The April Maze - NSW Folk Federationjam.org.au/cornstalk/cornstalk_436_Feb_12_NBMF.pdf · Please find enclosed $ __ being my subscription for _ years. Individual ... Launching

Folk Federation of New South Wales Inc Issue 436 February, 2012 $3.00

Dates For Your DiaryFolk NewsDance NewsCD Reviews

folk music dance festivals reviews profiles diary dates sessions opportunities

The April MazeJust one of the feature acts at the Northern Beaches Music Festival

Dobsons Printing Pty Ltd (02) 9417 02392 The CORNSTALK Gazette FEBRUARY 2012

Cornstalk Editor - Coral VorbachPost Office Box 5195. Cobargo NSW 2550Tel/Fax: 02 6493 6758 Email: [email protected] is the official publication of the Folk Federation of NSW. Contributions, news, reviews, poems, photographs most welcome. Photographs and ArtworkPhotographs - high resolution JPG or TIFF files.300 dpi images cropped at correct size.We use Adobe In-Design, Photoshop 6, Microsoft Word. PLEASE do not send photographs as part of a Word Document .No part of Cornstalk may be reproduced without permission of the publishers. All care but no responsibility taken for omissions or errors.Wrap Co-ordinator James Baxter 02 9810 4131 - [email protected]

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FEBRUARY 2012In this issueNorthern Beaches Music Festival p4Dates for your diary p6Cobargo Folk Festival p8Festivals and Other events p8Folk Contacts p10Jez Lowe – Kate Bramley Duo p13CD Review p14

COMMITTEE 2010-2011President, Anthony WoolcottEmail: [email protected] President: Dallas BaxterSecretary: Pam Davis 02 9955 3677Email: [email protected]: Bruce Cameron 02 6331 1129Email: [email protected]: Dallas Baxter, James Baxter, Terry Clinton, Sandra Nixon, Margaret WaltersMembership: Wayne Richmond Listserv/Jam/Membership 9939 8802 (not after 8.00pm please.)

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Russell Hannah presents Kevin Baker with life membership of the Illawarra Folk Club at the final concert

The CORNSTALK Gazette FEBRUARY 2012 3The Folk Federation of NSW ONLINE - jam.org.au

vale Lynette Hicks (19/7/35-23/1/12)Lynette Hicks died on 23rd

January, following a stroke. She was 76.

Margaret Walters: “Lynette had many interests, but I knew her through serving together on the Folk Federation of NSW committee. She was involved in Mummers Plays, sword dancing and Playford Dancing. She had been a librarian at the ABC and was very knowledgeable, and witty and wise to boot. She's always been a symbol for me of good humour and resilience.”

Bruce Cameron: “Lynette was involved with the Folk Federation committee when I first came on board. I remember she was very supportive of the work of the Folk Fed and I appreciated how she helped me settle into my role on the committee. Lynette was definitely an 'opinion leader' in the group and a positive force for folk.”

Julie Bishop: “Lynette Hicks and Noreen Grunseit were the original teachers of Sydney Playford Dance Group. Alex and I met there, and learnt English dancing, and our love of it, from them.”

Lynette's daughter Madrigal said her mother would like the idea of Sellenger's Round being danced at her funeral.

We extend our sympathy to Madrigal and her brother Robin, and family.

Community Choirs run by Kate Maclurcan will this term feature the songs of Peter, Paul & Mary. In the week preceding the choir, there will be a free film screening of PP&M’s 25th anniversary concert.

There are three Choirs:1. North Sydney Community Centre: film screening 7pm, 30 January. Refreshments provided.Choir term (8 weeks) from Monday 6 February 7.45- 9.15pm Fee $130 to NSCC 9922 22992. Tramshed Community Centre, Narrabeen:Film screening at Humph Hall, 85 Allambie Rd Allambie Heights 7pm Friday 3 February. Supper provided Choir term (8 weeks) from Thursday 9 February 7.30-9pm. Fee $1203. Circle Cafe (Balmain Uniting Church) 344 Darling St, BalmainFilm screening Wed 1 Feb 8pm. Supper providedChoir term (8 weeks) from Wednesday 8 Feb 7.30- 9pm. Fee $120I believe we all have a voice - some just haven’t found their's yet. ALL VOICES WELCOME. No experience necessary.

All enquiries and bookings to Kate Maclurcan (0412) 771 [email protected] Maclurcan is a folk singer who has become best known in recent years for running highly popular themed choirs. These have included the songs of Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Neil Diamond, Cat Stevens and Simon & Garfunkel. Kate is currently conducting three Peter, Paul & Mary choirs in Narrabeen, North Sydney and Balmain. These choirs provide a warm welcoming environment for all voices and are about finding the JOY in singing [email protected] (0412) 771 394

vale graeme HumeGraeme “Grummy” Hume - singer, songwriter, and co-author and performer of “The Flight of the Fat Fairy”, died in his sleep early in January. A regular at many folk festivals, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and remembered as a man of great kindness, charm, wit, talent and erudition. A writer since the age of ten, he was well-travelled and had lived in Singapore and South Korea. A folk musician

vale Phil BlakeleyAnother loss to the Australian folk community was Phil Blakeley, who passed away in his sleep on 4th January. Folk singer Phil was an original member of Pattersons' Steam Driven Bush Band, which was formed in 1978 at the Albury Folk Club. The band grew from the need for a local band as Melbourne or Sydney bush bands were too expensive. We extend our condolences to Graeme's and Phil's family and friends.

(Thanks to the National Folk Festival for some of these notes.)

Peter, Paul & Mary Choirs looking for voices!


The Northern Beaches Music FestivalFriday 17th - Sunday 19th February 2012

The time is drawing near for this unique Sydney summer event to be held on the shores of the glorious Narrabeen Lakes – just a short stroll to the famous surfs of Narrabeen Beach. 100 acts on 5 stages over 3 days showcasing an array of exceptional talent from the Northern Beaches of Sydney and beyond complimented by markets, food stalls and street performers. Tickets on sale on line at moshtix.com.auThe artist line up is incredible promising a truly exciting program of music from the genres of contemporary folk, blues, roots, traditional, a capella, country, bluegrass & original.

Performer Highlights See full lineup at northernbeachesmusicfestival.org. For more info call Paul on (0418) 641 976.Sal Kimber & the Rollin’ Wheel - “This is Australiana-soaked alt-country at its finest.” [Rolling Stone Magazine]. Showcasing a diverse blend of country, blues, gospel, rockabilly, groove, pop, rock and folk merging with their unique brand of alt-country, Sal has been quietly stealing hearts on the live music scene for the past three years. She and her band have performed at over 30 festivals and have supported Kasey Chambers & Tim Rogers. A perennial ‘pick of the festival’, this is one band you don’t want to miss.the Pigs - Take a hit song, turn it upside down, shake the change out of its pockets and set it down in its proper form - foot-stomping bluegrass. For over 6 years now, The Pig Family has been educating audiences at festivals and concerts all over Australia. They’ll attack anything from The Bee Gees to Daft Punk, and their cracking original tunes include Macho Moisturiser, a song about a crocodile wrestler with “skin like the softest part of a duck.”Mic Conway & Robbie Long - In a circus of comedy, music and magic, Mic Conway and flat-picking guitar champion Robbie Long present an hilarious array of idiosyncratic songs that will make your jaw drop, toes tap and sides split. Launching their new album “Street of Dreams” - surreal vaudeville for crooning and swooning.the April Maze - There are just two of them – Todd and Sivan. She plays soulful cello standing up while effortlessly singing at the same time. He sings in harmony and switches between guitar and banjo while stomping on the stomp box to keep the syncopated rhythms punching through. They sound like a cross between Fleetwood Mac, Florence and the Machine and John Butler. Their music moves you and seeps deep in to your soul, staying with you for days and weeks to come. Sarah Humphreys - Earthy, grounded and honest Sarah takes the ingredients of the classic songwriter and combines these with a sense of spontaneity, ukuleles and an amazing ability to stare out the window. She is a dreamer, a storyteller and a romantic. Sarah stands out as a genuine artist and a wonderful talent. Over the past ten years she’s supported and toured with artists such as Kasey Chambers and Renee Geyer. “Folk-pop doesn’t

get much better than this - a perfect mix of self-confessed vulnerability and confidence.” [Dom Alessio, Triple J]Fred Smith - A superb songwriter with a wry sense of humour and a wonderful eye for the idiosyncrasies of modern life. He is one of Australia’s most literate, humorous, intelligent and empathic songwriters. He sings of his experiences in regions of the world he has lived and worked in like Bougainville, Honiara, the USA and Afghanistan. “Once in a blue moon, a drift of music so unlike any other enfolds your sensibilities and reaffirms the power of song. Fred Smith is the force behind quite a stunning marriage of ethereal

Sal Kimber & the Rollin’ Wheel

the Pigs


poetry and hard-nosed realism lyrical.” [Warwick McFadyen, The Age.]Luke escombe - You’ll be laughing, dancing, rocking out and wondering why you’ve never heard anything quite like him. Luke’s songs are political, without being partisan; personal, without being maudlin; funny, but never lightweight. They open up like puzzle boxes, revealing more with each listen. Luke’s latest solo album “Golden Ages” was recorded in a converted dairy shed in the hills of Byron Bay with a band of local jazz cats. “Luke blew me away man. He’s like a cross between Jimi Hendrix and Leonard Cohen. In the same body.” [Jack Jones - Southern Sons].

