Lynton, Lynmouth and Exmoor Advertiser, December 2019

DECEMBER 2019 39
Folk Duo Peter Knight (ex Steeleye Span)
and John Spiers (ex Bellowhead)
at Lynton Town Hall on 14 December at 8pm ~
A CONCERT OF SEASONAL MUSIC FROM THE ENGLISH TRADITION … AND BEYOND
"There can be no doubting that both performers are amongst the most, if not the most,
talented of their peers. I was probably not the only person to leave the venue in awe at
having witnessed something very special." Fatea Magazine
On a summer's day in 2016, the organisers of
FolkEast Festival masterminded one of the most
intriguing and exciting collaborations on today's
folk scene. Peter Knight, legendary violinist and
ex-member of folk-rock band Steeleye Span, was
paired with leading melodeon player and ex-
Bellowhead member John Spiers, for a special
one-off performance which left audiences in awe.
Photograph Elly Lucas
With no space to be found in the marquee, people stood five deep in the pouring rain in
order to witness the bringing together of two of the most genuinely gifted musicians in
their respective fields. With a standing ovation and roars for more, and much to the
delight of folk fans everywhere, Knight and Spiers decided not to leave things there.
The pairing of violin and melodeon is not a new one, but in the hands of Knight and
Spiers improvisation and invention meet the listener at every turn. Together they have
created a musical document that resonates with history, but also something that should
inspire future generations of musicians to engage with Britain’s folk dancing heritage
and the beautiful, mysterious tunes that can be found within that heritage. These
uniquely gifted musicians make a sublime pairing and create a live performance to be
remembered for a long time.
This very special concert will feature lesser known carols, tunes and wassails from the
English tradition and beyond.
https://soundcloud.com/user-444337706/the-cuckoo-medley
“Knight’s playing is a revelation. A world away from folky fiddling, it’s fully informed by the classical style, all
long sweeping bow strokes and eloquent legato. Yet he never loses the essential folk heart of the music,
tracing a graceful line of his own making” Review of Cambridge Folk Festival’s ‘City Roots
"John’s elegant, rhythmic and virtuoso playing and easy-going banter is a quiet triumph!”
Robin Denselow, The Guardian
Tickets £16
In conjunction with Plough Arts Centre 01805 624624
www.theploughartscentre.org.uk
advertise@lyntonadvertiser.com 01598 752788