CHESTER FOLK SURVIVORS
February Folk Day
Time seems to fly these days and once again it’s the end of February and time for
the Folk Day at Chester. I have attended quite a few of these February events now and found them
most enjoyable - both for meeting old friends after the winter and for the good and varied
entertainment provided. NORDOSTWIND
ALISTAIR ANDERSON
I missed the evening Ceilidh, but was reliably informed that Bedlam were excellent and a good
time was had by the more energetic festival-goers who attended. Instead I spent the time in the
folk club run by Full House, who did a sterling job of hosting the event as well as performing.
In addition to the acts who appeared in the concert during the afternoon, there were enjoyable
performances from the Time Bandits and The Waite Collective who seem to have gained confidence
in their harmonies and are strong yet gentle. The club set was rounded off by another great
performance by the Wilson Family.
Congratulations to all the Chester Folk Survivors and their helpers for an excellent day,
including the Clinging Catering Corp. for the food, tea and coffee etc. and John Wood and co.
for the Bar! What more can I say? Roll on the end of May!
Tony Sweeby, Bradshaw Mummers Some more pictures from John Wood:
Saturday 26th February 2005
As in past years, the concert provided a well-balanced programme. Nordostwind, a duo from Norway
and Germany performed an interesting selection of songs in English and other languages with good
music and harmonies.
FULL HOUSE
Next up were Full House, a very accomplished group whose undoubted talents
were enhanced by the addition of Mark Woolley, a percussionist and whistle player.
I have been a fan of Alistair Anderson from way back when he was with the High Level Ranters,
and have enjoyed his solo performances over the years. It was good to find that his talents are
as skilled on the pipes and concertina as ever.
THE WILSON FAMILY
The final act was the Wilson Family and as usual
they were in good voice providing a fitting performance to bring the concert to a close. They were
also noticeable by their presence at many of the informal events throughout the day and are
obviously still enjoying their folk music to the full.
Pictures by Tony Ballard
