The Halliard - any memories of this group?

Subject: TRYING AGAIN!!
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 04:38 AM

After many failed attempts at logging-in last month, tried again today & so far, so good! Had a browse through Lyrics & Knowledge & came across some very old posts regarding "The Calico Printers Clerk". Fascinating reading & an error that needs correcting. In one post it said that Mike Raven was a member of "The Halliard". Mike, his brother John & their father were closely involved with "The Halliard" in the last few months of their career. Father Raven recorded the Halliard's farewell album (1968) in one afternoon, in his house, on one microphone, using a domestic Brennel tape machine. In 1997, Mike Raven coupled this album with "The Jolly Machine" & re-issued both on one CD (MR 77). So Mike Raven was closely involved, but a member of "The Halliard", no. The line-up of the professional group was: Dave Moran, Nic Jones & Nigel Paterson. Geoff Harris was in the original group, but left when the decision was made to turn professional. His place was filled by Nic Jones.
             Be really good to hear from anyone who has any "Halliard" memories,
                      Very Best,
                                 Nigel Paterson (mandolin,"The Halliard")

Subject: RE: TRYING AGAIN!!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 04:47 AM

Your other post 'Back in business' made it on to the forum, so you might want to consider asking a JoeClone or Mudelf to close one of them to avoid confusion.

I have no 'Halliard' memories, but we may have a recording somewhere.... and I have an abiding memory of Nic Jones at Wadebridge Folk Festival (early 1980s', not too long after his accident) having his memory jogged by Tony Rose for the 'Bonny Light Horseman'. It was there that I heard my first Les Barker composition too, and remember that once Nic had twigged it wasn't the original, he was most appreciative.

LTS

Subject: RE: BACK IN BUSINESS!!
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 05:42 AM

Hello Joe, could you remove this entry please, it duplicates "TRYING AGAIN"...was under the impression that "BACK IN BUSINESS" hadn't made it on, clearly I was wrong. I hope my future associations with Mudcat go more smoothly. Just to check, I have the following cookies enabled:
session, persistent & third party. Mobile code is enabled. I've also told IE to allow mudcat.org. Is there anything else I need to do?
(Firewall: ZoneAlarm Pro v.6)
                            Very Best,
                                     Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: BACK IN BUSINESS!!
From: Joe Offer
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 02:05 PM

As requested, I combined these two threads. I hope the title is acceptable, Nigel. I'd like to hear more about "The Halliard."
-Joe Offer-

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Anglo
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 02:49 PM

Well Nigel, back in the early-mid 60s when I wasn't away at uni I was a regular at the Boat Club in Stourport-on-Severn, above the rowing shell boathouse, which you may or may not remember. The club started at around 9pm, last call was 10:30 but there was no drink-up time, so everyone got in 3 or 4 pints and stacked them on the tables, and the festivities continued till 11:30 or 12. One of the regulars there was a cantankerous fellow named Fred Raybould, who was vociferously critical of many, including Dave Moran. I remember you all coming in anonymously one night, doing a guest set under assumed names, and generally taking the piss out of Fred. Wonderful evening.

I used to have your old cheap-label recording (Saga, was it?) of Irish rebel songs, and do have a copy of the CD Mike Raven put out. I still sing Calico Printer's Clerk with your tune.

I've been Stateside since 1968 with only occasional visits "home," but let me confirm that you are indeed remembered. Welcome to Mudcat.

John Roberts

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 04:51 PM

Hi John,
       I do remember the Boat Club & cantankerous Fred, but sadly, not the "assumed names" set...what a great gag! The club stays in my memory as one of the friendliest, most enthusiastic places we ever played at. I really CAN see the beers stacked up on the tables. Always seemed to sleep well after those gigs....can't imagine why..?!
       The Irish album was called "It's the Irish in Me", & you're right, a budget job. Saga wanted to cash in on the success of "The Dubliners" & Seven Drunken Nights. Against our better judgement, persuaded by cash in hand & a huge amount of beer in the studio, we recorded the whole thing in an afternoon. We hated it at the time, but when I listen to it now, it really isn't so dire! Have a look on ebay & see how much money it changes hands for these days!!
       Our "Broadside Songs" book/CD was released in July, this year & sometime next year we are releasing an album of broadsides, recorded back in 1968, never released, master-tapes recently re-discovered, songs never before heard..."The Halliard" at their best & a tantalising glimpse of the emerging talent of one Nic Jones.
       Thanks very much for getting in touch John,
       All the Very Best,
                        Nigel Paterson (mandolin,"The Halliard")

