song the committee, conferences and seminars, of ‘Currawong’. and Dance Kevin Doyle (Phone 9181 3365 sourcing administrative and development Programme, dance or 0401 827 460) or Email: irishmusicianss funds and growing the membership. instructions and [email protected] Always passionate about what she does, practice dates are at 14th - 16th November Christina has twenty years’ experience as www.ccbdma.org All the dances will be Music At The Creek (Majors Creek NSW) an arts manager and organiser as well as taught at their regular bush dances over Enq. 02 48422889 or matc.enquiries@musi- extensive experience as a musician and the preceding months. The practice in No- catthecreek.com community choir leader. vember will mainly teach the Quadrilles. 31st December She is the immediate past president of There will be Costumes, Grand March, It’s happening ...Gulgong Festival, New the NSW Folk Federation, the team who Quadrilles, Dance Cards, etc. If you have Year’s Eve 08 to 3 January, 09 Street organised the “Featured State’ venue at never attended a Colonial Ball before, this Dance, All the old favourites, and a few this year’s National Folk Festival. is an opportunity to experience something new favourites. Check the web - Gulgong She has worked for the Australia Council very special, at normal bush dance prices. Folk Festival 08 for more details. and for the Association of Independent Robyn 4344 6484, [email protected]. 31st December Record Labels as well as many inde- au , Janice 4388 2253, Anne Maree 4369 Woodford Folk Festival pendent projects such as producing the 5053. www.woodfordfolkfestival.com/ Choral Sea as part of the Paralympics Arts Kangaroo Valley Village Market Festival in 2000. (run by the Shoalhaven Folk Club as a Attention: Performers Christina has also completed her BA Musicians, Singers, Dancers who fundraiser). (Hons), specialising in English Literature are interested in performing at the 2008 Second Saturday of each month except and Theatre Studies and post-grad courses Fleadh Nua, please send a CD or tape or February. - SO - if you are in the area credentials to in the areas of Arts Management (UTS) please call in. You might find a bargain Kevin Doyle (Phone 9181 3365 or 0401 and Jazz Studies (Sydney Conservatorium and assist with this very worthy cause. A 827 460)or of Music). beautiful part of the world and a delightful Email: [email protected] Jim MacQuarrie spot for a weekend jaunt. The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 7 (abridged) folkWednesday contacts Scottish Country Dancing METROPOLITAN Albion Fair, North-West Morris Dancing Caringbah Seniors Hall, 386 Port Hacking Rd, Car- DANCE Lilyfield Community Centre, Cecily and O’Neill Sts, ingbah (rear Library), 8pm. Beginners/other levels. G. Monday 7.45pm. Angie Milce 9817 3529 Milton 9524 4943, Erica Nimmo 9520 4781 Bush Music Club Dance Workshop Australian Heritage Dancers Beginners, experienced, 7.30pm, Pennant Hills Saturday Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, 8 Bush Folk Dances, by Bush Dance Assoc. Community Centre, downstairs. Except Jan. and public -10pm. Jim Young 9412 3721 [email protected]. 2nd Sat. Feb-Dec 6.30 - 10pm. New Year’s Eve 8pm- holidays. Mark 9638 7690 au - australianheritagedancers.org.au midnight. $20/$15/$10. $5 disc for early bookings. International Folk Dancing Balmoral Scottish Country Dance Group Pennant Hills Community Centre, 60 Yarrara Rd. John School term, Earlwood Senior Citizens Centre, 362 7.00-9.15pm, Seniors’ Centre, Mosman Square, 9873 3138/ 0416 212 136, bushdance2000@yahoo. Homer St 10am-noon. Gwynne 9558 4753 Mosman. Nell Morgan 9981 4769. com.au; www.bushdance.org Scottish Country Dancing for beginners, with ‘Scots Epping Scottish Country Dance Club Bush Music Club Bush Dances on the Rocks’, Fort St Public School, Observatory St Aidan’s Church Hall, Downing St, 7.30-10pm. Feb-Dec (not Easter), 8-12pm, $17/$14/$12 incl. Hill, Sydney, 6.30-7.30pm. Nea 9994 7110, Lynn 9268 All levels welcome. Clare Haack 9484 5947 clare_ supper, children to 12 free. Beecroft Community Ctr 1st 1246, SC [email protected], http://www.rscds. [email protected] Sat, Anthony 9417 4210; org.au Gosford Scottish Country Dance Society Balmain High School hall, Terry St, Rozelle, 3rd Sat, Dot Belly Dance, basic/beginners 7pm, choreography 7-10pm, Church of Christ, Henry Parry Drive, 9876 6166. 8pm, Girraween Hall, 17 Tungarra Rd. Vera Myronenko Wyoming. Cecily Cork 4384 3527, Jan McCudden Central Coast Bush Dance 4329 5537 9665 9713 2nd Sat, 7.30pm- 11.30pm.East Gosford Progress Hall, Greek Folk Dance Henry Parry Dr & Wells St, $15/$12 Contacts: Barry: Tuesday Pan Macedonian Assoc Building, Railway Pde, 43882253, Robyn 4344 6484 www.ccbdma.org Blue Mountains Scottish Country Dancers Sydenham from 7pm onwards. Adult classes from International Folk Dance Catholic Church Hall, 7-9pm, Wentworth St, $3 Verley 7.15 pm, Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 Children’s classes, 6-18 years, Pennant Hills Kelliher, 4787 5968, [email protected] Carol [email protected] Community Centre, morning. Carol Maddocks, 9905 Gardner 4751 6073/[email protected] International Folk Dancing for older women 1563 Greek Folk Dance School terms only, 9-10am beginners, 10-11am Scottish and Old Time Dance Bankstown RSL Club - 32 Kitchener Pde - Bankstown advanced. Bankstown Older Women’s Wellness 2nd Sat, 8pm, Uniting Church, 9-11 Bay St, Rockdale. 6pm onwards.Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax: 97081875 Centre, Police and Community Youth Club, cnr $3 incl. supper. Chris Thom 9587 9966 [email protected] Meredith St and French Ave. Gabrielle 9728 7466, Alita Scottish and Old Time Dancing Hungarian Dance Class 9798 9269 Orkney and Shetland Assoc. 