Off to Broadstairs...

Subject: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 09 Aug 07 - 05:05 PM

Off to Broadstairs for the next week. Looking forward to some good music and meeting a few old friends. See ya!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Aug 07 - 05:13 PM

Likewise, tomorrow, but just for the weekend...

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 09 Aug 07 - 06:04 PM

Oh how I envy you

Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: melodeonboy
Date: 09 Aug 07 - 09:13 PM

Yippeee! I''ll be there for the first few days.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Dave Masterson
Date: 10 Aug 07 - 09:38 AM

Us too - the weekend then back to work then back for the last night, mainly for Tom & Barbara's sessions in the Sailing Club.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 10 Aug 07 - 06:30 PM

Aah'll be there deein' with The Phatt-B'Stards.

Give uz a shout if yer at a gig with us.

Aall the best
G-P

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: My guru always said
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 04:47 AM

Have fun You Lot! Wish we could get along but seems there's no time spare at the moment, so sing one for me!
Hil

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: goatfell
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 05:04 AM

Is Broadstairs a hospital for people who have mental problems or is that somehwere else.

you know a state hospital for dangerous people, anyway good luck

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Bonzo3legs
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 05:22 AM

Ah, Broadstairs and memories of Mythago doing the dirty!!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Alaska Mike
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 01:52 PM

I was hired to perform at Broadstairs during our visit to UK in 2005. It was truly one of the highlights of our trip. I wish I could be there again this year. Have a great time.

Mike

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: vectis
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 06:26 PM

Sadly, unable get there at all this year.
Burying Dad.
Maybe next year.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Lanfranc
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 07:34 PM

Not to be confused with BroadMOOR!

Doing the Cinderella bit and looking after Waltham Abbey while everyone else goes to Broadstairs.

Pumpkins and mice welcome.

British Legion, Waltham Abbey, Essex UK from 8:30pm Monday 13th.

Alan

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: skipy
Date: 11 Aug 07 - 07:44 PM

We can never make it because our festival is next weekend, but if you are passing us on the way back with just one more song to sing please drop in.
otherwise good luck to you all, have a great week.
Skipy

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Enfield Pete
Date: 12 Aug 07 - 04:03 AM

I can only go for one of the days (Mon/Tues) - are there any lunchtime/afternoon sessions going on?

Cheers

Enfield Pete

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST
Date: 12 Aug 07 - 12:41 PM

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 07 - 05:53 PM

Brutally, sessions are the achilles heel of Broadstairs.

See comments here

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: RamblinStu
Date: 13 Aug 07 - 08:31 AM

The finest song I heard over the first three days, The Marmite Song.
I heard it played by an elderly gentleman at Avril's Folk Club at the Sailing club on Sunday, but I know he has played elsewhere..
If you haven't heard it look out for it, ask questions, find it.
If you have heard it, you know exactly what I mean.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 13 Aug 07 - 09:50 PM

That'll probably be Magrath of Harlow.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 03:19 PM

It was indeed.

Just back home, and I had a pretty good time.   

Here's my Marmite song, with a (not very good sound quality) sound file, that may or may not. work. (You click on the Songlist and then look up "The Marmite Song" and click on that.)

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Arnie
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 03:54 PM

Well, I had the dubious pleasure of running the Deal Folk Club when most of the Deal Folk Club including the MC (Avril) had gone to Broadstairs. However, as often happens at times like this, 15 stalwarts turned up with enough performers amongst them to have a very pleasant evening - and we were fortunate to taste the new ale from Shepherds Neame - I think it was called Kent's Best, but having had a few last night I'm not so sure now! And as I got to Cropredy last week I didn't mind too much about not making Broadstairs this year - but I hope to get there next year!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 04:17 PM

What night is Deal?

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Arnie
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 04:48 PM

Richard - Deal's on a Friday night, have a look at our website at www.dealfolkclub.co.uk for further info.

Arnie

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 04:53 PM

Well, you couldn't let your Deal go down, could you?

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,harlowpoet
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 05:25 PM

Just place your cards on the table

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GerryMc
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 06:08 PM


I had a fantastic time at Brodsatairs (we enjoyed the last song you sang at the Folk Club on Thursday along with the Marmite one).

It was great to make new friends and meet up with exisiting friends. A great Northern influx helped us adjust nicely to the Southern way of life.