Doc Jones and the Lechery Orchestra - Doc Jones headed east from Perth with a bag of quirky songs and inspired by a stint with the Ashton Circus for whom he composed and performed live for their regular circus shows. The Sydney chapter of the Lechery Orchestra is a pint sized orchestra with punch, featuring accordion, flute, clarinet, bass and guitar, with occasional bursts of banjo, bass clarinet, kazoo and improvised percussion. There is plenty of fun and quirkiness in the music but there is a great depth of musical knowledge and experience underpinning it all. the Wheeze & Suck Band - John ‘Red Tips’ Milce, Geoff ‘One Shot’ Woodhead, Nigel ‘Muddy’ Walters, Tony ‘Pyro’ Pyrzakowski and Ian ‘The Pump’ Macintosh perform Roots music and original material with humour, dash and flair that betrays their UK traditional origins. Scuba diving beneath cathedrals and holy apparitions at Coogee Beach are just two of the weird and strange stories the Wheezers have to share, not to mention a host of ripping tunes.the Lurkers - Subversive homespun bluegrass. With double bass, banjo, guitar and three-part harmonies, it’s acoustic hillbilly punk about environmental evangelism, pirateering and DIY armageddon. Described as “Billy Bragg with banjos and The Waifs with a conscience”, The Lurkers have played to packed crowds at festivals across the country and have travelled to Copenhagen to perform for activists converging on the UN Climate Change Summit. Based in Sydney, The Lurkers are bringing songs of rebellion to a new generation.the Jugalug String Band - Formed in 2005 for a quick gig in an eastern suburbs restaurant. When everyone got into the music and the cooks abandoned the kitchen to join in, it was decided to stick together and The Jugalug Stringband was born! They play a repertoire of pre western swing music based upon the styles of early string and jug bands of the 1920’s and 30’s. The band is entertaining, engaging and swings like crazy and the instruments such as uke and lap steel, banjo, strohviol, mandolin and washboard, date back to the early part of the twentieth century. green Mohair Suits - Born from a love for sweet harmony and miserable lyrics, this band has developed their own brand of Australiana. In the tradition of old time mountain string bands the current line-up includes banjo, guitar, mandolin, lap steel, upright bass and accordion. Their music has been described as “Cosmic American Music”, and in a nod to their name-sake The Green Mohair Suits give you Cosmic Australian Music. gilbert Whyte - An entertaining Scottish songwriter who has drawn a performance style out of both traditional & contemporary folk and blues. Fingerpicking his way about Australia with a guitar in one hand and a banjo in the other, Gilbert is a relentless travelling musician. His rambling storytelling songs are earning him a reputation for musicianship & heartfelt performance wherever he goes.Jenny Biddle - At one moment humble in her abilities, then suddenly letting rip into a blistering guitar attack that resembles Ian Moss in full flight, Jenny Biddle is captivating audiences throughout Australia. Crowned Melbourne’s Best Busker 2010, runner up at the 2011 Tamworth Country Music Festival Busking Championship, accolades for Jenny just keep on rolling in. Her ability to resonate with her audience is just one of the many skills this talented folk/blues songsmith lays claim to. Others include a true mastery of the piano and her jaw dropping skills on guitar. Live, Jenny Biddle bewitches you.the New York Public Library - John Flannigan (“Flano”), Warren Boyd & Isabelle Fogarty are the New York Public Library, a lively, popular, & thoroughly entertaining trio who have been an icon of the Sydney folk scene for years, having begun their career at the original Shack. They play a variety of music including originals, folk, comedic and something they call “adapted bluegrass”.

Fred Smith

Mic Conway & Robbie Long


MetROPOLItAN

fiddle, melodeons, percussion, vocals; exciting mix of traditional, contemporary and original ‘roots’ music. Exquisite four part harmony, high energy dance tunes. + BETH 'n BEN. Their songwriting spans blues, roots, folk, reggae, jazz, souls. Witty lyrics, obscure view on everyday life, a beat people can move to. + EARLWOOD GREG DERRIG, performing since aged 18, in the folk revolution. Has supported and joined on stage Jim Conway, John and Rick Brewster, Glenn Cardier, the mighty King Brothers from the Foreday Riders. Tramshed Community Arts Centre, 1395a Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen (betw. carpark & Ambulance in Narrabeen shops). 7.30-11pm. $20. 0413 635 856, [email protected]

Sunday 5thCamelot Lounge. RAPT www.urbanex.com.au - Parisienne Rendezvous. Paris-based and Australian musicians and performers join for a show featuring music,song, dance and burlesque. 19 Marrickville Rd (cnr Railway Pde), Marrickville. 2 minutes from Sydenham station. 9550 3777. [email protected] www.camelotlounge3.com

Monday 6thBMC Dance Workshop. Waltzes, Natural Turns. Leader Felicity Hattingh. Pennant Hills Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30-9.30pm. $7. Felicity 9456 2860

Thursday 9thSutherland Acoustic. The incomparable JAN PRESTON. ‘Australia’s finest female blues talent’ - Drum Media. Queen of Boogie Piano - from Boogie Woogie to Ragtime to blues and jazz, with her suave, sensual voice, huge performance energy and masterful command of the piano. Sutherland District Trade Union Club (Tradies), Kingsway, Gymea. 7.30pm. $15, $12, $10, kids under 12 free. Floor spots welcome, raffles. Maeve 9520 5628

Friday 10th MoFo. THE STRING CONTINGENT www.thestringcontingent.com + CHAIKA www.myspace.com/chaikaband . Gaelic Theatre, 64 Devonshire St, Surry Hills. MoFo is a new venue organised by the Folk Federation of NSW 7.30pm. www.facebook.com/pages/MoFo/198837320189022

Saturday 11th

Wednesday 1stTom Mann Theatre. JOSEPH TAWADROS QUARTET: Joseph Tawadros (oud), Matt McMahon (piano), Dimitri Vouras (clarinet), James Tawadros (Egyptian percussion). 136 Chalmers St, Surry Hills (opp. Central Station, opp. Prince Alfred Park). 8pm. $30, $25. Bookings [email protected], [email protected], www.josephsdtawadros.com

Thursday 2ndHumph Hall The STring ConTingenT (SCoTland/auSTralia). Acclaimed, virtuosic string trio. 7pm. Humph Hall - 85 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights. Entry free (donations of $25/$15 invited). Enquiries/bookings: Wayne Richmond (02) 9939 8802 or [email protected] Web: humphhall.orgFriday 3rdBMC Singabout Night. ‘SOmETHING TO SING ABOUT.’ Tritton Hall (Hut 44), Addison Rd Community Centre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. 8-10pm. Bring a song or two on the theme, and something to share for supper. $5. Bob 9569 7244,[email protected]

Cafe Dalor Open Mic. THE BOOK OF VILAH. + RUSSELL NEAL. + JOHN CHESHER. + CORALLINA BEATRICE BOOKER. 237 Wardell Rd, Dulwich Hill (lower village, near train station). 7.30-10pm. Free. Roger Fyfe 0425 261 [email protected], www.rogerfyfe.com/gallery

Humph Hall PeTer, Paul & Mary'S 25Th anniverSary ConCerT Free film screening. 7pm. Humph Hall - 85 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights. Web: humphhall.orgSaturday 4thBeecroft Bush Dance, with RYEBUCK, caller Margaret Bolliger. Beecroft Community Centre, Beecroft Rd (opp. Fire Station). 8pm-12. All dances taught. $17, $14, $12, incl. supper. Sigrid 9980 7077, Wilma 9489 5594

The Shack. WHEEZE AND SUCK BAND, five piece group. Colourful costumes, heaps of audience participation, sporadic dancing. Guitars, mandolins,

The Loaded Dog (2nd Sat, not usual 4th). mIGUEL HEATWOLE presents Frank the Poet, a 2 hour production of his life (1811-1851) and times, with support from BRIGHT STAR SINGERS. Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, Back Room (not upstairs), 79 Johnston St. 8pm. Doors 7.40 - show starts promptly at 8. $15, $13, BYO, supper available. Sandra 9358 4886, www..theloadeddog.org

