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Still relevant parts of the most recent emailed circulars are reproduced below, along with a developing Draft of the next, but check out the Diary for full listings.
Circulars dated:   20/4/25

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The email circulation list with currently over 1300 contacts provides regular information on folk events across southern Devon roughly within a 30 mile radius as the crow flies of Totnes. The e-circulars are sent on a regular basis, usually one every 7-14 days, not more than one per week apart from exceptional circumstances (and never with any attachments).

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Harberton Folk Circular - ???day ?? month 2025

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Part One - A full listing for the coming month
Part Two below - Other stuff
The full open-ended Southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear as always on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

***** Part One *****

text

***** Part Two - Other Stuff *****

text

All information is given in good faith but no responsibility can be accepted for its accuracy. Do check with the organiser before setting out on a long journey. A listing here does not guarantee that tickets are still available.

Changing your email address?
Should you need to change your email address for receiving these circulars, please use the 'Update subscription preferences' link below to update your details. There is also an 'Unsubscribe' link.

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
'Harberton Folk' recommends Plusnet:

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20/4/25

Harberton Folk Circular - Sunday 20 April 2025

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Part One - A full listing to the end of May
Part Two - One-liners for June
The full open-ended Southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear as always on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

***** Part One *****

Saturday 26 April 2025 8pm - Ceilidh with Flash Co. - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a series of ceilidhs (barn dances) held on Saturdays. £8 - £15 (voluntary pricing); U16 £4, U10 free. BYO water / alcohol. See www.exeterceilidhs.net for full details of pricing, band information etc. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

Gigspanner Big Band - Album Launch Tour
Saturday 26 April 2025 7.30pm - The Watermark, Erme Court, Leonards Road, Ivybridge PL21 0SZ (map)
Details www.ivybridgewatermark.co.uk.
Sunday 27 April 2025 8pm - Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
Details www.topshamfolkclub.org /www.wegottickets.com/TopshamFolkClub.
Gigspanner Big Band return to their six-piece format, showcasing material from their new album. Their high-energy, virtuosic performances appeal equally to traditionalists and to those looking for something more experimental. Legendary Steeleye Span fiddle player Peter Knight, percussionist Sacha Trochet, guitarist Roger Flack, acclaimed multi-instrumental duo Edgelarks (Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin - BBC Folk Awards 'Best Duo') and Bellowhead co-founder and melodeon player extraordinaire, John Spiers.

Sunday 27 April 2025 2pm - Hafren (Chris Roberts) - St Mary's Church, South St, Denbury, Newton Abbot TQ12 6DH
One half of duo Filkin’s Drift (who wowed the audience here). Chris is a super guitarist who comes from Wales. This performance will predominantly be his exploration of beautiful Welsh songs. For tickets £12 / information contact Rachel Belringer on 07751 804007, email rachelbelringer@gmail.com.

Sunday 27 April 2025 7.45pm - Magpies - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
Combine three highly accomplished musicians (Bella Gaffney on guitar, banjo and vocals, songwriter Ellie Gowers on guitar and vocals and Holly Brandon on fiddle and vocals), with excellent songwriting skills, and you get a top-drawer trio, who provide a captivating blend of British folk and Bluegrass. There are also original interpretations of traditional pieces, with influences from Eastern Europe and Quebec. For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

UPDATED Monday 28 April 2025 7.30pm - Paul Hutchinson & Karen Wimshurst - Sidmouth Acoustic Folk Club, Blue Ball Inn, Steven's Cross, Sidford EX10 9QL
An exciting fusion of jazz and folk music - fascinating, eclectic and highly entertaining. Acoustic open performers nights on the third Monday of each month. Details: Email janet.strapp [at] outlook.com, 07850 163241.

Tuesday 29 April 2025 8pm - "Every Folkin’ Tuesday" at The Old Warehouse, Prince of Wales Road, Kingsbridge TQ7 1DY
Featuring Blooming. Details www.theoldwarehousekingsbridge.co.uk/theoldwarehouse-events. Free entry.

Friday 2 May 2025 8pm - The Prophecy of Merlin - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
A Cornish Tale set to Music. Welcome to an hour of fast-moving oral storytelling and achingly beautiful music; an epic adventure story by Mike O’Connor and Barbara Griggs. After the story there will be a break followed by a 45 minute talk on the history and folklore behind it. Details www.wegottickets.com/calstockarts, www.calstockarts.org.

Friday 2 May 2025 8pm - Old Time Sailors - The Rum Store, Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard, Cornwall (map)
Standing. You are invited to board the Sailorette and join the plentiful crew, 'The Old Time Sailors', for a night of footstomping, dancing and singing! You will be sailing back to the 19th century for an immersive experience of traditional seafaring music performed in a way you have never seen before. The Motley Crew and their plethora of traditional and eclectic instruments will take you back to the time of clashing tankards, and drunken debauchery. Details www.carnglaze.com.

