DIANE PONZIO was born and raised in New York City, honing her performing skills in the clubs and coffeehouses of Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. She is a graduate of both the “Fame” school

(The High School of Performing Arts in NYC) and the City University of New York with a degree in Mathematics.

Diane’s songs blend musical motifs of jazz, pop, and folk as a palette for her intelligent and meaningful lyrics. She sings her memorable melodies with a saxophone-like mezzo and formidable guitar playing. An accomplished singer-songwriter, Diane has released 10 full length CDs of her original songs.

In 1985 Diane was chosen as the global ambassador for the prestigious Martin Guitar Company to represent them worldwide at promotional events, and there are two Martin guitar models that she designed which bear her name. Diane toured tirelessly for decades in Europe, and relocated from Manhatan to Auckland’s North Shore in 2018.

Accompanying Diane will be Helene Piper on vocals and percussion, and Hank Trenton on upright bass.

Helene, born and raised in Denmark, has a degree in music, and has performed extensively in Europe and South America. She now heads the music program at Belmont Intermediate School on the North Shore.

Hank has already established himself as one of Auckland’s prominent bassists. While touring regularly with several ensembles, he is currently working on a Master’s degree in jazz from Auckland University.

The trio weaves stories, harmonies and intricate rhythms, to create a powerful performance of words and music. They LOVE playing unplugged here at East Coast Bays, and their performance here will be particularly special, given the acoustics and intimacy of the space.

Friday 4th October 2024

Beverley Young

Beverley Young, one of the most popular singers in the New Zealand folk firmament, makes a welcome return to East Coast Bay Folk Club on October 4th with a set built mainly on the traditional singing for which she is feted throughout Aotearoa and beyond. Her vocal versatility has enabled her to perform in a variety of folk genres, but her heritage is English – her father emigrated from Durham – and it’s the folksongs of the British Isles and Ireland that are her first love and that remain at the core of her extensive repertoire. Her East Coast Bays Folk Club audience can look forwards to an evening of great songs presented by a great singer.

She would love to have your company.

Friday 6th September 2024

Bruce Watson

Bruce Watson's performances are joyful and thoroughly engaging, with witty lyrics and energetic presentation. He is a masterful craftsman of songs, be they evocative and heart wrenching, or side-splittingly funny.

Bruce is an icon of the Australian folk scene. Based in Melbourne, he has more than 200 festivals under his belt, and innumerable, folk clubs and other venues throughout Australia, NZ & the UK. He has received a stack of songwriting awards and had his songs covered by performers of the calibre of Eric Bogle, Joe Dolce, Greg Champion, and many more Australian and international performers.

He has produced eight albums of original songs, received radio airplay across Australia, and he appears on many compilation albums alongside artists such as Yothu Yindi and Christine Anu.

Eric Bogle has described him as “the best songwriter I have seen in a long time.” Melbourne folk institution The Boite says, “Bruce Watson is a wordsmith, a teller of tales, a spinner of yarns he tells with passion and integrity. An Australian folk hero!”

Friday 2nd of August 2024

Mike and Ros

Mike and Ros have been performing as a duo for a number of years and while both have been involved with folk music since the 1970’s their musical taste is wide ranging and includes humorous, sad, jazzy, bluesy and maybe a folk song or two. They will be playing five or six songs in this guest spot and then the evening will continue with songs from -

Chasing Grace

Chasing Grace began as an a cappella group with a strong focus on ‘quartet-style’ gospel music, which is characterised by tight harmonies and strong internal rhythms. As time went on the group decided to branch out, adding other kinds of music--rock, soul, country, folk and blues and, from time to time, the occasional instrument

All the group members also sing with Heaven Bent, a large Auckland gospel choir. The original reason for forming Chasing Grace was to dig deeper into the gospel songs that are more suited to small-group singing. The other main reason was to get together for the pure fun of singing with friends!

The singers are: Priscilla Collins and Sophie Gibbs (soprano), Ros Stephens and Nancy Synnestvedt (alto), John Wishart (tenor) and John Graves (bass.)

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops at 37 Watea Rd).

Admission: $10 general admission

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Web: https://sites.google.com/site/eastcoastfolkclub/home

Friday 5th of July 2024

Warren and Fi

Warren Payne has been a regular performer on the Auckland music scene for several decades now. and has been making his living from his music for the last 15 years or so. A regular entertainer in the Aged Care sector, he is also well known for running Celtic pub sessions and Folk Festival singalongs, as well as numerous Folk Club appearances, long-time membership of The Maritime Crew, and several Celtic bands playing pubs, weddings etc.

Multi-instrumental, and with such a broad experience to draw from, he is enjoyed wherever he appears.

Now joined by his lovely partner, Fi Sadiq, whom he met in a Rest Home where she is responsible for encouraging residents from many diverse cultures into a cohesive musical and activities programme.

Fi provides sweet harmonies and presents an eclectic selection of lovely songs in her own appealing style, as well as bringing percussion, banjo, guitar, autoharp, harmonica and ukelele into the instrumental mix as required.

Together, they form a charming, fun-loving duet that is sure to entertain with grace and good humour.

Friday &th of June 2024

Ian is a regular performer on the folk circuit, known for his work in Westumbria (remember them?), Supersheep (currently sleeping) and most recently, Celtic Ferret (nope – they’re not divorcing!).

At East Coast Folk Club he’ll be flying completely solo with a nose dive into rediscovered songs and tunes long buried in his repertoire of British Trad.

Songs of assorted rogues, scallywags and other n’er-do-wells (he doesn’t do love songs!) will be interspersed among tunes on pipes, whistles, flutes and melodeons. If he had enough limbs he’d be his own backing group!

Make sure you bring your voices to join in the choruses and please bring some friends as well.

3rd May 2024 Blues and More

Blues and More

(Linda and Alistair Robinson)

Linda and Alistair first met in a pub in 1975 and have been a music duo ever since. Until the late 70s they were a fixture at the Poles Apart Folk Club before stepping back from performing to raise a family. But they never stopped making music.

Nine years ago, with retirement looming, they once again connected with their folk music roots and began performing their mixture of old blues, new blues, Americana and original songs again.

This year they were involved in writing, producing, and performing in a larger group for ‘Wild Women Sing the Blues’.

5th April 2023 Good Times

Good Times

Alice McLeod and Bea Parker have been playing music together since 2020 when they formed a duo called 'Good Times'. With their gentle harmonies and complimentary musical styles, they can often be seen making music in the local Auckland folk clubs.

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1 December 2023

Railway Pie has been playing jug band music since 1969. Its members have all also been in electric blues, rock, jazz or country bands, but their first love is the old blues traditions. Their inspiration comes from groups such as the Memphis Jug Band, Gus Cannon’s Jug Stompers and the other Memphis area musicians from that unique era in the 1920s and into the ’30s when their music was at its peak as folk music and pop music.

Those good old days are long gone, but Railway Pie keeps the sounds and spirit of that era alive and flourishing. Band members are all well-known in Kiwi folk and wider music circles – singer and harmonica player Jack Craw, who also plays a bit of guitar, Terry Toohill, who plays fiddle, banjo and guitar, Al Young, who does a bit of singing and plays guitar, steel guitar and mandolin, and double-bass maestro Garry Trotman, who also sings a bit and plays kazoo.

On Friday, December 1, they’ll bring Railway Pie’s unique mix of musical expertise and full-on entertainment to the East Coast Bays Folk Club. And there’ll be a bonus – they’ll have copies of the new CD, Caution 15, so there’ll be an opportunity to invest in a piece of New Zealand musical history. Definitely not a show to be missed!

3rd November 2023 Richard Granger

3rd November 2023

Richard first performed in Teesside Folk Clubs in the 70’s and was a member of several local partnerships, including folk bands Pennyhedge, The Teesside Fettlers and briefly as part of a trio with Ron & Rita Angel. Since 1993 he is often accompanied by multi-instrumentalist Chris Parkinson. However, it’s as a solo performer he’s best known, touring throughout the UK, Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Born in Teesside, with his family background in the North York Moors, it followed that he was hugely inspired by his roots to become a prolific writer and songwriter.

Since recording his first album in 1984, he has produced 13 albums of original songs, many of which are connected to the region’s maritime heritage and its recent industrial past.

Among a large and varied repertoire are songs of Ironstone Miners (his great grandad was one), Whitby’s Whaling and Fishing days, Teesside’s steel industry, and local life, through good times and bad.

Richard’s songs are performed and recorded by many, including Flossie Malavialle , Kimbers Men, The Teesside Fettlers, The Wilson Family and Shanty Group Monkeys Fist . His songs have been broadcast widely over the radio at home and abroad. Recently played on BBC Radio3, he has also featured on Robson Green’s ‘Coastal Lives’ (ITV).

His latest production is a compilation album, ‘Blood of the Land’, released in 2021 and in the same year has re-released the CD of his folk -opera ‘Eye of the Wind’, produced in conjunction with the BBC in 2003 and Sir David Attenborough.

With a new studio album on the way, Richard is most definitely still rolling on.

More info www.richard-grainger.com

6th October 2023

Miles Shepheard will perform on mandolin and octave mandolin, supported by Graham Wardell on guitar.

The set will have mixture of jazz, swing, country and bluegrass music.

Miles Shepheard

Miles started playing folk music in Christchurch in the mid- sixties. He met David Rees in the late seventies, and they played a mix of folk and blues at various venues around Auckland. The demands of family, work and travel triumphed over music for 30 years until he traded playing guitar for mandolin. With Linda Hefford he played in the bluegrass band Ride Easy. He played with Fiona Moir and Peter Parnham in Miles Ahead. Coaxing David out of seclusion led to the formation of The Graveyard Shift, Beyond the Graveyard Shift and Highly Strung. He and Graham have performed together before.

Graham Wardell

Graham Wardell has been playing and singing folk and country music since the early days of the Titirangi Folk Music Club, Mollers Farm festivals, and banjo pickers conventions in the late 1960s. He particularly enjoys playing with other musicians both as a duo or as a larger group for the scope for harmonising and arranging instrumentation such combinations present. Graham has recently supported Miles on several of his songs and tunes. Graham is currently playing with a small group called "Late in the Day", which is comprised of himself on guitar, Ian Smith on mandolin, and Michael Young on banjo.

1st September 2023

Celtic Ferret

Ferrets, Flutes and Fretboards

Come and spend the evening at the East Coast Folk Club with Celtic Ferret, a seasoned duo with over 50 years of Folk Music performance.

Their repertoire, steeped in the folk tradition, includes tunes and songs from their homelands and adopted country.

As regulars will know, Jean and Ian are multi-instrumentalists, playing guitar, mandolin, whistles, smallpipes, bodhran, harmonica and flutes.

With two albums to their credit and a third at the planning stage they will have some new material for you and their CDs will be on sale at the door.

They are regular performers at festivals, folk clubs and other venues and are delighted to be back at Torbay with you all.

Find the Ferrets at https://celticferret.wixsite.com/mysite or https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCplzduaLBKsf6Dre60G4oug

Friday 4th August 2023 Al Young

AL YOUNG

The Ol' Blues Boy makes a welcome return to the East Coast Folk Club. Al Young and a bunch of his six-stringed friends* hit the stage on August 4th with a power-packed package of the music that has made Al a leading figure in the New Zealand folk scene for ...well... let's just say, quite a while. Expect a bunch of those good old downhome blues (and a bit more), delivered by a dynamic and entertaining performer.

(*One or two 37-stringed friends might be coming for the night out, too. As well as being a great guitar-picker, Al's no slouch on the autoharp.)

Friday 7th July 2023

THOMAS LOEFKE

Harp Music from the Celtic Northwest...

concert with slideshow: North-Atlantic Soundscapes

Islands in the North Atlantic, like Tory Island - the Irish island of legend and myth, the Hebridies in the Northwest of Scotland, the Shetlands, Iceland or the wild archipelago of the Faroe Islands - these are the places where harpist and photographer Thomas Loefke spends a considerable amount of time every year to compose music. Dramatic coastal landscapes, the wide open space of the Atlantic ocean and the ever changing sky reflect in the pieces of music written there. The tunes are accompanied by photographs Thomas took during his travels to the islands and by a bunch of amazing stories, a combination which makes this solo program a very entertaining show indeed.

Thomas learnt his trade in Dublin from Ireland's leading harp players - Máire Ní Cháthasaigh, Helen Davies, Jeanette Harbison and Áine Ní Dhúill. Since 1984 he has been playing professionally and has won several international prizes, including first prize at the O'Carolan Harp Festival in Keadue. He regularily tours with his band Norland Wind featuring Clannad’s Noel Duggan, with Faroese violinist Angelika Hansen as duo Norðan, with Riverdance fiddle player Máire Breatnach, with Colorado based cello/guitar duo Acoustic Eidolon, and as soloist.

2nd June 2023 Beverley Young

Beverley Young is happy to be returning to perform again at the East Coast Folk Club on Friday June 2nd, and has again put together a top class set from her extensive repertoire of songs to entertain us. Her songs will mostly be from the British and Irish traditions, with maybe a little sprinkling, of trad-style American Country added for good measure. Expect tales of roguish behaviour, work and hardship and love and loss – traditional songs that prove nothing really changes through the years.

Beverley is a long time singer and lover of folk song. She cut her style at the Devonport Folk Club, and has had the good fortune to be able to share the stage with her idols Martin Carthy and Andy Irvine at festivals and folk clubs around

New Zealand. She has also had the good fortune to have married guitarist Alan Young, who for many years has provided the core of her backings at gigs, recordings and festivals.

So no matter how cold or wet the weather outside may be, it will be a warm and friendly night at East Coast….. Beverley is looking forward to entertaining you, and to having the pleasure of your company. See you there!

5th of May 2023 Anglo

Anglo

Anglo is Madeline Beasley and Bill Morrison. They are both talented singers who have been performing in the folk scene for many years either in various groups or solo. Anglo will present songs from England and America, or what takes their fancy. When they perform you will hear close harmonies either acapella or backed with a variety of instruments, including guitar and banjo.

Come and enjoy an evening of great music and entertainment.

7th April 2023 Andrew London Duo

Andrew London Duo

'Let's Talk About Me', 'I Hugged My Mate', ‘Middle Aged Man in Lycra', the titles say it all. Andrew London's whimsical songs reflect mainstream culture with gentle irreverence, and playfully lampoon many of society's obsessions and taboos. Themes run the gamut from rugby fans, driving habits, youth culture and weddings to male insecurities, technophobia, household appliances, pretentious socialites, and various other issues of concern to the average middle-aged, middle-class Antipodean baby-boomer.

Delivery is wrapped in an easy-going and accessible 1940s-era ‘Hot Club’-style swing package, with occasional sallies into folk, blues and western swing; and London’s easy-going banter holds the show together with stories that draw the audience in and set up the songs.

Kirsten London accompanies as bass guitarist, backing vocalist and lyric prompt.

Come along and enjoy the evening.

https://andrewlondon.co.nz

August 6th 2021 Lew and Bob

High, Wide & Handsome – Andrew Gough = Lew Black and Bob Large.

One from Liverpool, one from Kwa-Zulu-Natal. We’ve both lived in Auckland since the 1970’s. We started singing together with the Maritime Crew in 1994.

We share a love of music and song. We especially love singing to/with a singing audience so come along and sing with us!

Its “Lew & Bob”

Friday 2nd July 2021

Chris Priestley and Julian Mckean

Julian McKean and Chris Priestly first started singing together after meeting at the University Folk club 40 odd years ago and after playing together in Acoustic Confusion with Denny Stanway and Brendon Power. They have continued to collaborate and sing together off and on since, including on Chris’s ‘Uncovered’ cd which was a Tui Folk finalist. This will be Julian’s first gig in Auckland for decades and they will be doing a collection of his beautiful love songs and Chris’s historical ones.

June 4th 2021

Martha Louise

Well I guess you know me by now. I’ve been playing dulcimer and guitar in Auckland folk clubs

since 1976. This month I’m celebrating my latest CD of my favourite dulcimer songs called ‘Downtown Dulcimer’ recorded with friends in 2020. As usual there will be country, both contemporary and old time, some folk, gospel and original songs. You might hear a tune from the set lists of days gone by from my time in the groups ‘Gentle Annie’, ‘Too Far Gone’ and ‘Martha and the Backseat Drivers’. It wouldn’t be quite right without some harmony and wonderful pickin’ so I will be joined by some good friends who I will call ‘The Veranda Band’. The night will be like a jam you might have on the veranda some late summer afternoon. Come on along!

