Folk Federation of Inc Issue No 383 MARCH 2007 $3.00

The Chinese Lion Dancers at Folk Festival delight the crowd

In this issue Dates for your diary p4 Festivals p12 Choosing A Guitar p9 Folk Contacts p12

♫ ♫ dance ♫ festivals ♫ reviews ♫ profi les ♫ diary dates ♫ sessionsThe Folk Federation ONLINE♫ teachers - jam.org.au ♫ opportunitiesThe CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 1 Deadline for April Issue: Adverts 5th March 2007 COPY 10th March (FIRM) March 2007 Folk Federation of New South Wales Inc Post Offi ce Box A182 South NSW 1235 ISSN 0818 7339 ABN94115759221 Cornstalk is the offi cial publication of the Folk Federa- tion of NSW. Contributions, news, reviews, poems, photograph most welcome. Deadline date 2nd Friday of the month. All care but no responsibility taken for omissions or errors. Advertisements - artwork required by 1st Friday of the month. Contact the editor for all enquiries re adver- tisements. Contact Julie Bishop re inserts. No part of Cornstalk may be reproduced without INAUGURAL FOLK FEDERATION permission of the publishers. For a comprehensive listing of regularly occurring folk GALA DAY music and dance events in Sydney and other parts of NSW please check the Folk Federation of NSW What? website, www.jam.org.au A picnic, music and singing, fun events Where? Contributions accepted ias attachments to an email using word. Pictures please send jpegs. Please do not The headland at Elkington Park, send pictures within a word document. Send pictures Balmain as attachments. All copy accepted by email or by disc. Editor, Cornstalk When? Coral Vorbach 29th April 2007. Post Offi ce Box 5195 Cobargo NSW 2550 From 10.00 am onwards Email: [email protected] Who? Tel/Fax: 02 6493 6758 Wrap Co-ordinator You and your family James Baxter (02) 98104131. Bring FFNSW Folkmail (web) food drink Julie Bishop 02 9524 0247 instruments voices Email: [email protected] AND anything else that you need to FFNSW Committee2006 Executive Committee enjoy yourselves!! President, Christine Wheeler 02 9401 0322 Email: [email protected] Vice President: Kate Delaney Secretary: Pam Davis 02 9955 3677 Email: [email protected] Treasurer: Bruce Cameron02 6331 1129 Email: [email protected] Committee:Sandra Nixon, Carol Hirt, Christina Mimmocchi, Mary-Jane Field, Pam Merrigan, Rosemary Shapiro, Wayne Richmond, Jennifer Lees. Membership Secretary Wayne Richmond Listserv/Jam/Membership 9913 7788 (not after 8.00pm) If your important item misses Cornstalk, please remember there Volunteers, Coral Vorbach, Julie Bishop, Patricia Early, Margaret Walters. are also:folkmail (members’ email list) contact Julie Bishop (02 9524 0247) [email protected] jam.org.au –Folk Fed Next Committee Meeting FFNSW website, here members can post info, articles, etc. Please check with Secretary 9955 3677

2 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 WHAT’S ON AT EASTSIDE ARTS MARCH Friday 9 (Eastside Music Café): Musica Viva’s Cafe Carnivale presents Armadito y su Trovason. Bookings 1800 688 482 Saturday 10 (Stone Gallery on oxford) Almost Acoustic: Frankie Armstrong (UK) + Jacqui O’Reilly ($15/$12) Sunday 11: tango lessons for dancer and musicians 3-5pm and Milonga (all welcome) from 6-9pm. $30 includes lessons and Milonga or $15/$12 for just the Milonga Tuesday 13 (Stone Gallery on oxford) 7-9pm: Frankie Armstrong (UK) singing workshop ($20/$15) Thursday 15 (Stone Gallery on oxford) 7.30pm, Almost Acoustic: Alistair Hulett (UK) and Dave Swarbrick (UK) present Red Clydeside ($20/$15) Friday 16 (Eastside Music Café): Musica Viva’s Cafe Carnivale presents Monsieur Camembert. Bookings 1800 688 482 Saturday 17 (Eastside Music Café): Judy Campbell’s MOSAIC featuring Bandika Ngao (Kenya) Thursday 22 (Stone Gallery on oxford) 7.30pm, Almost Acoustic: Warren Fahey’s Tales of Old Paddington ($20/$15) Friday 23 (Eastside Music Café): Musica Viva’s Cafe Carnivale presents Eddie Ignacio/bossa nova. Bookings 1800 688 482 Saturday 24 (Eastside Music Café): ’ showcase featuring Karl Broadie, Janet Swain and others ($15/$12) Friday 30 (Eastside Music Café): Musica Viva’s Cafe Carnivale presents Flamenco Crew. Bookings 1800 688 482 Saturday 31 (Stone Gallery on oxford): The Sacred Fire - Music of Hildegard von Bingen performed by Heather Lee, with Kim Cunio and readings by Stephanie Dowrick and James Coates ($20/$15)

Eastside Music Café (licensed) and Stone Gallery on Oxford (Paddington Uniting Church) are on the site of the Paddington Markets Doors open 8pm unless otherwise advertised Wheelchair access. Bookings recommended – 9331 2646 or [email protected] Free car parking: 24-28 Gordon Street Church car park. Buses from Sydney CBD. Map and more information on www.eastsidearts.org.au

The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 3 President’s Report This month we announce an event dates for your diary for members of the Folk Federation we hope you’ll put in your diaries straight Thursday 1st March away. Described as ‘the inaugural folk International Folk Club Concert - Ralph McTell, Pettibone, 7.30pm, City Diggers gala picnic day’, it is designed as a . $20, $25. www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au gathering to celebrate your ongoing  interest in folk music and dance and to Lunasa – The Factory Theatre, 8.00pm“The hottest Irish and acoustic group on the bring you and your families together planet” Lúnasa, one of the most sought-after bands on the international Irish music scene, is for a day of low-pressure social and returning to for a national tour culminating in appearances at Womadelaide and the musical interaction. No fundraising Port Fairy Folk Festival. 105 Victoria Rd, Marrickville.Bookings: The Factory Theatre, 9550 agendas, no performance schedules, 3666.  just pleasant sessions under the trees North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club, 8pm. ‘Who Shot the Sheriff?’ and a few games to break the ice. Look No, it isn’t little John and Robin Hood! It’s John Warner and Robin Connaughton, who for the ad in this issue. teamed up as instrumentalists to provide accompaniment to the Roaring Forties in their Musical fashions come and go, presentations of “A Tolpuddle Man” and “Yarri of Wiradjuri.” The musical outcomes were as Lynden Barber points out in his interesting. Robin is now playing six and twelve string guitars in alternative tunings, as well article, ‘Folk For Our Times’ (see as the Appalachian dulcimer and a Guittara Portuguesa. John plays the same guitar format, but elsewhere this issue), but folk music has an Irish bouzouki. gives its adherents more than just a John’s repertoire is well known, covering historical and social themes, union songs, railways trend to follow. We get stories about and the rest. Robin is best known for his political satire as well as being an excellent singer of all aspects of life, we get traditions to traditional songs and a disgustingly witty commentator on almost anything. draw from, we get friends and a sense Folk, both accompanied and unaccompanied, blues, shanties, libellous, blasphemous, of community, and periodically we scandalous and all those other characteristics we’ve come to know and love in the Roaring get a sense of renewal as innovative Forties, should be the trademark of these two musical scoundrels. younger players come into the picture. Cornucopia Cafe, Old Gladesville Hospital, cnr Victoria and Punt Rd, Gladesville. Cars We constantly work to balance the enter by bottom gates in Punt Rd, take fi rst turn left towards Victoria Rd, then left fork and inherent inclusiveness that folk music left at the top. Pedestrian access from Victoria Rd if travelling by 500/501 bus. $12/$10. needs to keep it alive and growing with Floorspots available and BYO’s welcome. Jenny 9559 3658 (h) / 0414 903 259 (m), email: the desire to improve performance [email protected] Tony 9858 7882 (w), 0409 784 689 (m). standards and to come up with musical Friday 2nd March approaches with contemporary Beer and Cheese Night – ‘Politicians – Old & New’ relevance and appeal, while keeping Or ... Dead & Alive? Bring songs, and something to eat and drink. 