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,harvey andrews
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 06:49 PM

Great memories of the Halliard and their club. Dave Moran took me under his wing in that part of the country and helped me a lot. It was there at a club night that I first met Chris Rohmann with whom I later teamed up until he was called to America to fight his draft to Vietnam.I always remember being so impressed with the solo work of Nic Jones and again with the general energy of the three of you.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 10 Nov 05 - 08:24 PM

Well, "The Halliard" has been re-released as a CD, so you can hear what all the talk is about. CAMSCO, of course, carries it.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Fossil in NZ
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 01:07 AM

One of the last things I did music-wise before leaving Belgium for the other side of the world was order (and receive) the Halliard re-release CD, which comes with a super book with history, music, chords 'n all. Just to make it better, it was signed individually by the band members, too. Brilliant. There's a thread about it somewhere on the 'cat. Highly recommended....

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 02:58 AM

I remember going to see The Halliard at the Grass Roots Folk Club in Halifax [ Yorkshire ] in the sixties, Nic and Dave were there but where were you Nigel ?

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 07:54 AM

Hello eric, you probably missed me in the crush, I'm only 5ft 3, Dave or Nic must have been standing in front of me! More seriously, if you saw The Halliard in the autumn of '68, after the official breakup, it's just possible that Dave & Nic did a few tail-end gigs without me. By that time I'd started at Teacher Training College.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 08:32 AM

One of the best bands I've ever seen anyway, also I've got the Banddogs record, this really ought to be available on CD, I'll pester Pete Coe when I see him.

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 11:32 AM

Got the CD and book - brings back great memories of my introduction to folk via Dick Brice at Redditch FC.. Nigel - good to hear that there will more to come next year.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Peterr
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 12:01 PM

Last message was me - cookie went walkabout

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Lanfranc
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 01:47 PM

I remember the Halliard, but only vaguely (it was the 60s after all!). I'd been at school with Nic and knew Geoff (and Penny). I have a recollection of at least one gig at Colchester Folk Club back in the days when it was held in a pub up by the barracks and also I'm pretty sure you played either at Clacton or St Osyth College Folk Clubs round '66 or '67. Somewhere in my stack of vinyl I have an album - must seek it out!

Alan

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 05:16 PM

Some messages:
             JOE, best way to find out more about "The Halliard" to get you started, look out for the December edition of Dirty Linen. Steve Winick will have an extended review of "Broadside Songs" in the Dirty Linen Classics series. If that whets your appetite, I'll be pleased to sign you up for the advanced immersion course!

            HARVEY, good to hear from you after all this time. I remember your gigs at Chelmsford Folk Club very well. Dave's not too well at the moment, I'll pass on your kind words...sure to cheer him. I remember meeting Chris Rohmann too...how did he fare with the draft?

            ERIC the RED, as you missed me in Halifax, have a look at the fledgling Halliard website: www.thehalliard.com There are a couple of very moody B/W photos which might bring back a memory or two.

            ALAN, yes, we played at Colchester, but can't remember whether we played Clacton or St.Osyth or even both! Look out for that Halliard vinyl. Both of our original albums come up on ebay from time to time....you should see what they change hands for....wish we still got the PRS!!

            PETER, remember Redditch FC clearly, great participation! Very pleased to hear you have "Broadside Ballads". The album release next year should prove to be a celebration of "The Halliard" in their prime. It sounds fresh & full of vitality...still can't believe it's almost thirty eight years since we recorded it!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,harvey andrews
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 06:52 PM

My very best wishes to Dave. Please forward me his address via my website www.harveyandrews.com. Feedback. I'll drop him a line.
Chris succeeded and avoided the draft. Eventually returned to England and wrote "Funky Moped" a big hit for Jasper Carrott. He returned to the States and recently had a book, compendium of the world's beliefs, published and given the status of book of the month.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 12 Nov 05 - 11:39 AM

Fossil in NZ, brilliant to hear that "Broadside Ballads" has travelled from Belgium, all the way to NZ. This puts you in Dave Moran's hemisphere...he lives in Tasmania! Hope the book & CD keep those 60s folk memories alive,
                            Very Best,
                                     Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 15 Nov 05 - 04:55 PM

Liz the Squeak....your reminescence of Nic at Wadebridge all that time ago, makes me realise just how much progress he has made over the intervening years, supported & encouraged by Julia, his wife. Can you imagine how we all felt when he decided he could sing on "Broadside Songs"? And as for Joseph's guitar playing.....well!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 16 Nov 05 - 04:12 AM

Dick Greenhaus....which "Halliard" album do you have in stock please?