3rd Sat, 8-11 pm. St Ultimo, 8-10pm. Gary Dawson 9559 4485. Sutherland Shire Bush Dance Group Uniting Church, David’s Hall, Dalhousie St, Haberfield. $3 inc. supper. 4 Gosport St, Cronulla, 7.30-10pm. $3. Beginners most [email protected] Visitors most welcome. Jean Cooney 9874 5570.Harp welcome. Partners not necessary.Mike 9520 2859 Morris Dancing, Sydney Morris Men Hotel, Princes Hwy Tempe, 9559 6300 Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group 2nd & 4th Tues, Rozelle Community Centre (hall at rear), Macedonian Dance Class Gymea Bay Scout Hall, June Place, 10am. Kaye Rockdale. 6.30-8.30pm, $5. Y Kaporis 0412 861 187 Darling St, Rozelle, 8pm. John Milce 9817 3529 Laurendet - 9528 4813 or www.wheezeandsuck.com. Mortdale Scottish Dancers English Country Dancing, Sydney Thursday Learners night (for learners and experienced), 7.30- English Country Dancing (Advanced) for the over Playford Dance Group 3rd Tues, 7.30-10.00pm, Uniting 9.30pm. Pensioners Welfare Club Hall, 76 Pitt Street, 50’s 2-4pm. School for Seniors, Wesley Mission, Pitt Mortdale. Pam Jehan 9580 8564. Church Hall, The Cres, Berala. Ring Patricia 9649 6978 St. Sydney. (Oppositive back of Hilton Hotel.) Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group or Mike or Ros on 9929 8193 for further details. Blue Labyrinth International Folk Dance International Dancing Como Girl Guides Hall, 10- Scottish Country Dancing from 7pm, Baptist Church Hall, King St Glenbrook. Jo 11.30am. Kaye Laurendet 9528 4813 St John’s Uniting Church Hall, Coonanbarra Rd, Barrett 4739 6498 Linnéa Swedish Folkdancers Wahroonga, 7.30-10.30pm. All welcome. Catherine Greek Folk Dance Estonian House, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills. New Bonner 9489 5027 St Gerassimos Church Hall, 21 Henry St Leichhardt. members welcome. For times contact Graeme Traves Scottish Country Dancing 6 pm onwards. Adult classes from 7.15 Vasilios 9874 4194, [email protected] Fort Street School, Observatory Hill, City. 6pm to 8pm Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 [email protected] If you change your details PLEASE Nea MacCulloch 9904 1358(a/h) or Lynn 8244 9618(w) Sydney Irish Ceili Dancers advise the editor on 02 6493 6758 or email Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group Kingsgrove Uniting Church Hall, 289A Kingsgrove Rd International Dancing, Gymea Bay Scout Hall, June (cnr Moreton Avenue, Children’s step dancing 6pm, [email protected]. Place, 7.30-9pm. Kaye Laurendet 9528 4813 adults step dancing 7pm. Set and ceili dancing 8- Turkish Dance Class 10.30pm. Margaret and Bill Winnett 9150 6765. email: Lidcombe Community Centre, 8-10pm. Yusuf Nidai [email protected] 9646 1166 Friday Ukrainian (Cossack) Dancing Class Australian Colonial and Folk Dancers Every Friday, for fit and energetic young people (16-23yrs), St Andrews Ch Hall, cnr Trelawney/Rutledge Sts, 7.30 pm to 10.00 pm. Ukrainian Hall 59 Joseph Eastwood (next to BBC), Colonials’ Dance each 5th Street, Lidcombe. Jaros Iwanec 9817 7991, Friday evening. Anthony and Lisa 9873 4805. [email protected] /www.veselka.com.au American Contra Dancing. 11.30am-1pm. School for International Folk Dance class - Open Door, Georges seniors, Church in Market Place, Bondi Junction. $10 Hall Senior Citizens, Birdwood Rd, 11.30am-12.30pm. per school term. Beginners welcome. Julie 9524 0247 Gabrielle 9728 7466, [email protected] International Dancing The Folk Federation of NSW Inc.formed in “The Dance Buffet”, wide variety taught, Liverpool Sedenka Folk Dancers, Rozelle Neighbourhood 1970, is a statewide body which aims to present, City Pipe Band Hall, Woodward Park (next to Whitlam Centre, 665A Darling St Rozelle. 8-llpm, $3. Chris Wild support, encourage and collect folk music, folk Centre), Memorial Ave, 7.30-9.30pm. $8 ($5 conc). 9560 2910. dance, folklore and folk activities as they exist Nicholai 9822 7524, mob 0407 178 228 Scottish Country Dancing Adult classes, beginners welcome, children 6.30 - in Australia in all their forms. It provides a link 7.30pm, adults 8-10.30pm, Beecroft Primary School, for people interested in the folk arts through its $2. Sheena Caswell 9868 2075, Heather Dryburgh affiliations with folk clubs through NSW and its 9980 7978 counterparts in other states. It bridges all styles and interests to present the folk arts to the widest possible audience 8 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 -- phone for details @iinet.net.au or Geoff 9816 0393 / Sessions & Free Workshops MUSIC IN CONCERT 0421 582 975 (m) Monday Tuesday Troubadour Folk Club Bush Music Club The Screw Soapers Guild - Writers Presenters & Central Coast, 4th Sat. in month 7pm CWA Hall, Woy Community Centre, 44/142 Addison Rd, Marrickville, Listeners Group 4th Tues, 7.30pm, stories, poems, Woy. (opposite Fisherman’s Wharf), The Boulevard, 7.30pm. Music workshop. All singers and musicians songs and conversation. Albert 9600 7153, email: Woy Woy. Admission: $7 members/$8 conc. & other welcome. Bob 9569 7244, [email protected] [email protected], website: www.folkclub. folk club mems/$10 non members. Everyone welcome Irish Music Session: Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday com/folkodyssey/ Tel. Frank or Marilyn 4342 9099, Fax 4325 7362. of the month from 7.30 – 10.30pm @ The Shamrock Wednesday Email: [email protected] www.troubadour. Inn, Asquith Leagues Club, Alexandra Pd. Waitara Wisefolk Club Last Wed in month, 11am-2.30pm, org.au/folk/index.htm.. (short walk from station). It’s an open session Toongabbie Bowling Club, 12 Station Rd, lunch at club and all musicians are welcome with focus on bistro. Sonia 9621 2394 Allen 9639 7494, Choirs tunes rather than songs. Phone Norm 9489 5786/ Thursday Monday [email protected] North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club, A Choired Taste, Glebe, led by David Westmore, 9716 Wednesday 1st Thurs 8pm, Cornucopia Café - old Gladesville 7016 Irish Dance and Music Session. The Harp Hotel, Hospital, cnr Punt & Victoria Rds, Gladesville. Jenny Bright Star Singers Ashfield, led by Mary-Jane Tempe, dance 7-9.30pm, music 9.30 - 12 midnight. 