8-10pm, Bush Music Club, those links with traditions. Festival Hut 44, Addison Rd Community Centre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. $4, $5. 9569 7244, directors work hard to acknowledge [email protected] the folk heritage of all Australians, not  just us anglo-celts - what great timing ‘Experience déjà vu’ - a light-hearted acoustic concert with Loosely Woven. 7pm St and astuteness from Dave O’Neill Andrews Presbyterian Church, 54 Raglan Street, Manly. and the National Folk Festival to put Ralph McTell – 10th Australian Tour – Leichhardt Town Hall, 8pm Cnr Marion and the focus this year on music from the Norton Sts, Leichhardt. Presented by Balmain Acoustica. . The legendary British singer- middle east, as Australia begins a slow , who wrote “Streets of London” and “From Clare to Here”among hundreds of and painful recovery from a period of other great songs. politically led demonisation of anyone One of the great story tellers, Ralph McTell is now celebrating 40 years on the road. Ralph’s with Muslim affi liations. 2007 tour of Australia is billed as the “fi rst farewell tour” – it just could be the last opportunity But that’s not till April. This month to see this true icon of the British folk music scene. Bookings: Moshtix, 9209 4616. www. there are many good folk programs moshtix.com.au to support, just check the gig guide and festival guide this issue. See you Saturday 3rd March  around at one of them, The Shack Folk Club at the Tramshed in Narrabeen 7. 30pm. Guest artists: Christine Wheeler Leonard Minogue – born in Tipperary, Ireland and coming from a well known family of musicians, Leonard Minogue shares an intimate understanding of traditional and contemporary Ir ish folk music. Come and enjoy the mystical sounds of Celtic music from the romantic to the rebel. Dominique Fraissard – Dominique Fraissard is a well-respected singer/songwriter in the folk/acoustic scene with a very original twist of urbantransfer to his work. Since his fi rst performance in the chalkboard venues at the Woodford Folk festival he has been in ever increasing demand and is accompanied by the Groundlings Band. Spasm Band – The Shack’s resident good time band made up of original Shacky’s who are accomplished singers and musicians doing jug, blues, folk… you name it, they can do it. Beecroft Bush Dance with String Fiddle Caller Anthony Simon. 8pm-midnight, Beecroft Community Centre, Beecroft Rd. 9642 7950, Ralph McTell www.bushmusic.org.au

4 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 March At The Harp Thurday 1st The Beez(Germany). 8pm. Traditional Music Session, 1-4pm, led by David De Santi. Bulli Heritage Hotel, free. Saturday 2nd Vin Garbutt(UK). 8pm. www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Saturday 10th Alistair Hulett and Dave Sunday 4th March Swarbrick(UK). 8pm. Lunasa. Early show 5.00pm Lunasa. “The hottest Irish and acoustic group on the planet”. Sunday 11th (afternoon) Pat Drum- The Heritage Hotel Bulli 240 Bulli Bookings (02) 4284 5884 & at the mond & Brent Parlane. 2pm. venue Sunday 11th (evening) Michelle Kiba Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – ‘Social Dance Night’ (USA) – ‘The Ukulele Lady’ + Hoola. Interesting couple dances, caller Felicity Hattingh. Community Centre (air-conditioned), 7pm.  Yarrara Rd, 7.30-9.30pm, $7. 9456 2860 Monday 19th The Yearlings + Suzan- nah Espie & Ian Collard. 8pm. Thursday 8th March Tuesday 20th Ralph McTell(UK) 8pm. Sutherland Folk Club Guest Night 7.30pm. This month we feature indigenous Australian Wednesday 21st Colum Sands( Nth singer-songwriter Rhubee Neale with her three piece backing band. Ireland). 8pm. Originally from Alice Springs, her people are Anmatyerr,Arrente and Irish.Resident in Thurday 22nd Paddy Keenan(Ireland). Sydney for four years She describes herself as a passionate lyric writer and vocalist. Her 8pm. band members are Ken Smith (well known on the folk scene), Sac Lambert and nephew Friday 23rd Rory McLeod(UK). 8pm. Nathan Scott who plays Lead guitar and didgeridoo. Ken will round the night off with Saturday 24th (afternoon) Women In some demonstration dancing with his band of Morris Men known as Blackjoak. Top shelf Docs. 2pm. entertainment to be sure. Held at Southern District Trade Unuion Club, Manchester and Sunday 25th Eleanor McEvoy(Ireland). Kingsway, Gymea. $10 entry.Floor spots. Enq: Jenny 95762301 after 6pm or Maeve 7pm. 95205628 Thursday 29th Chris Smither(USA). 8pm. Friday 30th The Fagans with Nancy Friday 9th March Kerr. 8pm. Folk Club Concert - Pat Drummond, 7.30pm, City Diggers Wollongong. $8, $12. www. Saturday 31st The Mammals(USA). illawarrafolkclub.org.au 8pm. Sunday 11th March The Harp Irish Pub 900 Princes Hwy ‘Experience déjà vu’ - a light-hearted acoustic concert with Loosely Woven. 4pm, St Davids Tempe NSW 2044 Ave, Dee Why. (next to police) Tel: (02) 9559 6300 Monday 12th March Fax: (02) 9559 6299 Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – ‘Mixed Australian’ (set & couple) [email protected] Caller John Short. Community Centre, Yarrara Rd, 7.30-9.30pm, $7. Felicity 9456 2860, www. bushmusic.org.au Saturday 17th March Balmain Bush Dance with McMahon Bros. Caller Paul Weaver. 8pm-midnight, Rozelle Campus, Sydney College, 25 Terry St. Dot 9876 6166, www. bushmusic.org.au Macquarie Towns Music Club. An Irish theme for St Patrick’s Day and a ‘Round Robin’ format. Please bring along an Irish song to play and also dress in green (only joking). 7.30-10.30pm. Richmond Neighbourhood Centre, West Market St. $10, includes supper. St Patrick’s Day Concert with Eleanor McEvoy from Ireland, 7.30pm, City Diggers Wollongong. $15, $20. www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Monday 19th March Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – ‘Military Mix’ (set & couple) February Caller John Short. Community Centre, Yarrara Rd, 7.30-9.30pm, $7. Felicity 9456 2860, www. Friday 2nd bushmusic.org.au Settlers Night Session and Dance Saturday 24th March Friday 9th ‘Experience déjà vu’ - a light-hearted acoustic concert with Loosely Woven. 2pm, New Alistair Hulett and Dave Swarbrick Theatre, Newtown (542 King St, mid Newtown and St Peters stations) (Scotland); Bob Hodgson’s Reel Har- monicas..... Admission $25/$20 Thursday 22nd March Friday16th Sutherland Folk Club session night. All welcome for a friendly jam, say a poem, do a Sophie Raymond; Matty Ellis dance, - anthing goes, really! No charge. Held at Southern District Trade Unuion Club, Sunday 18th Manchester and Kingsway, Gymea .Floor spots. Enq: Jenny 95762301 after 6pm or Maeve The Yearlings; PLUS Suzannah Espie 95205628 (short walk from the station). Sunday 25th March and Ian Collard BMC Workshop for Enthusiastic Musicians (Addison Rd Community Centre, Thursday 22nd Marrickville), run by George Washingmachine. Incl. basic fi ddle styles, plus , blues, Rory McLeod (UK); Women In Docs swing, maybe classical. All instruments and ages. 10am to 1 or 2pm. $20, $10 child ...... Admission $25/$20 (student). RSVP by 22nd March, Dawn 0408 496 887. (Followed by Bush Music Club AGM, Fri 30th The Mammals (USA); The Hazy 2pm.) Merry Muse, The Polish Australian White Eagle Club. www.themerrymuse.com 8pm, Enq. Bill Arnett Ph/fax 02 6262 7265 The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 5 Regional NSW and ACT Saturday 10th March dates for your diary continued Contra Dance, 8pm, St Margaret’s Uniting Church hall, cnr Antill St & Phillip Ave, Monday 26th March Hackett, ACT. [email protected] Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – ‘Military Mix’ (set & couple) or Colin 6232 9231 Caller John Short. Community Centre, Yarrara Rd, 7.30-9.30pm, $7. Felicity 9456 2860, Sunday 11th March www.bushmusic.org.au Alistair Hulett and Dave Swarbrick, Saturday 31st March Bathurst. 