Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: r.padgett
Date: 02 Mar 23 - 01:38 PM

Sorry to hear this news Moorley Man ~ hard times for traddies all round ~ I still sing when fit at The Polka Hop in Wakefield 1st and 3rd Sundays from 1.30pm

Just been advised of Mick McGarry's passing following and accident whilst on on holiday with Mary ~ RIP old Friend

Ray

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 02 Mar 23 - 12:02 PM

As far as I know, the pub did not reopen after Covid.
Many of us have been, and remain, in poor health even today, thus unable to travel around extensively to seek out a new venue.
In any case, there appears to be virtually nil interest among local singers in starting up again in the current climate.
Speaking personally, the bulk of my singing nowadays is online with singers in the States or Ireland.
So Just Voices at the Garden Gate is no more. End of an era. RIP.
Oh well, we did us best... !

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: GUEST
Date: 01 Mar 23 - 05:24 AM

post-covid update ?

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: GUEST,JHW
Date: 28 Feb 20 - 01:41 PM

You nearly had me though slow tyre leak is a worry. (Thorn, new tyre next week) Looked online for places to stay+taxi. Thought train. B&B near station said £31. Robots were having a laugh, was really £130. Didn't actually drive anywhere that night. Below Zero.
Great pub.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 27 Feb 20 - 07:06 PM

Well we broke all records with this month's Just Voices session - a nil attendance! I had received several apologies for absence in advance, various legitimate reasons for not being able to make it this month, but no other replies in response to my usual friendly reminder (I had requested advisement). So where is everybody???

I just can't believe that none of the many singers in Yorkshire are interested any longer.
And pace Nick, I've had no expressions of interest in moving back to the Black Bull even if it were an option. I know of only one erstwhile attendee for whom the venue was more convenient.

I really do need some support and guarantees of interest and attendance if the session is to continue past the next three months which are currently advertised widely in the folk magazines and elsewhere.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 06:48 PM

Thanks for your valuable input, Nick, I was hoping you would email me!
I am collating responses to the questions and issues raised - one of which is Birstall. I am actively exploring this option, but so far have met with surprisingly little support for a relocation back to Birstall even if it were possible on either of those alternative nights. Also it needs a proper recce to the BB first - so is there anyone better placed geographically than I am who could do that, I wonder?

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: GUEST,Nick Dow
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 01:00 PM

Birstall and a Wednesday or Thursday would be more accessible. It's a great idea and worth keeping.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 08:53 AM

Thanks Ray, yes, I'd also heard that - but not sure whether the upstairs room's been refurbished for the worse... might be worth a fresh recce? Anyone near there that can drop in?

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: r.padgett
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 06:24 AM

Been refurbished Black Bull ~ not me!

Ray

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: r.padgett
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 06:20 AM

Black Bull at Birstall some one told me has reopened ~ I'll check

Ray

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 20 Feb 20 - 06:11 AM

REFRESH - THIS MONTH'S SESSION IS NEXT TUESDAY - 25TH feb.
Please let's have a good turnout...

And to the above singer-poster:
Any further thoughts?
Are we likely to "cujimmy" at this month's session? Hope so!

Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 23 Jan 20 - 07:24 PM

Yes Jimmy, good to hear from you after all this time, and many thanks for your constructive comments and good wishes.

Sure, I am (and always have been) aware of the continuing and well established Abbey session, although I've not been for awhile due to a combination of travel problems (it's actually pretty awkward of access from this side of the bridge!) and health issues (and I don't just mean old age!..).

But there are two important points in your argument.
First, when Just Voices was started (in 2014), every effort was made to AVOID a clash with any specific, known clubs or sessions that were any LESS regular than weekly, and views were sought from likely attendees on that score.
Since the Abbey is weekly and Just Voices is only monthly, then, I would kindof expect that anyone interested and able to travel to Hunslet would make it to Just Voices (instead of the Abbey, say) on just that monthly - occasional - basis. I would have done so in that situation if I were seeking a change, at least sometimes. Variety being the spice of life etc... But that doesn't seem to have happened - and that's what puzzles me. If I wished, taken over a typical month, I could go to four or five different sessions/clubs on a Tuesday - but inevitably things like bad weather, travel disruption etc get in the way and spoil plans and it's not always possible to change one's arrangements or routes at the last minute!