9559 3658(h) 0414 903 259(m) email: jdcarter@iinet. Field, 9797-6126 Enq. 9559 6300 net.au or Geoff 9816 0393 / 0421 582 975 (m) Ecopella. Erskineville, led by Miguel Heatwole, 9810 Jolly Frog Hotel. Jam Night. Cnr Bridge & Macquarie Sutherland Folk Club 4601 [email protected] Sts, Windsor. 7.30pm to late. Mark 0419 466 004 2nd Thurs concert night Glory Bound Groove Train. Petersham, led by Irish Music Session. Clarendon Hotel Katoomba, **All ages and all members are welcome to come and Linda Calgaro, 9518 4135 7-10pm. Enq. Tinker 4782 2623 join us at any of our concerts, do a floor spot. Enjoy a Inner West Chamber Choir, Leichhardt, led by friendly , sociable night’s entertainment, support local Rachelle Elliott. 9797 1917. [email protected]. Gosford Bush Poets talent. These artists are all superb musicians!! Contact Intonations. Manly, led by Karen Smith, 0405 221 113 Last Wednesday night of every month 7pm. The Jenny 9576 2301. Martenitsa. Ultimo, led by Mara & Llew Kiek, Gosford Hotel, cnr of Mann & Erina Sts Gosford. Everyone welcome to share in night of fun, friendship Friday 47514910 and great poetry. Contact Vic Jefferies, 02 96394911 or Hornsby Kuring-Gai Folk Club People’s Chorus Newcastle, led by Rod Noble, 49 [email protected] 3rd Fri, 8pm, Each month Beatrice Taylor Hall, rear 623432 Willow Park Community Centre, Edgeworth David Ave, Unaccompanied Baggage. North Sydney, led by Thursday Guest artist and floor spots, light supper provided BYO Stuart Davis, [email protected] Sutherland Folk Club grog. Barry Parks 9807 9497 [email protected] Voiceworks, Katoomba, ledby Rachel Hore 4759 Session night 4th Thursday. 7.00pm, Sutherland lllawarra Folk Club, 2456, [email protected] District Trade Union Club, Gymea. All welcome. 9520 1st Friday, Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Tuesday 6180. Church Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub. Cantorion, Neutral Bay, led by David Westmore, Blackheath Folk Club, org.au 9716 7016 1st Thurs, 7.30pm, Ivanhoe Hotel, cnr Gt Wstn Hwy Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Eastside Arts, Paddington, led by Christina Mim- and Govetts Leap Rd. Christine Davies, Peter Duggan Club, or SNC Acoustic Club. Regular folk nights on mochi, 9331 2646 4787 7246 Ecopella. Illawarra area (alternate Tuesdays), led by the 4th Friday of each month (Feb - Nov), 8pm $7/$5 Friday Springwood Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd, Miguel Heatwole 9810 4601, [email protected] Roc Lawson, led by Rachel Hore, 47592456, BMC Beer & Cheese Night Springwood. (next to Civic Centre). Visitors and floor Themed music nights, 1st Fri (except holidays), performers welcome. Enquiries, Mark Hand 02 4721 [email protected] The Honeybees. East Sydney, led by Dynes Austin. 8-10pm. Bring something to sing, eat, drink. Bush 4230 or [email protected] Music Club, Hut 44, Addison Rd Community Contact Jenny Jackson, 9816 4577 lindsayandjenny@ Toongabbie Music Club Centre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. 9569 7244, 2nd and 4th Fri 8pm, Northmead Scout Hall, hotmail.com [email protected] Whitehaven Road, Northmead. A session always Sydney Trade Union Choir happens so bring instruments. Alison Boyd 02 9769 Sydney City, contact [email protected] Eastern Suburbs Poetry Group st 0592, [email protected], or Ray Pulis 9899 2102. Wednesday Church at the Market Place, Bondi Junction Plaza, 1 Choralation. Abbosford (school terms), contact Marga- Fri, 7.30-10pm. 9699 2129 Saturday ret Grove [email protected] Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Club lllawarra Folk Club, Ecopella. Upper Mts., contact Kate 47 825529 3rd Saturday, Wollongong City Diggers 4th Fri, (Feb - Nov) 8pm, $7/$5, Springwood Club, cnr Burelli & Church Streets, 1300 NoteTonight, Josephine. Glebe, led by David Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd (next to library 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Westmore, 9716 7016 and Oriental Hotel.) Visitors and floor performers Loaded Dog Folk Club Stampadowns. Camperdown, led by Peter Lehner, welcome, Theresa 47518157, Jeannette 4754 4893 4th Sat, Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 contact Kim/John 0419 164 212 Saturday Johnston St, 8pm. Sandra Nixon, 9358 4886, Thursday Fairlight Folk Acoustic Lounge [email protected]. www.theloadeddog.org.au Australian Gaelic Singers, Ryde. Bran MacEa- Held 4 times a year, Feb, May, Aug. Nov (usually Macquarie Towns Music Club chaidh, 9633 1162. www.gaelicsingers.org.au 1st Sat) 7.45pm. A comfortably enticing, relaxed 3rd Sat,7.30pm Usually ‘Round Robin’ format and Bouddi Voice. Kincumber (school terms), led by C environment in which to see quality live acoustic music. includes guest artists, workshops & concerts. Small & C Sainsbury, contact 43 683270 Ajfjter show - jam. BYO drinks and nibbles. Light door fee includes supper. Richmond Neighbourhood Chorella Community Choir. Richmond, contact refreshments available. William St Studios, Fairlight Centre, West Market St, .Contact Dez Williams at 4578 Ellen 4578 2975 (The Baptist Church down from Sydney Rd. Contact 5215 [email protected] Cleftomaniacs. Waterloo, led by Gary Smith, Rosie 9948 7993. [email protected] The Shack. 