As I now spend half my time living on the Island and getting more and more involved I thought I'd just sneak a mention in here. For many regular Miskinites, the Island is actually nearer than Wales!

The Island enjoys a very healthy folk scene, including at least three Morris sides.

There are several Pub Sessions on the island, Notably the Tuesday evening music and song at the Dairyman's Daughter, part of the Arreton Barns complex.

The famous Sloop Inn at Wooton Bridge had been holding weekly sessions but is now closed for refurbishment and the new landlords will not be applying for a music licence. (This does not of course cover loud Juke boxes or TVs just real people playing real instruments, or even, heaven forbid, singing unaccompanied.) Whoops, was I getting a bit political there? Well it fair makes my blood boil!!!

 

To restore the balance meanwhile there's a brand new Club keeping Tradition in the forefront:~

Downland Folk Club

meets every third Friday

at the Sun Inn Calbourne

A chance to hear traditional song and music
in a quiet comfortable, no smoking room.

Arrive early and add your name to the singers list if you have a song or tune for us.
Or why not just come along for a listen and enjoy joining in the choruses.

For full directions and pub info. see The Sun Inn here

A very new event this year

Isle of Wight Folk and Blues Festival

September 21st - 23rd 2007

Based in Ventnor of the South coast of the lovely Isle of Wight, this is a combination of evening concerts in the splendid Winter Gardens Pavilion and day and evening events through the town. The days will centre around several marqees in Salisbury Gardens on Eastern Cliffs, giving us not just music but Craft and Dance as well.

The line up so far includes

Salsa Celtica, Last Night Fun, Tanna (Peter Knight, Kevin Dempsey and Tom Leary) ~
James Chadwick ~ Fairport Convention ~ Jim Moray ~ Johnny Dickinson ~ Heron ~ Lisa Knapp Trio ~ Tony Mc Phee & Joanna Deacon ~ Jamie Griffin

There will also be a healthy "Fringe" in the many pubs and hotels of Ventnor, with plenty of sessions and I think even a Folk Club element. Watch this space, no not this one, that one down there, underlined like it's a link!!!!

It is still early days yet so do keep in touch via their own website

Isle of Wight Folk and Blues

Or phone 01983 856 206

 

Loads more Folk Music on the Island have a look here

With a bit of planning a weeks folk tour could work!!!