May 7th Friday 8:00pm 2021

Celtic Ferret

Celtic Ferret (Jean Reid & Ian Bartlett) are quality exponents of British Traditional folk music and one of the very few duos in New Zealand performing this genre and keeping it alive.

Their repertoire includes tunes, ballads, cautionary tales, stories of rogues and vagabonds and now and again, original material.

Likely to make an appearance somewhere in their set are flute, guitar, whistles, mandolin and a couple of bodhrans, and harmonies ranging from downright raw to eerily haunting.

Celtic Ferret performances are thoughtfully arranged, sprinkled with humour and designed to get you joining in.

Come and enjoy a lively celebration of the rich heritage of traditional music.

April 2nd , 2021

A ‘Come All Ye night’ with floor singers for the whole evening of 2nd of April.

February 5th , 2021

Blues and More

(Linda and Alistair Robinson)

Six years ago, with retirement looming, they once again connected with their folk music roots and began performing their mixture of old blues, new blues, Americana and original songs again.

December 4th,2020

Terry Free

Twice nominated for the British Alternative Folk Awards ’Best Club Entertainer’ singer and storyteller extraordinaire Terry Free returns to East Coast Bays Folk Club in his own right to take you on a journey of Traditional songs, Music Hall ditties and beautifully woven yarns embroidered into a silken tapestry of chirpy cockney “bollix"

"A guaranteed night of pure entertainment" (Oxford Folk News)

November 6th 2020

Beverley Young

Beverley Young is happy to be returning to perform at East Coast Folk Club on Friday, November 6th, and has put together a top-class set from her extensive repetoire of songs to entertain us. Her songs will mostly be from the British and Irish traditions, with maybe a little sprinkling of trad-style American country added for good measure. Expect tales of roguish behaviour, work and hardship and love and loss -- traditional songs that prove nothing really changes through the years.

New Zealand. She has also had the good fortune to have married guitarist Alan Young, who for many years has provided the core of her backings at gigs, recordings and festivals.

Friday 7th August 2020

Miles Ahead

Let the Miles Ahead trio take you on a romp through fields of swing, blues, country and folk at the East Coasts Bays Folk Club.

You may have seen them individually before, but for this gig the three have used lockdown to work up harmonies to add sparkle to the vocals of lead singer, Miles Shepheard. During the evening Miles also promises to pull some warm winter melodies from his mandolin.

Scotswoman Fiona Moir, isn’t phased by a New Zealand winter. It’s nothing when you’ve played at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or gone busking in Europe. She introduces us to some traditional folk sprinkled among the bluesy, country, swing set.

Alongside the other two, you’ll see Pete Parnham adding the necessary etiquette and shine as he reverts to type classy acoustic guitar, and third harmony.

This is going to be an evening not to miss.

East Coast Folk Club

We started up again on Friday the 3rd of July 2020.

It was a ‘Come All Ye night’ with floor singers for the whole evening.

It was great to see everyone again.

There was no charge for this night.

Judith, the clubs founder, reminded me that this night is the 28th Birthday of the club, founded in 1992. Judith also found the first poster. It is the same day in July as this Friday.

Friday 6th March 2020

Lothlórien

Lothlórien (Chris Lloyd and Nicole Leonard) is a Celtic music group taking its name from the magical forest found in Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings'.

Based in Auckland, New Zealand, the group plays Celtic music mainly from Ireland, Scotland and England with occasional forays elsewhere.

Lothlórien were guests at Auckland Folk Festival in 2000, and their album 'Greenwood Side' won the Folk album of the year in the 'Tui' New Zealand Music Awards 2001.

Lothlórien plays traditional and contemporary songs and tunes, from ethereal and haunting to jaunty and lively, accompanied by tin whistle, Irish bouzouki, and guitar.

www.lothloriennz.com

Friday 7th February 2020

Diane Ponzio

" Diane Ponzio is a first-class writer and musician, and one of the most entertaining performers around. She's the real deal." Lydia Hutchinson, Editor, The Performing Songwriter magazine

After graduating from The " Fame " School (the prestigious High School of Performing Arts). Diane honed her skills playing folk clubs on Bleecker Street. In 1985, she was chosen as a global ambassador for The Martin Guitar Company by C.F. Martin IV to perform on their behalf worldwide. There are two Martin Guitar models that bear her name.

Diane's songs feature meaningful lyrics woven with memorable melodies, laid over her percussive guitar style, and brought home with her saxophone like vocals.

Her music moves your heart, your thoughts, and your feet! Diane regularly tours in Europe, has released ten full length CDs, and enjoys seeing her friends all over the world.

www.dianeponzio.com

Friday 6th December 2019

Skiffy Rivets

Forget about Christmas shopping, awkward office parties and stressful family arrangements. Come and get into the true relaxing Christmas spirit with the Skiffy Rivets at the East Coast Folk Club. Join the three Skiffy Rivets, Pete Parnham, Sue Tearne and Holly Carrington, for an evening where they will be spreading the musical fun around, singing their hearts out with new and favourite songs borrowed from Americana, bluegrass, swing, folk and, of course, Christmas.

https://skiffyrivetsmusic.com/

Friday November 1st 2019

The Slow Water Band

The Slow Water Band - plays a wide range of Irish and Scottish folk music, combining the sounds of guitar, fiddle, whistles, flute, bass, bodhran, and vocals with a touch of Celtic magic.

Alan Wagstaff – guitar & vocals

James Douglas – flute & drums,

Konrad Mittermeier – bass

Natasha Wesbonk – fiddle

Ruth Wagstaff – whistles & bodhran

Visit our Facebook page for a sneak peek:

https://www.facebook.com/SlowWaterBand/

Friday 4th October 2019

Jan Elliott / Bevis England … …bringing a wealth of musical material to life with individuality and flair.

Jan and Bevis met in late 2012 at a concert at the Llama Lounge and have been getting to know each other, through their music, ever since. Both have been in various musical line-ups and bring novel arrangements to a rich variety of material.

With two guitars and two voices they create a unique tapestry of sound. They are enjoying exploring great songs and giving them new life.

Jan Elliott, a singer songwriter and member of the Christchurch Folk Club for many years, has been a regular performer around Christchurch and Canterbury, and at festivals. She won the ‘CTV (Canterbury Television) Talent Quest’ and was awarded a 30-minute TV appearance called Jan Rapley Live at Bourbon St which featured a number of Christchurch’s notable performers. She also features on the CD called ‘Christchurch Folk and Acoustic’ produced by Christchurch Folk Club with two songs.

Jan’s influences are contemporary artists such as Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin and The Indigo Girls. Her own songs are compelling and quirky with lyrics that will move and touch your heart.

Jan’s voice has been described as ‘pure’ and ‘beautiful’.

When Bevis England was given his first guitar he quickly lost interest in his classical piano lessons. Years later he was playing at pubs and restaurants, festivals and folk clubs in Edinburgh, Denmark, Colorado and Hong Kong. When Bevis returned to Auckland he became a regular performer at Poles Apart and Titirangi folk clubs and was a founding member of Thursday (with Sieffe La Trobe, in 1986). He has since played festivals and clubs throughout New Zealand. As a member of Gumdiggers Bush Band he played electric bass and guitar at corporate events, private functions and the Auckland Folk Festival, where he has also performed solo.

Bevis is known as an innovative guitarist and lyricist.

Friday 6th September 2019

Martha Louise and the Girlfriends

Martha Louise

Martha will have the company of Emily Giles on cello & vocals and her mum Sonja, banjo & vocals. Brenda Liddiard will join in on mandolin & vocals and perform a few of their duo arrangements. It should be lots of fun and a great blend of voices and instruments including guitar, dulcimer, mandolin, banjo and cello. Yay!

All together they will lead the 'Your good selves' Gospel choir to finish the night.

Check out this site for more about Martha;

https://www.audioculture.co.nz/people/martha-louise

Friday 2nd August 2019

Anna Dunwoodie

Recently back from teaching in the UK, and at the Edinburgh International Harp Festival

(teaching NZ Celtic tunes and songs no less!), Anna brings together a programme of new and old

songs and harp tunes, and maybe an extra harpist or two for a bit of variety.

https://www.annadunwoodie.co.nz/

Friday 5th July 2019

Hanna and Harry

Hanna Wiskari and Harry Champion

Pairing old and new tunes from Scandinavia with English and Celtic

influences, this new duo weave soprano Sax with acoustic guitar.

www.facebook.com/hannaandharry

June 7th, 2019

Celtic Ferret are Jean Reid and Ian Bartlett who have been

playing folk music for more years than they care to remember.

You may know them as two fifths of the acclaimed a cappella

group SuperSheep.

Their repertoire, steeped in the folk tradition, includes tunes,

ballads, cautionary tales, stories of rogues and vagabonds and

now and again, original material.

They'll be playing some old favourites, material from their CD and some brand new songs and tunes.

You can expect to hear guitar, mandolin, whistles, smallpipes,

bodhran and anything else within reach.

May 3rd, 2019

MARK LAURENT & BRENDA LIDDIARD

Acoustic music with passion

Their shows are an eclectic mix of material that can be ‘pin drop’ delicate, or sound like a full band! They sometimes pepper their sets with short bursts of poetry as well, as Mark is also a professional writer.

Brenda & Mark have toured New Zealand, Australia & the UK for 30 years. What they enjoy most is connecting with audiences on an intimate level, in acoustic clubs, small theatres, house concerts, churches - wherever people want to come close and really listen.

“This fantastic Auckland duo never ceases to amaze me with the diversity of their songs, musicianship and poetry … sublime guitar and mandolin textures and soulful harmonies.”

Mike Moroney, Dunedin Folk Club

“Mark and Brenda have perfected the art of listening to and supporting each other musically. Their (songs) are thought-provoking and they perform with great integrity and heart.”

The Muse Community Music Trust

www.marklaurent.co.nz

www.brendaliddiard.co.nz

markandbrenda@kiwilink.co.nz

http://nz.youtube.com/user/LaurentMark http://www.youtube.com/user/BrendaLiddiard

April 5th, 2019

Madeline Beasley, Dinah Saxby and Bill Morrison.

Madeline Beasley and Dinah Saxby, otherwise known as Frolicsome and Easy have been singing around the Auckland folk scene for many years now. Their beautiful harmonies embellishing British traditional ballads and American songs alike.

Now with the addition of the acclaimed Bill Morrison on vocals, guitar and banjo, they bring you a new set of songs to thrill and delight you.

March 1st, 2019 Bluegrass and Beyond

Bluegrass and Beyond

Hot on the heels of an outstanding set at the inaugural Kiwigrass Festival the Bluegrass and Beyond boys are coming to East Coast Bays Folk Club in March.

The band takes a mix of traditional, contemporary and re-interpreted songs from bluegrass - and beyond - and weld them together to make a fast moving, energetic, and exciting performance. The highlights are a selection of original, distinctly New Zealand songs from the talented songwriter and performer Cameron Bennett, and the blistering original guitar tunes from Colin Spier who is known to many as one of New Zealand’s finest flat pick guitarists.

John Olding, also a fine guitarist and lead vocalist on most of the songs, is well known for regularly capping off the legendary 121 Café Thursday acoustic evenings with a wide range of material that more often than not has the audience dancing in the aisles.

Underneath it all, driving and shaping the music from the bottom up, is an upright bass player known to many at East Coast bays for his instinctive feel and smiling stage presence, Pete Parnham.

John Olding – guitar, lead vocal

Colin Speir – guitar, banjo, BV’s

Cameron Bennett – dobro, vocals and BV’s

Pete Parnham – bass fiddle, BV’s.

Friday 1st February 2019

Pete Grassby

A regular visitor to New Zealand, and described as a one-man folk festival, Pete was a popular guest at the club a couple of years ago and we're very pleased to welcome him back.

He is a fine musician and singer, and well-known as a solo performer at clubs and festivals around the UK and abroad. Dance caller and leader of the folk-rock Aardvark Ceilidh Band, Pete collects many tunes and dances during his travels. He also plays for and dances with Coventry Morris. Pete is leading the Grasshoppers ceilidh band as well. He sings, calls and plays guitar and melodeons. The band is now called Starley Road.

Pete has been singing since he was four. After leaving school, he started a folk group (folk because they would not need to buy amplifiers!). The melodeon took over from the guitar as his main instrument when he started Morris dancing. He has wide experience of playing and teaching the instrument, and left his factory job to repair and deal in musical instruments about 30 years ago. Pete has become a well known visitor to Germany, Sweden and New Zealand .

Friday 7th December 2018

High Wide and Handsome

It’s been 2 years since Bob, Lew and Andrew played together for the good folk of the East Coast Bays. Since then, they found a name – High, Wide and Handsome (HWH). They have travelled far and wide, sometimes together and sometimes individually, to magic and remote places such as Cardrona, Titirangi, Whangarei and Princeton, Canada; honing their skills and developing their repertoire. HWH are delighted to perform at the end-of-year concert of the East Coast Folk Club for 2018 and present a range of musical gems for your enjoyment.

Friday 2nd November 2018

Across The Great Divide

‘Across the Great Divide’ have always enjoyed merging the music and styles they were respectively familiar with, to come up with something a little different. Karen took up the challenge of applying Celtic guitar to fast rousing bluegrass, Americana tunes and Tony’s original compositions. Tony in turn, arranged dobro for Celtic airs and fiddle tunes to accompany Karen’s exquisite harp performance and blistering paced guitar fueled jigs and reels.

Joining Tony and Karen on their ‘Uncommon Ground’ Launch tour, and adding to this exciting dynamic is saxophonist and Swedish folk artist Hanna Wiskari Griffiths, bringing the rhythms and traditional style melodies borne from her Scandinavian homeland.

The combined result creates a new unique sound, intricately woven, all the while retaining respect for the traditions. A true folk fusion.

ATGD played recently at the Whare Flats Folk Festival with Hanna Wiskari-Griffiths, where many folk enjoyed it as the highlight of their festival. Here they are caught having a quiet tune among the birds and trees at the festival.

https://www.acrossthegreatdivide.website/

Friday 5th October 2018 Richard Grainger

Richard Grainger is a Teesside born Singer & Guitarist living on the North - East Coast of England.

His extensive repertoire addresses much of folk-life from the Yorkshire Coast and Moors to Teesside and beyond, both past and present.

There are songs with an industrial and maritime theme, love songs and the environment.

His northern ‘roots’ show clearly in his writing and in the choice of traditional material he performs. He is a respected songwriter and ‘remarkable interpreter’ of traditional songs.

Richard has an extensive catalogue of albums, his latest ‘Hard Road to Prospect Hill’ made the FRUK Best Albums of the year and has recently been nominated for his ‘outstanding contribution as a songwriter’ by YGG.

www.richard-grainger.com

7th September 2018

Supersheep

SuperSheep is delighted to be making a return to East Coast Folk Club on September 7th at the Senior Citizens hall, Torbay. It has been four years since their last guest appearance, and they are returning with a fresh batch of British traditional folk song for your pleasure.

You can expect lovely, often complex harmonies wrapped around songs of the English countryside, love and labour. Super Sheep is made up of Ian Bartlett, Terry Free, Clare Senior, Jean Reid and Beverley Young. All are strong solo performers in their own right, and together they delight in retaining the old songs that are a part of their heritage.

You are guaranteed a night of splendid harmonies presented by this group of traditional folk song aficionados. So, come along and enjoy the fun and warm ambience of a SuperSheep performance.

Ewe won’t regret it!!!

http://supersheepnzS.wixsite.com/supersheep

3rd AUGUST 2018

Railway Pie

Railway Pie … well, no, that’s not them in the photo. That’s who they woulda loved to have been if only they’d been born a bit earlier. But it gives you the idea … good old jug-band music from the 1920s, as performed by the masters such as Cannon’s Jug Stompers (that’s them in the picture), the Memphis Jug Band and all those other famous names that we never hear about these days. Railway Pie is a tradition in itself – its roots go back about 50 years and while the personnel has moved around over the years, it’s still a bunch of mates united by their love of blues and that jug-band sound. The band today is singer and harmonica player Jack Craw, who also a bit of guitar, Terry Toohill, who plays guitar and fiddle, Al Young, who does a bit of singing and plays guitar, steel guitar and mandolin as required, and Garry Trotman, the double-bass maestro who also sings a bit and plays kazoo. It’s all good stuff, so sit back, relax and discover why the good old days were so much fun.

July 6th, 2018 Bob Large

Bob has been singing and writing songs around the Auckland folk scene since 1975. He’s happy singing solo but also delights in singing harmony with others.