1st Sat, presents 21st century original, [email protected] Sunday contemporary and traditional folk music at the Solidarity Choir. Newtown, led by Miguel Heat- Sydney Scottish Fiddlers st Tramshed, 1395a Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen at 7:30. wole, 9810 4601, [email protected] 1 and 3rd Sun, 2-5pm, New Church, 4 Shirley Rd BYO drinks and nibblies. Contact Rhonda on 0416 635 Friday Roseville. All ages welcome. Trish 9416 2402. 856 or email Kathleen at [email protected]. The Sydney Street Choir. CBD, led by Peter Irish Music Session Bluegrass & Traditional Country Music Society of Lehner 0425 268 771 Harp Irish Pub, Tempe, 4-7.30pm. Enq. 9559 6300 Aust. 1st Sat, March-December Sydney get-together. Mudlarks, women’s a cappella choir. Woodford. Led Family Hotel , Katoomba. (on the roundabout when Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, by Alison Jones 4759 2880 you first cross the railway line to enter Katoomba.) 4pm Annandale. Band workshop 7pm, concert 8.15pm, Saturdays Music Session Hero of Waterloo, cnr Lower Fort jamming all night. All welcome: $5/7. (02) 9456 1090 The Shire Quire. Gymea, led by Mary-Jane Field. St and Windmill Street, The Rocks. 6-10pm. Brendan www.bluegrass.org.au contact Jenny, 9576 2301 9818 4864 Sunday Sunday Irish Music Session. 3rd Sunday. Bennet Hotel, North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club, Blue Mountains Trade Union Choir. Upper Mts., Hamilton, 4-7.30pm Roz and Shane Kerr 44967 3167 afternoon concerts approx. every 2nd month, 2pm contact Kate 4782 5529 Irish Music Sessions - Dicey Riley’s, Wollongong 2pm. The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 9 Nimmitabel Blues Festival The first Nimmitabel executed boogie tunes and songs; the high relationship of jazz and blues - perhaps the point of which must surely have been her non-identical twins of American music. Blues Festival was rendition of Meade Lux Lewis’s ‘Boogie Nichaud’s powerful voice ably supported held at the Nimmitabel Train Blues’. Many in the audience had by Sam’s vocals, smoothly moved through Pub south of Cooma It not heard this seminal piece before, and Dinah Washingtons ‘Is You Is Or Is You was a great success. the experience was stirring, the applause Ain’t My Baby’; and another Julia Lee deservedly long and loud. She played number ‘Don’t Wait Too Long’; to Billie Tony Jaggers from Moruya opened some lovely women’s songs and music Holliday’s ‘Downhearted blues’ and the with an entertaining set of his original too, including ‘Ugly Papa’ by Julia Lee much covered ‘St Louis Blues’ by WC songs. Tony was well accompanied by and selections from Ida Cox. Her own Handy. jazzman Murry McKay on slap bass, and composition ‘Eating Chocolate and Cryin’ Next on the bill was Canberra’s DJ Canberra’s Derek Lark on harmonica. Blues’, brought the house down. and a Karisma Kat - Christo. His funky Murray, from Pambula, is a veteran jazz Borderhouse Blues playedsome very guitar playing on ‘Gonna Get a Little Risky and blues musician who played in the jazzy blues, with a proportion of bluesy Babe’ was a highlight of the day. Another opening of the Deniliquinn Jazz Festival. jazz thrown in. The Southcoast-based highlight was their performance of Dean Then came Stevie Page playing a trio comprises guitar, clarinet, saxaphone Edgecombes ‘Mamma’s Joy’. The crowd beautiful Les Paul model Gibson electric and slap bass with vocals from all three were so enthusiastic that they pressed for guitar. What a great ambassador for members. We thought their interpretation and gained an encore from DJ (the only the blues is Stevie! Her soulful voice of ‘Delta Blues’ was outstanding. group to be so honoured on the day). delivered with much power gave us many The Nimmitabel festival had as much When DJ and Christo began ‘Bring It On original songs plus some standards that of what, just a decade or so ago we would Home To Me’ the audience erupted with honoured the originals. We particularly have called jazz, as it had of “the blues”. applause and DJ’s harmonica solo brought liked her wonderful song ‘Fly’ - which is And there was much acoustic blues music many to their feet in joy. In the audience used in the soundtrack of the soon to be of the kind that nowdays legitimately finds Mick O’Leary, on listening to DJ’s solo released US film ‘Talking to Strangers’. a home at many of our folk festivals. Only said “I think I’ve died and gone to heaven”. Phil Edgely arrived with a barrowload the most diehard 12-bar blues fans would Then we had a second set from the of instruments and sound gear and have found anything to whinge about on incomparable Jan Preston, when she gave us a set of scintillating spectacular the entertainment packed Nimmitabel called up the ‘gels’ DJ, Stevie Page and accoustic guitar based music. He even program! (As was later demonstrated Nichaud - and oh brother (& sister) did sang! Phil is an engaging person on amply by the acts on the program at the they boogie! stage. He demonstrated some of the Goulburn Blues Festival, these days the Finally Dutch Tilders came back most stylised blues musicianship we’ve rigid distinctions are blurring, and that’s with Murray McKay on slap bass. After heard for a long while! He performed no bad thing we reckon. Makes for more a couple of numbers the Dutch called up Dylan’s ‘Girl From the North Country’ musical cross fertilisation, better variety Jan P. on piano and things really kicked in a version that was wholly his own and greater entertainment for patrons.) off with some mighty boogie and rhythm interpretation but beautifully musical Perhaps the jazziest of the acts was & blues. So began perhaps the best blues and stirring nonetheless, and we’re sure certainly the Borderhouse Blues. jam it has been my priveledge to hear, Mrs Zimmerman’s little boy would have Heading the bill, master bluesman when Dutch was