Arts Council Funding for EFDSS

Subject: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,Derek Schofield
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 11:14 AM

Press release from the EFDSS just released:

Arts Council Funding Heralds New Era for
the English Folk Dance & Song Society

The English Folk Dance & Song Society (EFDSS) is delighted to announce that it has become one of Arts Council England's Regularly Funded Organisations and will receive £400,000 of funding over two years. The funding will enable EFDSS to become a national development agency for folk music and set up a number of exciting new initiatives that will benefit the folk sector.
EFDSS was founded in 1932 following the amalgamation of the Folk Song Society (founded 1898) and The English Folk Dance Society (founded in 1911) and is based at Cecil Sharp House in Camden.
It has been a centre of excellence for the study, practice and dissemination of traditional English song, dance and music as well as being home to the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library; the most important collection of traditional song, dance and music material in the country.
EFDSS is also a membership organisation with around 4,000 members and affiliated clubs.

EFDSS Chief Executive, Katy Spicer, welcomed the news, saying:
"The announcement of this funding is exciting news for EFDSS and the folk arts in general. We are very much on the crest of a folk revival and this money will allow us to be proactive in how we support English folk arts. We will shortly be announcing a range of schemes to support artists through showcases and partnerships, as well as developing our existing education strategy.
"We will also be working towards creating the definitive online resource for both our members and the general public, creating a new website that will make even more of our library and archive collections available."

Susanna Eastburn, Director of Music Strategy, Arts Council England said:
"We are delighted to be investing in EFDSS over the next two years to support its ambitions to be a national development organisation. This is a very exciting time for folk music with a generation of world class artists influencing a new set of young performers who are challenging perceptions and attracting wide audiences and media interest.
"Our investment will build on the EFDSS's iconic status to create a national programme of artist and audience development, industry networking, training and increased opportunities for children and young people."

Ends

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Spleen Cringe
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 11:25 AM

Well done! This is excellent news.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,Chris B (Born Again Scouser)
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 11:53 AM

Congratulations, Derek. Now if Comhaltas could only get it's arse in gear the way EFDSS obviously has.

Excellent news. It would be great to see some of this getting through to schools around the country but I imagine you've already thought of that.

Well done!

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: RTim
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 12:03 PM

Great News - please pass on my Congrats!!

Tim Radford

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Folkiedave
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 12:15 PM

What he said.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: SylviaN
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 02:21 PM

Wonderful news!

Well done for all the hard work.

Sylvia

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Wyrd Sister
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 02:52 PM

Hehey! Well done!

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Steve Gardham
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 03:26 PM

Brilliant news, especially following on from the Take 6 funding. Congratulations. How did they manage to scrape away some of those millions spent on ballet and classical music?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,Jonny Sunshine
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 03:54 PM

Brilliant news. Hats off to all who've made it happen

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 04:08 PM

Not before flaming time.

Will some of it be spent on pointing out that although folk music is largely an art-form of the dispossessed it is in NO WAY in thrall to nationalism?

And maybe some on pointing out that the Licensing Act 2004 requres the permission of local government before the dispossessed can sing their songs?

Alas I suppose both would jeopardise the EFDSS's charitable status. Ho Hum.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,oggie
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 04:41 PM

So for all the nay-sayers on her appointment, Katy Spicer seems to be successfully doing a large part of the job she was appointed to do, namely to attract funding.

Good news,

Steve

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 05 Oct 09 - 07:42 PM

Well done!

Kitty

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,Derek Schofield
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 09:56 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: greg stephens
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 09:58 AM

Extremely good news indeed.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Mick Pearce (MCP)
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 10:11 AM

Excellent news. Congratulations to all who made it happen.

Mick

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: theleveller
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 10:17 AM

Good news. Let's hope some of the 'national development' is available to us in the frozen north.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: mattkeen
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 11:01 AM

Fabulous


EFDSS has gone from strength to strength over the last couple of years - congratulations to all

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 12:07 PM

Well done. It's time EFDSS gets some recognition.

Blessings
Rhiannon

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: treewind
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 02:55 AM

Congratulations, about time too, etc...

Any specific plans about how the money will be used?
Did the grant application involve specific projects? (they usually have to)

Anahata

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 05:20 AM

Hi Anahata,

I'm not sure how much of the actual agreement between EFDSS and the Arts Council is still confidential, so I'll try to respond in fairly general terms.

The money is, not to put too fine a point on it, to help EFDSS to become a much more strategically important organisation in terms of folk arts development. So it isn't for project work as such, but much more about developing areas of work. For instance, one of the priorities is to develop a much stronger regional strategy. But the uses for the money are stated much more as themes, rather than being for project-specific work.