He has a fund of songs from the tradition and in the tradition as well as contemporary songs. He always enjoys performing at East Coast Folk Club. This July expect some solo items and some songs with a little help from friends. Bob loves to hear an audience sing, so expect some chorus songs as well.

It’s said that singing with others has significant health advantages – so come along for your dose of well-being!

June 1st, 2018 Mark Laurent and Brenda Liddiard

http://www.brendaliddiard.co.nz/Site/Mark_and_Brenda_Music.html

Brenda & Mark have toured New Zealand, Australia & the UK for nearly 30 years. What they enjoy most is connecting with audiences on an intimate level, in acoustic clubs, small theatres, house concerts, churches - wherever people want to come close and really listen.

“This fantastic Auckland duo never ceases to amaze me with the diversity of their songs, musicianship and poetry … sublime guitar and mandolin textures and soulful harmonies.”

Mike Moroney, New Edinburgh Folk Club

“Mark and Brenda have perfected the art of listening to and supporting each other musically. Their (songs) are thought-provoking and they perform with great integrity and heart.”

MUSE (Christchurch Music Centre)

“In a programme packed with musical gems played and sung by a truly great line-up, it might have been hard to be a stand-out act, but believe me, the Kiwi duo of Mark Laurent & Brenda Liddiard managed to do just that.”

Brendan (Mook) Hanly

Byron Vista Social Club, Byron Bay

Mark and Brenda are well known on the acoustic music scene (“Two of New Zealand’s finest singer-songwriters” - Wellington Folk Festival). Mark has a penchant for acoustic rock, blues & reggae:

“Confirming the guitar hero status that he earned several decades ago, Mark's guitar is just about as expressive as his vocals, and what a great songwriter! He sings from the heart, and it's as much a pleasure watching the audience enjoying the thrill that he obviously gets from sharing his songs and musical gifts”.

Roger Giles, Real Music

Brenda’s songs lean more toward new folk & alt. country, and her solo album Box of Memories was a finalist in the 2013 Best Folk Album Tui Awards:

“Brenda has a beautiful voice and knows how to engage an audience. She worked on every word with passion and commitment and was able to create a very special atmosphere. The audience was spellbound.”

Friz Wollner, Mojo Acoustic

May 4th, 2018

Clare Senior and Nick Johnston

Singers & songwriters who met at the Auckland folk festival, this couple has gone from strength to strength performing a mixture of traditional and self-penned works.

Clare is no stranger to the folk scene. Having grown up with a family tradition of folk singing, Clare has performed for more than 30 years, both solo and with such groups as Florabunda, Blacksmith Band and most recently as part of Supersheep. Nick plays Octave Mandolin and writes songs covering subjects from all over the world and all through history.

Currently working on their first album, come along for a sneak preview and expect a mix of humour, tragedy and social commentary, sometimes all in the same song.

March 2nd, 2018

Warren and Fi

Warren Payne has been a regular performer on the Auckland music scene for several decades now and has been making his living from his music for the last 12 years or so. A regular entertainer in the Aged Care sector, he is also well known for running Celtic pub sessions and Folk Festival singalongs, as well as numerous Folk Club appearances, long-time membership of The Maritime Crew, and several Celtic bands playing pubs, weddings etc. With such a broad experience to draw from, he is enjoyed wherever he appears.

Now joined by his lovely partner, Fi Sadiq, whom he met in a Rest Home where she is responsible for encouraging residents from many diverse cultures into a cohesive musical and activities programme.

Fi provides sweet harmonies and presents an eclectic selection of lovely songs in her own appealing style, as well as bringing percussion, banjo, guitar and ukulele into the instrumental mix as required.

Together, they form a charming, fun-loving duet that is sure to entertain.

February 2nd, 2018

Wires and Wood

Tui Award winning Wires & Wood is a four-piece band inspired by the sounds of traditional and modern bluegrass music. They provide a high standard of musicianship on banjo, mandolin, guitar and bass. The band plays their music with the hard driving punchy style of bluegrass through to the heart melting slow waltzes. As well as striving for instrumental excellence, they also love to infuse their songs with multipart harmony singing.

They are still refining their Wires & Wood sound and expanding their repertoire of what they call bluegrass music. Wires & Wood released their debut album "Over The Moon" in 2010. "Over The Moon" is the recipient of the RIANZ Tui Award for Best Folk Album 2010/11. For more info see www.wiresandwood.com.

The band members are Dave Warren (guitar), Bryan Christianson (banjo), Michael Young (lead vocals, mandolin) and Garry Trotman (bass).

December 1, 2017 Pete and the Skiffy Rivets

The secret Skiffy recipe is a unique blend of Americana, folk, swing, and country ingredients and spices, carefully cooked up for maximum enjoyment. The band was formed when Pete Parnham, Holly Carrington, and Sue Tearne realised they were onto something special when they harmonised together for a blackboard concert at the 2015 Waharau folk festival. Sooner after the three added the talented Steve Gerrish on mandolin, guitar and banjo to add variety and depth to the sound.

Now, with a CD release this year and a totally new set they are set to entertain you at East Coast Bays Folk club in December, with a little bonus Christmas fun chucked in.

www.skiffyrivetsmusic.com

November 3, 2017 Bill Morrison

A stalwart of the club, Bill can most often be found first up on the evening's list of floorsingers. He was a guest performer here in February four years ago and it is high time we heard some more of his vast and varied repertoire of interesting songs.

Bill started folk club singing late in life after attending Rothley Folk Club in Leicestershire, England to hear local band Moonshine. Two members of this band were Al Stacey and Connor McSwinney. Al (Swigger) ran sing-arounds in a local pub and Bill went along to a few and then tried doing floor spots at the club. Swigger and Connor went to NZ, and formed the Dogs Bollix Band, so back in England Bill took on the job of starting the folk club evenings off and had to learn a lot of songs in a very short time. A couple of years later (in 1995) he emigrated to NZ himself and was pleased to find a flourishing folk scene in Auckland and meet "the best people a stranger in a strange land could hope for."

East Coast Folk Club invited him to do his first guest spot in 1997 and he has long been a regular at our club nights. Of all the projects for Auckland clubs he's been involved in over the last few years, the two that particularly stand out for him are "North to South", a musical tale of emigration from Britain to NZ in the 19th century, put together by Titirangi Folk Club, and the Alistair Hullet tribute concert at the 2012 Auckland Folk Festival. As Bill says, "It’s a great Folk Scene here and long may it continue."

October 6, 2017 Alan Young

Ah yes … it’s been a while since the photo was taken, and the old fella’s got a few more miles on the clock now. But he’s still Al Young, he’s still New Zealand’s power-packed king of the old down-home blues with an “I’ve played everywhere” track record that ranges from Warkworth to Memphis … and he’s the guest artist at this month’s East Coast Bays Folk Club meeting on October 6. Put this one on your “must see” list.

September 1st, 2017

Beverley Young

She’s amazed ’em in Auckland, awed ’em in Aussie, wowed ’em in Wellington, dazzled ’em in Dunedin, clobbered ’em in Christchurch and even blown ’em away in Blighty. Now it’s East Coast Bays’ turn as we welcome New Zealand’s Queen of Trad, Beverley Young. Beverley is best known for her immensely talented and inventive presentation of songs from the British and Irish traditions, but she’s equally at home with a bit of country or bluegrass or even the occasional blues-based offering. And to put the icing on the cake, she’ll be accompanied on some songs by husband Al “The Deacon” Young and other talented friends. This is the one you don’t want to miss … so be there!

August 4th, 2017

'Scallywag' featuring Jean Reid, Andrea Reid and Ian Bartlett.

Here are three scallywags who often accompany each other's solo performances and enjoy playing music together.

Jean Reid has been well-known on the folk scene for over 40 years as a fine exponent of British traditional material.

Daughter Andrea Reid has been performing with her mum for much of her life and is a formidable talent in her own right.

Ian Bartlett's skill as a piper and bodhran player are legendary and both he and Jean are members of the renowned vocal group SuperSheep.

Instruments in the mix include guitar, dulcimer, mandolin, whistle, bodhran and Northumbrian and Scottish smallpipes.

So expect tunes, trad. songs, originals and harmonies and above all, a fun night in the company of Scallywag.

July 7th, 2017

Dinah Saxby and Madeline Beasley

Dinah Saxby and Madeline Beasley met at Beverley Young's singing workshop at the Bunker fourteen years ago and have been singing together ever since. They enjoy harmonising folk and blues songs and have just produced their debut album Frolicsome and Easy.

Come and enjoy some sublime harmonies and great songs.

June 2nd, 2017

Martha Louise and the Lads

Martha Louise will be back on June the 2nd with her Appalachian dulcimer and guitar to sing a mix of original songs from her two CD’s and favourites by some of America’s iconic story telling song writers like Steve Earle, Townes Van Zandt, and Gillian Welch. But wait…there’s more. This time Martha is bringing a group of friends to add instrumental ‘tricky bits’ and stellar harmonies. They are Paul Symons on guitar & vocals who you will remember from the group Too Far Gone and Cam Bennett on Dobro and vocals who along with Paul are both wonderful singer songwriters in their own right. And joining them is Stuart Grimshaw playing bass who Martha met playing at the Thursday night open mic sessions at one2one café last year. It’s a special blend of music and friendship and respect for each other’s talents. They have put together a set of music from the quietly contemplative Gillian Welch song ‘Everything is free now’ to the high energy original tune Down the Road and a little gospel too. Come on along.

May 5th, 8pm 2017

Mike Maguire and Friends

Mike’s early interest in music was stimulated by very diverse styles and genre from George Formby to Spike Jones to William Clauson. He started playing a banjo mandolin at age 12 with Beggs Musical Army in Dunedin and “mucked around” doing bits and pieces on the guitar and ukuklele for a few years before joining Titirangi Folk Club in June 1970. He played tenor banjo for the Lex Pistols dixie jazz band for over 20 years so the evening will include a wide range of musical styles and songs, some of which may even be “folk”. He will be joined by his wife Ros (ukulele), Graham Wardell (bass), Bob Large (harmonica), Bill and Kath Worsfold (ukuleles) and Murray Wardell (guitar and vocal) – but not all at once!!

Friday April 7th, 2017 The Martins

The songs that make up Mike Martin ramble their way through all stops along the genres of Celtic, jazz, folk, skiffle and a few places in between. He is joined by Lindsay Martin, one of Australias’ favourite fiddle players and accompanist.

The Martins share their road-savvy musings, experience and love that has informed and directed their life and art.

“The Old Minstrels at play once again: timeless yet as contemporary as the headlines in this morning's news.” - Michael Meneger.

The pair have recorded two albums together. The Strelley Project & Postcard From Candelo.

www.mikemartin.com.au

www.lindsaymartin.com.au

FRIDAY 3rd March 2017

The Remarkables

The Remarkables are a 4 piece unit from Auckland, New Zealand, playing music that can only be described as bluegrasscountryswing.

The repertoire varies wildly from the hot swing sounds of Paris in the 1940s to the smoky barrooms of Texas, with Bob Wills overtones and then mixed with the bluegrass sounds of East Kentucky.

Neil Finlay plays guitar and is the lead singer. He is well known as a bluesman, but is equally at home in Country Music and Jazz. In 2008 he released his debut solo blues album, Stop and Listen.

Bryan Christianson plays 5-string banjo with The Remarkables. He has appeared as a session musician on many NZ recordings in addition to his work with the Tui Award winning Wires & Wood.

Pete Parnham, one of the original founding members, re-joined the Remarkables on guitar and dobro in 2016, bringing a new feel to the band. Pete is well known in the bluegrass and folk scene in Auckland for his versatile and accomplished playing and singing.

Garry Trotman plays double bass in the band and sings the high vocal parts. He is an accomplished songwriter having recently released ‘Brand New Tradition’, an album of original songs. He is also a member of Wires & Wood.

The band has previously appeared at the 2014 Hamilton Acoustic Music Club festival, 2013/14 Whare Flat Folk festival, 2013 Auckland Folk Festival , the 2012 Wellington Folk Festival, various bars and folk-clubs around Auckland and also at the more intimate settings of House Concerts in the greater Auckland area. They were a headline act at the Oparau Acoustic Festival (November 2014), The Auckland Folk Festival (Jan 2015) , the Canterbury Folk Festival (Easter 2015) and the Wellongton Folk Festival (October 2016)

Their debut album Swinging On The Gate has met with critical success, Graham Reid commenting: “No barriers hurdled, envelopes pushed or parameters breached, just damn fine stuff from people who know what they are doing . . . and how to do it very well indeed.”

Website: www.theremarkablesmusic.com

FRIDAY 3rd February 2017

Absent Mother Tour

Kirsty Bromley and Simon Dumpleton

Featured Guests: Kirsty is a young contemporary folk singer based in Sheffield UK who draws upon a wide range of traditional music. She has a most disarmingly transparent voice, but also the uncanny and beautiful knack of drawing attention to the song rather than the messenger, by the manner in which she employs it. “Kirsty Bromley is a singer of songs of social justice, traditional songs and songs from the heart. Her voice is effortless yet stirring, at times ethereal but always earthy and with strong roots. Musical and beguiling.” Nancy Kerr – BBC2 Folk Singer of the Year 2015

“Fine young voice, poised but unaffected, a confident, heartening debut” The Observer The Guardian

“Beautiful Album, Effortless and mesmorising voice “ Maverick

“Well travelled young Folkie, Pure and Resonant Voice – She blows a mean trumpet” Songlines

http://www.kirstybromley.com/about-kirsty/

Kirsty will be performing as a duo with Simon Dumpleton. Simon is a multi-instrumentalist, who works as a professional musician involved in a wide variety of on-going performance, recording and teaching projects. In addition to the Kirsty Bromley Band, he also plays accordion in the ceilidh band Gallivant and keyboard / accordion for Sheffield song-writer Neil McSweeney.

http://www.kirstybromley.com/about-the-band/simondumpleton/

FRIDAY 2nd December 2016

Bob Large

There are many Bobs.

Bob the Folkie has been around the folk scene in Auckland for some forty years and is still going strong, as a solo performer and as part of Auckland’s ‘The Maritime Crew’. He loves nothing better than a happy singing audience and this December will be aiming to achieve that at Torbay.

This time he will be in-spanning some of his good folkie friends to help the good times along with some of his favourite songs; so do come prepared to sing along, smile and applaud!

Please bring a small plate of nibbles to share during the supper.

November 4th 2016

Gilly Darbey

Gilly has been thrilling audiences all over the world with her sublime voice. Her CD 'Just Like a Woman' got a rave review in NZ musician.

Her emotional and sensual interpretations of blues / folk / jazz and gospel have had many likening her favourably to the late Eva Cassidy, but her voice is also reminiscent of Joan Baez, Katie Melua and early Joni Mitchell.

She has been support artist to many famous names including Van Morrison and Tori Amos and as such has played at nearly every major venue in the UK. She has appeared frequently on national TV and radio in Britain.

"Her voice is simply stunning. It is amazing the sound that can come from one woman an

d a guitar... Quietly lovely, then strong enough to be heard two blocks away... Hauntingly beautiful! She sings like an angel." Kiwi Folk Club

"In listening to Gilly Darbey, one gets the distinct impression that this is the voice of a woman who has sung her entire life, a woman at ease with the voice she has and with the considerable talent she possesses." Te Miringa Hohaia, Parihaka Peace Festival.

"I just can't imagine anyone not loving the feel, sensuality and emotion in Gilly's voice" Stuart Robertson...ABC Radio.

"Gilly was fantastic! Her voice lived up to the raves of critics." Kapiti Live Music Club.

https://myspace.com/gillydarbey

October 7th, 2016

Goodland Trio

GOODLAND TRIO Hanna Wiskari Grifﬁths - soprano saxophone & vocals Jonathan Larsson - accordion & vocals Oskar Reuter - guitar, mandola & vocals.

A Swedish folk band on a New Zealand tour. For the first time ever in New Zealand.

With soprano saxophone, accordion and guitar Swedish Goodland Trio invites you into their warm soundscape. Rhythmically, sensitively and heartfelt, the trio play self-composed Scandinavian traditional music with a close interaction between themselves and a unique intimacy with their audience.

Founded in 2009, Goodland Trio has since then been touring extensively and released two critically acclaimed albums; ”Goodland Trio” and ”Skogen i staden”. The repertoire of the trio consists mainly of original tunes, composed by the members of the group, with a distinct nordic sound. Goodland Trio plays polskas, waltzes and other common Swedish types of tunes as well as traditional songs. The arrangements waver between the traditional and the contemporary, with inﬂuences of pop and improvised music. The trio include a wide and versatile competence in Swedish folk- and world music. Each member has studied the Swedish ﬁddle tradition thoroughly for themselves and this characterizes their way of composing and performing.