NEW Saturday 3 May 2025 8.30pm - House Concert: Jimmy Crowley & Eve Telford - Hatch Court, nr Churchstow, Kingsbridge TQ7 4AJ
Jimmy Crowley has been at the heart of the Irish folk scene since his ground breaking debut album The Boys of Fairhill in 1977. Fourteen albums later, he is constantly exploring new musical expressions. Currently touring with Eve Telford who is a singer, poet and writer of short stories. In her singing of traditional songs, one can sense her deep-seated connection to the folk singers who have passed on. Her original songs are rooted in the wellsprings of world mythology, indigenous stories, and a proximity to our Earth. No bar, BYO drinks. Cash donations on door, we encourage £12-15. Doors 7.30pm. Bookings, call Mark on 07730 921192 or email wheelwrightmark@gmail.com. Hatch Events Group: www.facebook.com/groups/867342600023926.

3-5 May 2025 - Brixham Pirate Festival
Pirates, music and more www.brixhampiratesfestival.com.

Sunday 4 May 2025 7.30pm - Old Time Sailors - Brixham Theatre, New Road, Brixham TQ5 8TA (map)
Old Time Sailors - seafaring music, songs and shanties infused with Celtic Rock, Punk and Ska. Details www.brixhamtheatre.co.uk.

Sunday 4 May 2025 7.30pm - Track Dogs - Exmouth Pavilion, The Esplanade, Exmouth EX8 2AZ
Track Dogs’ music is a mix of various styles, from folk to pop/rock, bluegrass and even some country, all perfectly measured, without clearly defining with any of them, giving a result filled with positivity and joy, which they transmit from the very first minute, turning their performance into an authentic party. Details www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk/whats-on/track-dogs-2025.

Wednesday 7 May 2025 7.30pm - Eddie Martin - Bridge Inn, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0QQ (map)
Award-winning guitar and harmonica skills, foot percussion, witty lyrics and a strong voice have made Eddie a uniquely popular act on the international circuit for decades. Singer-songwriter-multi instrumentalist, charismatic entertainer and blues missionary all combine to make Eddie Martin's solo performances special. Multi award winning, he has become known as “The Ambassador of British Blues”. Tickets £15 / information from The Bridge Inn, https://thelittleboxoffice.com/thebridgeinn.

UPDATED Friday 9 May 2025 7.30pm - Daphne's Flight - The Watermark, Erme Court, Leonards Road, Ivybridge PL21 0SZ (map)
Chris While, Julie Matthews, Helen Watson, Miranda Sykes. Melanie Harrold has had to withdraw from the tour due to illness. The group have decided with very heavy hearts to make this the last tour of Daphne’s Flight. The music of Daphne's Flight is a unique and magical blend of their individual styles, but together they create a unique and unparalleled force, empowering audiences of all ages, producing music that is relatable, moving and uplifting and creating a chemistry on stage that is both joyful and contagious. Details www.ivybridgewatermark.co.uk.

Friday 9 May 2025 8pm - Keith Donnelly - Church House, South Tawton, nr Okehampton EX20 2LQ (map)
Keith is a one-of-a-kind performer who never fails to entertain. His hilarious stories, incredible guitar skills, and boundless energy make for a night filled with fun, laughter, and outstanding folk music. Whether he’s spinning a tall tale or delivering a heartfelt song, Keith’s performances are guaranteed to leave you smiling. Dartmoor Folk Festival fundraiser. Details https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/chc/t-dvdvkme.

Sunday 11 May 2025 7.45pm - Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
Really wowed us here last February. Using folk music of the British Isles as a catalyst, Kit and Aaron create dynamic interpretations of centuries-old material as well as original compositions, whilst celebrating the timeless aural quality of a guitar, fiddle and vocals duet. They display
astonishing dexterity and musicianship, playing with great energy and passion. “Mightily impressive” (R2 mag). For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

Friday 16 May 2025 8pm - India Electric Co. - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
India Electric Co. return to their roots with a series of more acoustic based duo shows in more intimate surroundings than their recent support tours across the UK and Europe with shows including their debut at The London Palladium. Showcasing their latest album bringing fresh, stripped back arrangements to songs they’ve travelled the world with, these concerts will take the band back to where it all began, sometimes folk, sometimes not. Details www.wegottickets.com/calstockarts, www.calstockarts.org.

Friday 16 May 2025 - Phil Cooper & Jamie R Hawkins - Workshop, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street EX4 3LS (map)
An evening of intimate Folk/Americana with Phil Cooper & Jamie R Hawkins, both excellent singer-songwriters in their own right, possibly better known as two thirds of harmony trio The Lost Trades. Details www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/music.

16-18 May 2025 - Dart Music Festival - Dartmouth
Mostly free, largely outdoor, many types of music www.dartmusicfestival.co.uk.

17/18 May 2025 - Plymouth Pirates Weekend
Google for details

Saturday 17 May 2025 7.30pm - Martin Simpson - Great Hall, Dartington Trust, Totnes TQ9 6EL (map)
A master of his art, and one of the finest folk guitarists in the world, the legendary Martin Simpson comes to give an intimate and spellbinding concert in Dartington's Great Hall. One of England’s most revered folk performers, and widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, Martin’s interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. Details www.dartington.org/event/martin-simpson-live-in-concert.