6331 1129, www.bathurstfolkclub. Traditional Music Session, 1-4pm, led by David De Santi. Bulli Heritage Hotel, free. org.au Monday 2nd April Thursday 22nd March Pennant Hills Dance Workshop – ‘Colonial set & couple’ Alistair Hulett & Dave Swarbrick, Caller Don Richmond. Community Centre, Yarrara Rd, 7.30-9.30pm. Felicity 9456 2860, Braidwood Folk Club. 4842 2505 www.bushmusic.org.au Sunday 1st April House Concert, 4pm - Alistair Hulett and Dave Swarbrick, Shellharbour, Drought Relief in Song Music Hub 2007 bookings 4296 2339. $15, $20. www. An estimated 1,000 Sing Australia choir The fi rst stage of this major new initiative illawarrafolkclub.org.au members will gather in Dubbo next month for music teachers in remote NSW to kickstart a year-long series of concerts, communities has just been completed. Tuesday 3rd April workshops and other events aimed at Music Hub will provide mentoring for a Alistair Hulett & Dave Swarbrick, lifting the drought-weary spirits of rural high calibre music teachers’ network to Katoomba. www.clarendonguesthouse.com. communities across the nation. Dubbo foster creative community music-making. au/wotson.cfm is in one of the worst affected drought It is funded under the Regional Arts Fund regions and it is expected that the gathering Mentorships and Residencies program. The will bring business into the community website includes teacher profi les, www. and surrounding towns. Sing Australia oranaarts.com/musichub/ folk news comprises 67 choirs throughout rural areas Just a note to let you know that my new of the Eastern states. The ‘philosophy’ radio show is now up and running, is that everyone can sing and that any New Music Night 2MaxFM 91.3 Broadcasting to North West interested hosts, choristers, conductors or NSW. accompanists can take part. Colin Slater 02 There is a new Monday evenings 8pm to 10pm 6230 7777, www.singaustralia.com.au music night at the Danny Watsons Folk show. Gaelic Club 2nd Traditional Music and Song and the best of and 4th Wednes- Australian Contempory Folk Music. Music NSW: Regional day each month Danny Watson “TRALEE” MAULES Touring Grants from Wednesday CREEK NSW 2382 28th February. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to It’s an open 02 67 944 539 and 0411 818 970 professional NSW bands and musicians to Cheers Danny Watson mic (pre-arranged) night for performers help fund the regional NSW component of providing 20-30min spots. Great for trying their tours. Closing 31 March. Jane Powles out new songs, arrangements, sound etc 9699 9706, [email protected], www. before a main gig. It’s not a paid gig and musicnsw.com there’s no charge to get in. The Gaelic Club have a bar and the arrangement is they let Cultural Diversity Calendar us use the space and if people want drinks Australian Gaelic Singers or nibbles they buy them over the bar. I’m The Australian Gaelic Singers will be 25 The Cultural Diversity Calendar 2007, hoping to set this up and establish it as a years old this year. They plan to celebrate produced in collaboration between the regular forum for performers to showcase in great style at a Birthday Ceilidh on 1st Community Relations Commission and themsleves in the “Irish” idiom with a September. ‘We may even release our City Nations, lists over 600 events and slightly liberal interpretation of the “Irish”, elusive CD that night!’ But before that they festivals of signifi cance for over 200 sell CDs etc. It’s probably going to be a invite you to their open session, Gaelic on communities and 12 main religious slow process to build it up but would ap- the Go, for a no-strings-attached chance to movements. ‘This publication is a vehicle preciate you passing this info on to anyone learn and sing some Gaelic music. On the for promoting a positive message about the who may be interested in doing a spot or fi rst Thursday of every month, starting 1st benefi ts of cultural diversity to business coming along tosupport the night. Below is February, they sing songs that everyone organisations around the globe.’ - Stepan some info: can enjoy. ‘No parts, unless you want to Kerkyasharian, Chair, Community A new Irish music venue will kick invent them, no uniform, no commitment.’ Relations Commission for a Multicultural off on Wednesday 28th February upstairs 7.30-9pm, Presbyterian Church, Campbell NSW. Available for $9.95 at http://www. at the Gaelic Club, Devonshire St Surry St, Balmain. Enq, Bran MacEachaidh, citynations.com/calendar Hills. “Sult” @ the Gaelic Club is inspired 9633 1162. Their new web address is www. by “Club Sult”, a Dublin based group gaelicsingers.org.au that promotes Irish arts and language, and 6 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 which has been staging music nights and Bob Hogson and I took Troubadour Central Coast Inc. the festival to my mother sessions since 1999 as part of its ongoing presents support for Irish culture. The new Sydney awaiting a hip replacement. On venue will focus on Irish music in all its Sunday afternoon we visited TÇ XÇzÄ|á{ g{xÅx VÉÇvxÜà ã|à{ forms. “Sult will take place on every 2nd her at Corrimal for afternoon and 4th Wednesday each month from 7pm. tea and then gave a private g{x j{xxéx tÇw fâv~ UtÇw A house band will open proceedings and performance of selections ensure the night gets underway with plenty of the Bob-Ray repertoire. PENINSULA THEATRE of lively music however, a major focus of Our rendition of the contra “Sult” is to provide space and opportuni- Bouchards and Dancing Bear 31st March, 2007 at 7.30PM ties for individuals and groups performing made her jaw drop and brought Wheeze and Suck Band in the Irish idiom to share their music tears of joy to her eyes. with their traditional English themed performance will do within an “open mic” format. Anyone in- What a wonderful end to a what they best and enter- terested in performing should contact Pam superb Illawarra festival. tain us with their humour and skill featuring guitars, 02 9489 5786 in the week preceding each Rob Mahony agreed: I was mandolins, fiddle, melo- “Sult” night to book a time. It is expected very happy with how the club deon, percussion & vocals. These costumed "mad hat- the nights will conclude with an informal, went at Bulli and appreciate ters" sing rousing songs & acoustic session from about 9.45pm. It is all the work that everyone put soulful ballads in exquisite four-part harmony & play also e! nvisaged that, as a future direction into making it such a success. high energy instrumentals “Sult” will stage concert nights and special I think the dance workshops & dance tunes which often lead to audience participa- events to highlight Irish artists. Everyone and evening dances all went tion & revelry. with an interest in Irish music as either fantastically well. We always Accompanying the band will be a special display of spectator or performer is welcome to enjoy ended the dances with more English Morris dancing. the friendly atmosphere, songs, music and people dancing than there were Tickets available from Laycock St Booking Office, sessions in the Gaelic Club’s cosybar. Ceol at the start of the evening and Peninsula Music at 38 George St Woy Woy or from Troubadour Central Coast Inc agus craic in the heart of the old Sydney. there were lots of people who Enquiries phone 4341 4060 AH / 0417 456 929 would come along to listen General Admission $25 / Concession—Student $20 also. The music was really Also in 2007 19th May—Australian Collected & Traditional music concert with “Collector” tight and I was pleased that Sponsor dance news we all had a good time even when there were problems with BMC Needs Help sound gear and the wind - remember the In Australia it is commemorated within Help is needed urgently to keep the wind! In the sessions there were quite a Australian Dance Week (7th-13th