Second, you suggest a Wednesday as an alternative slot for Just Voices that you imply would be preferred by Abbey regulars who may well venture along. I agree, there are fewer clubs and sessions on a Wednesday hereabouts, but our current Just Voices venue already hosts a session on that night (that was another reason for our taking the Tuesday option when we were forced to move from Birstall when the pub closed down).

Having said all that, it would be good to "CUJimmy" at Just Voices, you would be very welcome to come and share your songs.

MM

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: cujimmy
Date: 23 Jan 20 - 06:52 PM

David I wonder if you are aware of the clash with a very well established and well attended and very very good singing session at The Abbey Inn in Newlay every Tuesday evening. It is my personal favourite evening. I know your evening is for Un-accompanied singing, and Im sure a lot of people would enjoy that, but I feel that some of the people who attend the Abbey on Tuesday evenings may well venture along if it was ie on a Wednesday. The recent winter weather may have had a negative effect as well of course, and it seems a shame because I can see you have put a lot of patience and effort in to keep it going. Hope it picks up a bit now in the New Year.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: r.padgett
Date: 23 Jan 20 - 03:49 AM

Polka Hop would be a possible ~ near M1 and Wakefield

Ray

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 22 Jan 20 - 01:40 PM

I'll have another stab at finding out...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: GUEST,Nick Dow
Date: 22 Jan 20 - 12:57 PM

Any chance of moving back to Birstall?

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 22 Jan 20 - 07:19 AM

Well it didn't make any difference changing the date to ensure the show goes on - the downward trend of the past four months has continued, with only two fellow-singers at last night's session.
This makes no sense - and with no feedback from the previously enthusiastic absentees I'm forced to conclude that it might be the time to call it a day. It would be good to get some response before I have to make that decision, however, so now's the time to get in touch - please!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 18 Jan 20 - 05:27 AM

Refresh - only three days to go -- this month's session will be on Tuesday 21st January.
Weather forecast is good, and there's no clashes with any major folk events. So what's there to lose? Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 19 Dec 19 - 07:15 PM

Well, I think the world had forgotten the date - for we had our second lowest turnout ever this month. Really cannot fathom this.
Next month's will be on the third Tuesday - 21st January - due to a clash of commitments.
I can only hope for an improvement...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 10 Dec 19 - 10:11 AM

Swift reminder - it's NEXT WEEK !
That means Tuesday 17th December.

Who'd be a turkey at Christmas?... Come all ye!!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 27 Nov 19 - 09:27 AM

Another thin turnout last night, sadly - but a very pleasant session nevertheless, with well over 30 songs being sung including a brand new composition by one of our members!
Many thanks to Lynne and Tom for their loyalty and continued support of our session.
Next month's is earlier due to Xmas festivities - which means 17th December.
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 26 Nov 19 - 06:41 AM

Thanks for your endorsement, John - we do realise it's a long haul down this way for you but you're very welcome any time, friend.
As is anyone!
It's tonight!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: JHW
Date: 26 Nov 19 - 05:55 AM

I enjoyed the once I've been and the Garden Gate is a wonderful almost preserved pub. Worth a visit for its own sake. (They were going to knock it down last century but campaigners saved it)
Garden Gate NB this is a zombie website. Just see the pics, writeup out of date.
Alas well over an hour of maybe wet motorway for me but do go if you're anywhere near Leeds and better still know your way round.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 23 Nov 19 - 02:36 PM

It's this coming Tuesday! Only three days away...
Come all ye...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 30 Oct 19 - 05:33 AM

So where was everybody???

But thanks to Linn, instead of a singaround we had a highly enjoyable workshop of first-world-war songs and whaling songs!
Which just goes to prove, every session of Just Voices is different, with a great mix of songs. Why not come and try us?
Next session (if we survive) will be 26th November.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 29 Oct 19 - 02:15 PM

Time for an upturn - reminding all of this month's session, tonight at 8pm.
See you there? Hope so!
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 25 Sep 19 - 06:37 AM

Sad to report, our lowest ever turnout last night - just three singers in total, and two listeners. We still had a great time, but can't fathom why or how everyone else seems to have gone to ground.
The next session is October 29th, and I guess we'll carry on as booked till end of year, but it's getting to be too erratic and more of a matter for concern now.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 23 Sep 19 - 07:01 AM

It's tomorrow!
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 17 Sep 19 - 10:58 AM

Refresh - it's only a week away now!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 28 Aug 19 - 02:00 PM