Sunday 18 May 2025 8pm - Huw Williams - Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham EX3 0HF (map)
From the well-loved duo Huw and Tony Williams, Huw's songs were covered by many artists , including Fairport Convention whose version of Summer Before the War and Simon Nicol’s version of Rosemary’s Sister brought him to a much wider audience. Huw will be joined for this show by talented bass player Ben Tunnicliffe. Expect foot tapping melodies, deeply moving songs and hilarious humour. Support: Exceptional guitarist and interpreter of song, Si Barron. Details www.topshamfolkclub.org /www.wegottickets.com/TopshamFolkClub.

NEW Sunday 18 May 2025 7.45pm - Harbottle & Jonas - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter, Plymouth PL7 5HP
details tba/tbc For reservations please contact folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

NEW Tuesday 20 May 2025 8pm - Jon Wilks - Bradninch Folk Club, Guildhall, Fore Street, Bradninch, nr Cullompton EX5 4NN  
Multi-talented much-admired fingerpicking folk guitarist and singer in the Martin Carthy / Martin Simpson vein. With a forthcoming album featuring his original songs, 20th of May will be an interesting time to see him in action. Details www.devonfolk.org/events-diary. £8 on door, U18 free subject so space. BYO refreshments. Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/Bradninchfolk, contact 01392 881105,

Tuesday 20 May 2025 8pm - "Every Folkin’ Tuesday" at The Old Warehouse, Prince of Wales Road, Kingsbridge TQ7 1DY
Featuring Ed Blunt. Details www.theoldwarehousekingsbridge.co.uk/theoldwarehouse-events. Free entry.

No tickets available Friday 23 May 2025 7.30pm - Martha Tilston - Ashburton Arts Centre, West Street, Ashburton TQ13 7DT
No tickets available Saturday 24 May 2025 7.30pm - Seth Lakeman
Part of Dartmoor Tors Festival 23-25 May https://dartmoortorsfestival.co.uk/, https://wegottickets.com/dartmoortorsfestival.

Saturday 24 May 2025 7.30pm - The Black Feathers - Brixham Theatre, New Road, Brixham TQ5 8TA (map)
Americana to some, Folk to others, The Black Feathers have those qualities in expansive quantity. Sian Chandler’s soaring, dramatic, melodious but powerful voice is a perfect counterpoint to Ray Hughes’ piquant vocals and his sparkling and occasionally spicy guitar motifs. This is a duo who love what they play and play what they love with panache, humour, delight and rather a lot of commentary on the downside of being a human. Details www.brixhamtheatre.co.uk.

NEW Friday 30 May 2025 6.30pm - Barn Dance/Ceilidh - Kingsbridge Rugby Club, High House, Kingsbridge TQ7 1JL (map)
In aid of https://www.pricklesinapickle.co.uk. Adv tickets only, £20 to include homemade pasty. Professional caller Jeremy Child, providing recorded music. Licensed bar. Please Whatsapp Janice on 07941 346798 to book tickets.

Saturday 31 May 2025 8pm - Ceilidh with Skermish - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE
Exeter Ceilidhs is a series of ceilidhs (barn dances) held on Saturdays. £8 - £15 (voluntary pricing); U16 £4, U10 free. BYO water / alcohol. See www.exeterceilidhs.net for full details of pricing, band information etc. Contact: Jeremy on 07969 297633, email contact@exeterceilidhs.net.

Saturday 31 May 2025 7.30pm - Ellie Gowers - Ashburton Arts Centre, West Street, Ashburton TQ13 7DT
“Ellie Gowers is, quite literally, an all-singing, all-dancing folk polymath” Jon Wilks, TradFolk. Ellie has composed music for BBC Radio 3’s production of ‘Middlemarch’ and toured as support act for a number of artists including Blair Dunlop and Elephant Sessions.” Details www.wegottickets.com/ashburtonarts.

***** Part Two - One-liners for June *****

Sunday 1 June 7.45pm - Richard Grainger & Chris Parkinson - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter
Sunday 1 June - Jon Boden & The Remnant Kings - Exeter Phoenix
Tuesday 3 June 8pm - "Every Folkin’ Tuesday" at The Old Warehouse, Prince of Wales Road, Kingsbridge
6-8 June - Craft Festival - Bovey Tracey
Saturday 7 June 7.30pm - Cosgrave & Banks - Church of St Mary & St Gabriel, Church Walk, Stoke Gabriel
Saturday 7 June 7.30pm - John Kirkpatrick - Holcombe Burnell Church, Longdown, Exeter
Sunday 8 June 2pm - Mark Waistell - St Mary's Church, South St, Denbury, Newton Abbot
Tuesday 10 June - Josienne Clarke sings Sandy Denny - Exeter Phoenix
Friday 13 June 7.30pm - Ceilidh for Ukraine with Blue Jewel Ceilidh Band - Hunts Cider, Stoke Gabriel
Friday 13 June 8pm - Jacob & Drinkwater  - Calstock Arts
Sunday 15 June 7.45pm - Tom Lewis - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter
Thursday 19 June - Hayden Thorpe - Barrel House, 59 High St, Totnes
20-22 June - Teignmouth Folk Festival
Saturday 21 June 7.30pm - Johnny Coppin & Phil Beer - Parish Hall, West Town Road, Newton St Cyres
Saturday 28 June 7.30pm - SykesMartin - Beehive Arts Centre, Dowell Street, Honiton
Saturday 28 June 8pm - Ceilidh with Crowdy Kit - Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter
Sunday 29 June 7.45pm - John Kirkpatrick - Folk on the Moor, Moorland Hotel, Wotter
Sunday 29 June 8pm - Downes & Beer - Matthews Hall, Fore Street, Topsham
Sunday 29 June 2pm - SykesMartin - Music At The Farmhouse, Totnes

All information is given in good faith but no responsibility can be accepted for its accuracy. Do check with the organiser before setting out on a long journey. A listing here does not guarantee that tickets are still available.