joined by Pete West on approved. He ended his set with a most Dutch Tilders came next. I can’t ad to harmonica and Steve Russell on slide. As suitable invitation: “Any fans of Elton John the array of superlatives that have bheen time passed the stage filled, with the sound can come up after the show to have a chat written and said about this verteran over guy also named Jan on harmonicas too, with me, and I’ll be happy to put them in the decades - everything that needs to and Wombat on bass. They all proceeded touch with an interested party”. be said has been said before about this to jam and party musically. Our host Then came another real delight - man. He gave his usual accomplished Banjo joined in again and we rocked on, our host Banjo took centre stage and performance, making the blues his own, everybody dancing, and the joint was still kicked off with a solo presentation of changing moods with style and ease. rocking in the early hours of the morning. Stephen Foster songs. His most melodic Steve Russell from Canberra played Pete West reckoned all his dreams performance put the lie to claims that solo slide guitar and his ‘Johnny You’re came true at once, gettin’ the chance to jam the banjo cannot be played sensitively. Too Bad’ was very impressive. We can with his two heros Jan Preston and Dutch Without breaking stride Banjo then moved listen to a lot more from this man. Other Tilders on stage at the same time! to some blues standards, and was joined on outstanding numbers in his set were The Nimmitabel Blues Festival was a stage by Murray on slap bass, Walter from ‘People Get Ready’ - a most stirring, treat for blues and jazz fans. Banjo did a Bermagui on washboard and from Bega powerful and emotive rendition of which good job organising it, and his staff at the Banjo Billy playing - yep you guessed it, Curtis Mayfield would have approved - and hotel couldn’t have been more helpful and another one! The effect was altogether ‘Make Me a Pallet’. Steve closed his set friendly. All in all, this was a top day,we bewitching. A thoroughly enjoyable set with Robert Johnson’s ‘Come On In My hope the triumph will be repeated for many culminating in a fantastic rendition of Kitchen’. years to come. Well done all involved. ‘Walking to New Orleans’ with Pete West Nichaud Fitzgibbon and Sam Le Mary Martin assisting on harmonica. Meurr. This duo apologised that their The powerhouse of piano boogie, forte was jazz and then gave a performance (Photographs courtesy Mary Martin) Jan Preston played a set of superbly that very capably showed the sibling
10 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 Stevie Page
Jan Preston DJ & Christo
Banjo & Boys Tony Jaggers & Murray McKay
The Combined Celtic Groups of the Hunter “A Celtic Cultural Experience” 23, 24, 25 May 2008 In Teralba, Lake Macquarie, NSW This popular Festival is on again! The Celtic Groups of the Hunter Region are once again combining to present a wonderful weekend of workshops, displays and performances and a Saturday evening Ceilidh featuring Colin Douglas. The weekend also features Dr Ronald McCoy National Folk Festival Fellow 2007-2008. Book early. Early Bird Weekend ticket a tiny $35 (includes morning/afternoon tea)
Included in the weekend will be: Dances from Celtic Lands- for all grades of dancers Music – Tin Whistle, Bodhran, Harp and vocal Language – tutors will help you master the Celtic tongue History, traditions and stories from Cornwall, Shetland and more Pictish designs, Shetland knitting and other crafty things for kids DO NOT MISS THIS WEEKEND Put the dates in your diary now! Applications from: A Celtic Cultural Experience, PO Box 34, KOTARA 2289 NSW Email: Margaret, [email protected] or Elma, [email protected] Ph/Fax (02) 4943 3436
The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 11 forty second National Folk Festival 2008 The 42nd National Folk Festival, with won a number of NOWaste awards); the events); and ways to translate festival ex- its relaxed, carnival atmosphere, once free shuttle buses were running to and citement into increased attendance at live again brought a large music, dance and fro the main carpark; and patrons again performances throughout the year (possibly spoken word program to Exhibition Park in received a very detailed free program by better facilitating post concert CD sign- Canberra. (including maps, performer profiles and ings at the National and enhanced advertis- There is, of course, an art to enjoying performance times). To assist people with ing of upcoming non-festival performances a music festival. It’s important to enquire their National Folk Festival decisions, it and local venues). about seating arrangements (e.g. provided would have been good, however, for the And, as thoughts turn to the future, one or BYO?) and other local factors. You need performer profiles to have appeared on the wonders how many people know exactly a program. And you’ll want a highlighter Festival’s website (www.folkfestival.asn. how long it is until the 43rd National Folk pen (for marking your program). You au) a week or two beforehand. Festival, courtesy of a Peggy Seeger count- might appreciate bringing water, snacks With the music program comprising down clock key ring! and sun screen. And you’ll probably benefit around 150 acts, it was basically impos- Sue Barrett from having a coat (at least for the evening sible for anyone to hear full concerts SUE BARRETT is an Australian music sessions) and some wet weather gear. It’s (often around 45 minutes) from more than writer, with a special interest in women in usually a good idea to explore broadly a minority of the performers — and most music. At the 2008 National Folk Festival, early (rather than discover a treasure