Those who were absent missed a most interesting session this month - including some fascinating and well-sung contributions from Welsh John of Chapeltown, Sheffield.
Special thanks this time also to regular supporters Tom and Linn for their fine songs and good company.
Hoping to see some returning singers for Just Voices next month, which will be on 24th September.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 26 Aug 19 - 06:21 AM

Refresh - it's only one day away - tomorrow, Tuesday.
See you there!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 21 Aug 19 - 02:41 PM

Only a few days to go - our next session is Tuesday 27th August.
We've been promised a visit from Welsh John of North Sheffield, so it'll be a good night and we should still get "round the room" five times or more!
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 01 Aug 19 - 06:04 AM

Thanks to all who braved the thunderstorms on Tuesday to support us - it was a really good session, with the best attendance for 18 months, and some great songs and craic. Especial thanks to loyal singers Lynne, Barbara and Linn for keeping the faith and sharing their songs.
See you next month on 27th August.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 29 Jul 19 - 05:26 AM

Good turnout at Cleckheaton, but none of our Hunslet regulars!

Let's see the return of the latter tomorrow at July's edition.
Starts 8pm as usual at The Garden Gate...
Come all ye.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 25 Jun 19 - 07:04 PM

Thanks to everyone who came tonight.
See you next month on 30th July.

Meanwhile, an extra session of Just Voices will take place at Cleckheaton Folk Festival on Friday 5th July at 8pm at the Station Tavern. Admission free...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 22 Jun 19 - 04:13 PM

Still going ahead on Tuesday 25th June as scheduled.
Come all ye! (Please...)

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers' Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 29 May 19 - 04:00 PM

Another month, another session - and another sparse turnout.

Kind apologies were received from those booked at Chippenham Folk Festival and also our good friend from the north-east, but the mailbox was otherwise silent.

Big thanks, then, to our loyal attendees, Lynne and Barbara especially, for their support and great singing. A nice relaxed sing was had by us all, and plenty of good songs were sung. However...

Next month's will be on 25th June, although the way things are going the session may well be becoming unsustainable and I am almost minded to cancel.
Watch this space for news...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 27 May 19 - 01:47 PM

It's tomorrow!
Refresh yourselves, and come and be welcomed to the Durbervilles' "Recommended Singers' Night"! (Cheers, lads!)
Come all ye...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 21 May 19 - 06:07 AM

Only a week to go!

So let's have another good session, despite Bank Holiday and Festival absences.

Tuesday 28th May...

Come all ye!!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 01 May 19 - 02:43 PM

Glad to report a much more well-attended session yesterday, with the welcome return of Nick Dow (cheers, friend!) and a first visit from a couple of fine singers from Leeds itself. Plenty of interesting craic and good songs.
The next Just Voices session will be on Tuesday 28th May.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 30 Apr 19 - 07:27 AM

Refresh - this month's session is TONIGHT.

As trailed on the Durbervilles' Folk & Roots radio show - their "Recommended Singers' Night" for the week!
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 27 Mar 19 - 10:53 AM

Well, another session come and gone - and we only just made a quorum this month, having received other apologies (thanks) due to illness and touring commitments..

Another nice relaxed sing, but where oh where is everyone else these days?
Answers on a postcard (and don't forget the postage rate goes up this weekend)...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 20 Mar 19 - 07:19 AM

Hoping to welcome some new faces next week at the March session - it's on Tuesday 26th.
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 27 Feb 19 - 05:52 AM

What a lovely session last night - but once again there was only our loyal hard core of singers. Many thanks to Lynne, Linn and Barbara especially for their continuing support.
Next session is on 26th March.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 26 Feb 19 - 09:56 AM

Final refresh - it's tonight!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 25 Feb 19 - 11:26 AM

Refresh - it's tomorrow!
Come all ye!

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 23 Feb 19 - 07:32 PM

We're soldiering on - with a good weather forecast this month!
TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY at 8pm at The Garden Gate.
Do come and support us, the only session for unaccompanied voices in the whole of the region...

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 29 Jan 19 - 02:27 PM

Sorry had to cancel tonight due to the weather - let's hope for a better February.

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: John Routledge
Date: 29 Jan 19 - 05:57 AM

Subject: RE: Just Voices Singers’ Session – Hunslet (Yorks.)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 28 Jan 19 - 07:09 PM

Refresh again - but with a caveat, watch this space in case of enforced last-minute cancellation should we get an overdose of snow.