Cheers everyone

Gerry :-)

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Girl Friday
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 06:11 PM

Back from Broadstairs utterly Folked. Fabulous week, despite the iffy weather! We have suggested that they have a proper good Intent type singaround next year and have offered to run a couple of them, with the thought that others of us, such as the Barden might do, also. There are an awful lot of lost souls wandering the streets with guitars who just don't feel comfortable in a club atmosphere, but who would love a good jam.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: BB
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 07:06 PM

Just got back, and dealt with all the e-mails before taking a quick look at Mudcat.

Personally, I've had a fantastic week. We've met some wonderful people in the Face the Music events, and the singarounds in the Sailing Club have been excellent. Richard, we caught sight of you in the doorway last weekend, but had no idea you had a problem. Having seen you most nights last year, we missed you this time.

Good to see (and hear!) you, Hil, however briefly, and good to come across you and your songs, McGrath.

Broadstairs has changed a lot over the last few years, and is still doing so. The organisers do listen to people's ideas and criticisms, so don't despair on the unprogrammed session front - there may be room for it yet.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 07 - 07:30 PM

Curiously, the first time I went to Broadstairs was when Jacqui was alive and we still had our young (not so young now) tenor and lead guitarist, Royston Ford, so the band was "Roger the Chorister Mark II" an then it was still possible to go into a pub between booked electric stuff (mostly from across the water - either American or Irish) and say "can we play?" and be able to start something. This has not been so for several years and the chorus of criticism from folkies on the point has been constant afaik. But it was even then impossible not to get flung out of a pub after the "official" time had passed. The other thing we noted then was that if one wanted to get a meal or to go into a shop between sessions there was an almost palpable resentment of the invaders.

Further, in the club bits, it is seemingly very sniffed at to get one's instrument out to accompany others. Indeed I was soundly rebuked by the little man on the door. Odd, Heelstone didn't seem to mind last year. Very different from the late lamented 8 Bells at Tenterden where (sorry, but I'm pished enough to say this right now and sod modesty) both Adrian O and Tom Lewis have welcomed my accompaniment.

The other thing I find iffy about Broadstairs is that there seems to be a rigid divide in the sessions between "voice only" and "instrument only" - and unless you are a booked guest there is a drawn breath if you want to get an instrument out to accompany yourself.

Note to self - go on, burn your bridges....

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: The Barden of England
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 07:31 AM

I'd be up for a jam or two at Broadstairs. The big problem is probably where? I believe what Richard Bridge has written is still the scenario. If a pub or hotel took the plunge I'm sure they'd be amazed at the amount of folkies turning up to play, sing or listen, and of course partake in a decent pint or two, although not all folkies want to drink of course. Is there such a place in Broadstairs?
John Barden

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,synbyn
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 01:51 PM

there was the session space as advertised in the Wrotham, which carried on well after the allotted time- i think it's horses for courses, Richard- the sessions in the sailing club developed organically into some very strong harmony singing. It depends who you are to accompany- I'm not precious, but do find unusual widdling off-putting when I'm trying to put over a new song, especially as anyone who arranges their material often alters the length or structure of bridges etc on purpose, which the accompanist cannot possibly guess. As you know, I've done a fair bit of it- even more offputting to those who perhaps are venturing into song for the first time, which Tom & Barbara actively encourage. I'm a widdler myself, on occasion, but find it quite acceptable not to in this setting. It's awkward for the performer to refuse, so I think John was doing his job! See you at Deal or Tenterden!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: BB
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 03:18 PM

Oh, Richard, I'm disappointed in you! You must have realised from being in the singarounds last year that there is no "rigid divide" of voices and instruments in that particular session. It's whatever any individual or group brings to it. I suppose most of the singers are unaccompanied, but that's their choice, and accompanied singers or instrumentalists are equally welcome, as are those who prefer the spoken word. (And I have photos from this year to prove all of the above!) And we're not talking about booked guests here. Perhaps in the lunchtime sessions at the Neptune, there are few that take instruments except the booked artists, as there is little room in there, or perhaps again people just choose not to. I don't believe those who run those sessions would frown on the use of instruments though.