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Lanfranc
Date: 16 Nov 05 - 04:58 AM

Chris Rohmann turned up at St Albans Folk Club a couple of years ago in company with Melanie Harrold (aka Joanna Carlin aka Irma Cetas). I have his album on vinyl (the one with the cover a cross between a Rambo advert and one of Phil Ochs' covers).

Nigel, was it you who was at Brentwood School at the same time as Nic and myself (ie 1958 on)?

Alan

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 16 Nov 05 - 11:17 AM

Alan, re. Brentwood School, yes, guilty as charged! Do you remember the school folk club that Geoff & I ran? Did you go to the free concert I organised after I'd left when Paul Simon was the guest? I did a quick "warm-up" spot & then Paul came on & sang for well over an hour, all for free!! What an afternoon that was!!
                                                    Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 17 Nov 05 - 03:46 AM

Nigel, I bought the re-issue Halliard/Jolly Machine CD a couple of years ago, and it brought back a lot of memories for me of my introduction to this music with such a distinctive sound at the club held at the "Castle" in the Ongar Road, Brentwood. I only started venturing in there, as a rather scared under-age drinker, in 1968 the year the Halliard broke up, but I'm sure I heard the three of you all together. Nic Jones was there very regularly - I would say pretty much every week. You also mention Geoff Harris (who had been in your original group)who was also always there. They were wonderful times, that back room was always packed out and it was the best introduction to folk music that anyone could have.

As regards Paul Simon, I've heard a story that he was the only "booked" singer that Blackmore Folk Club ever had. Apparently, there was such a small turn-out that the club decided never to book anyone again. Whether this is true, I don't know - Lanfranc may be able to help with this.

You may be interested to know that the Essex Record Office holds archives of some folk club sessions from the 60s and 70s.

I don't know whether you ever go to Brentwood, but your old school has seen a lot of changes ! I imagine you were there at the time when you had to wear boaters ??

All good wishes,
- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 17 Nov 05 - 04:22 AM

Jeanie, very good to hear from a member of the "60s Elite Group"!! The Castle Folk Club was originally going to be run by myself, but it became obvious rather quickly that "club organiser" was a badge I couldn't wear with any degree of certainty! That & the breakup of the group in '68, gave Nic an opportunity he was not about to refuse.
       I haven't heard the Paul Simon/Blackmore Club story, but knowing Essex as well as I do, it sounds perfectly possible!
       The Essex Record Office info is very interesting...are they still based in Chelmsford? Think I should pay them a visit.
       No, I haven't been back to Brentwood School & yes, I DID have to wear a boater! I've driven past many times & seen the physical changes, but never ventured through the gate...too many painful memories. Perhaps I should go back & show them I've survived, despite their best efforts!
                  Very Best,
                            Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 17 Nov 05 - 05:47 PM

Dick Greenhaus, you said in your recent post: "Well, The Halliard has been re-released as a CD so you can hear what all the talk is about. CAMSCO, of course, carries it."
       I've searched CAMSCO from top to bottom & can find no listings for ANY Halliard recordings (nor Nic Jones either). Do the honourable thing, contact Mollie Music & order some stock.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Lanfranc
Date: 17 Nov 05 - 08:01 PM

Nigel

I was only at Brentwood for two years (JR and 2A) with Nic in the same form (must look you up in the "Blue Book" I have somewhere). My father was a policeman, and we moved to Brightlingsea in the summer of 1960 and I transferred to Colchester Grammar, thus avoiding the dreaded boaters. Talking of the "Blue Book", do you remember the companion volume "Memoranda"? It contained a number of folk songs, most memorably for me "The Wife of Ushers Well" - my introduction to Child Ballads.

I now run Blackmore FC, and I've heard that story about Paul Simon, but have always dismissed it as apocryphal. I will enquire of the old stagers there to verify or disprove the story. Simon lived in Brentwood for a time, I remember that when we booked him at the University of Essex FC (for something like £25!)he was going back there after the gig.