”The three musicians really have an afﬁnity for each other and for each other’s music. These tunes sound like they are played with one musical mind, like a master of the pipe organ who is working three separate musical voices with one body. The musical prowess of this trio is inspiring.” - GREG HARNESS, Rootsworld

" The three instruments seems to be meant for each other, Together, they spin a musical web and the result becomes a nice entirety." - LARS LIND, LIRA

"This is affectionate folk music performed with a warm feeling and with an interesting, timeless sound" - MAGNUS BÖRJESSON, Nerikes Allehanda

Website http://www.goodlandtrio.com/en

September 2nd, 2016

Albi and the Wolves

Albi and The Wolves bring acoustic folk solidarity back into the modern age with dynamic original tunes and uplifting arrangements of popular songs from the past and present day. It's this combination of music that helps the band successfully tap into all demographics from older generations to university students.

The band members consist of a proud albino front man Chris Dent, Pascal Roggen on the electric fiddle and Michael Young on the double bass. When combined Albi and The Wolves reinvigorate folk in the whole sense with their instrumentation and world-class musicianship.

The band infuses country elements, traces of soul, indie rock and pop to blow away their audience during live performances. Albi and The Wolves don't just play music, they engage with people using humour, overwhelming energy and the environment around them. So whether it's a sit down show or a rowdy foot stomping bar each gig is unique and a whole lot of fun.

The band has built up phenomenal momentum in the last 18 months having played over 200 shows, releasing both an EP and single with video, having magazine write up's and one New Zealand Herald article, and multiple recommendations from blogs and other online media. Other successes include being featured on Radio Hauraki on three occasions, playing alongside Dave Dobbyn for one of them, and have gained over 28,000 listens on SoundCloud alone. Remember Your Name was selected by NZ on AIR for their September New Tracks playlist, and now features on the on Air New Zealand's in flight music selection. On top of all this Albi and The Wolves have had their first international release in collaboration with Mt Eden Dubstep, the song Fall With You has come to nearly a Million plays on youtube and that continues to rise.

WEBSITE: www.albiandthewolves.com

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AlbiAndTheWolves?fref=ts

MUSIC VIDEO: http://youtu.be/jPYdkiOMfKE

SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/albi-and-the-wolves

August 5th, 2016

The Graveyard Shift

The Graveyard Shift will entertain you with timeless American and bluegrass music, with an extra treat of fiddle, guitar and mandolin melodies that with either have you reaching for your hankies or stomping your feet.

David Rees

David started playing classical guitar in the mid-70’s, but after discovering the music of John Renbourn and Bert Jansch he started playing more folk music. Soon after, David met Miles and they started playing a mix of folk and blues at various venues around Auckland. But family, work and travel demands meant that for the next 30 years David stopped performing. Two years ago Miles coaxed him out and they started playing duets together again.

Linda Hefford

Aged 7 Linda started the violin. After years of classical violin and choral work she discovered that bluegrass and Celtic music makes her smile. She has played in a number of well-known groups with a variety of singers and musicians, including Ride Easy with Miles and others. She loves singing harmony and playing fiddle at breakneck speed.

Miles Shepheard

Miles started playing folk music in Christchurch in the mid- sixties. He met David in the late seventies and they played a mix of folk and blues at various venues around Auckland. The demands of family, work and travel triumphed over music for 30 years until he traded playing guitar for mandolin. With Linda he played in the bluegrass band Ride Easy. Coaxing David out of seclusion has led to the formation of The Graveyard Shift.

Peter Parnham

An experienced and accomplished musician, Peter is always in demand in a wide variety of demanding styles. He is also known for using his upright bass to provide a cheerful but rock solid foundation to a variety of acoustic music around Auckland.

July 1st, 2016

The Maritime Crew

The Maritime Crew are - Lew Black, Bob Large, John McGowan, Paul Howarth and Warren Payne.

The Maritime Crew specialise in performing sea songs for entertainment. These include traditional shanties (the working songs from the days of tall ships) and both traditional and contemporary songs of the sea. Many of their songs have a New Zealand flavour and include songs written by past and present members of the Crew.

Their new album “Rolling the Whole World Round” is a collection of the Maritime Crew’s favourite songs. These are traditional shanties and contemporary compositions that tell the stories of the seas and rivers of the world from Greenland to Antarctica. Included is “Phantom Fleet”, a song reminiscing the old sailing scows of Auckland as described in Ted Ashby’s poems “Out of the Past” and “To the Rimu”, published in his book, The Phantom Fleet, AH & AW Reed 1975.

With John away expect a mix of a cappella harmony singing and songs with instrumental accompaniment (guitar, mandolin, harmonica and banjo) from Lew, Bob, Paul and Warren. Join them in the choruses, listen to the stories in the songs and smile at the irreverence of the sailor's attitude to life.

Visit http://www.maritimecrew.co.nz

June 3rd, 2016

Find out more at ;

http://storytelling.org.nz/?author=46

May 6th, 2016

Springtide

Although the internationally regarded trio SPRINGTIDE calls Australia home, they have a very real connection to New Zealand.

Hammered dulcimer player, Jackie Luke, grew up in the Waikato, but for the last three decades has travelled the globe seeking out music for her unusual instrument. She is joined by Greg Wilson on Celtic harp & accordions, and the innovative cellist Rita Woolhouse and together they produce a stunning mix of Celtic classics (O’Carolan, Dougie McLean) and musical gems from around the world.

Although their style is Anglo-Celtic influenced they also include Greek, Australian, New Zealand, and even classical music, as long as it works for a multitude of strings! Expect Scottish tunes to rub shoulders with Maori legend, Cornish Reels, Irish airs, and songs which touch the heart.

Springtide has played at major folk festivals and clubs around Australia, and toured UK, Ireland, USA and China.

Their recent CD "The Wisdom of Trees" invites you to tap your feet, or just chill out to the sounds of dulcimer, harp and cello - perfect!

www.springtidemusic.com

April 1st, 2016

Mark Laurent

Mark almost needs no introduction, he is so well known on the New Zealand music scene. A singer and songwriter, with a vast collection of songs and instrumentals to his name, Mark has a penchant for acoustic rock, blues and reggae, and plays guitar and mandolin with great style.

The reviews say it all:

"... (one of) New Zealand's finest and most prolific singer/songwriters.

.. amazing guitar work .. tongue in cheek humour, plenty of feeling."

Wellington Folk Festival

What a treat to have Mark Laurent for our July concert at the Sutherland Folk Club

… a breath of fresh air … a sheer delight to watch Mark's fingers glide over the guitar strings! The whole performance flowed.

I found Mark’s poetry particularly inspiring and relevant to today’s life in a simple direct way.

Sutherland Folk Club, Sydney

What a success it was! The place was packed to over flowing. People from all walks of life, musicians there to hear the legendary Mark play that guitar, people who had driven for over an hour because they had heard about this extraordinary guy…people from the local village who really didn’t know what to expect, young ,old…everybody. It was such a good night. The music was powerful, accessible. There were deeply moving moments, poignant moments, moments where the punters were rolling in the aisles. We only had positive feedback and everyone wanted him back. So I guess you could say we recommend (him)!!!

Mary Kippenberger (storyteller) & Peter Charlton-Jones (musician)

www.marklaurent.co.nz

March 4th, 8pm 2016

Pete & the Skiffy Rivets

If you like getting caught up in sweet, rich vocal harmonies, then get along to hear Pete & the Skiffy Rivets. This band offers a new take on Americana, folk, and bluegrass – one that is both unique and foot tapping.

Underneath a Pete & the Skiffy Rivets performance is Pete Parnham’s melodic resonator slide guitar, blended with the tasty mandolin of Steve Gerrish. But the show is inevitably stolen by the group's trademark four-part vocal harmonies, featuring Holly Carrington and Sue Tearne sharing background and lead vocals.

Pete Parnham is known as one of the original Remarkables, and for a host of other gigs on the folk scene, while Steve Gerrish brings to the mandolin his years of experience as a jazz guitarist with Caitlin Smith’s Fondue Set. Holly Carrington and Sue Tearne leave instruments behind to focus on vocals, an approach that has seen them in high demand to perform with the likes of Martha Louise.

www.skiffyrivetsmusic.com

Friday December 4th 2015 we celebrate the season with a Christmas Party club-night.

Christmas Club-Night

'Tis the season to sing!

The full program tonight is devoted to club-singers, with a Christmas sprinkling of offerings for your enjoyment from special guests Supersheep, Warren & Fi, and Threepenny Bit.

Musicians, it's your time to shine. Bring your best performance and we'll see you onstage. Places are limited so arrive in good time to get on the list.

Audience, bring your voices and enthusiasm for a great night of live music and festivity.

George will be making his famous mulled apple juice and putting up all the dazzling lights and decorations.

The format will be club-singers in both halves with a sprinkling of special guests.

Note: Special reduced prices for this evening.

November 6th, 8pm, 2015

John Hayday & Vaughan Morgan

John Hayday’s two passions in life have been boats and music. He has criss-crossed the world’s oceans many times and lived the life of a travelling minstrel. He’s fished in the Arctic Circle, sailed cargo ships from UK to NZ, and launched an influential folk club in Cornwall. Moving to NZ, he toured as a solo folk musician and supported overseas acts, built several large steel-hulled sailing craft, and devoted himself to the rigors of learning classical guitar and later teaching music.

Vaughan Morgan was one of the hundreds of students John taught and has gone on to become an accomplished performer and teacher himself. Vaughan and John co-wrote the score for a TV documentary and, after a break of about 10 years, they’ve recently started performing together again, recording their first CD. Don’t miss this chance to hear them.

October 2nd, 8pm 2015

Summer Breeze

Robin Nelson and Rosemary Thomas are two singer/songwriters who have combined their talents to provide you with a selection of gorgeous harmonies and beautiful songs.

Their songs are both self-penned original compositions and wonderful covers, performed in such a way that their voices complement each other, creating an enchanting balance.

Both Robin and Rosemary are accomplished performers in their own right and in 2014 they came together as Summer Breeze, to the delight of those who have heard them sing.

September 4th, 8pm 2015

Martha Louise

Singer, songwriter, dulcimer and guitar player, solo and backing vocalist, Martha lives in Auckland and is a regular guest at the local folk clubs. Last year she was featured at East Coast Folk Club, The Bunker in Devonport and The Titirangi Folk Club. She has been a guest over the years at Whare Flat Festival Dunedin, Canterbury in Christchurch, and Wellington and Auckland festivals. Since arriving from her native America in the 70s she has been an active part of the folk scene in Auckland. She has collaborated over the years with many others forming groups such as Gentle Annie in the early 80s, The Broccoli Sisters, Late Harvest, and Too Far Gone.

Her solo live performances are an opportunity for her to share her stories in song with strong clear vocals and a rhythmic instrumental style. Whether it is flat pick or finger pick, open tunings, guitar or dulcimer the words and music come from the heart.

She will be playing a new dulcimer and guitar made by good friend Peter Madill. There will be love songs, un-love songs, instrumentals, some country flavour and her originals which celebrate family, social comment and chocolate.

She will be joined by Sue Tearne and Holly Carrington for beautiful three part harmonies with instrumental and vocal backing from John Olding, Cam Bennett and Pete Parnham.

Her solo CDs Sense of Place and Journey will be available for $20 each and include many original songs.

August 7th, 8pm 2015

Al Young

Al Young is known throughout New Zealand as a blues master, with a striking and unique vocal and guitar style. But that’s not all he does. He also plays the autoharp … and he’s not too bad at it, taking the traditional folk and country instrument far from its origins into styles ranging from Celtic tunes to jazz.

Americans who have heard him have likened his playing to that of US autoharp maestro Bryan Bowers. Is he really that good? Come along and find out. You’ll be surprised.

Friday July 3rd 2015 was our club 23rd Birthday , celebrated in style with music from Micheal Young.

Micheal Young

Micheal will be returning to East Coast Folk Club as a solo performer, a rare occurrence these days as he is busy playing in various bands. His last appearance at the club was with his alt country/western swing band “Rainberry Pie”.

This time he will be playing the music that most influenced him, from the first song he ever performed to his latest musical passions. In other words, his “roots” music, a blend of Americana folk, country and swing.

Micheal will be supported by Deborah Mackenzie supplying beguiling harmonies and enticing melody lines.

BIO:

Micheal Young became obsessed with the guitar at the age of 18, inspired by the likes of James Taylor, Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, Joe Walsh, Chet Atkins and the Beatles. A few years later he latched on to the progressive fusion music of The Tony Rice Unit, David Grisman Quartet, Tony Trishka with Skyline, and New Grass Revival and added a mandolin to his toolkit.

His love for vocal harmonies has grown from his participation in the New Zealand bands “Wires & Wood”, “Too Far Gone”, “ReInTarNayShun” and "Rainberry Pie", as well as his album of duets “Double Helix”. He says “After a few years of honing my bass skills, I’ve been waiting for the right ensemble to invest my time and experience in - Albi & The Wolves is definitely the one”.

June 5th, 8pm 2015

Beverley Young

Beverley returns to East Coast Folk Club with a solo set of mainly traditional songs for your enjoyment.

Last year, she performed at the club with groups Supersheep and Beverley and the Clench Mountain Boys, but this is your chance to hear a selection of material from her solo catalogue – mainly traditional but with one or two surprise offerings to spice things up a bit.

Beverley will be joined by husband Al and a friend or two to add to the musical mix. Beautiful songs, intriguing instrumentation, a touch of humour and lovely vocals. What more could you want?

Your presence is required to make it really special. Don’t miss it.

Featured

May 1st, 8pm 2015

Phil Garland

Phil Garland has spent a lifetime researching, collecting, writing and performing, during which time he has often been described as A National Living Treasure and New Zealand's foremost and finest heritage balladeer. In recognition of this important work he recently received a QSM for services to folk music in the Queen's Birthday Honours List of 2014.

Over the years he has recorded some eighteen albums – winning Folk Album of the Year at the New Zealand Music Awards three times as well as being a shortlisted finalist on three further occasions. No stranger to music awards and international recognition, Phil has performed extensively around the world promoting the Kiwi musical heritage with a blended presentation of songs, ballads, stories and yarns that introduce audiences to the musical heart of New Zealand and its people. His entertaining performance prompted one American reviewer to say:- “his songs transport you to New Zealand so effectively, you may be inspired to take up residence there!”

As a Kiwi Balladeer and Singing Historian, Phil is constantly in demand throughout New Zealand and Australia. His music transcends many boundaries, demonstrated by the increasing number of local and international artists now interpreting his work. The Southland Times has called him A Country Music Legend, while a reviewer in the Christchurch Press described his songs as Crafted Colonial Storytelling. A Brisbane reviewer had this to say, “Phil plays a vintage 12 string guitar in a unique finger picking style, which is probably the best and cleanest style I have ever heard anyone play live on a 12 string guitar, while his songs were like old friends waiting to be heard for the first time.”

In 2007 Phil was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by ROCKONZ, the Christchurch based Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. His major work Faces in the Firelight was published by Steele Roberts in 2009 and looks at the New Zealand story through collected folksong, oral history, yarns, humour and back country verse. The Phil Garland Songbook was published by Kiwi Pacific Records in late 2011 and this is from them via sales@kiwipacific.com .

Phil recently released a new album Billycan Ballads, which is a musical tribute to the Kiwi balladry of the late Joe Charles and is intended to partner Joe's posthumous book of verse Blackberry Pie published in August 2014.

Further information about Phil's career, reviews and recordings can be found on his website: www.philgarland.co.nz .

Good Friday, April 6th, 2015

Club Singers Old & New

On Good Friday, April 6th, we invite you to a Club Singers' Special Night.

Come and hear a variety of performers in a range of "un-plugged" styles.

The hall has lovely acoustics, comfortable seats and a welcoming atmosphere.

This is a great chance to give new material an airing and for new performers to take the floor.

Please see us if you'd like to sing or play.

March 6th, 8pm, 2015

The Remarkables

The Remarkables are a 4 piece unit from Auckland/Tauranga playing music that can only be described as bluegrasscountryswing.

Hot on the heels of their headline performance at the 2015 Auckland Folk Festival, the band kicks off on their northern tour.

Their repertoire varies wildly from the hot swing sounds of Paris in the 1940s to the smoky bar-rooms of Texas, with Bob Wills overtones and then mixed with the bluegrass sounds of East Kentucky.