May, Beecroft and Balmain bush dances few people who came along just to listen 2007) – begun over 20 years ago. It is now going. The coordinators for both dances – the room was as full for our sessions as co-ordinated by Ausdance (http://www. are retiring from the job (one is moving for any of the other groups. ausdance.org.au/) and all States and interstate soon), after long and dedicated The next contra dance in Canberra is Territories present an impressive array of service, so the Bush Music Club is looking on 10th March (Colin 6232 9231). dance performances, provide workshops for people who can make sure there is [And might I add that contra is popular and forums and encourage community someone on the door, someone to bring with both beginners and experienced participation in free activities. You may supper, etc. If you can help, please ring dancers at the Wesley Mission’s School like to approach your local school, council Don Richmond, 9642 7950. for Seniors – 50 and over – in Pitt St, or other organisation about presenting Sydney; this term, on Fridays, 12.30. a dance related activity, such as a dance Canberra Contra Club – Julie Bishop.] demonstration or a free dance class. The theme this year is ‘Children of the World’. at Bulli Ray Martin reported on the Canberra Australian Dance Week Contra Club at the Illawarra Folk festival.: In 1982, the International Dance At each workshop we generally doubled Committee of the International Theatre the number of dancers that we began with Institute, UNESCO, initiated International and there were only a few spectators. Dance Day to be celebrated annually Everyone who could, got up to dance. on 29th April. The date commemorates [There were] four workshops and two the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre dances. We were also joined on stage by (1727-1810), the French dancer and the Strutt family from Newcastle, Bob ballet master whose treatise, Lettres sur McInnes, and Dave Harman on bass when la danse et les ballets, is a foundation Alan Rumsey had to depart to Sydney. text for the study of the development of There was the winner of the youth fi ddle dance. The intention of IDD is to bring title with us as well, all of 9 years old! It all dance together, to celebrate this art was a privilege to be in the middle of such form and revel in its universality, to cross a wonderful line up of musicians. The only all political, cultural and ethnic barriers thing I regret is that I had to play and could and bring people together in peace and not dance. friendship. The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 7 [email protected] or Natalie Kent, 02 Festivals, 6338 4657, [email protected] 4th-6th May Workshops, Kapunda Celtic Festival, SA. http://www. kapundaceltic.org/2007/index.html Schools 4th-6th May Yag’ubi Festival, Her- 2nd-5th March vey Bay, Qld. www.yagubi.com.au Nannup Music Festival, WA. www. 7th-11th June nannupmusicfestival.org Henry Lawson Festival of Arts, Grenfell, 9th-12th March NSW. www.henrylawsonfestival.asn.au Port Fairy Folk Festival, Vic. www.port- 8th-11th June St Albans Festival fairyfolkfestival.com Sessionfest, at the beautiful Walcha Water 10th-12th March Works, Maitland. Bilbo 4958 4033, www. 20th, 21st, 2nd April 2007 Wooden Boat & Music Festival, Goolwa, newcastlehuntervalleyfolkclub.org.au Three days and nights of folk music, SA. The Borderers, Bluegrass Junction, 8th-11th June dance and poetry set in the beautiful and more. www.woodenboatfestival.com. Palm Creek Folk Festival, Towns- little village of St Albans approx 20km au ville, Qld. www.palmcreek.org.au from Wiseman’s Ferry. This year the main part of the festival 15th March – 1st April 12th-16th September 2007 has moved venue, to Gordon McDon- 19th Brunswick Music Festival, Vic. www. Turning Wave Festival) ald’s land – just the other side of the brunswickmusicfestival.com.au Performer Applications for 2007 are pub. 16th-18th March now open. Expressions of intererst from We need volunteers to help the festival Yackandandah Folk Festival, NSW. Online performers, acts, groups etc who can help run smoothly – if you can offer your booking available; early bird to 2 March. us celebrate the Irish/Australian/Celtic time and talents please contact Greg 6027 1988, folkfestival.yackandandah.com ethos of the festival. To download the Colby ph.(02) 4384 8158 or mobile application form and for further infor- 29th March – 1st April, 2007 0417 699 765 mation on what the festival is all about Ecstatic Chant and Devotional Singing email [email protected] visit www.turningwave.org.au or email Retreat with Deva Premal and Miten, Earlybird tickets contact Bilbo & Lisa Pam Merrigan (TWF Artisitic Direc- Lennox Head, NSW. Music, mantra, (02) 4958 4033 tor) [email protected]/ email [email protected] meditation, yoga and celebration in For more information about the festival secluded retreat. Registration begins in please visit the website www.snalbans. September. Alison Pearl 02 6684 5570, iwarp.com : 0428 845 570, [email protected]. au, www.devapremalmiten.com 29th March - Sunday 1st April 2007 Man From Snowy River Bush Festival Festival Coordinator - mfsrbf@bigpond. [email protected] Tel. 02 6076 1992 or Jan Lewis 0260774332 www.manfromsnowyriverbushfestival. com.au/ “A Celtic Cultural Experience” 5th-9th April, 2007 The Celtic groups of the Hunter are once National Folk Festival, Canberra. ACT again combining to present a feast of Tickets on sale now. www.folkfestival.asn. Celtic culture au [email protected] 02 6249 7755 at Teralba, LakeMacquarie 13th-15th April on Saturday 26th May. Fairbridge Festival, WA. www.fairbridgef- This one day festival will include Scot- estival.com.au tish, Welsh, Irish and Cornish dancing as 20th-22nd April well as cooking, craft and customs from St Albans Folk Festival, http://www.snal- Celtic lands. No previous bans.iwarp.com. Alison Boyd, 0404 278 experience is needed to take part in 142, [email protected] these enjoyable events. Finish the day at the Ceilidh at Club 28th-29th April 2007 Macquarie with Colin Douglas and the 8th Annual Lithgow District Ironfest, Jacaranda Band. Lithgow Showground, incl stalls, live music, street performances, busking, Application Forms from: historical exhibits, reenactments, circus A Celtic Cultural Experience PO Box 34 acts. A great opportunity for regional artists. Macgregor Ross, 02 6353 1638, 8 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 in the rest of the range. Strong mids and CHOOSING A GUITAR highs also contribute a richness of tone to the upper registers. Indian rosewood Tonewoods and Sonic Signatures has a thicker, more mid range overall Researched from internet sources and content producing a solid tone, and colouration. When used for necks, Indian collated by Geoff Francis. responds best at the upper end of the rosewood can help fatten up the mid range. [Reprinted, with kind permission dynamic range. Mahogany-topped of author and editor Geoff Francis, guitars have a strong ‘punchy’ tone that Sitka Spruce from Drumbeat (Folk Federation is well suited to country blues playing. Spruce is the standard material of Tasmania), December 2006.] When considered for back and sides, for soundboards, the most commonly mahogany has relatively high velocity of used species being Sitka. Its high here are a number of factors that sound, which contributes much overtone stiffness, combined with the lightweight determine the tonal properties colouration. While rosewood guitars may characteristics of most softwoods, makes Tof wood. In addition, tonewoods be thought of as having a metallic sound, it a natural for high velocity of sound. respond differently in the hands of mahogany guitars sound more wood-like. A strong fundamental-to-overtone ratio different makers. They can also take The harder, denser examples of these gives Sitka spruce a powerful direct tone on different characteristics