Humph Hall new york PubliC library + Sarah & Margie New York Public Library are a lively, popular, and thoroughly entertaining trio who have been an icon of the Sydney folk scene for years. They play a variety of music including originals, folk, comedic and something they call “adapted bluegrass”. Sarah Fogarty and Margaret Salem have been performing as a duo for many years. Their voices blend to produce amazing harmonies that are truly exquisite. 7pm. Humph Hall - 85 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights. Entry free (donations invited). Enquiries/bookings: Wayne Richmond (02) 9939 8802 or [email protected] Web: humphhall.org

dates for your diary

Sarah & MargieHumph Hall, Sat 11th

New York Public LibraryHumph Hall, Sat 11th

the Wheeze & Suck Bandthe Shack , Sat 4th

the String ContingentHumph Hall 2nd, gaelic Club 10th


The Merry Muse Regional and ACT

Friday 24thTradies, sponsoring a show with GEORGE mANN (USA) and JOHN BROOmHALL. Songs by George and John followed by a documentary (which George showed at the Illawarra Folk Festival last year) on the life of Julius Margolin, a USA union and peace activist; then more songs. Bass & Flinders Room, Sutherland District Trade Union Club, Kingsway, Gymea. 7.30 to approx. 9.30pm. Free. If you wish to eat before the show, there is “a fine Brasserie”. 9540 1933

Monday 27thBMC Dance Workshop. Pride of Erin variations. Leader John Short. Pennant Hills Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30-9.30pm. $7. Felicity 9456 2860Newcastle Hunter Valley Folk ClubCHLOE and JASON ROWETH, with the ‘The Riderless Horse’, plus old favourites. + CLARK GORmLEY. Wesley Centre,150 Beaumont St, Hamilton. 7.30pm. $15, $12, $10. Bilbo 0410 584 533, Lainey 4943 1552.newcastlehuntervalleyfolkclub.org.au

Friday 10 February Steve Tyson CD Launch/Trev Dunham

Friday 17 February Mic Conway and Robbie Long CD Launch/Kristabell and the Southern Jubilee Ringers

Canberra Southern Cross ClubAKA "The Bowlo" 54 McCaughey St, TURNER, ACT 2603 Gigs start at 7:30pm

Central Coast. 14th Anniversary Bush Dance with SNAKE GULLY. East Gosford Progress Hall, cnr Henry Parry Drive & Wells St. 7.30-11.30pm. $18, $15, students 13-16 $8, under-12 $5. Includes light supper. Robyn or Richard, 4344 6484. www.ccbdma.org

Sunday 12thTroubadour Central Coast. Session afternoon at the CWA Hall, The Boulevarde, Woy Woy (opp. Fisherman’s Wharf). Audience welcome. Tea, coffee provided. 3-6pm. $3.www.troubadour.org.au

Monday 13thBMC Dance Workshop. Older Waltzes and other dances. Leader Felicity Hattingh. Pennant Hills Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30-9.30pm. $7. Felicity 9456 2860

Friday 17thHornsby Ku-ring-gai Folk Club. mARTIN PEARSON. Martin tickles the funny bone. In a scintillating act, he takes current events and observations of everyday life, and turns them into side splitting comedy routines. Beatrice Taylor Hall, rear Willow Park Community Centre, Edgeworth David Ave, Hornsby. Doors 7.30pm. $15. BYO drinks, nibbles. Tea, coffee provided. Candle lit venue, tables can be booked, Barry Parks 9807 9497 [email protected]

Cafe Dalor Open Mic. BECK FIELDING. + CHARLI RAINFORD. 237 Wardell Rd, Dulwich Hill (lower village, near train station). 7.30-10pm. Free. Roger Fyfe 0425 261 953

Saturday 18thBalmain Bush Dance, with URBAN SCRUB. Sydney Secondary College, Balmain Campus, 25 Terry St, Rozelle. 8pm-12. All dances taught. $17, $14, $12, incl. supper. Don 9642 7950

Macquarie Towns Folk Club. Concert, featuring LImE & STEEL, TARA mIST, BOWEN & CLARE, and walk ups. New club venue with great acoustics, candle lit tables. BYO drinks and nibblies. St Peters Educational Centre, 384 Windsor St, Richmond. Doors 7.30pm. $10, includes refreshments at intermission. Lydia 4576 0521, [email protected]

Sunday 19thTroubadour Central Coast. GEORGE mANN (USA) sings songs from the last century of labour and social activism, and his own songs are powerful and funny takes on the state of the nation. His concerts are part sing-along, part history lesson. www.georgemann.org CWA Hall, The Boulevarde, Woy Woy. 2.30pm. Floor spots available. Supper provided. $11, $9, $8. Children free with paying adult. 4341 4060 AH, 0419 231 319.www.troubadour.org.au

Monday 20thBMC Dance Workshop. Social Dance Night. Leaders John Short, Felicity Hattingh. Pennant Hills Community Centre, Yarrara Rd. 7.30-9.30pm. $7. Felicity 9456 2860

Thursday 23rdHumph Hall george Mann (uS) & John brooMhall Two fine singer/songwriters from opposite sides of the globe join forces for a concert of passion & integrity. 7pm. Humph Hall - 85 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights. Entry free (donations of $25/$15 invited). Enquiries/bookings: Wayne Richmond (02) 9939 8802 or [email protected] Web: humphhall.org

Friday 17th River Music. KRISTINA OLSEN. Nowra Golf Club, Fairway Drive, North Nowra. 7.30pm. $20, $15, Youth (12-20) $5. Andrew or Alison, 4447 5663.www.kangaroovalleyfolkfestival.com

george Mann (US)Humph Hall 23rd, tradies 24th

Kristina Olsen (US)Nowra golf Club, Fri 17th

John BroomhallHumph Hall 23rd, tradies 24th


festivals and events17th- 19thFebruary 2012Northern Beaches Music Festival 2012Berry Reserve and Tramshed Arts & Community Centre NarrabeenContact: 0418 641 976 www.northernbeaches-musicfestival.org24th - 26th February 2012Cobargo Folk Festivalwww.cobargofolkfestival.com16th - 18th March 2012Blue Mountains Music Festivalwww.bmff.org.au [email protected] - 9th April 2012National Folk Festival Canberrawww.folkfestival.asn.au6th -8th April 2012Four Winds Festival Biennial festival of classic, cultural and world music. It takes place every second Easter in a parkland bush am-phitheatre near Bermagui. [email protected] www.fourwinds.com20th – 22nd April 2012St Albans Folk Festivalwww.stalbansfolkfestival.com.austalbansfolkfestival@gmail.comContact: 612 9873 33786th - 15th April 2012Hungarian Music and Dance Camp (Sydney)www.kengugro.org5th - 6th MaySing DubboEnq. [email protected]

17th Cobargo Folk Festival 24th 25th & 26th February 2012Once again the Cobargo Showground will become “tent city” for the annual gathering of international, national and local performers presenting a range of entertainment covering not only traditional folk music but comedy, theatre, blues, bluegrass, country music and Dance.The festival, held on the outskirts of the historic and picturesque village of Cobargo, has become a fixture on the Australian Folk Festival calendar and each year attracts enthusiasts from interstate and overseas.Concerts, displays , dances and workshops are featured in eight venues within the showground including a special kids venue, “The Crossing Youth” and workshops.Festival patrons can join in the many dances and workshops, the bush dance, tango, contra dance, western swing will be popular, or sit back and watch the expert performers in their displays. T he main concert hall is named “The Gulaga” and has been converted into a concert type theatre where this year a full scale theatrical production of Steele Rudd’s original play “The Old Selection” will, be presented by the Footprint Theatre of Pambula. This project was made possible by Festivals Australia, an Australian Government program which supports cultural activity at regional and community levels.International artists appearing this year include The Beez, Germany, George Mann, USA ,and Alistair Brown from the UK. Australian stars include Judy Small, Kerrianne Cox, Ami Williamson, Martin Pearson, the finger picking guitarist Nick Charles, and blues sensation Fiona Boyes. By popular request the high energy band The Woohoo Revue has been invited again and will appeal to the younger folk who packed out their concerts last year. A special feature of the festival will be a concert, workshops and dancing featuring local and interstate indigenous performers and hosted by Kerrianne Cox, a community leader and celebrated singer from Broome WA.Presentations and themed concerts over the three days of the festival include a Comedy Concert with Glover and Sorrenson, Martin Pearson and Dingo’s Breakfast, A bluegrass concert with Jimmy The Fish, The Freerangers and Strange Bedfellows. A blues concert with Dorothy –Jane Gosper, Fiona Boyes, Damien Coen and Paul Johnson, Nick Charles and Pete Fiedler and Songs of the Snowy Mountains by the iconic bush band Franklyn B Paverty.The festival has a licensed bar, cafes , and exotic food stalls. Camping with toilet and shower facilities is available for all full weekend ticket holders.For a great weekend head for The Cobargo Folk Festival !