I also don't think that it's any secret that Folk Arts England decided last year, after a long and successful partnership with the Arts Council, that it no longer wished to be an Arts Council Regularly Funded Organisation, and that the administration there preferred in future to focus on Mrs Casey Music and its associated projects.

There then came a question of what the Arts Council would do with the money previously allocated to Folk Arts England, and a number of consultations took place around the country. The Arts Council seems to have felt that it would still like to see the money going to one strategic organisation, rather than splitting it up into lots of little chunks. But the various consultations undertaken by the Arts Council have been vital, because they have definitely informed the focus and the strategy for how the money will be used. The new EFDSS priorities are quite different from those of Folk Arts England.

I should add that Steve Heap has been incredibly supportive of EFDSS in all of this, and EFDSS might not have got to this stage if not for his advocacy.


Please note that I am speaking about all of this as an individual, and not as a representative of EFDSS. :)

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Banjiman
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 05:41 AM

This looks like really good news.

I wonder what it will mean for grass roots folk music out here in the nether regions?

Well done to all.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 05:55 AM

Out of interest, Paul, what do you think could/ought to be done by EFDSS in places like Lincolnshire, given the additional funding? How do you think EFDSS ought to be working regionally?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Banjiman
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 06:22 AM

Joan, I'm actually in North Yorks (but from Lincolnshire originally). But I guess that's not the point!

O.K.:

Schools work. Maybe providing funding to take singers/ musicians into school to help preserve the tradition and make folk music and song seem exciting. I would see this as the number 1 priority, fits with the government "Sing Out" agenda as well.

Is it possible for the EFDSS to provide a focal point for regional folkie activities. My perception (might be wrong!) is that activities are currently very much centred around C# House.

Working with organisations such as Yorkshire Garland (I'm sure there are other simlar activities) elsewhere to preserve/ publicise local traditional (& other) songs.

Any chance of underwriting some of the risk of putting on folk events in the regions? Or providing support/ advice for promoters to access funds from other bodies?

I'll be back with more..... work teleconference calls!

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 06:25 AM

I think they should be emulating comhaltas by providing teachers of traditional music.
if you wish to learnt traditional music and are looking for a teacher in England,the only option is Comhaltas.[or has been until very recently]perhaps the situation has changed.
Ruth Archer,a couple of years ago ,you were asking for a music teacher,was it for your daughter?
guest chris b scouser.whats this crap about Comhaltas?they have got their house in good enough order,that they can provide teachers in different regions of England,which is what the EFDSS,should have been doing years ago.
IMO, EFDSS should be emulating Comhaltas and should be able to provide traditional music teachers in different parts of England,a good starting point would be to look at tho geographical areas that Comhaltas,are not covering if there are any.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 06:53 AM

Paul, I would agree with you on a number of those points, especially looking at regional partnerships - after all, EFDSS can't deliver national activity in isolation.

I think this one is the least likely:

"Any chance of underwriting some of the risk of putting on folk events in the regions?"

EFDSS is not a grant-making body, and while limited funding may be made available in future for specific areas of development, I think it's really unlikely that underwriting events would be a priority or would even be achievable. After all, the new funding is £200k, not £2m! ;)

With regard to supporting/advising promoters in accessing funding, I think this is a much better idea, and depending on whether they have the staff time to do it, I would see this as a really useful function.


Dick: thank you. You've made this point on numerous occasions, and I'm sure it's been heard.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 07:26 AM

yes and I will keep on banging on about it until something is done ,its a bloody disgrace.
attitudes like chris b,get nowhere,this is a not some competition between EFDSS AND COMHALTAS,they are both trying to promote traditional music,Comhaltas have their faults and make mistakes,as EFDSS have done.
a better attitude would be to look at what Comhaltas do that is successful,and also what they are not doing but should be doing,and ensuring that EFDSS does those very things better.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 07:34 AM

Does Comhaltas teach anything other than specifically Irish material?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Banjiman
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 07:38 AM

Yes, £200k not £2 million. Maybe I was getting carried away!

Advice/ support for accessing money would be very useful...... and how to organise succesful events. The issue here (for me anyway) is not the need for grants but rather underwriting of potential losses. My experience is that well planned folk events will usually break even or make a a profit (in my case ploughed back into the organisation) but the fear of losing money puts people off organising/ promoting things. I have a friend who lost £2000 of his own money trying to get a small folk festival off the ground..... he won't be doing it again!