when used woods can take also on the characteristics capable of retaining its clarity when played in different models of guitars - even of the rosewoods. Mahogany back and forcefully. This makes Sitka an excellent those built by the same maker. Whether sides tend to emphasise the bass and the choice for top wood for players whose a particular wood sounds good or bad treble. Mahogany in the neck or bridge style demands a wide dynamic response ultimately depends on who is doing helps to create a warmer, more ‘woody’ and a robust, meaty tone. On the other the listening, so any attempt to sort out tonal range. hand, the lack of complex overtones distinctions can only be subjective. in Sitka can produce a somewhat thin Perhaps the most important factor Koa sound when played with a light touch - of is velocity of sound, which refers to Koa has been used for soundboards course, depending upon the design of the the speed at which a material transmits since the1920s. This hardwood has guitar and the other choices of wood in its received energy. A luthier must design a relatively low velocity of sound, construction. with materials that facilitate the considerable density and a low overtone transmission of vibrational energy. Lively content. Therefore, it tends to produce a materials, those with a high velocity of solid tone that responds best at the upper Red Spruce Red spruce is relatively heavy, has a sound, or low internal damping, make the end of the dynamic range. Koa has a high velocity of sound, and the highest best facilitators. somewhat more ‘mid rangey’ tone that stiffness across and along the grain of all Most luthiers believe that the wood works well for playing rhythm and truly the top woods. Like Sitka, is has a strong chosen for the top is the single most shines in guitars made for Hawaiian-style fundamental, but also a more complex important factor in determining the slide playing. For back and sides, Koa overtone content. Tops produce the highest quality of tone of the instrument. It is tends to behave much like mahogany in volume, yet they also have a rich fullness also interesting to note that the wood terms of adding tonal colouration, but its of tone that retains clarity at all dynamic itself takes on different characteristics emphasis is again more in the mid range. depending on which part of the guitar it’s levels. In short, red spruce may well be used for. Makers of electric guitars with the Holy Grail of top woods for acoustic bolt-on necks have long been aware of the Brazilian Rosewood steelstring guitars. fact that neck and fretboard materials can All the rosewoods contribute to tonal have a signifi cant bearing on tone. Bridge colouration. Brazilian rosewood is known Maple materials, like fretboards, cannot make for its high sound velocity and broad range Maple, as a result of its greater weight or break an instrument, but they serve to of overtones, and is also characterised by and lower sound velocity, can be downright enhance or constrain the tonal effects of strength and complexity in the bottom end fl at sounding, a blessing in disguise when other woods in the guitar’s construction. and an overall darkness of tone in the rest a guitar is amplifi ed at high sound pressure It’s important to remember that of the range. Strong mids and highs also levels. This is why maple is the wood of wood species can be responsible only for contribute a richness of tone to the upper choice for electric guitar tops. West coast certain aspects of the tone of any guitar. registers. Rosewood guitars also have a (USA) big leaf maple is the softest and Equally important are design, skill of the pronounced reverberant-like tone quality, lightest of the maple family, with a wood maker, and the quality of each individual caused by audible delays in the onset of grain that resembles waves. piece of wood used. Tonewood selection, certain harmonics. Brazilian rosewood has Aside from a visually breathtaking however, can be a determining factor in tremendous clarity in the bottom end and pattern, the wavy fi bres of ‘curly’ maple the creation of a very special guitar or a sparkle in the top. When used for necks, reduce the long grain stiffness and vibrate guitar designed for a specifi c purpose. Brazilian rosewood adds sparkle and ring. more freely. (This is the secret to the bright, clear powerful sound of the Parker Mahogany Indian Rosewood Fly, a solid-body guitar made with a curly When used as a top, mahogany Indian rosewood is also known for maple body.) has a relatively low velocity of sound high sound velocity and broad range of (compared to other top woods), overtones, strength and complexity in the considerable density and a low overtone bottom end and an overall darkness of tone The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 9 In acoustic guitar use, different species of maple, such as big leaf, sugar, and The Carnival is Over for bearclaw tend to be more acoustically transparent due to their lower velocity of This Year sound and high degree of internal damping. This allows the tonal characteristic of the Well, the Carnival (Festival) is over- Snore Hammers” and the people dancing top to be heard without the addition of (great name for a song) and one would away joyously. To me it was the essence of signifi cant tonal colouration. Maple necks have to say that it was a mighty success. folk - totally unpretentious; lovers of folk can impart a bright ‘poppy’ tone that can Saturday was probably our biggest one music who have played and absorbed the do much to reinforce the top end of a large- day ever, even including the 20 festivals music over the years, and who don’t just bodied guitar. we ran at . I think the people, grab some of the folk forms with the sole particularly those of the Northern view of commercial success as so many do. Alder Suburbs, have taken the Festival to their So congratulations from us both for a Alder is a lightweight wood that is heart. wonderful festival. highly resonant, producing a full rich tone. Of course there were glitches and From Vic and Helen Jefferies- Viv of When used for solid-body construction, certainly improvements to be made course ran much of the poetry. alder provides a very good low end and which of course we’ll try and correct G’day Russ, mid range with the best performance in the next year. We needed better access to the What about a sandwich of tripe and oysters lower mid range. Alder also exhibits good Show Pavillion, the sound in the Shanty made on Italian bread and a couple of high-end characteristics and sustain. was not good most of the time, the poets Viagra tablets washed down with Italian breakfasts were too short, the kids venue red wine? Poplar may not have been big enough and we Mate, we had a fantastic time at Bulli and please pass our complements on to Poplar is a stringy, dense, yet needed better security at the Heritage David, the committee, the volunteers and lightweight hardwood that is unusually Hotel. all of the hardworkers who provided resonant. Poplar, when used in solid-body Here’s where you can come us and so many others with another electric guitars, has an exceptionally crisp in- we’d appreciate comments from outstanding weekend of absolutely fi rst sound, often described as ‘spirited’ and anyone who was there. You may have class entertainemt, fun and friendship. ‘bouncy’ - even ‘funky’. Poplar guitars a suggestion or have seen something Thank you for having us back and you may are ideal choices for players who favour that we missed- we’re anxious to know. rest assured we will do everything single-coil snap and clean sound. So please send us any comments that you have (Good or bad)- Send them to we possibly can to spread the word and to Russ on [email protected] or Dave on encourage more people to attend Basswood [email protected] the Illawarra Folk Festival next year. Basswood is light, stiff, and stable, Here’s