Cornerbrook

Strelley Project


folk newsThe Alistair Hulett Memorial Fund, Australia2012 is off to a great start with the Alistair Hulett Memorial Fund (AHMF) achieving Donor Gift Recipient (DGR) status, which means that all donations to the Fund are tax deductible. The first two initiatives of the Fund are the establishment of the Songs of Social Justice Award and also the First CD Grant Program. Songs of Social Justice Award (AUS)Following the lead of the UK Trust, the Australian Fund will sponsor this national songwriting competition in Alistair’s memory as an annual event.1) The competition is open to songwriters and musicians based in Australia and will focus on songs promoting equality and social

justice.2) The AHMF has recently been listed on the Australian Register of Cultural Organisations (ROCO). In applying for such recognition

we defined social justice broadly as being “anti-discriminatory and egalitarian in seeking to achieve equal rights and opportunities for all people including the poor, the oppressed, the marginalised and excluded”.

3) Entries should be recorded on a CD with an accompanying lyrics sheet and sent to The Alistair Hulett Memorial Fund, PO Box 109, Glebe NSW 2037. Further information about the Award and conditions of entry will be available on the AHMF website at www.alistairhulett.com/the-alistair-hulett-memorial-fund/. The closing date for entries to be considered for the 2012 Award is 5 March 2012.

4) The entrant should be the owner of the intellectual property in both the words and the music and the song should not have been recorded previously.

5) The AHMF will appoint a select panel of judges from among experienced songwriters and singers and the Trustees will decide the award based on the panel’s advice. Several musicians who performed at the 2011 Alistair Hulett Tribute Concert at the National Folk Festival have indicated their willingness to assist the Fund by acting on a judging panel.

6) The award will include: performance of the song at the National Folk Festival (April 2012 in Canberra) to give the song profile; summary feedback from the judging panel to songwriters for all entries; a monetary grant to the award-winner for use in furthering dissemination of the song such as recording expenses; and a suitable certificate /plaque to mark the award.

AwardsThe AHMF, on reviewing applications, will award one or more grants of between $3,000 and $5,000 each per year, to successful applicants. It is expected that these funds will go towards the publication and distribution of the indicated musical work, normally including the production of a CD. If this CD is commercially successful, we ask that you consider a voluntary donation to the AHMF, to help other musicians. Criteria & ProcessApplications will be assessed by reference to their artistic quality and potential, and in relation to the values set out in the aims above. The AHMF will decide on applications after consideration by a panel which will include AHMF members and artistic advisers. Decisions of the AHMF are final. A short acquittal of the funds (accounts) will be required of each successful applicant, after their work is produced. Applications Each application should include (i) a letter of up to three pages, explaining how the proposed work meets the program criteria and (ii) recorded samples (on CD or DVD) of up to three songs or performances. Applications will be received between May 1st (the opening date) and June 30th (the closing date) of each year. Decisions will be announced in August.Interested persons should send applications to: The Alistair Hulett Memorial Fund PO Box 109, Glebe, NSW 2037.

Review of gulgong Festival 2012It was great to see the Gulgong Festival resurrected once again this year as Gulgong, with its many pubs, colonial heritage and

pioneering history, provides the perfect location for the celebration of Australian folk music.The organiser, Richard Lawson, amassed a great line-up of talented performers including April Maze, the Lurkers, Pat Drummond,

Senor Cabrales and the Hussy Hicks to name but a few. The poetry, organised by Tomas Hamilton and Arch Bishop, which included poets breakfasts and a special war commemoration session at the RSL club, was outstanding with contributions from Gulgong poets to further afield. Henry Lawson would have been proud!!

This year's festival represented a new beginning in many ways. Firstly it was held the weekend after the New Year in order to attract more of the top artists. Music ranged from traditional folk to australian country music, presented in a series of concerts at many of the heritage buildings in

Gulgong. The standard of performance was excellent but did result in an increase in the price of a weekend ticket to $90. So, although the

festival was aimed at attracting a wider audience, the cost was a deterrent to the involvement of many local residents.The ticketing structure could probably be reviewed to allow payment for individual concerts at an affordable price.The festival did seem to attract a different crowd to previous years with fewer people attending from Sydney and Newcastle but there

was still a core group of the old folkies keeping alive the tradition of late night sessions at Red Hill.The festival was a success and provides a great start to what will hopefully be even better festivals in the future. However, it needs

the input and support of the wider folk community if it is to retain some of the original features such as the dance workshops, dances, jam sessions and chorus cup.Annette Dwight


Railway Pde, Sydenham from 7pm onwards. Adult classes from 7.15 pm, Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 [email protected] Folk Dancing for older womenSchool terms only, 9-10am beginners, 10-11am advanced. Bankstown Older Women’s Wellness Centre, Police and Community Youth Club, cnr Meredith St and French Ave. Gabrielle 9728 7466, Alita 9798 9269Irish Set Dance class, Irish Gaelic Club, 64 Devonshire St, Surry Hills. 8-9.30pm. Alarna 0401 167 910.Sutherland Shire Bush Dance Group. Uniting Church, 4 Gosport St, Cronulla, 7.30-10pm. $3. Beginners most welcome. Partners not necessary.Mike 9520 2859Sutherland Shire Folk Dance GroupInternational dancing, Como Guides Hall, cnr Warraba & Mulyan Sts, Como West 9.30a, - 11am & 11.30am - 12.30pm. Kaye 9528 4813, [email protected] Country Dancing for the over 55’s. American Contra + Beginners English, 11.30am - 1pm. Advanced English 2-4pm. School for Seniors, Wesley Mission, 220 Pitt St. Sydney. (Opposite back of Hilton Hotel.) Roslyn 9263 5416Blue Labyrinth International Folk Dancefrom 7pm, Baptist Church Hall, King St Glenbrook. Jo Barrett 4739 6498Greek Folk DanceSt Gerassimos Church Hall, 21 Henry St Leichhardt. 6 pm onwards. Adult classes from 7.15 Vasilios Aligiannis, tel/fax 9708 1875 [email protected] Shire Folk Dance GroupInternational dancing. Scout Hall, June Place, Gymea Bay. 10am. Kaye 9528 4813 [email protected] Irish Ceili Dancers Kingsgrove Uniting Church Hall, 289A Kingsgrove Rd (cnr Moreton Avenue, Children’s step dancing 6pm, adults step dancing 7pm. Set and ceili dancing 8-10.30pm. Margaret and Bill Winnett 9150 6765. email: [email protected] Colonial and Folk Dancers Every Friday, Scouts/Guides Hall, Plympton Road, Carlingford, (opposite Nth Carlingford shops). Anthony and Lisa 9873 4805. International Dancing. Sedenka Folk Dancers, Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre, 665A Darling St Rozelle. 8-llpm, $3. Chris Wild 9560 2910.Scottish Country DancingAdult classes, beginners welcome, children 6.30 -7.30pm, adults 8-10.30pm, Beecroft Primary School, $2. Sheena Caswell 9868 2075, Heather Dryburgh 9980 7978Scottish Country Dancing■Caringbah Seniors Hall, 386 Port Hacking Rd, Car-ingbah (rear Library), 8pm. Beginners/other levels. G. Milton 9524 4943, Erica Nimmo 9520 4781SaturdayBush Music Club Bush Dances■Feb-Dec (not Easter), 8-12pm, $17/$14/$12 incl. supper, children to 12 free. Beecroft Community Ctr 1st Sat, Helen 9626 7816; Balmain High School hall, Terry St, Rozelle, 3rd Sat, Don 9642 7949■Central Coast Bush Dance2nd Sat, 7.30 - 11.30pm, East Gosford Progress Hall, Henry Parry Dr and Wells St, $15/$12. Beate 4323 3356. Robyn 4344 6484.Scottish and Old Time Dance■2nd Sat, 8pm, Uniting Church, 9-11 Bay St, Rockdale. $3 incl. supper. Chris Thom 9587 9966■Scottish and Old Time DancingOrkney and Shetland Assoc. 3rd Sat, 8-11 pm. St David’s Hall, Dalhousie St, Haberfield. $3 inc. supper. Visitors most welcome. Jean Cooney 9874 5570.Macedonian Dance ClassRockdale. 6.30-8.30pm, $5. Y Kaporis 0412 861 187