Changing your email address?
Should you need to change your email address for receiving these circulars, please use the 'Update subscription preferences' link below to update your details. There is also an 'Unsubscribe' link.

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
'Harberton Folk' recommends Plusnet:

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General items retained from previous circulars

Chasing Crockern: A Journey Through Dartmoor’s Folklore
A captivating new storytelling performance, Chasing Crockern, will tour Dartmoor this March, exploring the myths, legends, and spirit of the moor.
For more information about the project and to book tickets visit: https://villagesinaction.co.uk/crockern. Tour Dates:
Friday 7th March, 7.30pm - Princetown Community Centre
Saturday 8th March, 7.30pm - Cornwood Village Hall
Friday 14th March, 7.30pm - Ashburton Arts Centre
Saturday 15th March, 7.30pm - Wickham Hall, Bovey Tracey
Friday 21st March, 7.30pm - Jubilee Hall, Chagford
Saturday 22nd March, 7.30pm - Charter Hall, Okehampton

Session news: New Acoustic Singaround - Momus Folk - Café Momus, Manor St, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 1TL
Launched Tuesday 28th January 2025. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. From 7.30pm (for 8pm start) until 10.30pm. Accompanying and solo instruments welcome. Sing a song, play a tune. Folk, Roots and World music welcome. 20-minute feature spots, by arrangement, for groups and/or soloists. Wide range of drinks from the bar. Free parking available nearby. 21 bus route between Plympton and St Budeaux. More information from Marilyn Cowan on 01752 309983.

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Important note:
Do spare a few minutes occasionally to scan through the full open-ended Diary listings on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk which currently extend well into the year.

Ashley Hutchings 80th Birthday Tour
An old friend of Harberton Folk, Ashley turns 80 in January and is celebrating by undertaking a limited tour in March 2025 with his son Blair Dunlop, an established star in his own right, to present a night of songs and reminiscences of a remarkable life in folk music. West Country tour dates include Gt. Torrington, Paignton and Crediton; full details www.ashleyhutchings.co.uk.

Session news
The Tuesday folk sessions at the Artillery Arms, Stonehouse, Plymouth have ceased at the request of the landlady.

Music venue update: The Old Warehouse (TOW), Prince of Wales Road, Kingsbridge TQ7 1DY
Following on from the success of the recent “All Folkin’ Week” Beer & Music Festival, and their fully established free entry live music events (“Every Folkin’ Tuesday”), TOW are very pleased to announce the launch of “The Sunday Sessions”! From May 2024, TOW will become a dedicated live music ‘venue’ on the last Sunday of each month, playing host to some amazing artists from across the UK…and even further in some cases! Each of the shows will be ticket-only and mostly standing (limited seating will be available/bookable in advance) – doors and taproom will open at 7.00pm on the Sunday evening and all shows will end by 10.00pm at the latest. 'Sound of the Sirens' will launch The Sunday Sessions on May 26.
See https://theoldwarehousekingsbridge.co.uk/theoldwarehouse-events for details of all music events at TOW.

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Sid Valley Radio Folk Show
Mondays 6-8pm. The Folk Show with Steve and Barry. www.sidvalleyradio.co.uk.
If you know of any other folk shows on local (online) radio, please let me know the details.

Revd Sabine Baring-Gould Centenary
2024 marks the centenary of the death of the Reverend Sabine Baring-Gould who was squire and parson of Lewtrenchard in Devon. He was an early collector and recorder of folk tunes and songs from the West Country such as “Widecombe Fair”. He also wrote and translated many hymns and carols such as “Onward Christian Soldiers”. See www.sbgcentenary.co.uk for details of various events (concerts, talks etc.) celebrating the Revd.

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Bicton Inn in Exmouth
The Bicton Inn at 5 Bicton Street, Exmouth EX8 2RU has a regular monthly music programme of various genres including folk; usually: 3rd Thursday - Acoustic folk with Becky Brooks; 4th Thursday - Bicton folk night (recently updated contact no. 07876 064108). www.bictoninn.co.uk.

[3/12/23] Craig Taylor (from Diptford) writes:
"I am looking for a couple of tune players - fiddle/accordion to start up a working band. I am Australian (for my sins) so think it’ll definitely be a Bush Band (compared to the finesse of the ceilidh calling/dancing). Please contact by email ct@wellmusic.co.uk or call 07786 296325."

Session news
Wednesday 25 October 2023 8pm - Lympstone Folk - Change of venue
We're still meeting on the fourth Wednesday at 8, but the Redwing pub in Lympstone is now closed and awaiting new owners. We are therefore currently meeting at the Swan, next to the railway station, until further notice.

