Show Of Hands are one of England’s most successful acoustic roots duos – Steve Knightley and Phil Beer. Their widespread appeal is based on the combined power of Steve’s original songs, the quality of their vocals and harmonies, and their multi-instrumental virtuosity. With performances featuring guitars, mandocello, fiddle, cuatro, viola and concertina, the duo have built up a huge following which has seen them sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times, headline major festivals from Glastonbury to WOMAD and play across the world from Europe to America, Australia and India.
One of the most inventive and captivating rising acts on the acoustic roots scene, Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin have won Best Folk Act at the 2012 South West Music Awards, Best Duo at the 2013 Spiral Awards and Best Duo at the Best Duo at the 2014 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Sometimes mournful, often haunting and always compelling each Henry and Martin song is a fresh journey of discovery – twisting, curling melodies and eclectic rhythms wrapping themselves around perceptive lyrics.
The Old Dance School‘s ear-bending contemporary folk place them as true innovators of the genre. Duelling fiddles, soaring brass crescendos, and irresistible grooves, their live show charts their remarkable journey from ballet school basement jam sessions and cowshed rehearsals, to remote lighthouses, to headline appearances at international festivals. Championed by BBC Radio 2’s Bob Harris, the septet’s provocative songs and cinematic sound has received plaudits throughout the country.
Dates & Times
Castle Armoury Drill Hall
Show of Hands / Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin / The Old Dance School
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