A specific strategy to engage youngsters in singing/ songwriting/ performance would be useful. Not wishing to re-open the debate, my perception is that there are not enough youngsters involved grass roots activities..... sessions, singarounds, f**k clubs etc . There is a rumour that younger people attend folk festivals in droves..... but their numbers do not seem in proportion to the population as a whole from what I have observed.

So there might be something in what Dick says (but sounds expensive v numbers touched by it). But some kind of outreach work into schools or voluntary organisations working with children would seem a must (should there be a folk music badge for Scouts/ Guides/ Brownies etc?).

There are some interesting initiatives happening locally (e.g. Yorkshire Libraries have just commissioned a local folk singer close to my heart to work with the children at Catterick Garrison to write a song in the folk "style" around the effects of being left behind while thier fathers are away fighting in Iraq & Afghanistan. The governemnt "Sing Up" campaign in schools seems like an opportunity that the "folk movement" has mostly missed out on).

Is there a co-ordination role for the EFDSS in picking up on these types of initiatives and looking to get folk practitioners involved and working with other bodies to spread the ideas nationally?

I could go on but think I've probably used more than my share of this thread, at least for now!

Paul

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 07:51 AM

Hi Paul,

EFDSS has an Education Director, and the part-time London Links post previously held by Sam Lee is now being expanded into an Education Officer's post with a much wider brief than just London. So hopefully the resources will be there for EFDSS to act as this kind of overview organisation, providing the links where necessary for people to find others who may be able to help with their activity and delivery, and helping to join up the dots!

It was always my view that Folk Arts England's Folk Arts Network (for pracitioners, animateurs and artists working in folk arts development) was a vital part of its role, becuase often people in different regions can be working in isolation. Unfortunately, FAN has gone rather dormant in recent years. There is definitely a bit of a gap currently in terms of bringing all of these people together, sharing good practice, and developing new partnerships.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 08:35 AM

*I should reiterate that my comments reflect my own views and ideas, rather than the views of EFDSS.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Sue Allan
Date: 07 Oct 09 - 06:30 PM

Absolutely fantastic news, and not before time: recognition of folk ARTS (not just dance as 'sport' and song as 'heritage') in England at last ... although I know from experience (working for an Arts Council RFO) that the status also brings responsibilities as well as opportunities. But I see it as the start of a real renaissance and congratulations to all concerned at EFDSS who have obviously worked very hard for this.

BTW Dick, in the north of England at least Folkworks in NE and Folkus in NW are doing sterling work in teaching folk instruments etc to youngsters and offering workshops for all ages and I'm sure there must be similar in the south of England: Comhaltas is most certainly not unique in doing that.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 10:14 AM

BTW Dick, in the north of England at least Folkworks in NE and Folkus in NW are doing sterling work in teaching folk instruments etc to youngsters and offering workshops for all ages and I'm sure there must be similar in the south of England: Comhaltas is most certainly not unique in doing that.
can you provide details.there seems little evidence of it on the net,however Comhaltas have a presence throughout lancs BTW Dick, in the north of England at least Folkworks in NE and Folkus in NW are doing sterling work in teaching folk instruments etc to youngsters and offering workshops for all ages and I'm sure there must be similar in the south of England: Comhaltas is most certainly not unique in doing that.preston,from the local Irish Post newspaper.

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Traditional Irish Music In Your Area

BOLTON
There are weekly music tuition classes every Thursday from 8pm, and sessions on the third Sunday of every month at the Irish Centre, Lever Street, Bolton. For information contact Bernadette on 01942 522326

There is a monthly CCE session on the third Sunday of every month at the Irish Centre, Lever Street, Bolton — musicians and singers welcome. There are also music tuition classes every Thursday from 8pm.

BRADFORD
Bradford Comhaltas meet at the East Bowling Unity Club. Contact Margaret McNulty 01274 616 330 and Dom Sheeran 07946 318 129.

CAMBRIDGE
The Cambridge branch of CCE meets every Wednesday evening in the Rathmore Club, Cherry Hinton Road for lessons in fiddle, tin whistle, button accordion and bodhran. They also host open sessions on the last Friday of each month. Contact 01638-552953.

CHESTERFIELD
Irish Tune session takes place at the County Hotel, 83 Saltergate, Chesterfield. It is held on the second Tuesday of each month, (next date Tuesday, June 13). For information contact 01246 201640. E-mail [e-mail]

COVENTRY
The Coventry Folk Club meets at the Four Provinces Club, corner of Allesley Road and Craven Street, on the second Thursday of every month. Contact Dick on 07831 890905.