Neil Finlay plays guitar and is the lead singer. He is well known as a bluesman, but is equally at home in country music and Jazz. In 2008 he released his debut solo blues album, "Stop and Listen".

Bryan Christianson plays 5-string banjo with The Remarkables. He has appeared as a session musician on many NZ recordings in addition to his work with the Tui Award winning Wires & Wood.

Robbie Laven is one of New Zealand’s top instrumental performers, known for his work with Bonjour Swing, and earlier with Red Hot Peppers and the 1953 Memorial Society Rock and Roll Band. What he can do with an old washboard has to be seen to be believed!

Garry Trotman plays double bass in the band and sings the high vocal parts. He is an accomplished songwriter having recently released "Brand New Tradition", an album of original songs. He is also a member of Wires & Wood.

The Remarkables have previously appeared at the 2014 Hamilton Acoustic Music Club Festival, the 2013/14 Whare Flat Folk Festival, the 2013 Auckland Folk Festival , the 2012 Wellington Folk Festival, various bars and folk-clubs around Auckland and also at the more intimate settings of House Concerts in the greater Auckland area. They were a headline act at the Oparau Acoustic Festival (November 2014), and will be again at the Canterbury Folk Festival (Easter 2015).

Tonight's guest appearance will be preceded by casual performers in the first half.

The band will have copies of their new CD "Swinging On The Gate" for sale.

http://www.theremarkablesmusic.com/

February 6th, 8pm 2015

Chris Priestley & the Unsung Heroes

"Unsung Heroes" is a concert of songs and poems, featuring colourful characters from New Zealand’s wild colonial past.

In the tradition of folk balladeers, and with a keen eye for a good story, Chris Priestley has created an album of great stories and great songs:

- Songs that portray the heroes and heroines, villains and rogues, magicians, disasters and events that shaped our nation.

- Personalities as diverse as the Prussian adventurer Gustavus von Tempsky, New Zealand’s only female miner Little Biddy Goodwin of the Buller, and many more.

- Songs based on eyewitness accounts of the Tarawera eruption in 1886, and about the short life and tragic death of the tightrope dancer and barmaid Jennie Anderson.

The album "Unsung Heroes" was a finalist in the folk category in the 2013 Tui Awards.

Since then Chris has continued writing prolifically and produced a further collection of original songs of New Zealand's rogues and villains.

Tonight he will be joined by ace guitarist Nigel Gavin.

Club Singers' Special & Christmas Party 2014

We round off another year of wonderful folk music of many types with a full program of club singers and a few cameo spots from some familiar faces.

Musicians, it's your time to shine. Bring your best performance and we'll see you onstage. Places are limited so arrive in good time to get on the list.

Audience, bring your voices and enthusiasm for a great night of live music and festivity.

George will be making his famous mulled apple juice and putting up all the dazzling lights and decorations.

November 7th, 8pm 2014

Tamlin

'Eclectic' is the word that best sums up Tamlin's repertoire and musical approach. Their set-list is a mix of dance tunes and songs from the British Isles to the Balkans, from the USA to New Zealand, not confined to any particular style or genre. At the heart of it is driving rhythm and a lot of good fun.

Tamlin have been playing at various festivals (most recently the 2014 Auckland Folk Festival), dances, weddings, pubs, etc, for over 12 years now. The current lineup sees four very capable musicians joining forces – Greg & Linda Whitcombe, Jack Bramah & Cameron Bennett

· Greg Whitcombe can be relied on for a powerhouse performance on midi-accordion and cittern along with some superb singing. He'll also serve you up a fearsome dollop of wit and humour, some of it repeatable in polite company.

· Linda Whitcombe leaves the jokes to him - she's all about delivering on fiddle. 'Linda's wild for the music' in the immortal words of Charlie Montgomery, another fiddler extraordinaire.

· Jack Bramah is literally a Jack of all musical trades: he turns his hand to the fiddle, pipes, whistles, drums and percussion, guitar, plus sings in languages most of us could never get our tongues around.

· Cameron Bennett sings, provides very accomplished guitar backing and also injects a touch of Americana through occasional use of the dobro slide guitar.

So there you have it - an eclectic repertoire and an eclectic line-up of musicians who thoroughly enjoy themselves. They hope you do too.

October 3rd, 8pm, 2014

Mick Sibley

From blues to country, dustbowl to rock, every song a story, every story a song - Mick makes them his own.

Originally from North London, where he was given his first guitar and introduced to skiffle music, Mick later immigrated to Australia, spending a few years in a migrant hostel, where he learned to wag school and catch lizards. Eventually settling in NZ in the '60s, he played as guitarist, harmonica player and vocalist in several Kiwi bands.

Mick balanced his musical direction with a career in wildlife management. He is passionate about the environment and has received government recognition for his contribution towards saving endangered species. He is also an accomplished wildlife photographer.

For the past decade Mick has spent much of his time maintaining his lifestyle property in the Waitakere ranges, and working in the Pacific forests as a research assistant studying the New Caledonian Crows tool-making abilities, always accompanied by his favourite tool, the D-35 Martin guitar.

Mick is well respected for his disciplined blues-tinged guitar technique. He performs songs that mirror his own life journey and it shows. His laid-back singing style and presentation, along with an excellent choice of songs, makes him a popular guest.

September 5th, 8pm , 2014

Beverley & the Clench Mountain Boys

Bluegrass, country music, old favourites, new favourites, this band plays ’em all. Beverley Young, Bryan Christianson, Alan Young and Garry Trotman make up a real good band playing real good music – and having a real good time doing it.

They’ll be at the East Coast Folk Club on Friday September 5th.

August 1st, 8pm, 2014

Neil Finlay

Neil Finlay has been a blues enthusiast since he first discovered the music some 30 (plus) years ago, when he was a teenager. Although over the years he has been involved with many rock, country, Irish and dance music bands, it is the old-time blues to which he keeps returning.

Neil has been involved with many of the blues and country acts that toured New Zealand, either as part of the backing band (for Billy Joe Shaver and Townes Van Zandt) or as the support act. The most notable of these associations was when he toured New Zealand playing harmonica with blues great Brownie McGhee. McGhee said he wanted to take Neil with him on an upcoming tour that included dates in the States and Europe, but it was not to be as Brownie fell ill and was no longer able to tour.

Currently Neil is a member of the acoustic band 'The Remarkables' that this year appeared at the Dunedin Folk Music festival at Whare Flat and the Hamilton Acoustic Music Festival, and will be guests at the Auckland Folk Music festival in 2015.

July 4th, 8pm, 2014

Jan Elliott & Bevis England

With two guitars and two voices they create a unique tapestry of sound, exploring great songs and giving them new life.

Jan’s influences are contemporary artists such as Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin and The Indigo Girls. Her own songs are compelling and quirky with lyrics that will move and touch your heart. Jan’s voice has been described as ‘pure’ and ‘beautiful’.

Bevis is known as an innovative guitarist and lyricist.

Jan and Bevis met at a concert in late 2012 and have been getting to know each other, through their music, ever since. Both have been in various musical line-ups and bring novel arrangements to a rich variety of material.

With two guitars and two voices they create a unique tapestry of sound, exploring great songs and giving them new life.

Help celebrate the club’s 22nd Birthday. Please bring a plate for a shared supper.

Delicious mulled apple juice, tea and coffee will be served.

All welcome.

June 6th, 8pm, 2014

Nick Johnston & Clare Senior

Singers, songwriters and parents of two enthusiastic young performers who just can't keep off the stage!

Clare is no stranger to the folk scene. Having grown up with a family tradition of folk singing, she has performed for more than 30 years, both solo and with such groups as Florabunda, Blacksmith Band and most recently as part of Supersheep. Nick, on the other hand, learnt his trade in the once smokey trad sessions of Auckland's Irish pubs - first on whistle, then on bodhran, mandolin and octave mandolin, before venturing into songwriting.

Having met at the Auckland folk festival a dozen years ago, this couple has gone from strength to strength, developing into a singing/songwriting team who perform a mixture of traditional and self-penned works. Covering subjects from all over the world and all through history, expect a mix of humour, tragedy and social commentary, sometimes all in the same song.

May 2nd, 8pm, 2014

Madeline Beasley & Family

In February this year Madeline with her family performed a guest spot at the Devonport Bunker to a packed and very appreciative audience.

All fine singers in their own right, this was the first time the family had played together and they are very happy to be doing another guest spot at East Coast Folk Club.

There will be an eclectic mix of songs including some originals and covering several genres.

With great harmonious singing accompanied by guitars, keyboard and percussion, this will be a night to remember.

April 4th, 8pm, 2014

Rainberry Pie

The core of Rainberry Pie is the sometimes edgy, sometimes dulcet and always enchanting vocal harmonies of Deborah Mackenzie and Micheal Young. The vocals are backed up by a well defined acoustic instrumental groove. Not willing to be constrained to a narrow genre, Rainberry Pie explores many acoustic styles from alt-country, western swing, bluegrass, and pop, all while maintaining a cohesive and distinctive Rainberry sound. Deborah plays percussion and guitar. Micheal plays guitar and bass. David Blackman provides tasty fills on fiddle and mandolin while Tony Burt adds sizzle with his resonator guitars.

Band History:

After years of admiring each others music from afar and enjoying the occasional chance to sing together in a jam session, Deborah and Micheal started building a repertoire in early 2012, concentrating on vocal duets of various genres. It seemed there was magic there and they started honing the sound by performing in local clubs. The response was very positive and the repertoire kept growing. David and Tony joined up to round out the groove and help further define the Rainberry Pie sound.

March 7th, 8pm 2014

Shane Stewart and Anna Dunwoodie

Shane and Anna are well known in their respective instruments and showcase the unique sounds of the Scottish small pipes and harp together, playing traditional, contemporary and original tunes from the world of Celtic music.

Both started learning music as youngsters and went on to perform and teach in New Zealand and overseas. Coming from different early musical backgrounds (pipe bands for Shane and classical music for Anna) and playing two fundamentally different instruments, these two musicians meet on common musical ground - they are both published composers with their own work.

Writing and arranging music especially for small pipes and harp, they use traditional forms such as jigs, reels, hornpipes, marches and airs, and the play of melody and harmony between the two instruments.

Don’t be surprised too to hear the occasional traditional song from Anna or whistle tune from Shane.

“Both Shane and Anna are undoubtedly masters of their instruments

and have a delightful rapport with each other”

- Mike Nettman, Bay Chronicle, May 2012.

February 7th 2014, 8pm

Pete Grassby, Folksinger & Musician

A regular visitor to New Zealand, and described as a one-man folk festival, Pete was a popular guest at the club on his last trip, a couple of years ago, and we're very pleased to welcome him back.

He is a fine musician and singer, and well known as a solo performer at clubs and festivals around the UK and abroad. Dance caller and leader of the folk-rock Aardvark Ceilidh Band, Pete collects many tunes and dances during his travels. He also plays for and dances with Coventry Morris.

His recent CD 'Cilan’, named after the area around Porth Ceriad on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales, has 12 of the favourite tracks of his audiences. It includes a couple of his own songs and a breathtaking version of "The Trowie Burn' from Shetland.

Friday 6th December 2013

On Friday 6th December we start the festive season with a Club Singers Special for our Christmas Party.

Tonight it's your turn to perform. Cameo spots from some familiar faces too. Note special reduced prices for this evening.

Please bring a plate of finger food to share for supper. George will again be making his famous mulled apple juice and putting up his fabulous lights and decorations.

Club Singers Special - Christmas Party

We round off another year of fabulous folk music of many types with a full program of club singers and a few cameo spots from some familiar faces.

Musicians, it's your time to shine. Bring your best performance and we'll see you onstage. Places are limited so best to arrive in good time to get on the list.

Audience, bring your voices and enthusiasm for a great night of live music and festivity.

November 1st 2013

Andrea Reid & Victoria Vigenser

We started November in style with two of the folk music scene's finest young musicians. Andrea and Victoria will delight with their captivating harmonies and blend of musical styles. With material ranging from the depths of folk tradition to 21st century originals, their voices soar from the strident to the ethereal.

Daughter of the renowned Jean Reid and Andrew Judd, Andrea has been brought up in the folk scene and Victoria has been writing and performing on guitar and piano from a young age. Both play a variety of instruments including guitar, dulcimer, bodhran, tin whistles and ukulele.

You will be captivated by the energy and musical maturity in their remarkable performance.

October 4th, 2013

Phil Garland - Kiwi Balladeer

Phil Garland has spent a lifetime researching, collecting, writing and performing, during which time he has often been described as A National Living Treasure and New Zealand's foremost and finest heritage balladeer. Over the years he has recorded some eighteen albums – winning Folk Album of the Year at the New Zealand Music Awards three times as well as being a shortlisted finalist on three further occasions. No stranger to music awards and international recognition from the likes of Australia, Japan, USA, United Nations, Germany & Switzerland, Phil has performed extensively around the world promoting the Kiwi musical heritage with a blended presentation of songs, ballads, stories and yarns that introduce audiences to the musical heart of New Zealand and its people.

www.philgarland.co.nz

Friday September 6th 2013 we featured Singer / Songwriter / Instrumentalist Martha Louise - with strings attached.

Martha Louise - with strings attached

"As my love of music has a lot to do with my addiction to harmony, I like to think I sing with my instruments if I’m playing solo. It’s all about the way the voice and the notes mix, sometimes sweet, sometimes sitting on the edge of the chord and falling together at the last moment. These days I play acoustic steel string guitar and mountain dulcimer. I write when the spirit moves me, usually to tell a story."

"I have been performing in New Zealand since the late 70’s in folk and country music venues: clubs, festivals, concerts, supporting overseas artists, radio and TV, and have made three solo recordings. 'Changing Tides' and 'Mixed Feelings' are now combined on a CD released early 2007 called 'Sense of Place' and in March 2007 a new CD called 'Journey' was launched at café One 2 One in Ponsonby, where I am often found for the Thursday night acoustic sessions.

"I look forward to playing some of my set on September 6th with Emily Giles on cello and Emily Roughton on fiddle.

"Music for me is all about sharing common emotions and story telling. Whether it is humour, romance, or sorrow it is the interaction with an audience that holds the magic of live performance. "

Featured

August 2nd 2013

Bob Large

There are many Bobs. Bob the Folkie was introduced to the Titirangi Folk Club back in 1975 and folk music and the folk scene has been a huge and satisfying influence on his life ever since. He discovered the East Coast Folk Club back in its Whangaparaoa days.

Bob the Singer loves to sing in almost any circumstance: solo, in harmony with others, a cappella or accompanied and anything from traditional to contemporary songs. He enjoys singing some of Bob the Songwriter’s songs but equally enjoys singing songs written by friends and others. Bob the Musician plays a handmade Madill guitar in finger style and adds in a nice harmonica from time to time. Bob the Shantyman sings with the Maritime Crew and has a love of the sea, which pleases Bob the Sailor.

The Bobs will be integrated in performance at East Coast Folk Club with some of Bob the Songwriter’s songs and some of Bob the Singer’s favourites. No doubt they will call on some of their many folkie friends to help fill the stage at strategic moments. Bob the Entertainer will be there to ensure that you all have a great evening!

Featured for our 21st birthday party.

July 5th 2013 Warren Payne

After running a very successful session at the Auckland Folk Festival, this is Warren with what is unashamedly a Baby Boomers' Singalong - the perfect way to celebrate our "coming of age".

All the songs presented will be from the late 50s and 60s radio playlists - the songs most of us grew up with - capturing the atmosphere of the time.

You'll be surprised at how many of the words you remember, and we bet you'll want to sing along.

Warren has entertained at the club on a number of occasions and always delights the audience with his easy manner, informative introductions, wonderful guitar playing and mellow singing voice. Great whistling too! He's a quality performer whom we look forward to hearing again.

http://www.warrenpayne.co.nz/

Featured

June 7th, 2013

Al Young

Al Young is New Zealand’s master of the vintage blues. He’s played every major folk festival in the country – and some in Australia – he’s been a featured artist on the annual “Beale St Mess Around” in Memphis, Tennessee, not once but three times, he won a Tui Award before they were called Tuis ... he’s even played acoustic blues on New Zealand television and radio.

As well, he’s an international authority on blues and gospel music, with two books and many articles and CD liner notes to his credit.

As a sideline, he’s a top-class autoharp player, but above all, he’s a great guitar picker, known for his mastery of slide-style guitar, a powerful singer ... and a dynamic, entertaining performer.