some comments we’ve already Congrats! which makes it particularly effective for received:- From Azadoota necks and bass instruments thanks to its From Penny and Roger from Hi Dave and Russell excellent low-end response. Stanthorpe who did such a marvellous Thanks for having us at the festival (again), tribute to the late Bill Scott: we had a great time! Hope you Ebony got some good feedback about our Ebony, the traditional material found Roger here - thanks for booking us at performances. on the necks of violins, classical guitars, the Festival - we really enjoyed the whole From Dave Oliphant who ran the and high-end steel strings, has the lowest thing, the atmosphere, catching up with blackboard (among other things) as well as velocity of sound of all the woods old friends and making new ones, ours and performing: “Put me on the list to help next commonly used and has defi nite damping others’ performances, everything! And the year again(even though I spent nearly 2 characteristics. While not a problem for Bulli Bakontrak CD is terrifi c. days in bed after this one, getting over it--- large-bodied guitars made of red spruce or The Illawarra Festival is special my surgeon wasn’t impressed !!) Brazilian rosewood, it may be something - we felt very privileged to be part of Well done Davey ! a huge job for you to consider when designing smaller guitars, it again. Though we’ve played various particularly those using less resonant festivals and gigs, as well as doing lots The very talented Anne Vriend tonewoods for tops and backs. of recording, over the last 17 years since For more info, see http://www. Jordy was born, in a way we put the live sweetwater.com performance side of our music on hold for that time as we focussed on his upbringing and education, but now he’s heading off to Brisbane to study Sound Engineering we now realise we’re free to get much more involved in the folk scene while we have time left to us. It’s something we’re both excited about. I just wanted to mention that my personal highlight was on Saturday night. I was up on the staircase near the Grandstand Restaurant, watching “Big

10 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 A GREAT PARTY AT BULLI

The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 11 ffolkolk ccontactsontacts METROPOLITAN Scottish Country Dancing DANCE Wednesday Caringbah Seniors Hall, 386 Port Hacking Rd, Car- Monday Albion Fair, North-West Morris Dancing ingbah (rear Library), 8pm. Beginners/other levels. G. Bush Music Club Dance Workshop Lilyfi eld Community Centre, Cecily and O’Neill Sts, Milton 9524 4943, Erica Nimmo 9520 4781 Beginners, experienced, 7.30pm, Pennant Hills 7.45pm. Angie Milce 9817 3529 Saturday Community Centre, downstairs. Except Jan. and public Australian Heritage Dancers Bush Folk Dances, by Bush Dance Assoc. Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, 8 nd holidays. Mark 9638 7690 2 Sat. Feb-Dec 6.30 - 10pm. New Year’s Eve 8pm- -10pm. Jim Young 9412 3721 [email protected]. International Folk Dancing midnight. $20/$15/$10. $5 disc for early bookings. au - australianheritagedancers.org.au Pennant Hills Community Centre, 60 Yarrara Rd. John School term, Earlwood Senior Citizens Centre, 362 Balmoral Scottish Country Dance Group Homer St 10am-noon. Gwynne 9558 4753 9873 3138/ 0416 212 136, bushdance2000@yahoo. 7.00-9.15pm, Seniors’ Centre, Mosman Square, com.au; www.bushdance.org Scottish Country Dancing for beginners, with ‘Scots Mosman. Nell Morgan 9981 4769. Bush Music Club Bush Dances on the Rocks’, Fort St Public School, Observatory Epping Scottish Country Dance Club Feb-Dec (not Easter), 8-12pm, $17/$14/$12 incl. Hill, Sydney, 6.30-7.30pm. Nea 9994 7110, Lynn 9268 St Aidan’s Church Hall, Downing St, 7.30-10pm. supper, children to 12 free. Beecroft Community Ctr 1st 1246, SC [email protected], http://www.rscds. All levels welcome. Clare Haack 9484 5947 clare_ Sat, Anthony 9417 4210; org.au [email protected] Balmain High School hall, Terry St, Rozelle, 3rd Sat, Dot Belly Dance, basic/beginners 7pm, choreography Gosford Scottish Country Dance Society 9876 6166. 8pm, Girraween Hall, 17 Tungarra Rd. Vera Myronenko 7-10pm, Church of Christ, Henry Parry Drive, Central Coast Bush Dance 9665 9713 Wyoming. Cecily Cork 4384 3527, Jan McCudden 4th Sat, 8-12pm, East Gosford Progress Hall, Henry Tuesday 4329 5537 Parry Dr and Wells St, $15/$12. Beate 4323 3356. Greek Folk Dance Blue Mountains Scottish Country Dancers Robyn 4344 6484. Pan Macedonian Assoc Building, Railway Pde, Catholic Church Hall, 7-9pm, Wentworth St, $3 Verley International Folk Dance Sydenham from 7pm onwards. Adult classes from Children’s classes, 6-18 years, Pennant Hills Kelliher, 4787 5968, [email protected] Carol 7.15 pm, Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 Gardner 4751 6073/[email protected] Community Centre, morning. Carol Maddocks, 9905 [email protected] 1563 Dutch Folk Dancing Group International Folk Dancing for older women Scottish and Old Time Dance Hassall St Special School Hall, Parramatta. Children School terms only, 9-10am beginners, 10-11am 2nd Sat, 8pm, Uniting Church, 9-11 Bay St, Rockdale. 5-14 yrs 7.30-8.30pm. Snrs 8.30-9.40pm. Alf Lette, advanced. Bankstown Older Women’s Wellness $3 incl. supper. Chris Thom 9587 9966 9631 2720. Centre, Police and Community Youth Club, cnr Scottish and Old Time Dancing Greek Folk Dance Meredith St and French Ave. Gabrielle 9728 7466, Alita Orkney and Shetland Assoc. 3rd Sat, 8-11 pm. St Bankstown RSL Club - 32 Kitchener Pde - Bankstown 9798 9269 David’s Hall, Dalhousie St, Haberfi eld. $3 inc. supper. 6pm onwards.Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax: 97081875 Sutherland Shire Bush Dance Group Uniting Church, Visitors most welcome. Jean Cooney 9874 5570.Harp [email protected] 4 Gosport St, Cronulla, 7.30-10pm. $3. Beginners most Hotel, Princes Hwy Tempe, 9559 6300 Hungarian Dance Class welcome. Partners not necessary.Mike 9520 2859 Macedonian Dance Class Ultimo, 8-10pm. Gary Dawson 9559 4485. Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group Rockdale. 6.30-8.30pm, $5. Y Kaporis 0412 861 187 [email protected] Gymea Bay Scout Hall, June Place, 10am. Kaye Mortdale Scottish Dancers Morris Dancing, Sydney Morris Men Laurendet - 9528 4813 Learners night (for learners and experienced), 7.30- 2nd & 4th Tues, Rozelle Community Centre (hall at rear), Thursday 9.30pm. Pensioners Welfare Club Hall, 76 Pitt Street, Darling St, Rozelle, 8pm. John Milce 9817 3529 English Country Dancing (Advanced) for the over Mortdale. Pam Jehan 9580 8564. or www.wheezeandsuck.com. 50’s 3-4pm. School for Seniors, Wesley Mission, Pitt Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group English Country Dancing, Sydney St. Sydney. (Oppositive back of Hilton Hotel.) International Dancing Como Girl Guides Hall, 10- Playford Dance Group 3rd Tues, 7.30-10.00pm, Uniting Blue Labyrinth International Folk Dance 11.30am. Kaye Laurendet 9528 4813 Church Hall, The Cres, Berala. Ring Patricia 9649 6978 from 7pm, Baptist Church Hall, King St Glenbrook. Jo Linnéa Swedish Folkdancers Estonian House, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills. New or Mike or Ros on 9929 8193 for further details. Barrett 4739 6498 Greek Folk Dance members welcome. For times contact Graeme Traves Scottish Country Dancing St Gerassimos Church Hall, 21 Henry St Leichhardt. 