DERBY
The Irish Centre in Becket Street hosts traditional Irish music sessions every Tuesday from 9pm. For details contact the centre on 01332 332842.

GLOUCESTER
A Traditional music jam session is staged on the first Wednesday of each month at Gloucester Irish Centre in Horton Road. Further details contact 01452 525728 during licensed hours.

HESTON
Traditional Irish music classes for all ages and abilities at the Pope John Centre, The Green every Tuesday from 6pm. Contact Damien on 07867 774 769 or Marian on 020 8204 5143.

HUDDERSFIELD
Huddersfield Irish Centre Fitzwilliam Sreet, have traditional music every Saturday from 9pm, free. Contact 01484 420140.

LANCASHIRE
There is a Comhaltas session on the first Friday of every month at the Haslingden Irish Democratic Club. Musicians are welcome. For details contact 01706 218475 or 01706 214787.

LEAMINGTON SPA
Leamington Spa Comhaltas holds a session on the last Thursday of the month at St. Patrick's Club, Adelaide Road. All welcome.

LEEDS
Leeds CCE offer traditional Irish music lessons at the Leeds Irish centre, York Road every Tuesday evening during school term times 6-8.30pm with an informal session in the bar afterwards. They are introducing an instrument library to increase opportunities for local children. All ages and abilities catered for. For details contact Peggy on 0113 263 7600.

Irish music classes are held on Wednesdays at the Immaculate Heart Church Hall, Harrogate Road, between 3.45-4.45pm, and at The Wheel, Dewsbury Road, between 6.15-7.15pm. Contact Rod Taylor on 0113 2170841.

LEICESTER
The Leicester Branch of CCE holds traditional Irish music classes for children aged 6-18. Beginners class starts at 7pm and is held at the Sacred Heart Church Hall, Mere Road every Monday. The music teacher is Carmel Burke. To enrol or for more information, contact Anne Wall (PRO) on 0116 269 7161. A traditional Irish music session is also held at the same venue on the first Friday of every month and open to anyone.

LIVERPOOL
St. Michael's Irish Centre has CCE music lessons every Monday 6.30-8pm and James Larkin flute band on Tuesdays. Contact 0151 263 1808.

LONDON
Traditional music lessons including childrens beginner classes from 6pm, adult beginner classes from 7pm, at the Greenwood Hotel, 574 Whitton Avenue West, Northolt, Middlesex.

Irish Traditional classes at Lewisham Irish Centre on Wednesdays from 6pm. Contact 020 8318 0314.

The Traditional Music Association hosts a session at the Kilkenny Tavern, South Wimbledon every Tuesday from 9pm. Contact Nick Walker on 020 8669 6542.

Irish music classes are being held at the parish hall of St. Peter and Paul, Leybourne Avenue, off Northfields Avenue, Ealing, W13, on Tuesday evenings from 6.30-8.30pm. Beginners' classes start at 6.30pm, while the progress group begins at 7.30pm.

Traditional Irish music classes are held every Tuesday at 7.30pm at the Haringey Irish Centre, Pretoria Road. Contact Maureen or Sinéad on 020 8443 2232.

Traditional Irish music classes take place every Saturday, from noon at the Oliver Goldsmith School, Coniston Gardens, Kingsbury, NW9. Children aged seven and over are welcome.

LUTON
Irish Music Lessons taught onmost instruments at St. Joseph's Parish Centre, Leagrave on Tuesdays at 4pm. There is a session every fourth Friday of the month at St. Josephs Centre from 8pm. All musicians and members of the public welcome. Admission free.

Luton Irish Forum is forming a Pipers Band. We are looking for recruits - 12 years and upwards. Professional teachers on pipes and drums give free lessons every Sunday at The Irish Centre, Drill Hall, Old Bedford Road, Luton. Call Farrell Gallagher on 01582 658 037 or 01582 751 463.

Adult music classes are being held every Monday night at Our Lady Help of Christians, Parish Hall, Castle Road, Luton from 8pm until 10pm. Contact 020 8441 3598.

MAIDENHEAD
Noctor's Bar in Berkshire are holding a traditional Irish session every Thursday. Accordion, banjo, guitars and bodhran. All musicians, singers and dancers welcome. Also live music every Saturday and Sunday 01628 634740.

NEWPORT
Amairgin the Gael, the Newport branch of the Comhaltas, hold a session at the Newport Irish Club, Commercial Road, Newport, South Wales on the first Friday of each month. Further details can be obtained by calling either Noreen or Graham on 01633 276349.