Featured

May 3rd 2013

Mark Laurent & Brenda Liddiard

For more than two decades Mark and Brenda have been playing music together, part of that secret army of ‘indie’ musicians who fly just below the commercial radar, playing grass-roots, mostly un-plugged music throughout New Zealand, Australia and the UK. For them, songs, poetry and humour are ways to talk about "life, the universe, and everything". They are also well-known in acoustic music circles as solo performers.

Together or separately Mark and Brenda have recorded or contributed to around 30 albums, written hundreds of songs and instrumentals (some of which have been covered by other artists or used in movie soundtracks), with a range of styles including blues, reggae, acoustic rock, ambient, folk ballads and alt country, all delivered on guitars, mandolin, rowan lute and vocals.

" Two of New Zealand's finest singer/songwriters ... amazing guitar work ... punchy mandolin ... tongue in cheek humour ... plenty of feeling" ~ Wellington Folk Festival

Brenda's recent album Box of Memories was a finalist in the 2013 Best Folk Album Tui Award.

Featured

Jean Reid April 15th 2013

Headline guest at the 2008 Auckland Folk Festival, Jean offers a varied mix of traditional, contemporary and original songs.

Come along and be enchanted by this stunning local folk legend.

Featured

March 1st 2013

Chris Priestley with Cameron Bennett

Fresh from their performance at the Auckland Folk Festival, a concert of heritage songs by Chris Priestley with Cameron Bennett and other friends.

From Huria Matenga to Von Tempsky and Kimble Bent, Captains Moonlight and Lorraine, and Little Biddy of the Buller - New Zealand's intriguing Unsung Heroes and the odd villain.

Featured

February 1st 2013

Bill Morrison

A couple of years later (in 1995) he emigrated to NZ himself and was pleased to find a flourishing folk scene in Auckland and meet "the best people a stranger in a strange land could hope for."

Christmas 2012

December 7th, 8pm Club Singers Special - Christmas Party

We round off another year of fabulous

folk music of many types with a full program of club singers and a few cameo spots from some familiar faces.

Musicians, it's your time to shine. Bring your best performance and we'll see you onstage. Places are limited so best to arrive in good time to get on the list.

Audience, bring your voices and enthusiasm for a great night of live music and festivity.

Please bring a plate to share for supper.

Delicious mulled apple juice, tea & coffee

will be served.

November 2nd 2012

Tamlin

'Eclectic' is the word that best sums up Tamlin's repertoire and musical approach. Their set-list is a mix of dance tunes and song from the British Isles to the Balkans, from the USA to New Zealand. As much World Music as Folk, you'll see them swapping a wide range of instruments, including cittern, accordian, Hummelchen & Galician pipes, whistles, tambourines, fiddle, dobro and guitar. Their approach is about not being confined to any particular style or genre. At the heart of it is driving rhythm and a lot of good fun.

Greg Whitcombe can be relied on for a powerhouse performance on midi-accordian and cittern along with some superb singing. He'll also serve you up a fearsome dollop of wit and humour. Quite the raconteur is our Greg.

Linda Whitcombe leaves the jokes to him - she's all about delivering on fiddle. “Linda's wild for the music,” in the immortal words of Charlie Montgomery, another fiddler extraordinaire.

Jack Bramah is literally a Jack of all musical trades: he turns his hand to the fiddle, pipes, whistles, drums and percussion, guitar, plus sings in languages most of us could never get our tongues around. You're in for a treat with Jack.

Cameron Bennett, the most recent addition to the group, sings, provides guitar backing and also injects a touch of Americana through use of the dobro slide guitar

Featured Guest October 5th 2012 Beverley Young

Beverley is acknowledged as one of the finest exponents of British and Celtic folksong in New Zealand. A lifelong love of the poetic songs and ballads in the British and Irish traditions, coupled with a lovely voice and fluid vocal style, lend an unforgettable intensity to her performances.

Most recently she is known for her work with a cappella trad group Supersheep and country/bluegrass outfit Beverley & The Clench Mountain Boys. For this performance expect a largely traditional set, interwoven with strands of country and contemporary song, and the musical support of Al Young and a few other well known friends.

Beverley has three recordings of her own, the first of which won the RIANZ folk award category in the year of its release. The other two were finalists in the Tui awards.

She has performed at concerts, clubs and festivals throughout New Zealand and Australia and in the UK as part of a cappella trio Florabunda. Over the years Beverley has also given many vocal workshops and singing sessions, helping lots of other singers find their voice.

She will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See the organisers if you'd like to sing or play.

Featured Guest Danny Spooner September 7th 2012

London-born Daylesford Victoria resident, Danny Spooner, is regarded as the foremost traditional singer in Australia. Born into a working-class family in the East End of London just before World War 2, Danny grew up with the singing-round-the-piano tradition and folklore of a typical Cockney family. But for years he has performed at music festivals and in folk clubs all over Australia, New Zealand, North America and in Britain, singing and talking about aspects of the folk songs of Britain and Australia.

He learned his craft as a boy on the Thames. His master Bob Roberts was a good singer who taught him many English songs and enrolled his ‘boy’ in libraries along the coast to read history - which he came to understand was the explanation for the songs. He followed an apprenticeship as a Thames Waterman and Lighterman, becoming a Freeman of the River, then skippered a North Sea trawler and a deep sea tug, before working his way to Australia. This varied, almost nomadic life, has given Danny an all-too-rare education in the ways of working class people.

When Danny arrived in Australia in 1962, he realised that there was an audience ready, interested, and willing to appreciate the songs of his childhood and working life. The Melbourne folksong revival of the 60s focused on British and American material. Thanks to a prodigious memory and a willingness to learn about his craft, Danny Spooner developed into one of the best singers of British folksongs in Australia. Over the years he has augmented what he had learned “on the job” with a vast repertoire spanning almost every part of the British tradition as well as a respectable portion of the Australian folk heritage, and now some irresistible American songs and French chanties.

Now he has retired, Danny has much more time for singing, and has enjoyed leaving the Australian winter behind to sing in the shanty festivals of Europe, the pubs and clubs and festivals on England, and performing in Canada and America at festivals, summer camps, house concerts and pubs – wherever good folk gather to listen to a new song, or join in a familiar one. He’s treasured for his personal warmth, and loves to pass songs on.

If there is one thing that sets Danny Spooner apart, it is his generosity in helping others to sing the songs he loves. He simply enjoys ‘getting people singing’.

www.dannyspooner.com

Danny will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See the organisers if you'd like to sing or play.

August 3rd 2012 The Remarkables [and now with Robbie Laven]

The Remarkables

The Remarkables are a lively acoustic trio, who will entertain you with a unique mixture of jazz swing, blues, country and bluegrass, sung and played with a bull fiddle, a New Zealand guitar and a smokin’ bluegrass banjo.

It started one Saturday afternoon with the three mates and, well, a small measure of brown coloured throat tonic. Next thing you know, the afternoon evaporated, the sun was sinking low and a whole new musical genre had evolved – bluegrasscountryswing.

Be prepared for a happy surprise when you hear their treatment of familiar tunes and new favourites. Expect anything from bass slappin’ fast tunes, to thoughtful ballads and anything else that happens to have captured the band's imagination.

Neil Finlay and Peter Parnham are known for the foot tapping blues of Stop and Listen, Bryan Christianson is borrowed from award winning bluegrass band Wires and Wood, while the band is named for the South Island mountain range that none of them have climbed.

www.theremarkablesmusic.com

The Remarkables will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See the organisers if you'd like to sing or play.

With Robbie Laven;

Our guests for Friday July 6th 2012 are the delightful Easy St

Easy St (1990-1999) - Kerrin Worsfold, Jenny Kilpatrick & Tony Ricketts

The diversity of this group can be gauged from the range of their individual achievements. Kerrin was awarded the Nobel Physics Prize for his 1993 accordion solo on "Fields of Athenry" (with Twisted Willie). Jenny invented the Blind Date concert in 1996, and teaches performance kazoo at the University of Tauranga. Tony once won $15 on Lotto, and in 1970 danced (in tights) in an excerpt from Swan Lake.

Easy St's eponymous 1996 CD won great acclaim from Kerrin's mum and that couple in Dannevirke. No-one can remember why they stopped playing together, but this is the first time this millennium they've been asked to get the old show on the road.

(Note: Not many facts were misused in this write-up.)

Easy St will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. Please see us if you would like to sing or play and we will try to fit you on the programme.

June 1st 2012, Ian Bartlett - Rakes, Rogues and Reprobates.

Ian Bartlett - Rakes, Rogues and Reprobates.

Who was hung twice at Execution Dock? What was a poacher's fate? What is the link between a famous playwright and a mad dog?

Folk songs are rich in the history of the seedier side of life in Britain from the earliest of times - songs that feed the imagination about times we are glad we didn’t live through, yet which still fascinate us.

Ian Bartlett’s Rakes and Rogues set will bring those characters alive again in songs and stories. With a few tunes on the * Cauld Wind pipes and whistles (not at the same time!) and some friends to join him from time to time, you’ll hear about, and sing about, characters you’ll be pleased you never met.

( * Cauld wind pipes is a Scottish term referring to any Scottish bagpipe that is bellows-blown rather than blown with the mouth.)

The guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See the organisers if you'd like to sing or play.

Featured May 4th 2012 The Warren Brothers

The Warren Brothers

Lofty Slim Curly

The "Brothers" are a line-up of three friends who enjoy playing Country music in fairly traditional style. Originally cobbled together to perform at the folk festival, they so enjoyed playing together they decided to take it further. Strong on vocals, with tight harmonies, this combo has been enthusiastically received wherever they have performed.

Slim (Warren Payne): Vocals, guitar, harmonicas, mandolin, slide guitar

Competent multi-instrumentalist, has been singing 50's/60's Country radio hits for years.

Dedicated singer and a "front man" with a warm sense of humour.

Lofty (Dave Warren): Guitars, vocals, mandolin, upright bass

Plays both 6- & 12-string guitars, is a real hot Bluegrass picker (member of the Tui Award winning band "Wires & Wood") and excellent in the tight harmony singing.

Curly (Alec Healy): Upright bass, vocals, 5-string banjo

Wonderful driving bass player, tasty Scruggs-style banjo picker and general clown.

His totally infectious enthusiasm delights audiences every time. (Former/founding member of "Wires & Wood".)

The guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club-singers in the first half. Please see us if you'd like to sing or play.

Featured April 6th 2012, 8pm Club Singers Old & New

On Good Friday,6th April we invite you to a Club Singers' Special Night.

Come and hear a variety of performers in a range of“un-plugged” styles.The hall has lovely acoustics, comfortable seats and a welcoming atmosphere.This is a great chance to give new material an airing and for new performers to take the floor.

Please see us if you'd like to sing or play.

Featured Guests March 2nd 2012, 8pm C.O. Jones Band

C.O. Jones Band

It’s a brand new band in town, and it’s making its first full concert appearance at the East Coast Folk Club. Yes, you might think you recognize those faces... and you’re right. But what a line-up!

Harmonica maestro Jack Craw, slide guitar king Al Young and bass supremo Garry Trotman all together at the same time on the same stage, singing as well as playing all that good old blues stuff ... much of which will be new to Auckland audiences.

These guys know their way around the good time blues, and they know how to make sure everyone listening to them has a good time too. Don’t miss it!

(And who’s C.O. Jones. Oh, explain the band members, he’s our manager. If you want to get it right, you’ve got to have C.O. Jones.)

Featured Guest February 3rd 2012, 8pm Pete Grassby

Pete Grassby

A regular visitor to New Zealand, and described as a one-man folk festival, Pete comes to us hot on the heels of a guest appearance with his acoustic ceilidh band 'The Grasshoppers' at this year's Auckland Folk Fest at Kumeu.

He is a fine musician and singer in his own right and well-known as a solo performer at clubs and festivals around the UK and abroad. Dance caller and leader of the folk-rock Aardvark Ceilidh Band (seen in Auckland 2007), Pete collects many tunes and dances during his travels. He also plays for and dances with Coventry Morris.

Pete has been singing since he was four. The melodeon took over from the guitar as his main instrument when he started Morris dancing. He has wide experience of playing and teaching the instrument, and left his factory job to repair and deal in musical instruments about 25 years ago.

His new CD 'Cilan’, is named after the area around Porth Ceriad on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales has 12 of the favourite tracks of his audiences. It includes a couple of his own songs and a breathtaking version of "The Trowie Burn' from Shetland.

The guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. Please see us if you'd like to sing or play.

East Coast Folk Club is closed throughout January

East Coast Folk Club is closed throughout January, re-opening February 3rd for a great evening with Pete Grassby.

The wonderful Auckland Folk Festival is on of course at Kumeu Showgrounds during Auckland Anniversary Weekend - January 27th - 30th, 2012.

Get your weekend ticket at the pre-registration discount price available until 13th January.

Go to the festival website for all the details:

http://www.aucklandfolkfestival.co.nz/

Featured Guests December 2nd 2011, 8pm Supersheep

Supersheep...no it’s not some new scientific cloning wonder, but an acapella group of super proportions!

Supersheep are THE supergroup of British Traditional folksong in New Zealand.

Singers Jean Reid, Clare Senior, Beverley Young, Terry Free and Ian Bartlett blend their voices on a collection of ballads and songs, presented for your entertainment.

As it is Christmas celebration time at East Coast Folk Club, expect some seasonal offerings and tidings of great joy....well the seasonal offerings anyway, and the ever popular songs of the working man.

Come and join us on December 2nd. Ewe’ll regret it if you don’t.

The guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. Please see us if you'd like to sing or play.

Nov. 4th 2011 Guests are Wires and Wood

Wires & Wood

Micheal Young, Bryan Christianson, Dave Warren and Garry Trotman had all been playing bluegrass music for as long as they can remember. About 6 years ago they were all in the same place at the same and Wires and Wood came into being.

What started out as a Friday night jam session turned into a tight bluegrass unit, playing the music they love. This music encompasses the the high lonesome sounds of Bill Monroe, the thoughtful compositions of Tim O'Brien, countrified versions of 'old favourites' through to the hard driving dynamics of contemporary bluegrass.

From hard driving instrumentals to heart melting waltzes, Wires and Wood will keep you entertained.

Their work over the last 6 years, playing folk venues throughout New Zealand and guest appearances at most of the Folk Festivals in the country, culminated in their debut album, Over the Moon", receiving the coveted RIANZ Tui Award for Best Folk Music CD 2010/11. CDs will be available on the night.

www.wiresandwood.co.nz

Winner of the 2010/11 RIANZ Tui for "Best Folk Album"

Featured Guests October 7th 2011, 8pm Blackheart - the Miracle Tour

Just three years in, Blackheart, comprising Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington are widely regarded as the fastest rising stars of the new acoustic generation, having become established with their live concerts, the outstanding debut album ‘Indigo’ and now the new CD 'Invisible'. Plans for 2011 include the release of their third album ‘Songs From A Satellite'. Their songwriting blends rock, pop, Americana and folk influences to create a unique style of beautifully crafted, instantly memorable songs that take their audiences on an emotional roller-coaster ride from sadness and sensitive, intellectual lyrical observation, to the most energetic rocking folk that has audiences on their feet. Their sound, christened by the media ‘urban folk’, combines the distinctively expressive vocals of Chrissy Mostyn and the imaginative and inspired guitar playing of Rick Pilkington. 2010 saw the band complete successful tours of the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Having survived a serious motorway crash in June, they make a very welcome return to the club on the Australasian leg of their Miracle Tour.

"They flow with a passion that thrills - sometimes uplifting, sometimes tragic. This is clever stuff as well as exceptionally good music" JUICE (Live Review)

www.blackheartmusic.co.uk

www.youtube.com/blackheartvideo

www.lep.co.uk/news/miracle_band_s_joy_at_andre_gig_1_3631200

The 45 minute guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See us if you'd like to sing or play.

Featured Guests September 2nd 2011, 8pm Neil Finlay with Peter Parnham

Neil has been a blues enthusiast since he first discovered the music some 30 years ago when he was a teenager. Although over the years he has played with many rock, country, Irish and dance music bands, it is the old-time blues to which he keeps returning. During the 1980s and 90s Neil was involved with many of the blues and country acts that toured New Zealand either as part of the backing band (for Billy Joe Shaver and Townes Van Zandt) or as the support act.

The most notable of these associations was when he toured New Zealand playing harmonica with blues great Brownie McGhee. McGhee said he wanted to take Neil with him on an up-coming tour that included dates in the States and Europe, but it was not to be as Brownie fell ill and was no longer able to tour.

In subsequent years Neil has been a guest at the Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin and Hamilton Folk Festivals. He plays rock n roll gigs most weekends and is a regular guest at Devonport Folk Club.