As to accompanying other performers, it's something I must admit to not being too happy about - in my experience, it can, as Synbyn above says, be very off-putting to inexperienced singers, but if not done very sensitively, it can also change the way any singer sings the song, particularly as regards rhythm. For instance, it can force someone into singing a song strictly in rhythm which, when unaccompanied, they would not choose to do. There may be sessions in which a free-for-all (and that is not to put it down) is accepted and welcomed, and others in which it isn't. I think it is good manners to ask a singer whether they mind before one charges in with an accompaniment, and, certainly in the singarounds at Broadstairs, this would not be easy to do. It's just not that sort of session.

As to the shops and restaurants, etc., you must have found different ones to us - the only time I found anyone the slightest bit rude was the woman in the launderette at the top of the town. Otherwise, everyone was very pleasant and welcoming.

Ah well, you can't please all the people all of the time.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 05:07 PM

Curious, Synbyn, you have in the past asked me to accompany you...

Most recently, I think, at the Pig's Ear.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 05:09 PM

Mind you, I do know an irritating fiddler who plays "Backleg Miner" diferently to me and despite my warning her in advance that I play a different chord sequence with a curious bridge, she STILL insists on fiddling away down my ear with the wrong bloody arrangement, so now I don't do it when she's about....

Accompanists MUST listen.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Dilligaf
Date: 19 Aug 07 - 05:39 PM

Well me personally if Richards moaning it must have been a good one, Despite dreading going as it was the first Broadstairs in a long time without Pete, I had a great time heard some good bands,and singers booked and otherwise, danced a lot in kit and not in kit which made at least one old man very happy when we danced in our PJs with teddy bears on the sea front!!
Only winge I have is that on the last night when we all wanted to shake our booties they had a very good but very organised barn dance please for those of us who by 12 on friday are a little under the weather, well pi~~ed a newt and couldn,t follow exactly what was going on can we have a nonsensable dance, Many thanks to all who worked so hard to make it possible and to those to bought Pete,s Nice Arse cd for the Anthony Nolan fund xx

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Aug 07 - 09:04 AM

Moan, me?

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: My guru always said
Date: 20 Aug 07 - 09:29 AM

So glad we got along for the Monday (decided not to go to Bideford) & caught a bit of the Neptune & most of Tom & Barbara's Fab sing which recharged my batteries ready for driving back to Leatherhead - lovely to hear some wonderful Singers & songs!! Sadly from Tuesday onwards I had the thankless task of running dignostics & recovery (again) on my home PC - I'll get it back up & running again soon *mutter, mutter*

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Girl Friday
Date: 20 Aug 07 - 09:40 PM

Glad you are interested John. I had a chat in the office with a workforce lass from the North who reckons it's a goer- their festival has a tent based session. The powers that be do read the day book- hence the improved showers this year. As to richard's comments re shops and restaurants, we found no hostility, just welcoming smiles. The tradespeople of Broadstairs know that it's Folk Week that keeps them in busisness. Richard must have scowled at them or something.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Aug 07 - 09:51 PM

If you read carefully what I wrote above, the time we were met with trader hostility was the year Jacqui and I went, which puts it a few ago.

But those there last year who read the Ceilidh Mail will have noted that there were other traders who were re-naming their 2-in-one shampoo and conditioner "Go and Wash" for folk week.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 20 Aug 07 - 10:56 PM

Well, "Go and Wash" would have been reasonable enough wordplay on the normal "Wash and Go", given the circumstances of camping, and not particularly unfriendly.

Here's a link to a set of pictures I've just put up on Flickr

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: stormalong
Date: 21 Aug 07 - 05:39 AM

Although I sang to myself for the best part of forty years, I started singing regularly in a folk club only a couple of years ago and I found it very difficult to handle chorus songs, let alone unplanned instrumental accompaniment! I can imagine the latter not only affecting the rhythm and pace but possibly not quite hitting the same pitch.

I still have problems with choruses. Should one try to stay in control, forcing or slowing the pace, or should one give into the 'choir'? Keeping control while facing the hearty voices and massed ranks of Hartley Morris in the Neptune is not easy, even when they are singing the same version of the chorus!

Anyway, another fantastic festival in one of the best places to be in SE England. I managed the Neptune every day bar one and Tom and Barbara's Singaround every evening. I only went to the Folk Club once. It did not seem to be as well attended as in previous years. I also missed a lot of Traveling Folk faces which is a pity as their participation was an important element of the folk end of the folk/mass-entertainment spectrum that is Broadstairs.