It was only after we'd all left school that I met up with Nic and Geoff again.

Is this Mudcat or Friends Reunited?

Alan

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 18 Nov 05 - 10:52 AM

How about: "Mudfriends" ?!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Lanfranc
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 04:36 AM

Found the "Blue Book" and found Nigel in it! Just to prove it, I discovered that he even went to the Prep School!

I'm going to search my vinyl for the Halliard album (and the Alex Campbell single that someone else wants) after Buntingford.

Alan

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 05:15 AM

Yep, I certainly served my time at that d**n school. Two decent (the ONLY two) things I got out of it were, one, knowing Geoff Harris, which introduced me to Chelmsford Folk Club, where I met Dave Moran, which lead to the formation of The Halliard. And two, knowing Nic Jones & asking him to join the group when Geoff decided to leave. My school days were not the "happiest days of my life", but the simple fact of knowing Geoff & Nic created something that persists to this day & looks likely to be around for many years to come.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 06:12 AM

Nigel, the Essex Record Office archives are listed online here: http://seax.essexcc.gov.uk/ . If you log in as a Guest and enter "Folk club" in the search box, you will see that they have a lot of material.

I suspect that your days at Brentwood would be at least slightly happier if you were there now, since the school did what would have been unthinkable back in ye olde tymes, and allowed girls in throughout. But the portraits of the formidable old headmasters still stare down in the Memorial Hall....plays are still performed in the open-air Shakespeare Garden.... the prep boys still wear their grey shorts and plum school caps....ah, this is getting to sound more like "Goodbye Mr. Chips" every minute, isn't it ? ;)

- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 06:20 AM

I have just checked the link I gave. It comes up first as "Page cannot be found", but if you then click on the http://seax.essexcc.gov.uk link half-way down the page, it takes you where you want to go.

- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 06:49 AM

Thanks very much jeanie for the link to Essex Records. You have "insider knowledge" of Brentwood School & I agree, "Goodbye, Mr. Chips" seems to be getting closer & closer!!
                                           Very Best,
                                                    Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Nov 05 - 05:29 PM

Jeanie, I've had a browse through some of the material in the Sound Archive section....several contributions from Nic Jones, nothing from The Halliard, not surprising because all the recordings in the archive were made long after the demise of the group. I've forwarded the details re. Nic to his wife, Julia. I don't know if she is aware of the existence of these archive recordings. Such an interesting & valuable link, many, many thanks,
                                 Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 20 Nov 05 - 05:38 AM

No problem, Nigel - I stumbled upon it myself a while ago. I'm sorry there weren't any Halliard recordings for you. I know there were some recordings from the 60s in there (including one of Dave and Toni Arthur at a club in East London). There is also a Benefit Night for Nic that was held at the Bull in Blackmore. The good thing about this archive is that the material is protected from getting into unscrupulous hands. I hope it brings to light some material that Nic and Julia were not aware of. They won't know me by name, but please pass on my best wishes to them from the lone girl amongst the unruly mob of lads who used to sit on top of the upright piano in the corner on club nights at the "Castle". I have so many memories of hearing brilliant music week after week.

Best wishes to you too from, as you called it, one of "The 60s Elite". My "insider knowledge" of Brentwood School is rather more as an outsider looking in: I have never been on the staff there, but have been involved in drama productions with the children at the prep. Now, if we go further back to where you were before the Prep, we may be talking "insider knowledge" - Herington House in Shenfield ?

All good wishes,
- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 20 Nov 05 - 06:07 AM

Jeanie, "insider knowledge" BEFORE(!) the Prep....Herington House rings no bells, but a formidable lady known as Miss Duggan who ran "Arnold House" in Brentwood (up the hill, towards Warley) could be a different matter, assuming my memory is correct. There's almost enough info here for an edition of "This is your Life"!!
       I will pass on your good wishes to Nic & Julia,
                                          Very Best,
                                                   Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 22 Nov 05 - 01:06 PM

"The Halliard" website is undergoing major surgery, apologies if you've visited recently....no pics, no new info. Dave Moran looks after the site, but he's been rather ill with pneumonia & is only now getting back on his feet again....easy Tiger!!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 24 Nov 05 - 09:50 AM

Just been having a look at the Radio2 Folk Awards & left wondering..?
A "Special Achievement" category & our "Broadside Songs" book & CD project somewhere near the top of the list, would have been rather good.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 27 Nov 05 - 01:03 PM

