Nominated for Musician of the Year and for Best Album with Vagrant Stanzas at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2014, Martin's shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving. There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin is better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. Martin has been nominated an astounding 31 times in the 15 years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards -- more than any other performer -- with 12 nominations for Musician of The Year, which he has won twice. 2008 saw an incredible five nominations for 'Prodigal Son' and two wins, whilst in 2010 he had an unprecedented six nominations for his CD, True Stories and a win for Best Traditional Track, 'Sir Patrick Spens'. Whether playing American old-time music, blues, a Dylan song or his own material, Martin Simpson is unpredictable, individual and a guitarist of immense subtlety.

Three times nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and double winners of the Spiral Earth Awards Megson draw heavily on their Teesside heritage to create a truly unique brand of folk music. The husband & wife duo bring an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Comprising Debs Hanna (Vocals, Whistle, Piano Accordion) and Stu Hanna (Guitar, Mandola, Banjo) Megson have gained fame on the British folk scene, not only for their arresting & intelligent songwriting, but for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. As fRoots Magazine puts it ‘if you don’t like the music here then you have a problem’ .

Gryphon could be described as "Henry VIII meets 1970's Prog Rock"! But the band is also lauded for its inclusion of English folk music, jazz and much else. They claim to be the only band to have been played on Radios 1,2,3 and 4 in the same month! Original members Brian Gulland, Graeme Taylor and Dave Oberle bring the six piece to St Andrew's for what should be a unique and memorable evening. Since re-forming a few years ago, the band has played venues including the Cropredy Festival and the Union Chapel, all the while adding new fans to their audience base. Join us as mid-summer approaches. As usual, a licensed bar will be open from 6.30pm and there will be plenty of time to mingle and enjoy the atmosphere.

Leveret features three of England's finest folk musicians in an exciting new collaboration. Andy Cutting, Sam Sweeney and Rob Harbron are each regarded as masters of their instrument and are involved in numerous collaborations with a huge range of artists. Together their performances combine consummate musicianship, compelling delivery, and captivating spontaneity.

Chris While (vocals, guitar, banjo, dulcimer, bodhran and percussion) and Julie Matthews (vocals, piano, guitar, mandolin and bouzouki) are stunning singers, songwriters, musicians and performers whose energy and commitment to their craft and their audience is boundless. They are two of the best and most hardworking musicians on the world folk roots scene, both are highly regarded producers and they record everything that they are involved in at their own studio in a small Pennine town far from the London-centric music industry. Richard Hawley (ex Pulp, top solo artist and producer) says of Chris and Julie:"it's a real honour just to be an audience member but I've had the added honour of standing on a stage with them playing along in the background, things like that I'll treasure forever, truly gifted human beings". See for yourself in the beautiful setting of St Andrew's Church where we also offer a licensed bar from 6.30pm. It promises to be an uplifting, maybe inspirational, evening of music.

For many years, Phil Beer has worked as the multi-instrumental half of the West Countrys award-winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands. As a solo artist, apart from playing his own songs, he draws upon an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers (including Springsteen and The Hollies), and songs from his contemporaries. Phil has developed a strong following for his varied work and has become one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit. His shows are always a fine combination of outstanding musicianship, beautifully delivered vocals and highly amusing anecdotes. The gig, in the beautiful environs of he church, will be much enjoyed. We will have a licensed bar from 6.30pm and a warm welcome is assured!

Art historian Barry Dodge and composer James Francis Brown examine the life and legacy of wartime artist Paul Nash. Through three significant paintings, Dodge provides historical and artistic context, shedding light on Nashs distinctive vision. Following this discussion, the composer will reveal an original musical composition inspired by these three works, demonstrating how music can enhance and reinterpret visual art, offering fresh perspectives on Nashs enduring legacy. Richly illustrated with images and music. Tickets 12.50 / students 5 Ticket types and prices are fully displayed when 'Book Now' is clicked.

An opportunity for grandparents, grandchildren, and everyone in between to explore Hertfords wartime history through the experiences of evacuees. This illustrated talk brings personal stories to life, reflecting on feelings of displacement and disorientation, while highlighting how music has offered comfort and a sense of belonging in times of upheaval." More details coming soon Tickets 5