Ashburton Arts Centre
Another multi-genre arts centre, described by The Guardian as "One of the best small live music venues in the UK". Up and running in an old chapel since 2018. Again, I only list the folkier events there, but see https://ashburtonarts.org.uk/ for more information on a very busy programme. Many events are priced on a 'pay what you can afford' sliding scale.

Regular klezmer and East European sessions at Ashburton
Ashburton Arts Centre will be hosting klezmer and East European sessions every 2nd Monday of the month, starting 9/10/23. Free admission. Led by Družba www.klezmer-devon.com, we’ll start off in the slow lane for the less experienced at 7 followed by the main session at 8. For details of tunes please email bunelik@gmail.com. All acoustic instruments and abilities welcome to join in, learn tunes, listen, or dance. Note that diatonic instruments such as melodeons, tin whistle, etc will need accidentals to play in keys such as G minor, D minor. If unsure, email above. Real ale bar. Full details www.ashburtonarts.org.uk/regular-activities/klezmer-east-european-session.

Tom Brown R.I.P.
A stalwart of the West Country traditional music scene with his wife Barbara, Tom sadly passed away on 30 August 2023. Tom and Barbara supported one of our concerts in Harberton back in 2001. Our thoughts, love and deepest sympathies are with Barbara and their family.

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Raddon Hill Clog Morris...
...invite you to Free Evening Taster Sessions at Kingsteignton Community Hall, TQ12 3LP, 8.00-9.30pm on Tuesdays 5th September and 3rd October 2023. For further information please call Triss or Ron on 01626 367173, see www.raddonhillclogmorris.co.uk, or email info@raddonhillclogmorris.co.uk. Membership works out at approximately £1 a practice session.

I've managed to have a fairly major updating session at the full open-ended Southern Devon Folk Diary listings on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk which now include events as far ahead as June 2024. In my e-circulars I usually list the upcoming events for the next 2 months at most, but some events are so popular that they sell out weeks or even months in advance, so it's well worth a quick glance through the whole Diary on the website, even if it's just to get your favourite seats at your venue of choice.

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Part One - Other stuff - Map link corrections
but I have made important changes affecting the whole of the www.harbertonfolk.co.uk website and many of the entries included in these circulars.
These changes concern the Streetmap.co.uk map links I use. It came to my attention recently that many of my links no longer worked - my apologies for this! Streetmap.co.uk had changed the way their links worked. I have made corresponding corrections and - fingers crossed! - hopefully any map link you see will now work again.

East Devon session news: Tale Valley Folk Sessions...
...have just celebrated their first anniversary. www.facebook.com/TaleValleyFolkSessions. Sessions take place on the first Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm at the Nog Inn, Feniton EX14 3BT the third Sundays 12-3pm at the Talaton Inn EX5 2RQ.

Wild Goose Choir - A new folk-based community choir in South Brent
Freya Harbottle writes: "I'm soon to be starting a new folk-based community choir. The first session will be on Tuesday 6th June (7 to 9pm) and the choir will run on a regular weekly basis at The Village Hall in South Brent. We'll be learning material from across the folk canon, from the very traditional to the contemporary. Open to ages 18+. No previous choir experience required. Get in touch for more info or to book a free taster session: freyaharbottle@gmail.com.

Commonplace Creative Retreats
Miranda Sykes and Hannah Martin are running creative retreats based in a beautiful ancient farmhouse in Totnes. Each retreat is linked to the seasons, and will feature craft sessions, lots of lovely seasonal food, and an exclusive informal concert from SykesMartin to close the day.
The next event they have planned is their Beltane retreat on April 29th, with dates also in the diary for Summer Solstice (June 24th) and Midwinter (December 9th) events later in the year. Full info at: https://sykesmartin.bandzoogle.com/commonplace-creative-retreats.

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The Beehive Folk Café - Bi-monthly at Beehive Arts Centre, Dowell Street, Honiton EX14 1LZ
Free, mostly acoustic session of folk, blues and roots hosted by folk singer Sue King. Everyone welcome to come along to perform or have a drink and listen to some very talented local musicians. www.beehivehoniton.co.uk. Tel: 01404 384050. Next date: Wednesday 15 March 2023 7.30pm.

Folklife
If you'd like to read and learn more about many aspects of folk throughout the West Country and beyond. then check out the following:
Free entries in Folklife's online free-to-all Directory (incl. Zoom): www.folklife-directory.uk, entry forms on site.
Folklife West folk magazine (56 A4 pages) printed & posted (paid-for) - or free online!
Read or download: www.folklife.uk, Members' News, Festivals Diary; www.folklife-traditions.uk, researched articles + archive.
Plus Updates on www.folklife.uk/updates & you can sign up for our free emailed Newsletter.
Contact sam@folklife.uk.

Folk Club News
Brixham Folk Club now meets on the first Friday of the month at The Edge, Bolton Street, Brixham TQ5 9DH. www.facebook.com/Brixham-Folk-Club-1210249625809406, 7.30pm start, £2 performers, £3 non-performers.