MondayBush Music Club Dance WorkshopBeginners, experienced, 7.30pm, Pennant Hills Community Centre, downstairs. Except Jan. and public holidays. Felicity 9456 2860International Folk DancingSchool term, Earlwood Senior Citizens Centre, 362 Homer St 10am-noon. Debbie 4294 1363. 0427 315 245Scottish Country Dancing for beginners, with ‘Scots on the Rocks’, Fort St Public School, Observatory Hill, Sydney, 6.30-7.30pm. Nea 9994 7110, Lynn 9268 1246, SC [email protected], http://www.rscds.org.auBelly Dance, basic/beginners 7pm, choreography 8pm, Girraween Hall, 17 Tungarra Rd. Vera Myronenko 9665 9713tuesdayBlue Mountains Scottish Country Dancers Catholic Church Hall, 7-9pm, Wentworth St, $3 Verley Kelliher, 4787 5968, [email protected] Carol Gardner 4751 6073/[email protected] Folk DancePan-Korintian House, Level 1, 11 Anglo Rd, Campsie, 6.30pm - 9.20pm. Adult class and performance group. Vas Aligiannis, 0407 081 875, [email protected]. www.greekdancing.com.auHungarian Dance ClassUltimo, 8-10pm. Gary Dawson 9559 4485. [email protected] Country Dancing, SydneyPlayford Dance Group. Occasionally at Lidcombe. TBA. Patricia 9649 6978 or Mike or Ros on 9929 8193 Scottish Country DancingSt John’s Uniting Church Hall, Coonanbarra Rd, Wahroonga, 7.30-10.30pm. All welcome. Catherine Bonner 9489 5027Scottish Country DancingFort Street School, Observatory Hill, City. 6pm to 8pm Nea MacCulloch 9904 1358(a/h) or Lynn 8244 9618(w)Sutherland Shire Folk Dance GroupInternational Dancing, Gymea Bay Scout Hall, June Place, 7.30-9pm. Kaye Laurendet 9528 4813Turkish Dance ClassLidcombe Community Centre, 8-10pm. Yusuf Nidai 9646 1166Ukrainian (Cossack) Dancing Class for fit and energetic young people (16-23yrs), 7.30 pm to 10.00 pm. Ukrainian Hall 59 Joseph Street, Lidcombe. Jaros Iwanec 9817 7991, [email protected] /www.veselka.com.auInternational Folk Dance class - Open Door, Georges Hall Senior Citizens, Birdwood Rd, 11.30am-12.30pm. Gabrielle 9728 7466, [email protected]“The Dance Buffet”, wide variety taught, Liverpool City Pipe Band Hall, Woodward Park (next to Whitlam Centre), Memorial Ave, 7.30-9.30pm. $8 ($5 conc). Nicholai 9822 7524, mob 0407 178 228WednesdayAlbion Fair, North-West Morris DancingLilyfield Community Centre, Cecily and O’Neill Sts, 7.45pm. Angie Milce 9817 3529Australian Heritage DancersAnnandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, 8 -10pm. Jim Young 9412 3721 [email protected] - australianheritagedancers.org.auBalmoral Scottish Country Dance Group7.00-9.15pm, Seniors’ Centre, Mosman Square, Mosman. Nell Morgan 9981 4769.Epping Scottish Country Dance ClubSt Aidan’s Church Hall, Downing St, 7.30-10pm. All levels welcome. Clare Haack 9484 5947 [email protected] Scottish Country Dance Society7-10pm, Church of Christ, Henry Parry Drive, Wyoming. Cecily Cork 4384 3527, Jan McCudden 4329 5537Greek Folk Dance. Pan Macedonian Assoc Building,

folk contactsCHOiRS

Monday■A Choired Taste, Glebe, led by David Westmore, 9716 7016■Bright Star Singers Ashfield, led by Mary-Jane Field, 9090 2362■Ecopella. Erskineville, led by Miguel Heatwole, 9810 4601 [email protected]■Glory Bound Groove Train. Petersham, led by Linda Calgaro, 9518 4135■Inner West Chamber Choir, Leichhardt, led by Rachelle Elliott. 9797 1917. [email protected].■Intonations. Manly, led by Karen Smith, 0415 221 113, [email protected]■Martenitsa. Ultimo, led by Mara & Llew Kiek, 47514910 ■People’s Chorus. Newcastle, led by Rod Noble, 49 623432■Unaccompanied Baggage. North Sydney, led by Stuart Davis, [email protected]■Voiceworks, Katoomba, ledby Rachel Hore 4759 2456, [email protected]■Cantorion, Neutral Bay, led by David Westmore, 9716 7016■Ecopella. Illawarra area (alternate Tuesdays), led by Miguel Heatwole 9810 4601, [email protected] ■Roc Lawson, led by Rachel Hore, 47592456, [email protected]■The Honeybees. East Sydney, led by Dynes Austin. Contact Jenny Jackson, 9816 4577 [email protected] ■Sydney Trade Union Choir Sydney City, contact Nola Cooper 9587 1165 - [email protected]■Songs Next Door, Seaview Street, Dulwich Hill, meets weekly at Sea View Hall, Seaview St, Dulwich Hill. 12.30pm. (Seniors mostly) Contact Allan 9520 6180Wednesday■Choralation. Abbotsford (school terms), contact Margaret Grove [email protected] ■Ecopella. Upper Mts., contact Kate 47 825529■The Heathens. Blackheath, day time 12-pm. Led by Chris Wheeler 4787 5725 [email protected]■NoteTonight, Josephine. Glebe, led by David Westmore, 9716 7016■The Spots. Christina Mimmocchi, Randwick 0410 682 061thursday■Bouddi Voice. Kincumber (school terms), led by C & C Sainsbury, contact 43 683270■Chorella Community Choir. Richmond, contact Ellen 4578 2975 ■Cleftomaniacs. Waterloo, led by Gary Smith, [email protected] ■Solidarity Choir. Newtown, led by Miguel Heatwole, 9810 4601, [email protected] Friday■The Sydney Street Choir. CBD, led by Peter Lehner 0425 268 771■The Sydney Welsh Choir. Men and Women) meet on Wednesday Evenings at Concord Baptist Church Hall. Reh. 7pm to 9pm. 20 to 30 performances a year. Viv 47 39 0384, Warwick 9451 7806,[email protected]■Mudlarks, women’s a cappella choir. Woodford. Led by Alison Jones 4759 2880■Pacopezants. - Balkan Choir. Meets Fridays 4pm, Katoomba. Enquiries: June (02) 4782 1554. [email protected]■Blue Mountains Trade Union Choir. Upper Mts., contact Kate 47 82 5529

DANCE


folkus on folk2MBS-FM 102.5MHz 6PM Saturday

MUSiC iN CONCERTtuesdayThe Screw Soapers Guild - Writers Presenters & Listeners Group 4th Tues, 7.30pm, stories, poems, songs and conversation. Albert 9600 7153, email: [email protected], website: www.folkclub.com/folkodyssey/WednesdayWisefolk Club Last Wed in month, 11am-2.30pm, Toongabbie Bowling Club, 12 Station Rd, lunch at club bistro. Sonia 9621 2394 Allen 9639 7494, ThursdaySutherland Folk Club2nd Thurs concert night. All ages. Members are welcome to join us at any of our concerts, do a floor spot. Enjoy a friendly , sociable night’s entertainment, support local talent. Contact Jenny 9576 2301.FridayHornsby Kuring-Gai Folk Club■3rd Fri, 8pm, Each month Beatrice Taylor Hall, rear Willow Park Community Centre, Edgeworth David Ave, Guest artist and floor spots, light supper provided BYO grog. Barry Parks 9807 9497 [email protected] Folk Club■1st Friday, Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Church Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Club, or SNC Acoustic Club. Regular folk nights on the 4th Friday of each month (Feb - Nov), 8pm $7/$5 Springwood Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd, Springwood. (next to Civic Centre). Visitors and floor performers welcome. Enquiries, Mark Hand 02 4721 4230 or [email protected] Music Club2nd and 4th Fri 8pm, Northmead Scout Hall, Whitehaven Road, Northmead. A session always happens so bring instruments. Allen Davis 9639 7494 [email protected]. or Ray Pulis 9899 2102.FridayCafe Dalor Open Mic, 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month. 237 Wardell Rd (nr station, Bankstown line), Dulwich Hill. BYO. Roger Fyfe 0425 261 953Saturday■Bluegrass & Traditional Country Music Society of Aust. 1st Sat, March-December Sydney get-together. Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, Annandale. Band workshop 7pm, concert 8.15pm, jamming all night. All welcome: $5/7. (02) 9456 1090 www.bluegrass.org.aulllawarra Folk Club, ■3rd Saturday, Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Church Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au

Loaded Dog Folk Club■4th Sat, Annandale Neighbourhood Centre, 79 Johnston St, 8pm. Sandra Nixon, 9358 4886, [email protected]. www.theloadeddog.org.au■Macquarie Towns Music Club3rd Sat,7.30pm Alternates between concert and round robin jam session format with concerts featuring a guest artist supported by a ‘blackboard concert’. St Peters Educational Centre, 384 Windsor St, Richmond. Contact Lydia Bowen-Clare 4576 0521 [email protected]■ The Shack. 1st Sat, presents 21st century original,contemporary and traditional folk music at the Tramshed, 1395a Pittwater Rd, Narrabeen at 7:30. BYO drinks and nibblies. Contact Rhonda on 0416 635 856 or email Kathleen at [email protected].■Troubadour Folk ClubCentral Coast, 4th Sat. in month 7pm CWA Hall, Woy Woy. (opposite Fisherman’s Wharf), The Boulevard, Woy Woy. Admission: $11/$9/$8. Floor spots available.. includes light supper. Marilyn or Frank 4341 4060 or 0419 231 319■Fairlight Folk Acoustic LoungeHeld four times a year, Feb, May, Aug. Nov (usually 1st Sat) 7.30pm. Comfortable, relaxed environment for quality live acoustic music. After show - jam. BYO drinks and nibbles. Light refreshments available. William St Studios, Fairlight (The Baptist Church down from Sydney Rd. Contact Rosie 9948 7993. www.fairlightfolk.