Richard

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,banjoman
Date: 21 Aug 07 - 06:32 AM

Just got back after our 16th consecutive year of playing on the bandstand every morning for HHC and a couple of pub sessions as well.
Great week thoroughly enjoyed by all. Hope to see you all again next year.
Hoping the Old Trout Band will make it to 20 years if the fingers and back can last. Thanks to all those who helped with or got out of the way of my mobility scooter.
We missed the informal sessions that used to happen late at night in the school which seem to have been replaced by more organised events. Still thats progress I suppose.
see you next year

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,charlotte - past ouse opper and Broady workf
Date: 21 Aug 07 - 08:04 AM

Hello all

Just to let you know, that Broadstairs Folk Week organisers REALLY do listen to comments and attempt to accommodate all needs wherver possible! I will make them aware that this thread exists in order to make them aware of your comments.

having worked in the Camp Site Admin Office all week, I can say that I had a really great time, and recieved little if any criticism, but did recieve many constructive and helpful comments about the festival / suggested areas for change that helpful people such as Girl Friday came in to write in the office day book.

Indeed, mostly, comments about the great line up, the much improved showers and the fantastic teas and tiaras (tea in a china cup!? a miracle!) stall were flooding in....

I had a great time at Broadstairs myself! Higlhights for me included the amazing Bellowhead Concert, Shooglenifty, the morris dancing, the torchlight procession (even if i was hideously sunburnt and my morris kit stuck to my burnt skin!, and the hobby horse club...to see that many children (AND parents) getting that exctied and working really well together confirms that we have another generation of folkies being nurtured down there! I should know as 21 years ago, as a 3 year old I was one of them!

SO, enough from me, but I would really encourage the comments about BFW to keep coming in! The more you say (and let Kim and Jo know about) the more the festival will reflect your interests...

Charlotte xx

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Kim Headley
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 06:12 AM

Thanks so much to you all for your comments. They are read and noted in my little book and the thought processes will start whirring once I have had some necessary time sorting out the veggie garden....
It isn't always possible to please everyone - we are hampered by lack of appropriate venues, and try to be as inventive as possible, and will continue to do so. The fact that so many people care enough about this festival to make constructive suggestions will help to ensure it keeps going for another 42 years [though to be honest, I doubt whether I will be there for all of them...]

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Kev The Clogs
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 10:29 AM

Not long been back from Broadstairs (came straight from a week in Sidmouth) and am in need of a complete rest!!!

I love going to Broastairs, because it is a whole week with my Morris side where we can all let our hair down and have some fun. However, comparing, the Folk aspects of the two festivals, Sidmouth wins hands down!! There is so much, planned and fringe, that goes on in Sidmouth. Broadstairs, to me, seems to be a series of pub gigs for a set list of groups (all of which are good) - but where is the space for the "serious folkie" to just drift from session to session, playing a bit here, singing a bit there? From early morning, to late at night? The evening concerts were great- Bellowhead and Shooglenifty were especially fantastic.

As for accompanied "unaccompanied" singing, I agree with BB's comments. I've only been singing for three years, and there are still times when I feel nervous when its my turn. I practise and practise and practise my songs - and they are all unaccompanied. I'd love to be good enough to twiddle along with another instrument player or two, but - the voice is an instrument SO personal, that as BB says, when an instrument player twiddles along with me, I often have to fight so hard to sing the song MY way, the way I learnt it! Most of the time, I manage to control it, but on occasions, I can hear, so I'm sure Joe Public can hear, a strange mixture of sounds which coul lead to the unknowing thinking that it was THE SINGER who is out of sink!!! I am only happy with a few people accompanying me - Don T (WYSIWIG), Richard Bridge, The Barden and a couple of others. Subtlty and LISTENING to the singer are the key!!

Phew, I think that is the first time that I've had a moan on Mudcat!!


Kev

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 10:37 AM

Flattery will get you everywhere! And, incidentally that would usually only be on the bodhran for me as Kev is hardly ever in exactly the same key twice, although he keeps threatening to get one of those circular pitchwheels and to pre-determine the keys of each of his songs..