Neil and Peter Parnham are currently promoting their album of acoustic blues "Stop and Listen".

Also, Neil, Peter and banjo ace Bryan Christianson have joined forces to form "The Remarkables". This group plays a mixture of bluegrass, country, jazz and western swing and Bryan has agreed to come along so they can give you a taste!

www.neilfinlay.com

www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaY1ty9iJmw

Featured Guest August 5th 2011, 8pm Anna Rugis

Anna Rugis performs her contemporary port a’bial (mouth music), new and old songs in the tradition of vocal dance music from the Hebridean Islands of Scotland.

Over a long interesting career she has sung musical comedy, jazz, bluegrass, pop, folk and opera. She worked as a backup singer for many well-known artists including Cat Stevens, Cliff Richard, The Kinks & Van Morrison.

She has produced CDs for other singers (Diane Ponzio’s "In the Middle", Linn Lorkin’s "Kiwiana") as well as many of her own music ("Reconciliation", "Cave Songs", "Traffic in Gold"), including a series of CDs of musicals with environmental themes for children.

Anna's 45 minute guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers in the first half. See the organisers if you'd like to sing or play.

About Anna's latest album TRAFFIC IN GOLD:

"From the get go this album surprises and captures your attention with its Celtic melodies, enticing vocals. Rugis knows how to evoke with her voice and music. This will give you goosebumps and more besides. This woman's voice needs to be heard."

- NZ Musician.

"Anna takes an old tradition & brings it alive into the 21st century. Entrancing & inspiring."

- New Edinburgh Folk Club, Dunedin.

www.myspace.com/annarugis

July 1st 2011, 8pm – Our 19th Birthday Party - Our Guest Paul Symons

Paul Symons

You know Paul, the big hairy Westie fella in the V8 truck. He plays guitar and pedal steel with Micheal, Martha & Peter in Too Far Gone, guests at this year's Auckland Folk Festival, and our club guests too this time last year. Well, he's been playing guitar and writing songs since he was a kid, growing up on the coast in Taranaki. These days he's based in Kumeu and works as a builder in and around the city.

Paul's 2005 CD "Spaceman" was very well received and he's on the verge of releasing a brand new album called "Shooting Stars".

Playing a rhythm-charged mix of folk, blues and country styles, and singing original songs he's written along the way, Paul will be joined by some very special guests to help celebrate East Coast Folk Club's 19th Birthday.

It's gonna be a party!

Please bring a plate to share for supper. Mulled apple juice will be served, in addition to the usual free tea and coffee.

Listen to "Spaceman": http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/paulsymons

Featured Guest June 3rd 2011, 8pm Pete Rogers

Originally from Lincolnshire, on England's east coast, Pete still retains his distinctive accent after 15 years in New Zealand. New to the folk scene and predominantly self taught, he plays fiddle and bodhran, and will be accompanied on guitar for some of the set by well-known Auckland folk musician and club member Bill Morrison.

Pete sings anything from Irish ballads to English folk, with the occasional tune or song from other countries - France, America, Australia - making for an entertaining evening. Audience participation will be welcome so when you come along be prepared to join in and enjoy the night.

May 6th 2011, 8pm Bill & Kath Worsfold

Before there was any Irish "scene" in Auckland, Bill and Kath started one of the first Irish folk bands, "Napper Tandy", and later the very New Zealand "Gumdiggers Bush Band". Later still came the unique folk/medieval band "The Village Waites".

Stalwarts of many Auckland folk clubs including the Poles Apart, Titirangi, Devonport and of course the East Coast Folk Club, the couple also performed the inaugural guest spots at Tir Na Nog, Stray Notes and the old Torbay Folk Club.

Bill and Kath originally specialised in New Zealand traditional folk music and both are multi-instrumentalists and harmony singers. Bill suddenly found his song-writing muse in the '90s and has gone on to write a collection of around 100 songs over the years since then. It is mainly from this repertoire that Bill and Kath have selected material for their ECFC guest appearance, plus a few old favourites with former band members.

Expect lots of interesting instruments, rich harmonies, and plenty of opportunities for audience harmonies to shine out as well.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Bill and Kath, with support from some members of groups they have have fronted over the years - including your hosts Judith Moore and Bob Uhe, and Kim Uhe! www.billkath.co.nz

Featured Guest April 1st 2011, 8pm Phil Drane

Phil Drane

English guitarist & songwriter Phil Drane returned to folk music and ‘live’ performance just three years ago and has been delighting audiences everywhere he has played. He has a natural ability to engage easily with any audience, large or small and loves the spontaneity and interaction of performing ‘live’.

Phil’s performances are a heady brew of traditional and contemporary folk songs from his own English folk-roots and material from other cultures that have influenced his life, along with his own well-crafted compositions such as the award-winning "Song for Jackie".

His guitar work is much admired everywhere he performs, particularly his fulsome use of open tunings, and his playing has been described as ‘reminiscent of the very best exponents of finger-style guitar’.

An eclectic repertoire of songs, beautifully arranged and presented, smooth vocals and silky guitar, mixed with a soupcon of chat and witty banter, all adds up to an experience not to be missed.

www.phildrane.com

“Your gig was brilliant Phil!! … Beautiful songs, well sung and lovely guitar accompaniment. I was engrossed from start to finish and the evening flew by all too quickly. It was obvious that the audience loved your performance and feedback has been all positive.”

- Tricia Lee, Titirangi Folk Club

March 4th 2011, 8pm Our Guests are Chillele.

Feb 9, '11 1:00 AM

by bob for everyone

A flexible melding of 2, 3 or 4 musicians, Chillele (Chill-ay-lee), on this occasion, will be a quartet with Angela Fox on ukulele, Pedro Olding on a re-jigged cello, Mark Watson on guitar, Chris Priestley on cajon and guitar, and vocals from them all.

Chillele delve into the musical archives of their grandparents' era to find forgotten gems that almost everyone recognizes and anyone can sing along to. There's a bit of swing, pop, rock, jazz, and contemporary and traditional folk music - pretty much anything the band fancies - with an emphasis on happy old swing tunes, schmaltzy torch songs, and a liberal sprinkling of favourites from anywhere, anytime.

Chillele boast that they collectively have more than a century’s worth of experience in the industry, and are working on knocking out their next century of good, tasty music.

Featured Guest February 4th 2011, 8pm Becky Syson

When you hear Becky Syson perform live you'll understand why her music has been described as "Sublime Folk Rock". With countless blooms of first-rate songs and an infectious personality on stage, it's no wonder that she's highly received by audiences and promoters alike. Brought up in a musical environment, in which her dad and grandad encouraged her to pick up the guitar, Becky found her passion for playing at the age of sixteen.

The English singer-songwriter self-released her debut album "HOLLAND" (Hope Our Love Lasts And Never Dies) in May 2008.

She has since performed at a variety of English festivals and for BBC Radio Nottingham at the Royal Concert Hall. Her latest release with Arboretum Records is already capturing the hearts of those who hear it - "Weave Your Dreams" is a music lover's must have CD.

'Both intimate and dramatic, with a voice of true range, power and passion, Becky Syson was one of the word-of-mouth hits of the festival. Evoking the spirits of both Carina Round and Julianne Regan, she steps well beyond Folk Rock into far more fascinating terrain. Deeply impressive.'

Steve Hands, The Folk Thing Festival

'Her lyrics, especially those of H.O.L.L.A.N.D, spoke straight to the heart, and tugged at the soul. A highly talented song smith, Becky is a true star and has a bright future.'

Dominic Wills, Burnham-On-Sea FolkFest

'H.O.L.L.A.N.D, Hope Our Love Lasts And Never Dies is the name of Becky's superb Album... inspired by her grandfather's letters to her grandmother... beautifully crafted songs, wonderful guitar work and delicious voice.

Becky has to be seen live to be fully appreciated.'

Candlelit

'Becky Syson is possibly the best female acoustic artist we have ever heard, Becky and her band are simply stunning, if its amazing harmonies meaningful lyrics and brilliant musicianship you want, that's what you will get.'

The Running Horse

'Becky has a real passion for her music and performance. With powerful and uplifting songs contrasting between

soft traditional folk and emotion driven folk-rock. A pleasure to listen to.'

The Maze

http://www.beckysyson.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Becky-Syson/15532716662

December 3rd Our Guests Are Beyondsemble

Nov 5, '10 2:51 PM

by bob for everyone

Beyondsemble - Mark Mazengarb, Chris Koole, Jess Hindin and Craig Denham.

These four talented musicians have the skill to make music of the highest quality look easy.

Some of the most exciting, energetic and enchanting acoustic music to come out of New Zealand in recent times. From Gypsy to Jazz, Rocksteady to Celtic, Tango to Bluegrass and Beyond. Music to move you and make you move. With a strong improvisational edge, Beyondsemble perform an incredible mix of different styles sourced from all over the world as well as their own compositions.

“A breathless and delicious whirl from Bolivia to Macedonia, from Ireland to France, Hungary to the USA” - just back in Auckland from a dazzling tour of New Zealand.

This the East Coast Folk Club Christmas Party

Please bring a plate of finger food to share for supper. Mulled juice, tea and coffee will be served.

All welcome. The 45 minute guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

November 5th, 8pm Jean & Andrea Reid - Mother & daughter duo

Oct 29, '10 12:04 AM

by bob for everyone

Prominent in the New Zealand folk scene since the 1970s, Jean has performed solo and in various groups with many noted local folk musicians over the years and was a headline guest at the 2008 Auckland Folk Festival. She delighted us at the club recently as a member of "Supersheep". One of New Zealand folk music’s top female vocalists, Jean is originally from Glasgow and much of her music is of Scots origin and influence.

Born into the folk scene 18 years ago, Andrea has grown up surrounded by music and has a natural talent and aptitude for it. She is also making a name for herself in theatre and was joint winner of the Martin Blackman Award 2010.

Together Jean & Andrea play a variety of instruments including guitar, dulcimer, mandolin and whistle, to accompany their expressive vocal harmonies.

All welcome. The guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

Cancelled (see latest blog for new guests) November 5th 8pm Our Guest was Ian Bartlett

Oct 1, '10 10:48 PM

by bob for everyone

Ian Bartlett "Remember, Remember the Fifth of November, Gunpowder Treason & Plot."

Ian has been a regular performer on the Auckland folk music scene for some years, known for his work in Westumbria, Supersheep and Chromium Brothers.

In honour of the occasion, tonight he’s treating us to songs of Guy Fawkes, footpads, press gangs, hangmen and assorted other rogues! He's sure to roll out a few amusing ditties too and some cracking tunes on the sweet toned Northumbrian and Scottish smallpipes.

All welcome. Bring your friends, and bring your voices for some rousing choruses.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

October 1st, 8pm Our Guests Blackheart

Sep 3, '10 4:24 PM

by bob for everyone

“Blackheart are writing the folk songs of the future.” Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington are widely regarded as the fastest rising new stars of the British acoustic scene and have had their unique style of music christened 'Urban Folk' by the UK music press. Combining the sound of traditional acoustic folk instruments with a totally modern approach to their songwriting, they have a unique style of beautifully crafted, instantly memorable songs, which take their audiences on an emotional roller-coaster ride from sadness and sensitivity to the most energetic rocking folk that has audiences on their feet. Their sound features the lemon and honey voice of Chrissy Mostyn and the jaw-dropping acoustic guitar and mandola playing of Rick Pilkington. The songs they write are personal true stories about everything from hometowns and homelessness to faith and bereavement and they tell fascinating, sometimes hilarious and sometimes very moving stories about the songs, how they were written and also about their unusual musical life on the road. Recently hailed as the most exciting British songwriting duo of the decade and now signed by Angel Air Records they have released two albums and two singles. Their schedule of over 150 shows a year has consolidated their name as one of the hardest working and audience inspiring acts on the folk scene today.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

September 3rd, 8pm Our Guests Beverley & the Clench Mountain Boys

Aug 6, '10 7:07 PM

by bob for everyone

September 3rd, 8pm Beverley & the Clench Mountain Boys

‘Is that the old mountain you been singing about so much? My Clinch Mountain home?’

Jimmie Rodgers visits the Carter Family (1931)

No, Jimmie, this is Clench Mountain. It’s in another place and another space from good ol’ Clinch Mountain, the inspiration for legendary country music and bluegrass pioneers the Carter Family and the Stanley Brothers ... but it’s also only a step away. The music from Clench Mountain pays homage to the Carters and the Stanleys, but it also reaches out into other areas of country music, all delivered in the unique Clench Mountain style.

That style comes from the unrivalled vocal talents of Beverley Young, the driving five-string banjo of Bryan Christianson and the multi-instrumental skills of Alan Young, all underpinned by the bass-playing of Garry Trotman. It’s a real good band playing real good music ... and having a real good time doing it.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

August 6th, 8pm Our Guests Angel Gordon & Kerrin Worsfold:

Jul 2, '10 4:56 PM

by bob for everyone

Angel Gordon began playing Celtic music as a "holiday" from his legitimate career as a concert pianist. Well, that was in 1993, and what a long, strange holiday it's been. Renown for his abilities on a slew of instruments, he has contributed beyond words to numerous live bands - Ghengis Carney, The Dogs Bollix Band, Cuchulainn - and maintained his own very high musical standards in every case.

Kerrin Worsfold began playing accordian at age 9, unable to forsee the shame and disillusionment it would bring, spreading through his life like an incurable sickness. Not to be deterred he went on to play with most of Auckland's busiest celtic bands, and contributed to many local recordings as a player, engineer and arranger. A sympathetic accompanist on several instruments, he is no stranger to the folk scene. No stranger than the rest of you, that is...

Angel and Kerrin have worked together almost constantly since 1994, both in bands and in the duo format, and in various instrumental combinations. Their choice of material is strictly self-indulgent and reaches back into the bowels of the Irish tradition, but includ

es songs from contemporary writers such as Christy Moore and Elvis Costello. This is their first performance in two years - they're just glad it will be somewhere nice, like the East Coast Folk Club.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

July 2nd, 8pm Too Far Gone:

Jun 4, '10 8:36 PM

by bob for everyone

MARTHA LOUISE, MICHEAL YOUNG, PETER PARNHAM & PAUL SYMONS Explorations into vocal harmony, groove and Texas songwriter tradition. Excursions North, South and West blend into a travelogue of the most uplifting, real & infectiously toe-tapping music ever heard in them thar hills!

~ Our 18th Birthday Celebration ~

Please bring a plate of finger food to share – mulled apple juice, tea & coffee will be served.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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June 4th, 8pm Kathy & Wallace Dempster

May 7, '10 5:09 PM

by bob for everyone

Scottish and Irish folk balladeers, Kathy and Wallace, both Glasgow born, first met through the folk music scene, being founder members of Scottish folk band "Barley Bree’. After a break to raise three sons, their passion for traditional music was so strong they returned to singing and performing as a duo. It was initially just to be a hobby, but developed into a CD and appearances as guests at clubs and hotels, particularly in the West Coast towns and villages of Scotland.

Their repertoire consists mainly of Scottish songs but they also add Irish, English and Kiwi songs for variety, along with guitar, cittern, bodhran and whistle.

Since coming to New Zealand seven years ago, they have performed regularly at folk clubs, festivals and Scottish events. They felt privileged to be the special guests at the Highland Games and Tattoo in Paeroa where they quickly had to learn both New Zealand and Australian National Anthems and lead the 5,000 in singing them, which was a very moving and unforgettable experience.

Other Details:

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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May 7th, 8pm Supersheep

Apr 2, '10 3:46 PM

by bob for everyone

Our Guests May 7th, 8pm Supersheep

Terry Free, Jean Reid, Clare Senior, Beverley Young & Ian Bartlett - All great singers & entertainers in their own right, together they make up an a cappella group par excellence.

They take delight in songs from the British tradition & incorporate songs of ceremony with pastoral ditties & songs from the workers struggle against tyranny & oppression. In fact any song with a good tune and a pertinent message is considered fair game for the Supersheep treatment!

The 45 minute guest performance will be preceded by a variety of club singers.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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Our guests on Good Friday 2nd April are harmony duo Dinah Saxby & Madeline Beasley

Mar 5, '10 3:37 PM

by bob for everyone

Dinah Saxby & Madeline Beasley If it's got a good melody and interesting lyrics, they want to sing it!. Doesn't matter if it's a medieval English folk song, an Irish ballad or a country song from the hills of Kentucky. They love them all!

Dinah & Madeline enjoy working their own harmonies into all sorts of songs, with or without guitar accompaniment, and have created some beautiful arrangements.