NORTHAMPTON
Northampton Comhaltas Irish Music sessions have moved to a new venue from November onwards, until June 2007. The regular sessions will take place at The Obelisk Centre, Obelisk Rise, Kingsthorpe, (just off the A 508, at the top of the Obelisk estate Northampton), NN2 8UE. It will be the third Sunday of each month, with Sunday, November 19 beginning the new regular pattern. For further details of Comhaltas activities in Northampton contact the chairman Robert Patrick Abraham by telephone during evenings on 01 604 880101.

NOTTINGHAM
There is traditional Irish music jam every Thursday, 9pm at the Mechanics Arms, (Pride of Erin), Alfred Street North, Nottingham. Includes complimentary sandwiches. For more information call 0115 9243144.

Every Monday, Claddagh members club, in association with FIANN (Federated Irish Associations Nottingham and Notts). For more information contact Steve Long on 0115 9243144 or Julie Cassidy/ Pat English at FIANN on 0115 9586515 or 07715099278.

The new Four Provinces Bar in Nottingham Irish Centre have live music every fortnight on Saturdays. Contact 07970 513523.

The Nottingham Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann hold lessons from 7-9pm every Monday at the Nottingham Irish Centre, Wilford Street. For further information contact 0115 952 1305 or 0115 952 5627.

The Greyfriars Pipe Band meets every Sunday from 10am until noon at the Greyfriars Catholic Social Club. New members are welcome. Further information contact Paul Reddington on 0115 9585243.

OXFORD
There is a traditional music session at the Half Moon in St Clement's Street every Sunday evening. More details from Joe or Ian on 01865 247808.

TYNESIDE
Music sessions open to all musicians. Tyneside: Tuesday, The Wheatsheaf, Felling (Felling Metro). Wednesday, The Cumberland Arms, Byker. (Byker Metro) Thursday, The Stout Fiddler, (Manors Metro), Friday, The Cumberland Arms, (Byker Metro) Durham City: Monday, The Colpitts, Tuesday, The Elm Tree, Thursday, The Dun Cow. All sessions commence approx. 8.30pm.

Tyneside Irish Centre have traditional music every Thursday and a session every Friday.

SLOUGH
There is a Traditional music jam session at the Herschel Arms, Herschel Street every Monday evening at 8.30pm. Further details 01753 524089 during licensed hours.

SHEFFIELD
Irish Tune session takes place at the Irish Heartland, (Sheffield Irish Centre), Exchange St, Sheffield. It is held on the fourth Tuesday of each month, (next date, Tuesday, Junly 25). For information contact 0114 2700635 or e-mail [e-mail].

Irish Tune session at the County Hotel , 83 Saltergate, Chesterfield. Second Tuesday of month. Next one July 11. Contact 01246 201640.

SWINDON
A Jam Session takes place at the Bakers Arms, Emlyn Square (opposite the Mechanics Institute) every Thursday evening starting at 8pm. All are welcome to have a go (including beginners) and microphones, amplifiers and speakers are available for use at no charge. Further details can be obtained from the pub by calling 01793 535199 during licensed hours. manchester ,yorks, leeds, bradford,
birmingham,nottingham, teesside london,newcastle on tyne,and offer tuition at many of their branches.THATS FAIRLY COMPREHENSIVE.
they dont seem very active in the south west.
[imo] EFDSS should look at those places where there isnt a comhaltas presence[and providing there are teachers in the area]start instrument tuition,in other styles apart from Irish,with only a small amount available[moneywise]this will have to be done gradually.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 10:21 AM

so Comhaltas lessons are available at Bolton leeds liverpool london luton,nottingham, leicester and Cambridge.
EFDSS provide tuition where?lets have details.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 10:31 AM

Dick, please don't do this again. This is a thread about EFDSS, not Comhaltas.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Willa
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 10:45 AM

Hi Paul
As you say there are some interesting initiatives happening locally, including the education work done by the Yorkshire Garland group
http://www.yorkshirefolksong.net/education/default.aspx and sttaw legend's work with youngsters for the Hull shanty festival.
thread.cfm?threadid=116521#2710456

Let's hope that EFDSS can channel some of the money into initiatives like them.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Banjiman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 10:53 AM

Willa,

Yes, I mentioned the Yorkshire Garland Group. The Hull Shanty stuff looks good!