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Tongue Tide
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 11:05 AM

Being from Broadstairs though I moved to Cumbria 3 years ago it was with great pleasure that Tongue Tide got involved with this years Folk Week as performers and season ticket holders. We survived our gig in the Prince Albert on opening procession night and an impromtu half hour spot at Mr Ed's Stretch & Juggle on the bandstand. We also enjoyed the Folk Club and Singarounds we attended; thank you Kev for giving permission for us to cover the Marmite Song - great! It was nice to attend different gigs - our highlights being The School Of Trobar and Don Mescall. We were however dissappointed with the lack of choice and buzz going on at Upton School. The mystery that had surrounded the place for as long as I can remember was totally shattered as nothing attracted us except the final late folk session which when we turned up was deflated by the person on the door suggesting in a bored voice that it wouldn't happen til a lot later - and by that end of the week we were too tired to hold out any longer! Shame. It seemed that little buzz was nurtured there all week and therefore there was little to be had at the end.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 03:23 PM

Aye! Aah hev te hand it te Jo, Kim and the rest of the team - reet doon the line - for the continuous high standard of BFW.

Aah've had me whinges aboot it ower the 13 years aa've been gannin' but if it hadn't been for Kim (aall those years ago, Pet!) givin' this unknown, and untried, folkie a go, aah wad never have met Geoff ("Can you hear me at the back?", "We can hear you in Ramsgate!") Higginbottom and a hundred score or more of other lovely, lovely people who have lightened my life and made a thousand evenings the most fun!

Carry on aall of yez - Aah love Broadstairs (even aall the dog-sh*te - What IS it aboot Thanet dog owners? Have the' nivvor hord of pooper-scoopers?)

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: The Barden of England
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 04:51 PM

Hey there Geordie - I'm missing my regular injections of 'Fat B'stard' you know.
Didn't get to Broadstairs as I was sha**ed after Sidmouth. Can you ask the 'powers that be' if there's any possibility of a jam session somewhere where the likes of us can just 'give it wellie' (sort of Fareham bar sort of thing). I've tried the Lord Nelson and others but that 'your turn with the twig (or in the barrel) just ain't my sort of thing. And that walk up that bloody hill late on is a nightmare. At Sidders there's a bus that takes you from the campsite to the Esplanade for £1 and back again for another £1 from 09:00 to 02:45 evey day. Us old bu**ers can't do all that walking with dangling instruments you know. I would love to get to Broadstairs more.
dnalgnE fo nedraB ehT

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 22 Aug 07 - 06:52 PM

I find that walk up the hill is good for clearing the head and the lungs - and I'm older than you are Barden. When there are buses I always miss them anyway... But it would be handy having one, I grant you.

And I agree that a Bedford (Sidmouth) type pub jam would be handy, where you can drift in an play a few tunes and sing a few songs, and where joining in to accompany the songs instrumentally was the accepted way of things.

The late night in the Upton hall is a bit too late night - I quite enjoyed being able to sit back and be entertained, and teh Music Hall especially was great.

Those are suggestions rather than complaints. I had a great week.

And glad to see you dipping in here Tongue Tied. That munchy song was one of my highlights of the week.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Girl Friday
Date: 23 Aug 07 - 08:21 AM

Obviously the Barden has come in late with his comments..... earlier on in this thread there have been posts about getting a singaround drop in venue.... read my posts, and Charlotte and Kim's.
the late club is well worth getting yourself up the hill for - Trev and I did that most nights, despite our problems. We did get onthe shuttle bus a few times... worth enquiring about from the shop or campsite office. Apart from scheduled runs, they are often up and down with performers, p.a. equipment, etc. The public bus to Ramsgate stops outside the school I believe.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 23 Aug 07 - 01:15 PM

Aye there's a coupla pubs that'd be more suited te the 'drop-in' type of session/sing - Ye Olde Crown for one and The Balmoral for another.

The Balmoral is fine for evenings if the weather proves fair and the courtyard wad be canny for that type of event - The back room wad also lend itself - However, the back room IS their restaurant so daytime sessions might be oot of the question.

The Croon is another matter - It doesn't lend itself te bands (space-wise) and ye tend te be either by the stable-door type windows in the main bar (Excellent) or by the entrance to the lavs (not so excellent) and neither area is good for a trio (especially horizontally challenged like us!)

However, from what aah can gather (coz aah divvent hev any input te the festival other than tornin' up and playin' and tekking 15% of the money for 70% of the work) the pubs contribute te the festival in return for hevvin' bands in to entertain(?)the punters - So really the decision must be whether the pub landlord wad want a live band or an extended session.

Aah'm sure that Kim et al hev mooted this idea a-plenty on many occasions and aah knaah that some impromptu sessions hev broken oot on the prom in the shelters but that's not what yez want is it?