9874 4194, [email protected] St John’s Uniting Church Hall, Coonanbarra Rd, 6 pm onwards. Adult classes from 7.15 Vasilios Wahroonga, 7.30-10.30pm. All welcome. Catherine Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 [email protected] Bonner 9489 5027 If you change your details PLEASE Sydney Irish Ceili Dancers advise the editor on 02 6493 6758 or Scottish Country Dancing Girl Guide Hall, Wardell St Arncliffe, Children’s step Fort Street School, Observatory Hill, City. 6pm to 8pm dancing 6pm, adults step dancing 7pm. Set and ceili email [email protected]. Nea MacCulloch 9904 1358(a/h) or Lynn 8244 9618(w) dancing 8-10.30pm. Margaret and Bill Winnett 9150 You may also wish to have your details Sutherland Shire Folk Dance Group 6765. email: [email protected] online (free) - jam.org.au International Dancing, Gymea Bay Scout Hall, June Friday Place, 7.30-9pm. Kaye Laurendet 9528 4813 Australian Colonial and Folk Dancers Every Friday, Turkish Dance Class St Andrews Ch Hall, cnr Trelawney/Rutledge Sts, Lidcombe Community Centre, 8-10pm. Yusuf Nidai Eastwood (next to BBC), Colonials’ Dance each 5th 9646 1166 Friday evening. Anthony and Lisa 9873 4805. Ukrainian (Cossack) Dancing Class Contras & English Country Dancing (Beginners) for fi t and energetic young people (16-23yrs), for the over 50’s 12.30-2.30pm. School for Seniors, 7.30 pm to 10.00 pm. Ukrainian Hall 59 Joseph Wesley Mission, Pitt St. Sydney. (Oppositive back of Street, Lidcombe. Jaros Iwanec 9817 7991, Hilton Hotel.) [email protected] /www.veselka.com.au International Dancing International Folk Dance class - Open Door, Georges Sedenka Folk Dancers, Rozelle Neighbourhood Hall Senior Citizens, Birdwood Rd, 11.30am-12.30pm. Centre, 665A Darling St Rozelle. 8-llpm, $3. Chris Wild Gabrielle 9728 7466, [email protected] 9560 2910. “The Dance Buffet”, wide variety taught, Liverpool Scottish Country Dancing City Pipe Band Hall, Woodward Park (next to Whitlam Adult classes, beginners welcome, children 6.30 - Centre), Memorial Ave, 7.30-9.30pm. $8 ($5 conc). 7.30pm, adults 8-10.30pm, Beecroft Primary School, Nicholai 9822 7524, mob 0407 178 228 $2. Sheena Caswell 9868 2075, Heather Dryburgh 9980 7978 12 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220 MUSIC IN CONCERT North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club, SESSIONS & FREE WORKSHOPS afternoon concerts approx. every 2nd month, 2pm Monday Tuesday -- phone for details @iinet.net.au or Tony 9858 7882(w) Bush Music Club The Screw Soapers Guild - Writers Presenters & 0409 784 689(m) ) Listeners Group 4th Tues, 7.30pm, stories, poems, Community Centre, 44/142 Addison Rd, Marrickville,  songs and conversation. Albert 9600 7153, email: Troubadour Folk Club 7.30pm. Music workshop. All singers and musicians [email protected], website: www.folkclub. Central Coast, Usually 2nd Sun, 1.30pm, CWA welcome. Bob 9569 7244, [email protected] com/folkodyssey/ Hall, Woy Woy. (opposite Fisherman’s Wharf), The Tuesday Wednesday Boulevard, Woy Woy. Admission: $7 members/$8 conc. Irish session at Kelly’s Hotel, Tuesdays from 7pm. 285 Wisefolk Club Last Wed in month, 11am-2.30pm, & other folk club mems/$10 non members. Includes King St, Newtown. [email protected]. Toongabbie Bowling Club, 12 Station Rd, lunch at club afternoon tea. Tel. Frank or Marilyn 4342 9099, Fax gov.au bistro. Sonia 9621 2394 Lee 9639 5300, 4325 7362. Email: [email protected] www. Irish Music Session: Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday Thursday troubadour.org.au/folk/index.htm.. of the month from 7.30 – 10.30pm @ The Shamrock North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club, Inn, Asquith Leagues Club, Alexandra Pd. Waitara 1st Thurs 8pm, Cornucopia Café - old Gladesville CHOIRS (short walk from station). It’s an open session  Hospital, cnr Punt & Victoria Rds, Gladesville. Jenny Monday and all musicians are welcome with focus on 9559 3658(h) 0414 903 259(m) email: jdcarter@iinet. A Choired Taste, Glebe, led by David Westmore, 9716 tunes rather than songs. Phone Norm 9489 5786/ net.au or Tony 9858 7882(w) 0409 784 689(m) 7016 [email protected]  Sutherland Folk Club Bright Star Singers Ashfi eld, led by Mary-Jane Wednesday 2nd Thurs concert night Field, 9797-6126 Irish Dance and Music Session. The Harp Hotel,  **All ages and all members are welcome to come and Ecopella. Erskineville, led by Miguel Heatwole, 9810 Tempe, dance 7-9.30pm, music 9.30 - 12 midnight. join us at any of our concerts, do a fl oor spot. Enjoy a 4601 [email protected] Enq. 9559 6300  friendly , sociable night’s entertainment, support local Glory Bound Groove Train. Petersham, led by Jolly Frog Hotel. Jam Night. Cnr Bridge & Macquarie talent. These artists are all superb musicians!! Contact Linda Calgaro, 9518 4135 Sts, Windsor. 7.30pm to late. Mark 0419 466 004  Jenny 9576 2301. Intonations. Manly, led by Karen Smith, 0405 221 113 Irish Music Session. Clarendon Hotel Katoomba, Martenitsa. Ultimo, led by Mara & Llew Kiek, 7-10pm. Enq. Tinker 4782 2623 Friday 47514910  Gosford Bush Poets Hornsby Kuring-Gai Folk Club People’s Chorus Newcastle, led by Rod Noble, 49 Last Wednesday night of every month 7pm. The 3rd Fri, 8pm, Each month Beatrice Taylor Hall, rear 623432 Gosford Hotel, cnr of Mann & Erina Sts Gosford. Willow Park Community Centre, Edgeworth David Ave, Unaccompanied Baggage. North Sydney, led by Everyone welcome to share in night of fun, friendship Guest artist and fl oor spots, light supper provided BYO Stuart Davis, [email protected] and great poetry. Contact Vic Jefferies, 02 96394911 or grog. Barry Parks 9807 9497 [email protected] Voiceworks, Katoomba, ledby Rachel Hore 4759  [email protected] lllawarra Folk Club, 2456, [email protected] 1st Friday, Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Tuesday Thursday Church Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub. Cantorion, Neutral Bay, led by David Westmore, Sutherland Folk Club org.au 9716 7016 Session night 4th Thursday. 7.00pm, Sutherland  Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Eastside Arts, Paddington, led by Christina Mim- District Trade Union Club, Gymea. All welcome. 9520 Club, or SNC Acoustic Club (formerly Springwood mochi, 9331 2646 6180. Folk Club) regular folk nights on the 4th Friday of Ecopella. Illawarra area (alternate Tuesdays), led by Blackheath Folk Club, each month (Feb - Nov), 8pm $7/$5 Springwood Miguel Heatwole 9810 4601, [email protected] 1st Thurs, 7.30pm, Ivanhoe Hotel, cnr Gt Wstn Hwy Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd, Springwood. Roc Lawson, led by Rachel Hore, 47592456, and Govetts Leap Rd. Christine Davies, Peter Duggan (next to Civic Centre). Visitors and fl oor performers [email protected] 4787 7246 welcome. Enquiries, Jeanette 4754 4893 The Honeybees. East Sydney, led by Dynes  Friday Toongabbie Music Club Austin. Contact Jenny Jackson, 9816 4577 2nd and 4th Fri 8pm, Northmead Scout Hall, BMC Beer & Cheese Night [email protected] Themed music nights, 1st Fri (except holidays), Whitehaven Road, Northmead. A session always  Sydney Trade Union Choir 8-10pm. Bring something to sing, eat, drink. Bush happens so bring instruments. Alison Boyd 02 9769 Sydney City, contact [email protected] 0592, [email protected], or Ray Pulis 9899 2102. Music Club, Hut 44, Addison Rd Community Wednesday Centre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. 