Maybe we need a Yorks (and/or NE) wide development organisation of some sort........ or maybe there is one that I don't know about?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: theleveller
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 11:03 AM

BTW did the EFDSS ever appoint a Marketing Director - or have I just not been keeping up?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 11:12 AM

Ruth ,if you dont like facts ,thats tough,
I was replying TO Sue Allans remarks,about other people doing things in the south of England,I can see nothing on the net,about any other organisation other than comhaltas,providing tuition on a national basis.
if EFDSS are doing it,on a national scale provide details,thats about the EFDSS?
why are EFDSS not providing tuition,and are they going to provide it even in a limited way,now they have more funds.what is this money going to be spent on?
Ruth, Answer my questions please or get someone from your organisation who can,and please stop trying to stifle constructive criticism.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Ruth Archer
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 11:52 AM

leveller: yes they did. His name is Nick Hallam, and he took up his post in September.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Vic Smith
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 12:06 PM

In the last decade, the EFDSS has turned itself around to be one of the most vibrant and positive forces for folk and traditional music in this country, from the dull stuffy organisation that it used to be.

If the Arts Council were to have looked at EFDSS 15 years ago, they would have concluded, rightly, that they were not worthy of support. A detailed inspection of what they are up to now would show an almost unrecognisable improvement.

The harsh critics of EFDSS - and I count myself amongst them - can only drop their jaws at the changes that have been made. Congratulations to everyone involved.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,PeterC
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 01:45 PM

There is always more that could be done if the funding was available but policy will come from the membership not from posts on an American bulletin board. If you want a say then you have to JOIN.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Banjiman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 01:48 PM

Thanks Peter,

I think I was invited to give an opinion though!

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: SteveMansfield
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 01:56 PM

In the last decade, the EFDSS has turned itself around to be one of the most vibrant and positive forces for folk and traditional music in this country, from the dull stuffy organisation that it used to be.

If the Arts Council were to have looked at EFDSS 15 years ago, they would have concluded, rightly, that they were not worthy of support. A detailed inspection of what they are up to now would show an almost unrecognisable improvement.

The harsh critics of EFDSS - and I count myself amongst them - can only drop their jaws at the changes that have been made. Congratulations to everyone involved.

Amen to all that, and having myself regarded the EFDSS as, at best, an irrelevance throughout the 80s and 90s I joined a couple of years ago in response to the changes of focus and organisation that Vic describes. The Arts Council funding for the EFDSS is excellent news, and can only help to continue the transformation of the Society.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 03:00 PM

I have offered my congratulations elsewhere,on another thread.
however everything I have said is true,and it is a problem that needs to be adressed,even if initially it is only done in a smallway.
peter .c,no I believe I have more in put on this forum ,which is international,
furthermore any spare money I have goes to Search light,why ?
because it is a more effective way of fighting racism,than anything else,and is[imo] more of a priority,especially as there is no indication that the EFDSS,will do anything to prevent the BNP from hijacking English Traditional Music,that is not the remit of the EFDSS,Their job is to promote trad music,perhaps they will promote it by providing tuition [now they have extra funds].
lets hope so,its about time they did do it.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: synbyn
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 11:13 AM

This is terrific news, and an endorsement of the focus that EFDSS have created through their schools project- having seen the final concert and witnessed the children's enthusiasm, I can only say that this seems to be the way forward. Tuition is part of a groundswell which will provide the continuity... as Bob Copper used to put it, we don't want to be the ones who broke the chain. Now there are the means to strengthen it a little. And at last to be enthusiatic about the folk music of England is being seen not as narrowly nationalistic, but as embracing an important component of a balanced view of our heritage.
Bob

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Sue Allan
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 06:11 PM

Not sure why you can't find anything on the net Dick. Here's link to Folkworks:

http://www.thesagegateshead.org/folkworks/folkworks_participation.aspx

And this to Folkus:

http://www.folkus.co.uk/home.htm

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 06:34 AM

so thats Gateshead,and Lancashire,covered,that leaves vast areas of the cOuntry where the only tuition is in the hands of Comhaltas.
EFDSS should be spending some of their funds in rectifying this,and should be providing tuition,it is the job of EFDSS to promote traditional folk dance and song,tuition.
I think that this is vitally important,this is a reason why I prefer to be a member of Comhaltas,than EFDSS,because Comhaltas despite their faults[and they have many]are actually providing comprehensive tuition.EFDSS ARE NOT.
EFDSS would benefit from looking at where Comhaltas have been successful,lets look at the national fleadh,and the regional fleadhs,for all the criticisms of the competition system,the positive spin off is large,many musicians getting together and making music,plus the financial boost to the local economy[which is very considerable].

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: GUEST,Jim Moray
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 07:08 AM

Dick,
If you had spent a couple of minutes on Google before deciding to get your rant on, you'd have discovered that there is a folk development agency in most parts of the UK.