Kim an' aall! Any input on this?

Most of the venues are

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: croc
Date: 28 Aug 07 - 05:56 PM

Just seen this thread - a bit late, sorry. I fear there is little hope of a recognised all comers sing around venue at Broadstairs. Tom and Barbara run a pleasantly relaxing do in the evening but there is plenty of support for a mixed anything goes sort of session. Travelling Folk have run successful lunch time sessions for years - and evening ones in the dim and distant past - but the pubs dictate what happens in their bars and they want something loud and up beat. There was nowhere to put us this year, so Kim (very nicely) declared us unnecessary and I'm afraid I gave up the battle I have been waging for about 10 years and that was that. Sad times.
x Croc

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: vectis
Date: 28 Aug 07 - 06:17 PM

I'm afraid I must agree with much of what has been said about lack of sessions in Broadstairs. There are pubs that are outside of the festival but they really do not seem to want to know, although the Albert??? (at the top of the town near the campsite) did have a session one year.
When the festival lost the use of the classrooms it took the heart away from the festival. It used to be possible to sing, play, tell stories and party until dawn every day but no longer. Just grab your cocoa and go to bed.... They must think we're getting old or summat.
I wish Travelling Folk had been there but if there is no venue for us then that (as they say) is that.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 28 Aug 07 - 06:22 PM

A natural place to have this kind of activity, an informal song an dtune session where the expectation would be musicians could join in,
might somewhere round the Concert Marquee area, tied in with the bar there, in a covered area. Rather the way it used to work next to the Arena Bar at Sidmouth.

This way it wouldn't be trying to replace something that already happens, it'd be filling a gap.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,The Barden of England sans cookie
Date: 28 Aug 07 - 07:11 PM

Got to agree that I'm not as old as McGrath of Harlow, but as Les Barker wouls say 'Nobody's as old as Kevin McGrath'.
What I really meant to say is that walk up the hill containing more than several pints of Gods own Ale is daunting. Sort of three steps forward, one step sideways, one step back and another three steps forward.
It's a shame that no publican can see the benefit of having an all day session, but so be it. The Bedford and many other venues in Sidmouth have obviously got it wrong, but they get my vote, and for such I'll continue going there and not to Broadstairs. I do so wish I could support my local festival, but I just don't get the ambivolence.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 28 Aug 07 - 07:50 PM

John B - there's a restaurant in Whitby that has for the last several years advertised that it has ambient surroundings (not music, though!)

Kitty

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 29 Aug 07 - 11:29 AM

Too much ambiviolence and you'll get an Asbo.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,The Barden of England at work
Date: 30 Aug 07 - 07:15 AM

I used to take Aspro for headaches Kevin. It obviously still works for ambiviolence :-)
John Barden

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Girl Friday
Date: 30 Aug 07 - 09:34 PM

I had also thought about the arena bar- then dismissed it. The session would have to finish at 6 or earlier because of sound checks for the concert pavillion. It is a great shame that we can no longer use the classrooms. I don't understand why - we would treat them better than the pupils do. I also miss the proper on-site catering when the kitchens were serving proper food! Not everyone wants burgers.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 31 Aug 07 - 08:06 PM

Six o'clock mightn't be such a bad time to stagger off and do something else.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,dillietheoastouseopper
Date: 31 Jul 08 - 07:11 AM

who is excited as me about folk week this year?

Anything you are particularly looking forward to?

:0)

Charlotte

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 31 Jul 08 - 10:40 AM

Rumours about a hat with caravan keys in are exaggerated.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: vectis
Date: 31 Jul 08 - 05:26 PM

Not me Broadstairs has lost its appeal. There just isn't enough places to sing and play except organised sessions.
Have fun Y'all

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 31 Jul 08 - 06:36 PM

Aah'm ganna be there!

There's a rumour that The Phatt-B'Stards are ganna dee an acoustic FOLK gig at the sailing club - Now There's a forst!

Sorry not te see ye there this year, Vectis, hinny! Aah'll pop into Seaford afore lang, pet!