At the Auckland Folk Festival this year they were part of the Peter, Paul and Mary singalong, and may do some of those songs as well, with a little help from their friends & audience.

Start the Easter break with a relaxed and enjoyable evening of variety and harmony.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

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Our guests on Friday 5th March are dynamic harmony group The Roswells

Feb 5, '10 2:40 PM

by bob for everyone

The Roswells

"We just gotta swing!" say the Roswells, a quartet of Jenny Christianson, Sonja Giles, Trude Mattingly and Peter Parnham.

Come and hear the swinging rhythms and complex harmonies of songs from the 1930’s, sung with only an acoustic guitar for backing. Listen to a new take on songs from the greats like the Boswell Sisters, Ella Fitzgerald, Fats Waller and Duke Ellington.

You're bound to be surprised as the Roswells perform a concoction of key changes, tempo shifts and choruses sung in something resembling pig Latin. Blues refrains and strange harmonies go into the mix too – just because they feel like it.

Before long you'll want to click your fingers, tap your feet – and swing.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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Featured Guest February 5th, 8pm 2010

Dec 5, '09 12:08 AM

by bob for everyone

Farideh

Farideh (pronounced "Fair-a-day") is a singer/songwriter from the Canadian prairies. Her music, perhaps best described as a fusion of folk and R&B, is a tantalizing blend of tradition and invention, with soothing vocals and captivating lyrics - a sound that is both sweet and fierce.

Farideh’s first album, "Seasons of Loving," released in 2003, received national airplay on public and private radio. Her second album, "Symphony of Chemistry," released in early October 2008, is a quintessential evolution of her unique style, combining her musical roots of bluegrass, pop and folk. Recording in a small Saskatchewan village, involved everything from impromptu renovations to a power source MacGyvered from a car battery and vintage surge protector. The resulting sound is a tour de force that embodies the energy and effort with which it was nourished.

Farideh was recently featured on the CBC Radio 2 series "Next! Canada's Music Future." Her musical travels have taken her across Canada, performing at a variety of venues and festivals, and to several exotic locales including the Australian outback and the National Theatre of Uganda. She is now touring New Zealand for the first time. Come and hear her for yourself.

Websites: www.farideh.ca and www.sonicbids.com/faridehmusic .

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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Friday 4th December is our Christmas Party

Nov 7, '09 3:28 PM

by bob for everyone

Friday 4th December is our Christmas Party with guests from throughout the year.

Mulled apple juice, tea & coffee will be served. Please bring a plate to share for supper.

See you at the club.

Regards,

Bob and Judith

Featured Guests

December 4th, 8pm Christmas Party with Guests of 2009

To round off another wonderful year, we have asked our 2009 guests to return for a reprise performance.

Bill Morrison,

The Balzats, Owen Hugh & Mick Sibley are confirmed,

Beverley Young

& Warren Payne are also hoping to make it along.

This is going to be a great night with a terrific variety of performances. There will be room for a limited number of floorsingers too. Please bring a plate to share for supper.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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Our guest for Friday 6th November is Mick Sibley

Oct 2, '09 8:43 PM

by bob for everyone

Mick Sibley

Mick is an Auckland based singer/acoustic guitarist. Originally from North London, where he was given his first guitar and introduced to skiffle music, he later emigrated to Australia and spent a few years in a migrant hostel where he learned to box, wag school and catch lizards while honing his guitar skills. Eventually he settled in NZ where he played in some influential Kiwi bands.

Mick balanced his musical direction with a career in wildlife management; he is passionate about the environment and has received government recognition for his contribution towards saving endangered species. He’s been a wharfie, gardener, postman, zoo curator, picked tobacco in Nelson, grubbed tussock in North Canterbury, spent his 21st working on the Manapouri power project, slept under bridges during the Wahine storm, worked on central Queensland railways, filmed tool-making crows in the Loyalty Islands, smoked in LA, sat in strip joints in Hawaii, serenaded an elephant in a 747 above the Arctic circle - he’s been around!!

Mick is well respected for his disciplined blues-tinged guitar technique performing songs that mirror his own life journey, and it shows - when he plays he means it!

"A performance from Mick Sibley is something to look forward to. Long may he continue."

When he’s not playing he’s spending quality time on his lifestyle property in the Waitakere ranges.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

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Featured Guests October 2nd

Sep 4, '09 4:31 PM

by bob for everyone

Mark Laurent & Brenda Liddiard

Mark & Brenda describe themselves as ‘indie’ musicians, flying just below the commercial radar, playing grass-roots music in an "unplugged" style. They’ve been touring New Zealand, Australia & the UK for 20 years, and what they enjoy most is to connect with audiences on an intimate level.

Both songwriters, with their own styles, they’ve become each other’s backing band. Mark has a penchant for acoustic rock, blues & reggae, whereas Brenda’s songs lean more towards new folk & alt. country. Enjoy the rich sound of their guitars, mandolin, Rowan lute and harmonies.

" two of New Zealand's finest singer/songwriters ... amazing guitar work ... punchy mandolin ... tongue in cheek humour ... plenty of feeling" ~ Wellington Folk Festival

"When this duo appeared on the scene, everyone took notice. Mark's brilliance on guitar is matched by Brenda's instinctive mandolin accompaniments. Their songs are contemporary, self-penned, and echo issues which touch the lives of us all – and they are sung from the heart. No-one should miss this!" ~Devonport Folk Club

We know you will thoroughly enjoy them too at East Coast Folk Club!

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

0 comments edit delete

Our guest for Friday 4th September is Alan Young.

Aug 7, '09 11:39 PM

by bob for everyone

September 4th, 8pm

Alan Young

We know our guest this month is Alan Young. We know he’s a New Zealand folk club veteran and a great entertainer. We know he has an international reputation as a blues and gospel music researcher and writer. We know he’s a skilled musician on many instruments.

What we don’t know is what he’s going to do when he plays at the East Coast Folk Club on Friday September 4th. It could be blues, it could be country, it could be folk or any of the other styles his enormous repertoire covers. And he might play it on guitar, steel guitar, autoharp, mandolin, slide guitar or 12-string guitar.

What is for sure is that it’ll be a great night ... and if you’re not there, you’ll never know what you missed.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

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East Coast Folk Club

Our guest for Friday 7th August is Warren Payne

Compose Entry

Jul 3, '09 9:19 PM

by bob for everyone

Featured Guest

August 7th, 8pm

Warren Payne

Warren is a relaxed and accomplished performer with a warm sense of humour, a great selection of songs, some of which you will have forgotten you even knew, and a deft hand on the guitar.

An Otago boy, he learned how to whistle and play harmonica at an early age, and bought a guitar with his first pay packet. He soon got involved with singing in folk clubs and Celtic Bands, and is well known for running Irish pub sessions at The Bog in both Parnell and Manukau, and at The Dog’s Bollix.

Music performance has been Warren's livelihood for the past three-and-a-half years, during which time he has also been a member of The Maritime Crew, touring Germany, Holland and Switzerland with the group.

All this variety has given Warren an eclectic repertoire of Celtic and country, nostalgic and historic, vocal and instrumental. Expect a very entertaining evening with something for every taste, blended with some friendly chat, seasoned with tidbits of totally useless but interesting information about the songs, and no doubt a joke or two as well.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

If you do not wish to receive this email notification in the future please let us know.

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Friday 3rd July Special Guests Forbidden Joe

Jun 5, '09 5:43 PM

by bob for everyone

Exciting news - on Friday 3rd July Forbidden Joe are coming to entertain you with their "wicked new folk sound".

It's also East Coast Folk Club's 17th Birthday so please bring a plate & join us in celebrating this special occasion. Mulled apple juice, tea & coffee will be served.

Featured Guests

July 3rd, 8pm

Forbidden Joe - "wicked new folk sound".

Emily Giles: 'cello,vocals ~ Frances Dickenson: vocals,concertina ~ Alex Borwick: banjo,trombone

“With their eclectic repertoire of traditional and original music, Forbidden Joe are coming to town to entertain you with their “wicked new folk sound”.

Already being hailed by New Zealand’s folk scene as “the next big thing,” Forbidden Joe’s dynamic arrangements and funky grooves, spiced with influences of Jazz, Celtic, European, and Soul make for a quirky show of songs and tunes.

The cheeky and effervescent Frances Dickinson heads the line up (hailed by Alice Murray of bFM as an “up and coming folk superstar”) with smouldering vocals and fiery concertina. Alongside Frances, the versatile and soulful grooves of Emily Giles (Cello) and the crankin riffs of Alex Borwick (Banjo/Trombone) complete this-one-of-kind musical menagerie.”

About the Band

Emily’s womb experience was noisy. Her mother took an alternative approach to nursery rhymes with the help of a 5-string banjo. It is still unknown if Emily’s kicking was an enthusiastic response or just plain fury, but it proved she had rhythm.

In typical NZ fashion, Emily first learnt the recorder but moved on to the ‘cello when recorder techniques became too hard in the second year. As a result, she did time with the usual classical suspects and for the last six years has been jamming with musicians on the Auckland acoustic music scene, performing in folk clubs and festivals around New Zealand.

Influenced by traditional Irish and English music, gospel, Eastern European fusion groups and American roots music, her style is unlike anything that you’d expect from a ‘cello; versatile, staunch and funky. And with a generous crop of luscious, curly hair to boot, you’d do well to keep one eye on her at all times.

As a child, Frances spent her days on the shores of the bitter coast of Northern England, up to her eyes in seaweed and dreaming of pirates and a career as a shark diver. At convent school she was exposed to fiddle and choir lessons, until she finally ditched her bad habits and discovered her addiction to good ‘Craic’ in the backstreet pubs of Whitby. She has been proudly jammin’ away with dirty old men ever since.

Frances continues to be one of the modern day musicians redefining the boundaries of ‘folk’. Her dirty, fiery tunes on concertina and her angsty yet silky vocal tones are making folk music the new black. Her original material is exquisite and, mixed in with her fetish for sea songs and wild tunes, provides strong reference points throughout the band’s musical ventures.

Alex was being subjected to music before he even knew what it was. More specifically, the music of the film, ‘La Bamba’. After spending his toddlerhood researching these strange sounds with the help of a private eye, he saw fit to take the fairly normal route of piano and trumpet lessons at school. At the age of 12 he picked up the trombone, and from there blossomed his passion for jazz.

Over the next few years, Alex also tried his hand (s) at the drums, playing in rock bands, most notably an alternative rock band called Inverse Order, until he decided to study jazz at the New Zealand School of Music. After an intense year of musical rendezvous in Wellington, Alex moved back to Auckland where he stumbled upon the Devonport Folk Club and discovered his latest project – the tenor banjo. As a result of this unconventional concoction Alex brings to the lineup his own heady flavours of jazz, funk, and rock.

Other Details

Venue : Torbay

Senior Citizens Social Centre

(behind main Torbay

shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe

, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web : www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

Featured Guests: June 5th, 8pm Ride Easy

May 1, '09 4:14 PM

by bob for everyone

June 5th, 8pm Ride Easy

Ride Easy like the fast rhythms of bluegrass, and singing harmony. The group consists of:

Henry Plant ~ Vocals/Guitar, Linda Hefford ~ Vocals/Fiddle, Miles Shepheard ~ Vocals/Mandolin, Lloyd Wheeler ~ Guitar, Jeremy Klinger ~ Double-bass/Banjo.

Henry - took up the trumpet at the age of 12. Fell in love with bluegrass and tried to get find a bluegrass band that wanted a trumpet and eventually gave up and took up guitar.

Linda - started the violin aged 7. After years of classical violin and choral work discovered that bluegrass and Celtic music makes her smile. She loves singing harmony and playing fiddle at breakneck speed.

Jeremy - has been playing bluegrass for over 20 years and has been in a number of bluegrass lineups including Bad Bailey and the Boys, the Henrys, and Worried Man.

Lloyd - played bass and guitar in rock bands in the past and also released 2 instrumental guitar albums (“Rags to Riches” and “Restoration”) which receive radio play and distribution both in NZ and overseas. He is currently performing folk and bluegrass in ensembles

Miles - began playing folk music in Christchurch in the early ‘60s, performing regularly in coffee bars and concerts. In the late 80’s and 90’s Miles began playing mandolin He is currently performing a range of music, particularly folk and bluegrass.

Venue: Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When: 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission: $5 for non-performers ($3 for college students) & $3 for performers.

Note: Sorry no alcohol permitted in this hired venue.

Format: Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

Contact: Bob Uhe, Tel: 09-4263588, or Email: r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore, Tel: 09-4275728, or Email: judith@brianmoore.co.nz

Web: www.eastcoastfolkclub.multiply.com

0 comments edit delete

Featured Guest Friday 1st May

Apr 3, '09 3:24 PM

by bob for everyone

Featured Guest

May 1st, 8pm

Owen Hugh

Someone has to write the songs that people like. Owen‘s taken this role to heart; he‘s been writing and performing his music for over 20 years. His music and lyrics are thoughtful, sensitive, funny, powerful, and his voice is something truly special. You could listen to Owen (his voice is often likened to James Taylor) for hours and not tire.

A performer of great versatility, he has been a popular busker, performed in a ‘medieval’ trio, provided music in cafes, pubs and local markets, been lead singer of a variety of bands and of course played solo. And while he’d prefer the label ‘new acoustic’ over ‘folkie’, there is no doubting his popularity in the folk scene, as he has played many of the folk clubs in New Zealand and the UK, and was a Tui Award Finalist in 2007. He’s also appeared several times at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and performed at Cambridge Folk Festival, Stainsby and the Otley Black Sheep Festival.

A lifetime of live performance certainly qualify Owen for his role as entertainer and the title of singer-songwriter. His eight CDs, so far, are all independently produced and reflect his many and varied life experiences. However, it’s in his live performances that both the power and the humour of his lyrics and delivery actually hit home.

See his website: www.owenhugh.co.nz .

0 comments edit delete

April 3rd 2009

Mar 18, '09 11:43 PM

by bob for everyone

Featured Guest

April 3rd, 8pm

The Balzats

The Balzats are a unique family of 9 from Dairy Flat who have been playing together for many years. With a combination of 4 violins, 2 guitars, keyboard, cello, flute and drums they have a varied repertoire of contemporary Celtic tunes, bluegrass pieces and a growing number of their own original compositions.

Last year they toured the US, and they have been involved in many different engagements since then including the Auckland Seafood Festival and the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series, and 3 of the fiddlers were in Lakeside 09 in Rotorua with Marian Burns. They regularly perform at clubs, restaurants, schools and private functions and have produced a DVD from a previous concert in 2007.

They are currently working on recording their first CD.

0 comments edit delete

March 6th 2009

Feb 8, '09 1:36 AM

by bob for everyone

Featured Guest

March 6th, 8pm Beverley Young Beverley Young is acknowledged as one of the finest exponents of British and Celtic folksong in New Zealand. A lifelong love of the poetic songs and ballads in the British and Irish traditions coupled with a lovely voice and fluid vocal style lend an unforgettable intensity to her performances.

Beverley has three recordings of her own, the first of which won the RIANZ folk award category in the year of its release. The other two were finalists in the Tui awards. She has performed at concerts, clubs and festivals throughout New Zealand and Australia and in the UK as part of acapella trio Florabunda. Over the years Beverley has also given many vocal workshops and singing sessions, helping lots of other singers find their voice.

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Venue

Feb 7, '08 2:42 PM

by bob for everyone

Venue :

Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre (behind main Torbay shops on Watea Road).

When : 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January).

Admission : $5 for non-performers & $3 for performers.

Rules : Sorry no alcohol permitted.

Format : Casual performers 1st half with featured guest in the 2nd half.

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Contact

Feb 7, '08 2:41 PM

by bob for everyone

For further information and enquires please contact:

Bob Uhe

Ph 09 426 3588

Mob 021 043 6031

Email r.uhe@xtra.co.nz

Judith Moore

Ph 09 427 5728

Email judith@brianmoore.co.nz

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February 6th 2009

Feb 7, '08 2:41 PM

by bob for everyone

February 6th 2009 The guest is Bill Morrison. More details soon.

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December 5th 2008

Feb 7, '08 2:41 PM

by bob for everyone

Featured Guest

December 5th, 8pm

Martha Louise

We round off the year in fine style with a guest performance from this most enjoyable singer & songwriter. Expect to hear some finely crafted songs, beautiful harmonies & accomplished guitar & dulcimer playing. Who’s sharing the stage with her? ... Come & see. You know it will be good!

This is also our Christmas Party

** Please bring a plate of finger-food for a shared supper.**

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