Plymouth Community Folk Orchestra - Reminder
Tuesday mornings 3, 10, 17, 24 May, 14, 21, 28 June, 5, 12, 19 July - 11am to 12.30pm. £8 per session. Concession available
At Emmanuel Church Hall, Compton Avenue, (corner of Mannamead Road) Plymouth, PL3 5BZ
Make a big band, make some music, have some fun! All levels of ability welcome. Play music from Devon and beyond. Develop music skills and learning by ear. Play in harmony. Scores and sound files provided. The Community Folk Orchestra is ‘open’ - so, there are no auditions and all are welcome to come along. Participants can join at any time. You will, however, need an acoustic instrument, some enthusiasm and a willingness to participate! For more information contact David Faulkner 07967 121985 / david.eelgrinders@gmail.com. www.facebook.com/PlymouthCommunityFolkOrchestra.

Exmouth Folk Club
The Club has resumed its regular 4th Sunday meets, 7-10pm at the GWRSA Railway Club, 3-5 Royal Avenue, Exmouth EX8 1EN.
For more information call Chris Austin 07812 688432. Free admission, all performers and supporters welcome, acoustic only. Real ales are served and there is parking and level access. www.facebook.com/groups/exmouthfolk.

Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis
I've always thought of Lyme Regis being well outside my normal coverage (loosely defined as "within a 30-mile radius of Totnes as the crow flies" or "the southern half of Devon), but Google Earth tells me that the town is only about 39 miles in the former category - and the Marine Theatre is putting on a great programme of major folk concerts these days, with some of the acts probably not coming any further west on their tours, so I will give the venue a listing from time to time. The main one below caught my eye in Steve Cunio's 'Sadfolk' (www.sadfolk.co.uk) latest Somerset & Dorset email circular listings as Harberton Folk put on Blazin' Fiddles at the Ariel Centre in Totnes way back in 2003 and 2005:

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Eliza Carthy & Saul Rose: I've been enjoying lots of music on Youtube and only recently came across a 2014 concert performed by Eliza & Saul in St. George's Church, Headstone, Harrow which reminded me of the wonderful show they did for us at Harberton Parish Hall back in January 2001.
Enjoy the high quality video and audio at www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef22ID0qb0Q&list=PLjeyCtW07nIs5YQ41j9ASZwKUHlpMJprk&index=1.

Cecil Sharp's People.org.uk
A one-stop website for all the singers, musicians and dancers who met Cecil Sharp, as he travelled around England collecting folk music and dance between 1903-23. You can read about their lives. Over 650 individuals in hundreds of locations. They were working people – agricultural labourers, glovers, laundresses, sailors, shoemakers etc. Their stories should be told! https://cecilsharpspeople.org.uk.

The Mike Harding Folk Show
The former BBC folk show host presented a weekly show of his own online from 30 December 2012 to 22 October 2017 (over 250 programmes), and since then has presented further roughly monthly shows which still continue. All 270+ shows are available as podcasts at www.mikehardingfolkshow.com.

Folk news slightly further afield:
Somerset & Dorset (SaDFolk) folk events - Regular email updates
A regular and comprehensive emailed listing is available through www.sadfolk.co.uk (Somerset and Dorset folk, Steve Cunio) for folk events in venues large and small in those two counties, some of which are not too far away from the Harberton Folk area.
SaDFolk always includes full details of upcoming events, workshops and courses at Halsway Manor in Somerset which is owned by the Halsway Manor Society who operate the manor as a national centre for the folk arts, the only residential folk centre in the UK.
Folk in Cornwall
What it says on the tin - www.folkincornwall.co.uk - clubs, sessions, events...
Acoustic Calendar - Sign up for email updates at www.sanchobramble.weebly.com
Tony Watts' monthly calendar of folk clubs, singarounds, acoustic sessions & open mics in the South West. "The Acoustic Calendar is all about DIY music (NOT concerts, gigs, ceilidhs etc). The purpose of the Calendar is to keep you informed of all the places where you can take your voice and/or instrument and join in or do your own thing."

A quick note on what gets listed below (and in the Diary on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk):
The listings are of course primarily intended for 'folk' events; they will occasionally include Americana, blues and other genres, particularly if the event organisers have taken the trouble to send me material. Be assured though, they will never include tribute bands! (excellent though many of these are) These e-circulars usually cover the full Diary for the coming 4 to 5 weeks, while the website Diary is completely open-ended.

Frequency of these emails
I used to try to get these emails out once a week, but now they seem to be every 10-14 days. Perhaps that's not a bad thing - reducing the information overload - but it does mean that contributors need to give me as much notice as possible to hopefully ensure that their items can be included in good time. JC

Changing your subscription details:
If you change your email, or decide that you don't want to get these messages any longer, please scroll right to the bottom of any Harberton Folk e-circular where you will find links to the Mailchimp system which will enable you to make the appropriate changes.
[this exact wording borrowed from a recent SaDFolk email (Somerset and Dorset Folk) - see Part Two below]

Important Admin note: Email delivery problems

I've had problems sending the previous two circulars to 190+ addresses (mainly BTInternet, BTOpenworld, Yahoo, Sky, AOL, plus a few others, all of which use the Yahoo email platform). The circulars have been soft-bounced, i.e. rejected, on both recent occasion by most of those addresses "for policy reasons".
When the same address soft-bounces several circulars in succession, MailChimp (the system I use to send circulars) eventually hard-bounces that address, i.e. permanently removes it from the circulation and I, as Admin, cannot then reinstate that address, although the person in question can re-subscribe themself.
This has happened a couple of times over the last 12 months and I have no real idea why it happens, so it's very difficult trying to do anything about it. But this present circular is a trial inasmuch as it employs simpler formatting with less complex underlying code in the hope this may increase the acceptance rate.