9569 7244, Saturday Choralation. Abbosford (school terms), contact Marga- [email protected] Almost Acoustic@Eastside Arts ret Grove [email protected] 2nd Sat (usually), 8pm, 395 Oxford St, Paddington Ecopella. Upper Mts., contact Kate 47 825529 Eastern Suburbs Poetry Group Church at the Market Place, Bondi Junction Plaza, 1st Eastside Arts is at the site of the Paddington Markets  NoteTonight, Josephine. Glebe, led by David Fri, 7.30-10pm. 9699 2129 Licensed Bookings recommended - 9331 2646 or Westmore, 9716 7016 [email protected] Free parking - Gordon Stampadowns. Camperdown, led by Peter Lehner, Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Club St Church car park. Good public transport. Info + map contact Kim/John 0419 164 212 4th Fri, (Feb - Nov) 8pm, $7/$5, Springwood on www.eastsidearts.org.au/ also www.almostacoustic. Thursday Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd (next to library org.au. Australian Gaelic Singers, Balmain. Bran and Oriental Hotel.) Visitors and fl oor performers  lllawarra Folk Club, MacEachaidh, 9633 1162. www.gaelicsingers.org.au welcome, Theresa 47518157, Jeannette 4754 4893 3rd Saturday, Wollongong City Diggers Bouddi Voice. Kincumber (school terms), led by C Saturday Club, cnr Burelli & Church Streets, 1300 & C Sainsbury, contact 43 683270 Fairlight Folk Acoustic Lounge 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Chorella Community Choir. Richmond, contact Loaded Dog Folk Club Held 4 times a year, Feb, May, Aug. Nov (usually Ellen 4578 2975 1st Sat) 7.45pm. A comfortably enticing, relaxed 4th Sat, Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Cleftomaniacs. Waterloo, led by Gary Smith, Johnston St, 8pm. Sandra Nixon, 9358 4886, environment in which to see quality live acoustic music. [email protected] Ajfjter show - jam. BYO drinks and nibbles. Light [email protected]. www.theloadeddog.org.au Solidarity Choir. Newtown, led by Miguel Heat-  refreshments available. William St Studios, Fairlight Macquarie Towns Music Club wole, 9810 4601, [email protected] 3rd Sat,8pm Usually ‘Round Robin’ format and includes (The Baptist Church down from Sydney Rd. Contact guest artists, workshops & concerts. Small door fee Friday Rosie 9948 7993. [email protected] The Sydney Street Choir. CBD, led by Peter Bluegrass and Traditional Country Music Assoc. includes supper. Richmond Neighbourhood Centre, st West Market St, . Contact Dez Williams at 578 5215 or Lehner 0425 268 771 Bluegrass get-together, 1 Sat, March-December, 8pm, Ellen Manning 4578 2975 or [email protected] Sunday Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St,  The Shack. 1st Sat, presents 21st century original, Blue Mountains Trade Union Choir. Upper Mts., Annandale. Jamming from 6pm, open mic concert from contemporary and traditional folk music at the contact Kate 47 82 5529 8pm. $3/$4. 9456 1090 email: [email protected]. Tramshed, 1395a Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen at 7:30. au www.bluegrass.org.au BYO drinks and nibblies. Contact Rhonda on 0416 635 North By Northwest Poetry and Folk Club 856 or email Kathleen at [email protected]. Occasional sessions as announced, 2pm,Jenny 9559 Sunday 3658 (h) 0414 903 259(m) email: [email protected], Tony 9858 7882(w) 0409 784 689 (m The Folk Federation ONLINE - jam.org.au The CORNSTALK Gazette - Mar 2007 13 Sunday MORUYA, Eurobodalla Folk Club, irregular house con- lllawarra Folk Club, 1st Friday and 3rd Saturday, Sydney Scottish Fiddlers certs. Jim MacQuarrie 4474 2736 (h), [email protected] Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Church 1st and 3rd Sun, 2-5pm, New Church, 4 Shirley Rd NEWCASTLE: Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Roseville. All ages welcome. Trish 9416 2402. Newcastle and Hunter Valley Folk Club, 1st Sat, UOW Folk Club, 12.30pm, Mondays, Fridays. Irish Music Session 7.30pm, Wesley Snr Cits Hall, William St, Hamilton. Old timey, bluegrass, Celtic session. Duck Pond Harp Irish Pub, Tempe, 4-7.30pm. Enq. 9559 6300 Ron Brown 4951 6186, Cecille Coan 4957 0830. (in front of library), . Family Hotel , Katoomba. (on the roundabout when People’s Chorus Practice, 6pm, Trades Hall Council David Harman, [email protected] you fi rst cross the railway line to enter Katoomba.) 4pm Meeting Rooms (opp. Panthers’ Club, main entrance), Wollongong White Heather Scottish Country Music Session Hero of Waterloo, cnr Lower Fort Newcastle. Rod Noble 4962 3432 email: Frances. Dance Group, Mon, 7.30 -10pm, St Andrew’s St and Windmill Street, The Rocks. 6-10pm. Brendan [email protected] Church Hall, Kembla St. All welcome. Arnold Thurl- 9818 4864 Newcastle Irish Set Dancers, Tuesdays, 7.30- ing 4228 1986 or Grace Halliday 4229 3480 Irish Music Session. 3rd Sunday. Bennet Hotel, 9.00pm, Scots Kirk, Hamilton, Newcastle. Julia Wongawilli Colonial Dance Club, Bush Dance, Wed, Hamilton, 4-7.30pm Roz and Shane Kerr 44967 3167 or Arthur, 4955 5701 [email protected], or 8pm, musos and dancers all welcome, Community Irish Music Sessions - Dicey Riley’s, Wollongong 2pm.

Advertising Rates Size mm Members Non-Members focus on folk Full page 180x250 $80 $120 The Program of the Folk Federation of NSW 2MBS 102.5 FM 3rd March 1/2 page 180x125 $40 $70 John - singers ans songwriters. Today’s program, the third in a 1/4 page 90x60 $25 $50 series featuring singer songwriters, will focus on emerging 1/8 page 45 x 30 $15 $35 artists with a sprinkling of old favourites included to provide a Back cover 180x250 $100 $150 balance between new and old. 2 + issues per month $90 $130 10 March Pam - The Luck of the Irish Please contact the editor for enquiries about advertising - artwork needs to be with the editor by fi rst Friday of month. Tel: 02 6493 6758 17 March Insert Rates: (The Wrapdragon does not like non-folded A4 sheets) Patricia St. Patrick’s Day Special The number of inserts per issue is limited. Please contact Julie Bishop 24 March 9524 0247 Roger - Scots Home and Away – Tradition Awards Festival Single-sheet DL size or A5 inserts Members $70 Non-Members $130 Review A4, folded to DL size or A5 Members $90 Non-Members $160 Offers of help for the wrap are regarded kindly by the Wrapdragon and Anyone with a CD that you would like to add to the library collection for small team of volunteers consideration for airway please forward to All cheques for advertisements and inserts to be made payable to Focus on Folk, Post Offi ce Box A182, Sydney South 1235. the Folk Federation of NSW Inc

Sunday 9-10am 2HHH 100.1 FM Cattai School of AART Northside Folk members produce a program of folk music. (Details Barry Parks 9807 9497 or ABN; 64 880 892 495 [email protected]) 30 Reedy Rd Cattai NSW 2756 PH: 02 4572 8568 Folk Trax www.bark3rs.com I don’t know, but it seems to me that the month goes faster each time I write this piece for Folk Trax. First of I will make a correction to hat I said in my last contribution about record companies condoning copying. The Folk Federation of NSW The day after I wrote this piece in the Netherlands a state- Membership Application Form ment was released by the company saying that they do not condone illegal copying but it too costly to encode some Name/s: form of protection on the CDs. Instead they may start releas- Address: ing some material that can be copied, for a fee, but by buy- ing the CD you may copy other tracks from their website. Of course you will need broadband internet access. Too bad if it is not available in your region. So having said that I can now Eve Ph: Day Ph: say that there is some progress in fi nding a new webmaster and I am hopeful that when you read this article all be back Mobile: to normal. A “new” CD by Country Express has been re- Email: leased by John Munro and is available only from Folk Trax and at $20.00 you get a fi ne collection of their repertoire. Include me on ‘Folkmail’, the members email listserv. Yes they are still going! Folk Trax also offer members of the various Folk Federations and readers of the Folk Rag 10% Membership Type (Tick one) discount on this one too. Individual - $25 While we are still catching up you can always give a call or Family (more than one in same household) - $30 leave a message on 08 8388 0232 and if I am not I will call Other name/s: you back. New stock will go online progressively. The new Steeleye Span is now available via this method. Affi liate (organisation) - $35 The shop at the Folk Centre in Adelaide will now open on Contact Name: the fi rst Saturday of the month, unless we are away at a Fes- Total enclosed: (for ____ year/s) tival, from 10 am to 3 pm. The membership year runs from 1st May to 30th April or from Keep on Folking 1st Nov to 31st Oct. Allowances are made in your favour for Henk de Weerd people joining at other times. For more information contact the Folk Trax Membership Secretary - see contact details on inside cover.

16 The CORNSTALK Gazette - - Mar 2007 Printed by Marrickville Print and Design. Ph 02 8898 1200 Fax 02 8898 1220