The Wren Trust and Folk South West both operate in (naturally) the south west. SEFAN in the south east, until recently TAPS worked in the south east and I believe have ongoing legacy work there. Trac work in wales. South Riding Folk Network and Yorkshire Dales Workshops work in Yorkshire. West Midlands Folk Federation in the Midlands. There are many more organisations like Ryburn Three Step that do folk development work that is incredibly valuable and commendable.

Personally, I don't think that Comhaltas hold all the answers - I really wouldn't want to see English folk music move that way or follow their example. There are better ways to nurture and develop a truly living tradition. From where I'm standing, I think that [i]access[/i] is by far the most important thing. It should be easy to find out about this stuff - and I don't just mean the contents of the library. Some of Folkworks success is due to the fact that having a real life Kathryn Tickell or Alistair Anderson in front of you is far more inspiring than a book about Northumbrian tunes. The Take Six project and the digitising of the library are the beginnings of this, and I hope that this work continues.

As a fairly involved bystander, I've been really impressed with the EFDSS in the last few years. I wasn't there through the 80s and 90s so my view isn't tainted by anything in the past - what I see is a welcoming organisation that is reaching out into the wider world and trying to build bridges that make it easier to enter.

Believe it or not, it's fairly hard to get funding this significant from the Arts Council. The fact that this money has been allocated to EFDSS is a major vote of confidence in them and shows that they know what they're doing. The best thing to do now is congratulate Katy and her team, and join the organisation if you want to help them achieve the things that are set out for the next few years.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: SteveMansfield
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 07:17 AM

Well on the other hand I wouldn't want to see EFDSS coming to regard one of its primary focuses as being a provider of competition-based tuition.

I could add other educational / outreach / evangelising organisations to the ones that have already been mentioned for other parts of the country( http://www.thettaa.btik.com/home.ikml for South Essex for example), but maybe that listing needs to spin off into its own thread.

EFDSS is on the up at the moment; it has an opportunity here to really make itself relevant to everyone involved in traditional music in England, and part of that relevance could be through being an information hub. Rather than EFDSS itself taking on the role of coordinating a programme of national tuition, EFDSS could publicise the teaching resources that are already out there, provide resources and support for encouraging new groups to fill in the geographical gaps, and maybe (to lapse into management-babble for a moment) 'establishing best practices' so that new groups don't make the beginners' mistakes that the established groups do.

That model (enabling, publicising, encouraging rather than owning) also applies not just to tuition but to Morris sides, to ceilidh clubs, to folk clubs, to sessions .... I'm making this up as I go along, but rather than the old idea of 'EFDSS Clubs' maybe we move towards a model of 'My Local Club' which was assisted, encouraged, publicised and nurtured by EFDSS.

EFDSS can represent and act as a central clearing-house for all of this disparate and organic activity at a national level, whilst locally and regionally 'a million flowers bloom' ....

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 08:44 AM

I have congratulated these involved,
sorry I disagree with you,I see the result of comhaltas tuition,what i see is thousands of young people playing trad music,what is wrong with that?

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: johnadams
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 08:59 AM

Amen to that sfmans! During the EFDSS absence from mainstream folk activity there has been a wealth of development in the regions including our own Ryburn 3 Step. During my 8 years on the National Council (2000 -208) I did all I could to stimulate the formulation of a regional strategy but aspirations were always foiled by funding shortfalls. Some of this new funding could be used to provide a network and infrastructure within which the local providers could operate and inform each other - training, good practice, interactivity of tutors, etc. etc.

Comhaltas does a good enough job but it is not the model that EFDSS could or should emulate. Folk Arts England has provided a lot of leadership in the important areas and given the changes in FAE future emphasis, EFDSS could look at extending and enhancing those area of activity while also bringing its own ideas to bear.

Congratulations to all the people in the background who have made this funding possible with months/years of networking and lobbying. Chief Exec Katy Spicer is fortunate to be inheriting the fruits of this labour and I am confident that she will be able to optimise the opportunity and make a difference for the society and the folk scene in general.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 09:15 AM

Comhaltas does a good enough job but it is not the model that EFDSS could or should emulate.[quote]why? it is successful.
do you have an alternative thats better
JIM,I have been asking this question[Not having a little rant,that is a patronising remark]the question is do efdss provide national tuition[the answer looks like no]
next question,if not why not,is it lack of money?it is their brief to promote traditional song and dance,just as comhaltas have a brief to promote irish traditional dance and song.
Ruth, suggested I join EFDSS,no ,my money is better spent going to Comhaltas who teach traditional music,If EFDSS were to provide comprehensive tuition[IN any form] I would consider joining ,In the meantime Comhaltas with all their faults,gets my money.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: johnadams
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 09:54 AM

Dick, Comhaltas is undoubtedly successful in what they do but yes, there are alternatives that will likely be more suitable to the EFDSS financial and structural makeup (and therefore better).