SESSiONS & FREE WORKSHOPSMondayBush Music ClubCommunity Centre, 44/142 Addison Rd, Marrickville, 7.30pm. Music workshop. All singers and musicians welcome. Bob 9569 7244, [email protected] Music Session: Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 7.30 – 10.30pm @ The Shamrock Inn, Asquith Leagues Club, Alexandra Pd. Waitara (short walk from station). It’s an open session and all musicians are welcome with focus on tunes rather than songs. Phone Norm 9489 5786/[email protected] music lessons, beginners and advanced, instruments including fiddle, flue, whistle, guitar, banjo. Gaelic Club, 64 Devonshire St. Surry Hills, 9212 1587 [email protected] Frog Hotel. Jam Night. Cnr Bridge & Macquarie Sts, Windsor. 7.30pm to late. Mark 0419 466 004Gosford Bush PoetsLast Wednesday night of every month 7pm. The Gosford Hotel, cnr of Mann & Erina Sts Gosford. Everyone welcome to share in night of fun, friendship and great poetry. Contact Vic Jefferies, 02 96394911 or [email protected]■Sutherland Acoustic4th Thursday of each. month from 7.30pm Gymea Tradies Club, Kingsway, Gymea. Friendly jam. All welcome to sing, play an instrument, recite poetry or just listen. Enq. Jenny 95762301■Blackheath Folk Club1st Thurs, 7.30pm, Ivanhoe Hotel, cnr Gt Wstn Hwy and Govetts Leap Rd. Christine Davies, Peter Duggan 4787 7246■Gaelic Club.Irish music session, 8pm. Plus Irish music lessons, instruments including fiddle, flute, whistle, guitar, banjo. Gaelic Club, Surry Hills 9212 1587 [email protected]■Sutherland Acoustic4th Thursday of each. month from 7.30pm Gymea Tradies Club, Kingsway, Gymea. Friendly jam. All welcome to sing, play an instrument, recite poetry or just listen. Enq. Jenny 95762301

■BMC Beer & Cheese NightThemed music nights, 1st Fri (except holidays), 8-10pm. Bring something to sing, eat, drink. Bush Music Club, Hut 44, Addison Rd Community Centre, 142 Addison Rd, Mar-rickville. 9569 7244, [email protected]■Eastern Suburbs Poetry Group1st Friday, Church in the Market Place, Bondi Junction. 6.30-8.30pm. Gina 9349 6958■Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Acoustic Club 4th Fri, (Feb - Nov) 8pm, $7/$5, Springwood Neighbourhood Centre, Macquarie Rd (next to library and Oriental Hotel.) Visitors and floor performers welcome, Theresa 47518157, Jeannette 4754 4893■Open Mic Dalor Cafe. 7.30pm 1st & 3rd Friday. 237 Wardell Rd Dulwich Hill. Enq. Roger Fyfe 0425 261 953 FreeSunday■Hotel Illawarra Wollongong, 3rd Sunday, 3pm, spoken word, 5pm acoustic music ■Irish Music Session ellys, King Street, Newtown, 6pm. Enq. 9559 6300■Irish Music Session. 3rd Sunday. Bennet Hotel, Hamilton, 4-7.30pm Roz and Shane Kerr 44967 3167■Irish Music Sessions - Dicey Riley’s, Wollongong 2pm.■Music lessons for kids. 12 noon - 3pm. Focus on tin whistle. Gaelic Club. Surry Hills 9212 1587.■Music Session Hero of Waterloo, cnr Lower Fort St and Windmill Street, The Rocks. 6-10pm. Brendan 9818 4864■Sydney Scottish Fiddlers1st and 3rd Sun, 2-5pm, New Church, 4 Shirley Rd Roseville. All ages welcome. Trish 9416 2402.

■Mortdale Scottish DancersLearners night (for learners and experienced), 7.30- 9.30pm. Pensioners Welfare Club Hall, 76 Pitt Street, Mortdale. Pam Jehan 9580 8564.■Linnéa Swedish FolkdancersEstonian House, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills. New members welcome. For times contact Graeme Traves 9874 4194, [email protected]

If you change your details PLeASe advise the editor on 02 6493 6758 or email [email protected]. You may also wish to have your details online (free) - jam.org.au

11th February Gerry Myerson25 February John MilceAnyone with a CD that you would like to add to the library collection for consider-ation for airway please forward to Focus on Folk, Post Office Box A182, Sydney South 1235.


ACROSS THE BORDER

3432 email: [email protected] Irish Set Dancers, Tuesdays, 7.30-9.00pm, Scots Kirk, Hamilton, Newcastle. Julia or Arthur, 4955 5701 [email protected], or <http://users.tpg.com.au/juliasm/Irish-Dance/Hunter Bush Poets, 2nd Tuesday 7pm, Tarro Hotel; Ron Brown 4951 6186. Hunter Folk Dancers, Enquiries: Julia or Arthur on 02 4955 5701, Irish Music Session, Bennett Hotel, Hamilton, 3rd Sun, 4pm. Roz and Shane Kerr 4967 3167Newcastle Poetry in the Pub, 3rd Monday, 7.30pm, Northern Star Hotel, Hamilton. Glenn 4967 1460.Newcastle Strath Hunter Dancers, Mondays Adults 7.30pm, Wallsend Uniting Church. Thurs-days Juniors 4.15pm, Youth 5.30pm, All Saints Hall, New Lambton. Elma: 4943 3436.Tradewinds Acoustic/Folk Session, 2nd Sunday (Feb-Nov). 25 Queen St, Cooks Hill. 4-7pm. Carole Garland 4929 3912, [email protected] & Cornish Folk Dancing, Mon, 7.30-9.30pm, All Saints Anglican Hall, Cromwell St, New Lambton. Beginners and visitors always welcome. Enq. Margaret Kenning 4952 1327. Email: [email protected] Beehive, as requested. 8 Lewis St, Is-lington. Neville Cunningham 4969 4246. NOWRA:Balkan and International Folk Dance, Mon, 7.30pm, Cambewarra Hall. Suzi Krawczyk 4446 0569, [email protected] Folk Dance, Progress Hall, Boorawine Tce, Callala Bay. Tuesday (school term), 7.15-9pm. Maureen 446 6550, [email protected] Craic – 9 piece acoustic traditional Band. Tuesday 7.30-10 pm, John’s place. Chris Langdon 4446 1185, [email protected] or Mark Nangle 4454 5028, [email protected] Country Dance Group, Presbyterian Church Hall, Kinghome St (next to Woollies), Wed, 8pm, all welcome. Jill 4421 3570Shoalhaven Bush and Folk Dancing Club, Friday (school term, 8-10pm, Cambewarra Hall. Margaret 4421 0557.Shoalhaven Acoustic Music Assoc, Bomaderry Bowling Club, formal concerts, not always folk, approx quarterly. George Royter 4421 3470OBERON Music Club, fortnightly, Thurs, 8pm, Oberon Leagues Club. Neil Higgins 6337 5707.ORANGEOrange Dirt Music (new club) meets 3rd Saturday of the month from 3pm. These are jam sessions of acoustic folk, jazz, blues etc. rotating around each oth-ers’ houses and all are welcome. For more information and registration contact Cilla Kinross [email protected] tel 02 6365 8221 (ah) or Nick King 6362 .SOUTHERN HIGHLANDSBowral Folk Club. 3rd Thurs, 8-10.30pm. Fentons Cocktail Bar, upstairs at the Grand Bar, 295 Bong Bong St, Bowral. Traditional music from around the world. 4861 4333, Brian Hayden 4861 6076.Burrawang Folk, 4887 7271Southern Highlands Recreational lnternational Folk Dance Group, Bowral Presb Church Hall, Bendooley St, Thurs (school term), 9-llam. Margaret 4861 2294 Southern Highlands Scottish Country Dance Group, Moss Vale Uniting Church, Cnr Argyll and Spring Streets, Wednesday, 7.30pm. All welcome. Enq. 4861 6471.TAREE, Lazarka International Folk Dance Group, Manning River Steiner School Hall, Tues. 5.30-8.30pm, Sandra 6552 5142.WAGGA WAGGADownside Bush Dance & Open Mic, Tin Shed Rat-tlers, 1st Sat, Noel Raynes 6928 5541.WAUCHOPE, 1st Saturday Concert with in-vited artists 7.30 pm 3rd Saturday Open perfor-mance session 7.30 at Café Blue Frog, High St. Enq,John 6585 1488 email [email protected] (near Griffith) Bidgee Folk Club3rd Sun. Whitton Hotel, Whiton pm - 5pm. 02 6954 4019