Hasta
G-P

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Rock Chick
Date: 01 Aug 08 - 08:10 AM

Yes agree with Vectis about organized sessions and not enough place to sing, although i have always found that you can normally start up a impromptu session in pub gardens, weather permitting of course. Richard and I are hoping to be there, it's a longgggg drive from Bonny Scotland but it's such a great festival and dare I say the weather is normally kind!!!!

rc

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: stormalong
Date: 02 Aug 08 - 02:51 AM

In theory I like the idea of an unorganised session because of the spontaneity, but I am told that free-for-alls tend to get dominated by one or two self-appointed individuals and that organised sessions in which someone holds the ring for the less pushy are fairer.

Even in organised sessions I've several times encountered those who have their turn and then push in again because they've 'got to leave soon'. I find this very annoying.

Rik

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: melodeonboy
Date: 02 Aug 08 - 03:39 AM

I shall be there for most of the week. I'm particularly looking forward to the Neptune singarounds and the sessions at the Wrotham Arms (I promise I won't push in!).

If I were a self-publicist I would also tell you that Jumbo Gumbo (Kent's zydeco band) will be playing at Broadstairs on the 11th and 12th, but as I'm not, I won't!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Bonzo3legs
Date: 02 Aug 08 - 01:15 PM

Ah Broadstairs, that was where the hideous Mythago invented a booking for dancing morris spots, and pulled out of the performance of The Henge, which was itself pulled from the festival at the last moment, the year of the hottest day on record. Are those wierdos still dancing I wonder??

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: BB
Date: 02 Aug 08 - 04:57 PM

Everyone will, of course, be welcome at the evening singarounds in the Sailing Club, a comfortable and welcoming venue, if a little cosy at times! We try to be fair and give everyone an equal chance, although we do occasionally bend the rules a little for those working at the festival and therefore unable to be there for the whole evening - so that we try to get *one* item from them during the evening. We welcome absolutely any genre, whether it be song, music, story or poem - or even dance if we can find something suitable for them to dance on! We have some great chorus singing - and great respect for anyone who has a go, no matter how new to it or how nervous they are. You're equally welcome if you just want to come and listen. Hope to see any of you there during the week - starting at 7.30 on Friday.

Barbara

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Kampervan
Date: 03 Aug 08 - 04:21 PM

Dear Guest - Rock Chick,
Aint life strange. Here I am, living about 20 miles from Broadstairs (for the last 20 years), and I've never been to the festival.

Most years we drive up to Beverley, Shrewsbury, sometimes Whitby; but never Broadstairs. Yet you think that Broadstairs is worth the journey all the way down from the other side of the Tweed.

Perhaps I should think about supporting a more local festival in future. Maybe see you at Braodstairs next year!!

Regards

K/van

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,Girl Friday
Date: 03 Aug 08 - 09:48 PM

We're looking forward to it all.
"Even in organised sessions I've several times encountered those who have their turn and then push in again because they've 'got to leave soon'. I find this very annoying."

Richard, you've voiced an opinion that I've long held, but never uttered.

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: GUEST,synbyn
Date: 05 Aug 08 - 09:04 AM

Yup, really looking forward to the whole week- there's a good lineup of guests and sessions for all tastes, really- Tom & Barbara's excellent Sailing Club session in the evening. the Neptune for unaccompanied singing and the Nelson for tunes at midday and this year the Woodshed at 3pm every afternoon in the Wrotham Arms, to cater for all those who are looking for somewhere to play along with others, and there's Avril's folk club accomodates those who prefer to play to an audience late afternoon. I'll be going to as many as time allows!
I agree wholly with Richard, that session etiquette is important- following the singer in their version, playing an accompaniement (if appropriate to the session) rather than overpowering the singer or lead player. I think it's important to bear in mind that every session we will be drawing someone new in, and they deserve a hearing. The best sessions imho are those in which everyone hangs their ego on the peg by the door! As JFK might have put it, ask not what the session can do for you, ask what you can do for the session...
oh, and some shirts just part a crowd... but the owners respect the sessions 'cos they're good people...
see you there...
Bob

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Geordie-Peorgie
Date: 05 Aug 08 - 06:53 PM

Get yersel's alang te the Woodshed Sessions at The Wrotham!

Synbyn runs a fablious ship in there.... and HOWAY! There shouldn't be any need for lessons in session etiquette.

Just wear your loudest shirt with the volume DOON!

Subject: RE: Off to Broadstairs...
From: Hamish
Date: 06 Aug 08 - 08:26 AM

I'm there on the Thursday and Friday. But I'll be in disguise...

:-/