In the interim I have been communicating directly with the 190+ about this problem and I would like to thank the large number of them who very helpfully responded to my last communication when I sent a copy of the latest missing circular as a PDF file attachment, apparently successfully, whereas an attempt to simply forward a copy of the original circular to a test group of 10 addresses failed.

Several people also mentioned that they had an alternative email address which could be used for receiving the circulars - and I would ask anyone in this position to please use the 'update subscription preferences' link at the very foot of any circular to update their email address in the MailChimp data base accordingly. Should you no longer be able to access any original circular, I can update your email address for you on request (but it's best if you do it yourself if possible).
If you change to a Gmail address, please note that my circulars may arrive in your Promotions inbox folder.

It remains to be seen whether the 190+ will actually receive this circular.

[version sent on 8/6/18 to remainder of 270 contacts 'cleaned' by MailChimp, inviting re-subscription]
Once again this copy of yesterday's Harberton Folk email circular is being sent directly from my laptop (not via MailChimp, nor in MailChimp format this time) to those mostly btinternet / btopenworld / yahoo / aol / sky email addresses who were removed a while back from Harberton Folk's MailChimp database due to unknown circumstances and have not yet re-subscribed.
If you wish to continue receiving the regular circulars, please re-subscribe by going to www.harbertonfolk.co.uk where you’ll find a link to a short form to complete – and you’ll be back on the list.
Or simply reply to this email and ask me to re-subscribe you.
You can view Harberton Folk's GDPR-compliant Privacy Policy on the website.
Note that the e-circulars are now being sent from hfolk@johnculf.co.uk.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
At some point in the not too distant future I will no longer be able to continue sending these separate copies to you.
Best wishes
John Culf

[version sent to NON-GDPR segment on 8/6/18]
GDPR - Still time to update your preferences to continue receiving Harberton Folk Circulars - Please act now
The new GDPR data protection law came into force on May 25th.
I'm still hoping some more of the people who have not yet UPDATED THEIR PREFERENCES appropriately (see the link at the very foot of this circular) will do so to enable me to continue sending them the circulars. You will also find an 'unsubscribe' link there, should you need it.
The full list of 1350+ contacts is now effectively split into two parts, one containing the 955 contacts who have already updated, the other (to which this customised version of yesterday's circular is being sent) containing the remainder.
Alternatively, you can simply reply to this email and I can do the updates for you, if you tell me that is your wish.
New contacts can subscribe to the circulation at any time via a link provided on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.
Many thanks for your understanding and cooperation. John Culf

[version sent to GDPR CONSENT segment on 7/6/18]
Firstly, my thanks to the 955 contacts who have (thus far) confirmed their consent to continue receiving Harberton Folk emails. My list is now effectively divided into two parts, i.e. those who have, and those who have not (yet), re-confirmed. I'm now able to send separately to the two groups and will be sending further GDPR reminders (with the circular) to the latter group, and can assure everyone receiving this version of today's that this is the last time I will mention GDPR! Many thanks for your understanding and cooperation. John Culf

Harberton Folk Circular - Friday 25 May 2018
If you would like to continue receiving Harberton Folk email circulars...
...you must confirm your consent to do so - or your contact details will soon be removed from the circulation!
I know many of you will be fed up of receiving emails about GDPR - but today May 25th is the day the new law comes into force.
To date, barely half of my 1300+ contacts have signed up for continued circulars and I am sure there are many more who wish to remain on the list but just haven't got round to taking the appropriate action yet.
Even if you don't read any more of this circular, jump to the "Update subscription preferences" link at the very foot of this email which will offer you a very short simple form to complete - your existing details will already be there (with asterisks blanking most of your email address for security) - just tick both the vacant boxes and click 'Update Profile'. You can enter a completely different email address if you wish. (You could even 'Unsubscribe'!)
I intend to send several further reminders about this in the coming days because I really want to lose as few contacts as possible from the list.

Harberton Folk Circular - Tuesday 15 May 2018
Sorry it's been so long since the last circular. GDPR stuff has been taking up a lot of my spare time, but I think I'm almost there now.
GDPR Update - My Next Email will Require Action on Your Part
My next email (hopefully tomorrow) will be particularly important as it will hopefully ensure that the Harberton Folk email circulation is operating in compliance with the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into force with effect from 25 May 2018.
You must take action as indicated in that next email (or any subsequent reminders) if you wish to continue receiving the e-circulars, i.e. re-confirm your consent to receive Harberton Folk e-circulars.
If you do not, we will unfortunately be obliged to remove your name and email address from the circulation.
Sorry to sound rather 'technical' or officious, but this IS REALLY IMPORTANT and we don't want to lose you!
Please also note that a few changes are also being made at the same time in the hope of reducing the likelihood of these circulars being regarded as spam/junk by some email systems/providers. For example, the sending address will in future appear as hfolk@johnculf.co.uk (in case you need to 'whitelist' this address or otherwise approve it for receiving Harberton Folk e-circulars.
John

Update on the New Data Protection Law (GDPR)
My thanks to the significant number of people who have sent comments and offered advice on this subject, following my piece last week. I'm beginning to get a good idea of what I need to do to keep the Harberton Folk email circulation 'legal' and will share this with you soon. It will require simple action on your part to enable you to continue receiving the e-circulars.