BATEMANS BAY: Scottish Country Dancing, Batemans Bay Caledonian Society -Tuesday 7.30pm at Batemans Bay Bowling Club - visitors welcome. Warren 4457 2065, Max 4472 5184BATHURST: Bathurst Folk Club, occasional concerts, touring and local artists. Different venues. Bruce Cam-eron 02 6331 1129, www.bathurstfolkclub.org.auBELLINGEN: Celtic Australian Session.. Saturday from about 1pm. Church Street cafe stip. John 66551225 BLUE MOUNTAINS: Blue Mountains Heritage Dancers, Wednesday in term time, 7-9pm. Wentworth Falls SOA. 217 Great Westn Hwy. Caroline 0439 314 948, [email protected] or Patrick 0412 786 988BRAIDWOOD: Braidwood Folk Music Club meets every 3rd Thursday now at the Anglican Church Hall, BYO everything. Info Erika 4842 2505; performers Sue 4842 8142Tallaganda Dance Troupe. Folk dance, Mon. 9.30am (Noela 4842 8004. Belly dance. 11.30am. (Erika 4842 2505) 35 Coronation Ave, Braidwood.BROKEN HILL: Occasional acoustic jam nights at Bell’s Milk Bar. Contact Broken Hill Art Exchange, (08) 80088 3171CENTRAL COAST, Troubadour 4th Sat. in month 7pm CWA Hall, Woy Woy. (opposite Fisherman’s Wharf), The Boulevard, Woy Woy. Admission: $11/$9/$8. Floor spots available.. includes light supper. Marilyn or Frank 4341 4060 or 0419 231 319COBARGO: Yuin Folk Club, Occasional Folk Nights. Enq. Coral Vorbach or Graeme Fryer 6493 6758. [email protected], website: www.cobargofolkfestival.com COOMA, International Folk Dancing, Uniting Church Hall, Soho St, Thurs, 6pm. Fran 6453 3282 (h)DUBBO FOLK CLUB, Usually 2nd Saturday, 2.30pm, The Monkey Bar. Wingewarra St. All welcome. Di Clifford 6882 0498 0458032150GOSFORD BUSH POETS - last Wednesday night of every month 7pm. The Gosford Hotel, cnr of Mann & Erina Sts Gosford. Everyone welcome to share in night of fun, friendship and great poetry. Contact Vic Jefferies, 02 96394911 or [email protected]. Bush traditions sessions at the Old Goulburn Brewery. 1st Fri (except Jan & April), 7.30pm. Bradley Grange, Bungonia Rd, Goulburn. David Johnson 4884 4214 bushtraditions.org/sessions/goulburnsession.htmIrish and Celtic music sessions at the Old Goulburn Brewery. 3rd Fri. Bradley Grange, Bungonia Rd. 4821 6071.GULGONG FOLK CLUB, PO Box 340, Gulgong NSW 2852, Bob Campbell 02 6373 4600, gulgongfolkfestival.comKIAMA “No Such Thing”. Yvonne O’Grady and Alan Musgrove host an Australian tune session suitable for beginners every Monday in Kiama. Yvonne 02 4233 1073, [email protected]:Bush and Colonial Dancing, 3rd Sund each month 2-4pm. Beginners and visitors always welcome. All Saints Anglican Hall, New Lambton. Enq. Margaret Ken-ning 02 4952 1327 email: [email protected] or Bill Propert 02 4946 5602 email [email protected] and Hunter Valley Folk Club, 1st Sat. 7.30pm (not Jan) Wesley Centre, Beaumont St, Ham-ilton. (Dances held 4 times a year, March, June, Sept, Nov) Lainey 4943 4552, 0421 412 358 [email protected]. www.newcastlehuntervalleyfolkclub.org.auTraditional Irish/Folk Session, 1st Sunday, 3-6pm. Lake Macquarie Hotel, opp. Morissett Railway Station. Gabriele 0418 146 555, Sharyn 0418 146 554, [email protected] Folk Circle, 4th Sunday, every month. Teralba Community Hall, Anzac Pade, Lake Macquarie. 4-7pm. $2.50. Paul 4959 6030. [email protected]’s Chorus Practice, 6pm, Trades Hall Council Meeting Rooms (opp. Panthers’ Club, main entrance), Newcastle. Rod Noble 4962

REGiONAL EVENTS WOLLONGONGBluegrass Jam Session, 3rd Sat each month. 7.30-11pm. Thirroul Neighbouhood Centre next to post office.lllawarra Folk Club, 1st Friday and 3rd Saturday, Wollongong City Diggers Club, cnr Burelli & Church Streets, 1300 887 034 www.illawarrafolkclub.org.au Jamberoo: Session, Jamberoo Pub, Thurs, 7.30pm. [email protected]’s Breakfast, Wed. 7,.15am. Wollon-gong Writers’ Centre, Town Hall, Corrimal St. Tony Stoddart, [email protected] Folk Club, 12.30pm, Mondays, Fridays. Old timey, bluegrass, Celtic session. Duck Pond (in front of library), University of Wollongong. David Harman, [email protected] White Heather Scottish Country Dance Group, Mon, 7.30 -10pm, St Andrew’s Church Hall, Kembla St. All welcome. Arnold Thurl-ing 4228 1986 or Grace Halliday 4229 3480Wongawilli Colonial Dance Club, Bush Dance, Wed, 8pm, musos and dancers all welcome, Com-munity Hall, West Dapto Rd, Wongawilli. David 0409 57 1788. www.wongawillicolonialdance.org.au:

ACTMonaro Folk Society Inc, Post Office Box 482 Civic Square, ACT 2608. 0409 817 623 [email protected] http://mfs.org.au/wiki/index.php/Calendar.NORTHERN TERRITORY: Top End Folk Club, PO Box 41551, Casuarina, NT 0811. :Di Howard, 08 8945 0436 (ah), www.members.ozemail.com.au/QUEENSLAND Brisbane Folk Club, Larrie Cook 07 3345 1718.Cairns Folk Club, Ray Elias 07 4039 2493The Folk Rag (Mag), PO Box 517, Everton Park 4053, Tel. 0437 736 799 or 07 3855 1091, [email protected]; www.FolkRag.orgQld Colonial and Heritage Dancers. PO Box 3011, Yeronga 4104. Jan Orloff ph/fax 07 3848 7706, [email protected] Folk Festival. PO Box 1134, Woodford 4514. [email protected]; www.woodfordfolkfestival.com.TASMANIACeltic Southern Cross Folk Music Catalogue. Beth Sowter, [email protected]; www.celt.com.au; PO Box 100, Legana, as 7277.Folk Federation of Tasmania Inc. PO Box 1638 Hobart 7001. Peter Hicks 0409 216 752VICTORIABallarat Folk Club, John Ruyg 03 5332 7872Boite World Music Cafe, Fitzroy, 03 9417 3550 (w), http:// www.boite.asn.auGeelong Folk Club, 2nd. Fri - Coffee House Folk- singing and session - at Cafe Go! Bellerine St. Geelong, from 7.30pm. Last Fri - Upstairs at The Pancake Kitchen, Moorabool St. for songs and session. Contact: Marie Goldsworthy 03 5221 1813 or Jamie McKinnon 03 5261 3443Traditional Social Dance Assoc. of Victoria. Marion Stabb (03) 9439 7100Victorian Folk Music Club Inc. GPO Box 2025S, Melbourne 3001. Brian Venten 03 9884 9476, [email protected] Butler 03 9876 4366, [email protected] AUSTRALIAWA Folk Federation. PO Box 328, Inglewood, WA, 6932. Rob Oats 08 9375 9958.www.wafolk.iinet.net.au Email: [email protected]


Jez Lowe – Kate Bramley Duo

For nearly thirty years, singer/songwriter Jez Lowe – from County Durham in the North East of England – has toured the world, building up a formidable reputation in the USA, Australia and Europe, and gaining the respect of his peers and his audience alike. His songs are a bench mark for excellence and cover versions have been made by Fairport Convention, The Dubliners, Cherish the Ladies, The Tannahill Weavers, The McCalmans,

Bob Fox, The Black Family, The Clancys and scores more folk acts around the world.