at the people probably had a different sets of Sue bought more than one CD, ate more end of the festival). And you’ll sometimes highlights (and disappointments!). than one vegie burger and browsed more get pleasant surprises if you check the For some people, a highlight was than one stall. blackboard performances. You could want possibly Edna Kenny singing ‘Sorry Little your mobile phone (but with the ring tone Man’ (with updated lyrics) in the opening on silent). Patience is needed at times. And concert in the Budawang (aka National you’ll find that good manners never go Tally Room) on Thursday evening. Award Winners astray! A highlight for other people might National Folk A highlight of the National Folk Fes- have been the unscheduled guest spots tival is that it is very well organised, with (like Rory McLeod sneaking on stage to Festival 2008 friendly, helpful volunteers and enthusi- accompany Sally Dastey (ex-Tiddas) on Declan Affley Award (for emerging astic, informative MCs (who keep things Saturday afternoon). talent) Ben McAtameny and Ruth Wise running to time, present messages in a (This award is funded by the CFMEU, Liz Frencham in her many roles (solo, most un-officious way and cope well with Canberra.) the unexpected). In addition, its location Frencham Smith, Dev’lish Mary and per- forming with David LaMotte) seemed to be Lis Johnston Award (for “unknown” (Exhibition Park in Canberra — home of singer) Ange Takats the Royal Canberra Show, Lifeline Book a highlight for many people. Fair and Capital Region Farmers Market) And, for several hundred people, an Chris Wendt Award (for young musi- is spacious and has a country feel (and undoubted highlight was the Friday night cian) Jack Wilson smell!). screening by the National Film and Sound Social Dance Ass. of Victoria (for two The music program was diverse, with Archive of the 1919 Australian silent film, new dance competitions) John Short formal concerts (including Rory McLeod, The Sentimental Bloke — accompanied by and Felicity Fielding women in docs, Enda Kenny, The Duhks, a live performance of Jen Anderson’s score Reciter’s Award (best Poets Breakfast Eddi Reader, Judy Small, Peggy Seeger, by Jen and The Larrikins. Although the performer) Peter Mace brilliant Anderson subsequently headed off Phil Manning, Sally Dastey, Liz Fren- Yarn Spinners Award Susan Carcary cham, Genticorum, Pacific Curls, Fred for an East Coast Blues & Roots Festi- National Film & Sound Archive (best Smith, Dev’lish Mary, The Spooky Men’s val performance with Weddings Parties folk CD released in 2007) Trouble in the Chorale, David LaMotte and lots of NSW Anything, her presence continued on at Kitchen performers), plus blackboard venues, street the National (including the discovery that performers, informal (indoor and outdoor) she plays violin and viola on ex-Tiddas Infinite “Grease” Competition (most sessions and workshops. Lou Bennett’s new CD, Hold My Hand? creative version of song from “Grease”) — bought, incidentally, from Tom Burke Mal Webb The (mainly permanent) venues varied (brother of Kate — Trouble in the Kitchen, in size (including the 3000 seat (chairs Kate and Ruth) of Burke’s Music in Castle- and scaffolding) Budawang and the new maine (www.burkesmusic.com.au)). 250 seat Henley Theatre); the sound was excellent; there was a remarkable absence With thoughts now turning to the 2009 of audible mobile phones (although people National Folk Festival (where the featured taking photos with monster-sized flashes state will be South Australia and the twin presented a new problem); there were themes will be Natural Fibres and The lots of toilets; and there was an internet Americas), the organisers are probably café (courtesy of the National Library of already thinking about such things as at- Australia). tracting quality performers whilst keeping tickets affordable; scheduling (including Re-cycling continues to be a big thing watching out for clashes, program gaps (with the National Folk Festival having and venues that are too big/small for their
12 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 Seven for Old England’ The new traditional album from that is both familiar and challenging. In her new exciting chapter as well as revisiting Maddy Prior work with the Carnival Band she has found her very earliest days in music. She has Forty years from the release of “Folk herself performing alongside a range of been accompanied on this journey by two Songs of Old England Vol 1” in 1968 medieval and unusual instruments. As a of the most respected musicians working Maddy Prior returns to her English writer too, Maddy has continued to explore within the genre today, Benji Kirkpatrick Traditional roots.with “ Seven For Old > new ground. Always inspired by the myths & Giles Lewin, with them both featuring England” and legends of the British Isles, she has on this new album. In a career that has Long acknowledged as one of the most combined both traditional numbers with already been full of memorable moments, important voices in English folk music, the her own interpretation and increasingly ‘Seven For Old England’ is set to be yet reality of Maddy Prior’s career may come complex song cycles. Her most recent UK another fascinating development. One of as a surprise to many. tour was a truly interactive affair, with the world’s purest, most magical vocalists Although she first came to prominence daily video footage posted on a special being heard in her most natural form, as part of a folk duo with Tim Hart, the website. In short, for one of the voices of singing the songs that have inspired her band with which she made her name, folk music it has been a long, long time and generations of singers before her. Steeleye Span, have