The trustees spend time going to conferences, attending meetings, reading minutes, checking government policy documents etc. getting themselves well informed so that they can be in a position to take advantage of opportunities. Such an opportunity has arisen at last and rest assured, if Comhaltas provides the optimum model, EFDSS will probably consider adopting it. Or there may be bits of good practice which they could adopt.

The society will, however, be starting from where it is and getting to the next stage rather than trying to re-invent itself in another society's image, no matter how much you champion their cause.

Although your opinion is as valid as anyone else's on this forum, you are not as well informed as some of the people who have devoted their time, energy, social life and often money to solving the problems. I think they've done very well thus far and I am happy to trust them to develop their strategies further.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 10:33 AM

well an obvious suggestion,would be to extend the tuition and school projects using cecil sharp house as a base.
your post rather implies I do not know what I am talking about.
my information is correct about the lack of comprehensive regional tuition by the EFDSS compared to Comhaltas,My opinions are well informed.
I was not suggesting that Comhaltas should be slavishly copied,I was suggesting that they should be studied [for their strengths and weakness]and some things that they do could be adopted, particularly childrens tuition[this does not have to be competition orientated].
I understand that these things have to be done gradually,but an extension or adaption of the schools projects would be money well spent.
using CECIL SHARP HOUSE as a base is a good business idea,think of the building as a shopkeeper might his shop,the ultimate aim being to get people [particularly young children] visiting the house regularly.
to   quote the old jesuit phrase,get a child before he is eight and he is yours for life.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: johnadams
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 11:39 AM

Sorry but sounds really confused - regionality AND centralism?

You don't seem to be able to talk about strategy and what about sustainability? - £200,000 is a start but it won't stretch that far these days.

Enabling the existing tutors is probably the best approach and contrary to what you seem to think, there are lots of them working in schools all over the country. They are independent of the EFDSS but they could still benefit from a strategy that provides support and information, the sort of thing that sfmans and others describe.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 11:50 AM

regionality or centralism,thats for the members to decide,both have advantages or disadvantages ,but for heavens sake start doing something.
[They are independent of the EFDSS but they could still benefit from a strategy that provides support and information, the sort of thing that sfmans and others describe.] QUOTE
Here we go again,you will be telling me next its not EFDSS responsibilty to provide tutors or promote tuition.
with the money THEY have received EFDSS, should be spending on extra tuition.
this money should go directly to tutors so that more children can benefit from extra tuition,it should not go on bureaucracy.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: WalkaboutsVerse
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 12:33 PM

Comhaltas belongs in Ireland, the EFDSS belongs in England.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 12:58 PM

as far as I am concerned,any tuition in traditional music is welcome.
the more different people doing it the better,be it EFDSS OR Comhaltas the better,because there will be varying styles,and different approaches.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: WalkaboutsVerse
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 01:08 PM

"Folk music IS meant to be local/regional/national" (here)...and please don't get me wrong, GSS, I definitely do enjoy listening to some Irish music - but I'd never practice/perform it because I am English, and because I love our world being multicultural.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: Folkiedave
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 05:09 AM

I suspect this has been said but let me try again.

When making applications for this sort of money you have to say in advance what you are going to use it for.

They check you are using it for what you said you are going to use it for.

Therefore the money is already allocated. Had it been allocated for tutoring I suspect the EFDSS and Arts Council might have said so.

The way to influence the way it is spent is to join the society.

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: mattkeen
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 06:15 AM

Its strategic money for development.

Fortunatly the EFDSS is now staffed and run by professionals who know what they are doing.


Some of us work in the professional arts and fund raising world.

Looking forward to Nick Hallam's work - I know Nick and spoke to him at Sidmouth this year - a great move to get a marketing and communications professional in and to build that department.
For a long time I have felt that one of the big problems we face how to get people who have never experienced the music to get beyond their preconceptions

Subject: RE: Arts Council Funding for EFDSS
From: The Sandman
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 06:40 AM

Dave,I feel my money is better spent going to Searchlight,and to Comhaltas[for all their faults]
However, you are a member, perhaps you could suggest my idea for future consideration.perhaps you could also nominate Vic and Tina Smith,and Ron Angel for gold badges.