In February and March 2012, Jez Lowe (guitar, cittern, mandolin and harmonica) will be touring New Zealand and Australia, accompanied by fiddler and Bad Penny member, Kate Bramley. This is their first visit for three years. They take in 14 dates in New Zealand in February, and begin their tour of six states in Australia on 29th February at a concert in Sydney’s Gaelic Club. The tour ends 31st March with Jez performing solo in the last week.

Jez and Kate have a wealth of new material to draw from to delight audiences down under.

The latest album put out by Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies is titled “Wotcheor”, a northern greeting meaning “What cheer? How are you?). It is inspired by the BBC radio program which flourished in the 50s. “Wot Cheor, Geordie” encouraged live performances from local artists, and the folk and music hall traditions of these earlier times is acknowledged in this new CD. The original material by Jez is presented in a “radio cabaret” style in homage to the legendary Radio show, with various cameo guest appearances.

Jez has been exceptionally prolific in recent years, contributing twenty-odd songs to the series of BBC Radio Ballads, two of which earned him Sony Radio Academy Awards. Jez has gathered these songs and is starting to present them in live gigs under the title: The Muse, MacColl. Some will be broadcast in July 2012 to coincide with the London Olympic Games.

With considerable input from theatre director and Bad Penny fiddler, Kate Bramley, Jez and the other Bad Pennies have taken several themed theatrical presentations to small theatres and concert halls in the North, reinvigorating not only live music, but live theatre. Some examples: A Song for Geordie, and a new jovial Christmas show entitled “Humbug, Bonny Lad!” Rich in documentary as well as song, these presentations often feature special guests such as Benny Graham.

Jez has also collaborated with Kate, writing songs for her plays such as Turning the Tide and Back to the Land Girls. Two

songs from the latter appear on “Wotcheor!”, the poignant “All clear” and the cheerful “Back to the Land Girls”

While much of Kate’s energy goes towards her theatrical productions, she is a singer/songwriter in her own right. Her solo CD, “Little Canaan” is impressive. Through her collaborations with US based band Sweetgrass as well as Jez Lowe’s Bad Pennies she has created a personal repertoire of traditional and original songs and tunes that have made her a popular solo artist.

Songs of Power and Meaning An Inspiring Weekend

A theme-based week-end entitled “Songs of Power and Meaning”is bound to be appealing to folk singers, who sing about their concerns and as a consequence have contemporary issues such as peace and the environment in their repertoires.

Such an event took place in Surry Hills, Sydney the last week-end in November, and judging by the reaction of the participants it will surely become a fixture on the folk calendar.

The idea was to share songs on important issues, and over the two days, plus the opening concert, some inspiring songs were sung – union songs, songs from the USA Civil Rights movement and the South American New Song Movement, songs of working life, women’s songs, songs about indigenous issues across the world, and many more topics.

Put together through a collaborative effort by a group of people operating primarily on their commitment and the technology of emails, it was a wonderful start to a new tradition. The atmosphere was supportive, friendly and informal, with sharing songs and concerns the watchword.

It was an inspiring week-end, and I hope people will keep a look-out for the next one. It would be a great experience, not only for people in the folk tradition but for anyone concerned about the issues in the world around them.

It was the brainchild of one woman, activist and Ph.D student Anne O’Brien, and along with the others who helped put it together, she deserves a big thank you!

the String Contingent performing in Humph Hall last year where they will be returning on thursday 2nd February. they are also ap-pearing at the gaelic Club on Friday 10th.


cd review

Item Reg Mem* Qty Total

NSW - State of Play (double CD snapshot of the 2008 NSW folk scene) $15 $10

The Songs of Henry Lawson (new songbook edition with 375 settings) $30 $25

The Songs of Chris Kempster (double CD) $25 $20

Postage & Packaging: ($10 for book + up to 2 CD sets) ($3 for 1 CD set, $5 for 2 CD sets)

* Join the Folk Fed now and receive member’s discount. See jam.org.au for membership form. Total:

I enclose my cheque/money order payable to: Folk Federation of NSW

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NSW - state of play Songs of Chris KempsterSongs of Henry Lawson

Fly Above the WeatherFrom nostalgia to sorrow, from love and nonsense to political

anger, from history to injustice, Bernard Carney’s latest musical offering, ‘Fly above the Weather’ is another fine example of this songwriter’s skills and talent.

It is also a much more personal reflection on Bernard’s view of the world- he’s involved in the issues raised in many of the songs.

For your nostalgia fix, try the opening track, ‘A Windy Harbour Day’. I’m not sure where Bernard Carneys Windy Harbour is but I’m sure I’ve been there or at least somewhere like it, “squeaky sound of sand beneath my feet”, “Kero fridge and a few cold beers” are images that give the place away.

Bernard Carney is the conductor of the WA equivalent of the ‘Choir of Hard Knocks’ and this is reflected in Stolen Car/Shadow and Light. A young aboriginal dealt some pretty bad cards in life who manages to cop a six months sentence when he hitches a ride in a stolen car. From then on it’s all downhill. ‘Homeless in the Heart’ is another fine song that clearly comes from this facet of his life. His sympathy with indigenous culture is also highlighted with the powerful Murujuga about the clash between Aboriginal Culture and White development.

Bernard makes a rare foray into love songs (once again he is involved). Nothing soppy here but some great metaphors. The titles say it all- ‘White Goods for the heart’, ‘She’s The One’ and ‘Best news of My Life’

■‘Don’t Ask’ challenges the notion of the promotion of war (particularly in the Media) with its use of the noble words liberation and democracy. The reality of course is much different & We’re

‘Never Gonna Know’. It’s Irony with a capital

I when he takes on the arms manufacturers who are developing ‘environmentally friendly weapons –(It almost makes the mind boggle). The ludicrousness of this is emphasized when ‘Dreams of Peace on Paper Wings’ tells the story of the little Hiroshima Girl who died of Leukaemia afterwards- environmentally friendly indeed.

It wouldn’t be a Bernard Carney without a touch of Australian history and ‘Rose in Your Heart’ is a tribute to convict women.

‘Feather Foot Fairy’ stands out as being different from the rest of the album. A bouncy song written for his grandchildren and how lucky were they to have this song of imagination about fairies, dinosaurs, butterfly bats and Starfish Birds? Adults will like it too.

The title track is a recipe for dealing with life’s problems- Simply rise above them, get above the ‘weather’ (As opposed to the solution of ‘Getting under the Weather’)

This is a thoughtful album, there is a fair bit of the poet in Bernard Carney- his use of metaphor and simile in his songwriting is never obscure. Even his more personal and introspective songs can be related to and this is the mark of a good songwriter.

There is a cast of many as backing on the album including Cellist, Peter Grayling, David Hyams, and his good lady wife Eleanor, all of whom add to the quality of the overall production and enhance its attractiveness. Go out and buy it.Reviewed by Russell Hannah (Bigruss)


$4.90uary 2012

Vol.11 No.1

Australia’s No.1 monthly traditional and contemporary folk, blues, roots, alternative, bluegrass and world music magazine

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EARLY BIRD TICKETS ON SALE NOWAdult W/E $75. Youth $20.

Music Comedy Dance /Theatre/Blues, Spoken Word/Bluegrass

+ MORE

February 24th/25th/26th

Bar, Sessions, Open Mic, Exotic Food Stalls, Plenty of camping facilities (hot & cold showers)

FESTIVAL HOTLINE: 02 6493 6758 - 0427919010 Email: [email protected]

www.cobargofolkfestival.com

Ra in , h a il , sh i ne17th

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The Beez (Germany)/George Mann (USA)/Alistair Brown (UK)/Kerrianne Cox/Judy Small/Danny Spooner/The Woohoo Revue/Akolele Ukulele Ladies/All At Sea/Ami Williamson/As I Am/Berkely Songbirds/Diva Luna/Hollow On The Lake/ Black Joak/Canberra Union Voices/Chaika/Chris Aronsten/Christina Mimmocchi/Green & Cresswell/Danial Champagne/Mr Cuttlefish/Footprint Theatre/Glover & Sorrenson/Gobsmacked/Guitarama/Jerra Ngia/Jimmy The Fish/Kate Rowe & Ryan Morrison/Mal Webb/Malumba/Martin Pearson/Mereweather/Mumbulla Dahs/Nick Charles/No Such Thing/Pastrami On Ryebuck/Roger Montgomery & John Angliss/Shakshuka/Slow Movement Dance/Strelley Project/Talla Tango/The Dorothy-Jane Gosper Band/The String Contingent/War-ren Foster/ The Gulaga Dancers/Tom Bolton/Vic Jefferies + MANY MORE. Special dance program includes a Western Swing workshop and dance /poets breakfasts. THE CROSSING YOUTH FESTIVAL, Kids Entertainment. SPECIAL THEATRE PRESENTATION WITH THE FOOT-PRINT THEATRE Steele Rudd’s “BACK TO THE OLD SELECTION “

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