Stewart Hardy

Join Chloe, Sophy, David and Stewart as they launch their debut CD, “Bottle Bank Band”. After much acclaimed appearances at the Scots Fiddle Festival and Fiddles on Fire, the band of four fiddlers are now playing a few select concerts across the region in June. It promises to be a set of fun packed evening with an eclectic range of music, firmly rooted in the traditions of the North East of England.

After a very successful Launch Tour for their debut CD, join Chloe, Sophy, David and Stewart in a much anticipated concert in the wonderful Embleton Village Hall. The band takes its name from the one-time residence of Tyneside’s most famous fiddling son, James Hill. Their repertoire is firmly rooted in but by no means limited to the North East of England – a region which enjoys a centuries old tradition of fiddle playing. Individually the members of Bottle Bank Band have all established reputations as outstanding musicians. By coming together in this combination, they create an exciting and exhilarating musical landscape: the glorious sound of four fiddles, rich in harmony and captivating arrangements, is underpinned by an instinctive understanding of traditional playing, which gives voice and space to the musicality and talent of the individual players.

In this recital talk the Bottle Bank Band will introduce you to the variety of tunes and melodies which have been inspired by and played in Tyneside over the years.

Part of Folkworks Pass It On

“A Northumberland journey in Photographs, Songs and Music”

This show brings you not only a fascinating collaboration of music and photography but it also brings together two great local artists for the first time.

Andy Craig is a professional photographer and has been photographing the Northumberland Coast since he moved to the area in 2008. “Earning a living from photography is a fantastic way of life and it has allowed me to explore the art of photography and delve deeply into the creative process. My music and my photography go hand in hand for me so it seemed appropriate to combine the two together into this music & photography presentation.”  Andy feels that it is the same creative process that informs photography and music “it is about seeing, feeling or experiencing nature and then passing that on to an audience so that they can share the moment through my photographs. It is really exciting to work with Stewart on this project.  To have Stewart playing and interpreting my music takes it to a new level.”

Stewart Hardy “Having experienced Andy’s work from the other side of the lens for some years now, it’s terrific to finally have a chance to collaborate with him. In this project his photography allows us to see Northumberland through his eyes, whilst his music captures the essence of Northumberland landscapes, giving us an opportunity to share in his personal response to this beautiful part of the world.”

What the press say:

“Andy Craig is a local singer/songwriter and guitarist whose home-spun tales of life on the coast are reflected in beautiful songs like “All This Is Ours” and “Home” and in evocative instrumentals.

“A professional photographer by day, Andy transfers the skills of capturing exceptional images to his music.”  Blues in Britain

Phoenix Folk presents a Summer Series of Concerts.

Sophy, Chloe, David and myself are delighted and honoured to be able to open the 2017 season with this evening concert on Weds 28th June.

Tickets also available from Tully’s in Rothbury.

Lunchtime Concert with Bottle Bank Band

12:30pm St George URC. Bridge St

Tickets £3.00 at the door.  Doors open at Noon with tea, coffee & biscuits available.