built a career lasting since Maddy Prior has made a traditional, While the new generation has taken the nearly forty years on the traditional acoustic ‘folk’ album. mantle of acoustic troubadours and made rock format of bass, drums and guitar Until now that is. Over the past few it their own, this is an opportunity to hear supplemented by the stirring violin of months, Maddy has been ensconced in one of the originators at the peak of her Peter Knight.Outside of that legendary Cecil Sharpe House in London, working powers. She has taken her audience on an group, Maddy has built a solo career through the vast archive of traditional incredible journey for over forty years but that has taken many twists and turns but material, in many ways returning to her for Maddy Prior, this may prove to be the increasingly making use of modern studio roots. From this has grown a project that album she was born to make. technology to create a musical landscape sees Maddy both looking forward to a Order Now from www.parkrecords.com Candelo Village Festival - Small in Size but Big in Atmosphere The first Candelo Village Festival was held on 29th March.. A small rural festival with good music and a fantastic atmosphere. As well as the locals there were some impressive Acts including Trouble In The Kitchen (fresh from the National), Kieran Halpin, Lindsay Martin. Kate Delaney Organisers plan to keep it “small and beautiful”. CD launch
Trouble In The Kitchen
Sam Martin & Neil Campbell NEW ALBUM ‘A MOMENT IN TIME’ OUT NOW Available thru folktracks www.folktracks.com & all major folk outlets Kieran Halpin Sunday 18th May 3.00 pm Harp Hotel Pacific Highway,Tempe Mike Martin, Kate Delaney - and ‘the boys’’ - Lindsay Martin Craig Kelly, Tony Pyrzakowski Llew Kiek, Ben McAtamney, Mark Stevens Plus The Fagans, Christine Wheeler,
The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 13 cd reviews Welcome Here Again Rosella Red Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill Chris While Green Linnet/Compass GLCD 1233 Fat Cat Records FATCD020 (Planet Co) It’s been a long time between albums, but Australian folk and roots music de- fans will indeed welcome and know roughly votes will be familiar with the warmth and what to expect in this new offering by these power of Chris’s live performance through her many visits to this country with Julie fine musicians on fiddle and guitar. Like their Matthews. Of the ten tracks on this solo previous collaborations, this album features Irish traditional jigs, album, eight are Chris’s own compositions. Chris has a great love reels, airs and set dances, on their own or in sets, played with a of the Australian landscape and people and has appropriately titled distinctive gentleness yet imbued with personal intensity, so that her solo cd Rosella Red which has a splendid cover painting by each phrase is important in its own right. The result is almost clas- Jill Swarbrick- Banks. Two of the songs relate to her Australian sical in style, with tantalisingly unhurried tempi and nicely-judged experiences. There’s a superb arrangement of Michael Kennedy’s rubato that give Irish traditional music a deeper meaning. As the composition, Pennyweight Hill concerning the cemetery near sleeve notes state, the renditions are governed by heart, soul, feel- Castlemaine where 200 children lie who died in the severe condi- ing and instinct, rather than being overly technical and cerebral. tions during the 1850’s Goldrush. Safe in Your Arms is a gentle Having said that, some might cry it’s more of the same. It is song concerning Chris flying to Australia and leaving a loved one certainly idiomatic yet it’s more Spartan, as if Martin’s selected behind and contains some perceptive lines like ‘to rest in the glow tunes are coming under ever greater scrutiny. Perhaps Dennis of Australian smiles’ and ‘the horizon would glow with rosella could have had a more forward role, but when it’s this engaging, red.’ who cares, just lap it up. She has gathered about her some talented musicians. I par- There are eighteen tracks, including the Clare Reel, The ticularly like the sound of the cello from Emma Capp on a couple Dear Irish Boy, The Wind Swept Hill of Tulla, The Galtee Hunt, of the tracks and the string arrangements from producer and good Coleman’s March, Pigeon On The Gate…you get the idea. All in mate Joe Broughton which doesn’t intrude on the stunning vocals all this is moody, melodious and delicious. to which daughter Kellie adds some top harmony. (Thru Planet Co) Chris excels when she is delivering biting, bluesy lyrics and Julius Timmerman her composition ‘Walking in My Shoes’ is the perfect song to dem- onstrate her skills. There are a number of songs of relationships, some with interestingly mysterious themes such as ‘When I Watch You Sleep.’ ‘You Didn’t Think It Through Did You’ is just so well written and has such general appeal it deserves daytime radio play. My favourite track on the album is Falling Ashes a song about her hometown of Barrow in Furness that vividly relates the story of the shipyard’s demise and the residents pride enabling the town “A Proper Job” to recover. Nick Lock Joni Mitchell’s song, ‘Both Sides Now’ has been covered by Nick Lock is one of those rare artists whose talents have, for many singers and Chris is up there with the best of them with her too often, been overlooked? Why is this I wonder? interpretation with minimal instrumentation and her voice well For twenty years now I’ve listened to his full throated, expres- forward in the mix. sive, yet powerful singing at sessions and now we finally have it There’s been a ten year wait for this superbly crafted solo preserved for posterity on his CD, “A Proper Job” which means in album from one of England’s finest female singers. It comes Cornwall where Nick grew up, “ a job well done plus an enjoyable highly recommended. Available from Amazon UK for 9 quid plus experience, as I hope it is for you” says Nick. postage. Amongst the seventeen songs on the CD are all those favou- There are thousands out there yearning for the next Australia rites I’ve enjoyed hearing over the years, such as Lassie Wi’ the wide tour by Chris and Julie. Could it be 2009? Yellow Coatie, Oggie Man, Pleasant & Delightful, Treacle on My Ray Downes Pudding, Farewell Shanty and of course the ever popular “bell ringing” song. A wonderful variety and delivered with Nick’s usual lively, cheery vocal tones. Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Folk Club Nick believes and I agree with him that the unaccompanied singer is the cornerstone of the folk tradition. For 25 years he’s 30th Birthday made his mark and earned a healthy respect in and around the Beatrice Taylor Hall Community Hall Sydney music scene as one of our best unaccompanied singers. Vocal accompaniment from Margaret Walters and John Warner Edgeworth David Ave as well as some delightful cello from Myfanwy Cohen and warm accordion backing from Malcolm Clapp enrich this well Hornsby produced CD. Make sure you get hold of a copy of this treasured collection Enq. Barry Parkes (9807 9407) of songs. I can guarantee you’ll be playing it over and over and compul- sively singing along. 14 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 OUT NOW! Australia’s No.1 monthly traditional and contemporary folk, blues, roots, alternative and world music magazine
www.tradandnow.comSubscribe Trad&Now (ISSN 1447 6525) is published by Now on-line at: Trad&Trad& Ducks In this issue PO BoxCrossing 53 Winn NSW 225 Publication ers of this year March 2008 - 2, Woy Woy 2a$3.90 Kateena Union Songs 6 Australia s Ron Edward Tr www Tascott NSWAve ’s awards .duckscrossing.orgnue & the Folk R AprilTra 2008 Ivy League P d&Now s - Folklori and printed in Australia evival Registered foris transmissionproudly produced by CD Catal trios print post PP255003/06443 st & publisher by Spotpress, Creation ofogue W P P4 ISSUEPublisher: #28 Marrickville NSW art 5 Peggy Seeger at th 4 PP ng Publications altzing Matilda 8 02 4325 7369 Intervie P w with Nick C 11 02 4325 7362 Trad&Now New S e National Library P @tradan 20 Bluegrass C arpenter ublicationsdnow.com also publish: Gig Guide tock ! 25 ula News hampionship ulanews.asn.au PP32 anews.asn.au WOMADel wls News s P33 gpond.com Newstead Folaide P ssing.org P35 Australians at wls News k festival 36 ond.com Film at P Ivy League The Nationalplay 3 A Folkie Goes to P7 Megan 42 y Rowe Regular music PP Ben Deegan A Punter’ Tamworth 43 lk Music events The 5th Strings Perspective 44 Peggy Seeger P45 rs: Dance Cal P P47 Rapping endar P 50 iel Poetry & the S s P54 Regula P poken Word Bluegrass Championships h Pub Crawlr Poetr 56 y Events 58 Bluegrass N PP 62 CD Revi ews Folk on ews P63 Nex the Wireless 67 t P A P editio P unters Perspective n Tra : Trad&Now 68 unsolicitedd&Now material. The views expressed in P ear any relationship welcomes to other contributions members of of editorial news, features staff. We and wel photographs b 70 the editor for distribution to the review Npanel.o . 28 vertising artwork & copy deadline for Ma 73 Advertisers are advised to book sp Publication date racy Trad&Now 79 hilst we take all reas Editorial deadline d are solely th otherwise I : Pub Crawl rs or om April 9 www.tradandnow.com :M
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The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 15 folk trax focus on folk Hi All 2MBS-FM 102.5MHz 6PM Saturday “Dare to Struggle , Dare to Win” is the new CD from Martin Focus on Folk will come to you at 6PM on 2nd and Doherty and Leigh Birkett. The CD is a tribute to John Cummins. 4th Saturdays on 2MBS-FM, 102.5MHz for 1 hour of It’s one of the latest additions to the Folk Trax catalogue. Also excellent folk music. new are the Akoustic Odyssey CDs. From the Planet stable come some great new overseas Saturday 10th May 6PM Paul Jackson will play more offerings. For Joan Baez fans we now offer 1 re-issue ( Ring Them tracks from a collection of older Folk re-released Bells) and her first new studio album in 10years ( Bowery Songs) on CD’s in UK. . Kate Rusby, yes I am a bit of a fan, has a new CD “Awkward Saturday 24th May, 6PM Annie” while Lunasa called their best of CD “The Story so Far”. Fans of Frankie Armstrong can rejoice with the release of Carole Garland (program to be confirmed) “Encouragement”. George Papavgeris was at the National and if Anyone with a CD that you would like to add to the library collection for you missed buying his CD Life’s Eyes is available from Folk Trax. consideration for airway please forward to Dick Gaughan went to The Trades Club to record his live CD and Focus on Folk, Post Office Box A182, Sydney South 1235. that too is now online. There are plenty more. As you can see, with winter due, you can enjoy folk music sitting by a cosy fire and a nice glass of South Aussie wine. Sunday 9-10am 2HHH 100.1 FM Cheers! Northside Folk members produce a program of folk Unfortunately we can’t supply the wine , others will do that, music. (Details Barry Parks 9807 9497 or bpparks@ but the folk is at www.folktrax.com tpg.com.au) Are you a member of a Folk Federation or a reader of the Folk Rag? If you are, don’t forget the 10% discount available to you. Time to get back to work and get the next batch of great new CDs online. See you next month, keep on Folking Henk & Jan de Weerd Folk Trax
16 The CORNSTALK Gazette MAY 2008 mpd printing the news everyday Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220