New Data Protection Law
Some of you may have heard recent mention of a new (EU) data protection law coming into effect on May 25th; some may have even heard its name: General Data Protection Regulation 'GDPR'. I am still struggling to understand the possible  implications of this for my Harberton Folk email circulars and the MailChimp data base containing your details which underpins the circulars, and what I may have to do - and ask you to do - to ensure compliance with the new law and thereby allow you to continue receiving these circulars. Watch this space! JC

Flaxey Green Website - www.flaxey-green.co.uk
This excellent Devon website contains a wealth of folk-related information in addition to an events diary, such as comprehensive listings for folk dance clubs, pub sessions, bands, solo artists, callers, musicians wanted/available, morris sides, a For Sale section (currently including a couple of melodeons, a Peavey KB3 amplifier and other sound equipment.

Reminder for Gmail users:
As well as probably putting these circulars in the Promotions inbox folder (rather than the Primary folder), Gmail also 'clips' long emails, such as these circulars, and you need to select the 'View entire message' option to do just that.

'Roots and Shoots' on Exeter's community radio station Phonic FM www.phonic.fm
Listen on 106.8 FM and online on 1st, 3rd, 4th (and 5th) Mondays of the month 6.00pm to 8.00pm. Featuring the best in folk/roots music with a strong emphasis on local music - both live in the studio and recorded. News too of folk/roots events in Exeter and south and east Devon. We welcome contributions from musicians, singers and anyone involved with folk/roots/world music in and around Exeter. Most importantly, listen in, then get in touch to tell us your reactions and suggestions. Contact Roots and Shoots: Telephone 01837 871498 (Martin Henning), email m.henning@hotmail.co.uk.
A message from Adrian Bull
"I co-host the 'Roots and Shoots' radio show. I specialise in playing all things folk(ish) and am particularly keen to promote local artists and events/clubs. If you are a musician and would like me to play some of your music on the show, or even come on as a guest, then I would love to hear from you. I am also keen to have promoters, folk club organisers on the programme."

'Technical' Notes
1) I send copies of my circulars to several different email addresses of my own (Plusnet, Hotmail, Gmail) to help check that as many as possible are reaching their intended recipients. Last week the copy to my Plusnet address unusually finished up in my spam folder. Very occasionally a copy may disappear without trace. I have no idea why - the joys of email! Anyway, if you think you may be missing a copy at any time, you can always find the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk, along with the most recent circular(s).
2) A chance communication with a recipient of these circulars has revealed that Gmail, as well as probably putting the circulars in the Promotions inbox folder (rather than the Primary folder), also 'clips' long emails, such as these circulars, and you need to select the 'View entire message' option to do just that.
The person in question had failed to see the 'Christmas events' section in Part because of the above clipping.

The following interesting item appeared in Steve Cunio's Somerset & Dorset Folk Events Diary email today - Have any Harberton Folk recipients experienced this issue yet?
"Do you use Gmail?
I've had a couple of emails from people asking why SaDFolk had started to send them Google Calendar invitations to events they had no interest in. I haven't changed anything here, but following a bit of searching round the Net, I found that Google had made this 'improvement' to their service.
If you have a Gmail account and a Google Calendar account and any email you receive contains something which Google interprets as an event you might want to go to, it automatically adds the invitation to your calendar and sends you an email about it.
To turn this off, you need log into your Google Calendar then click on the gear wheel icon in the top right, select ‘settings’ then look for ‘Events in Gmail’. Under that there should be a ‘Add automatically’ setting. Deselect that and the problem should go away."
Please let me know (by reply to this email) if you as a Harberton Folk recipient have experienced this issue. Thanks. JC

Folklore & Mythology Resource Guide
I've added the following link www.supersummary.com/folklore-mythology-guide (Folklore and Mythology Resource Guide) to the Links page page on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

An 'interesting' email problem
Those of you who read my recent notes about the various problems I experience when sending these e-circulars may be interested/amused to see a (new) rejection message received from a recipient at a local educational establishment. I have highlighted the offending word in bold/red and added spaces so it's not rejected again. This word appeared in the item about Hayseed Dixie:
Microsoft Antigen for Exchange found a message matching a filter. The message is currently Identified.
Message: "hf21_30 080226"
Filter name: "KEYWORD= racial discrimination: h i l l b i l l y"
Sent from: "John Culf"

Apologies for such a long gap since the last circular. Remember, the full open-ended Diary is always available on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk contains gigs right through to June 2025, many of these added in the last couple of days - so do have a quick scroll through to see if there's anything that takes your fancy. Tickets will usually be on sale for any gig listed.