Need some more help from you good people around the world to keep this thread alive. Does anyone remember our performance at the Cambridge Folk Festival. Can't remember the date, but it can't be later than 1968! Rev. Gary Davis was one of the headliners.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Tunesmith
Date: 27 Nov 05 - 03:50 PM

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Tunesmith
Date: 28 Nov 05 - 05:54 AM

I was in London for a few days in June or July 1966, and in the space of a relatively short time, I saw the following performers in folk clubs: Alexis Korner, Ravi Shankar, Jo-Anne Kelly, John Renbourne, Dave Swarbrick, Karl Dallas, and The Halliard. I'm pretty sure I saw The Halliard in a folk club in Charring Cross Road - or close by. Were they residents there?

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pjay
Date: 28 Nov 05 - 08:58 AM

I can remember Chelmsford folk club and the Halliard folk group back in the late sixties. I used to go every Sunday night, at first it was held in a in an upstairs room over a pub, I think the room was also used by the buffs for their meetings, as I can remember a pair of horns on the wall behind the acts. I cannot recall the name of the pub (think it was Kings head), but it was near what used to be the old cattle market. Later the pub was pulled down (what a sacrilege) to make way for shopping precinct I believe, the club then moved to another pub somewhere near the corn exchange

Yes I can certainly remember Nic Jones and the Halliard. Just one question did the Halliard record an album called Heroes and Villains if so were can I get a copy

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 28 Nov 05 - 11:56 AM

You're right Tunesmith, we did play at a club in Charring Cross. We weren't resident & my hazy memory tells me it wasn't our favourite west-end gig! Your June/July of '66 was certainly filled with some good music.
          pjay, your memories of those Sunday nights have stood the test of time well. I remember the "Buffs" horns too! You can find out more about current & forthcoming releases from The Halliard by visiting: www.thehalliard.com or www.nicjones.net
                         Very Best,
                                  Nigel Paterson (mandolin, The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: BB
Date: 28 Nov 05 - 02:29 PM

I seem to remember that the Chelmsford club in the '70s was at a pub called 'The Three Cups' - but my memory may be faulty. It was on the corner of the road that Clive Taylor lived on. We were only there two or three times, as we lived in North Devon, but had a number of friends around the Chelmsford area.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 06 Dec 05 - 05:46 PM

Apologies from all at Halliard Towers, the website (www.thehalliard.com) is still showing text only, no background or photos. Those who understand these things are hard at work, restoring the site to its former glory & adding a photo or two from our re-union weekend back in June.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 12 Dec 05 - 07:27 PM

Season's Greetings to all Halliard friends, old & new.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy & peaceful New Year,
            Nic, Dave & Nigel (The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,NIGEL PATERSON
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 06:29 PM

Halliard website is now up & running (thanks Dave). Do give it a look & post your comments here as there is no visitor's book yet,
            Season's Greetings,
                              Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 09:07 PM

Refresh.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 22 Dec 05 - 11:35 AM

One more refresh before Christmas!
                                 All the Best,
                                             Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 01:37 AM

You're getting to sound desparate Nigel.

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 01:38 AM

Oops, forgot to say Happy Christmas.

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 02:27 AM

Best wishes to you too, eric. Good to hear from you again. Desparate, no, just sad to see the thread slowly drift away,
                                                          Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 05:09 AM

Just been visting your now up-and-running website.
Merry Christmas to you, and all good wishes for 2006.
Don't worry, Nigel, if the thread appears to drift away - It will re-emerge for sure when your next CD is issued soon in 2006. Be assured, there will be a lot of people awaiting its arrival.

With every good wish from an Essex old-timer,
- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 09:38 AM

Happy Christmas jeanie, good to hear from you again. Dave,Nic & I will be more than glad to see the final CD released. Must be something of a record (as in Guinness Book!)....made in 1968....released in 2006 (we hope).
       Very Best Wishes to you & all members of the "60s Elite",
                                             Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 04:35 AM

Hi Nigel, I'm just listening to Maddy Prior singing ' Boys Of Bedlam ' arranged by Nic Jones and Dave Moran, brilliant.

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 12:38 PM

Hi eric, Happy New Year. "Boys of Bedlam" is a great song isn't it? I enjoyed playing the mandolin part on our own recording of the song probably more than any other. The wonderfully angular rhythms & a melody that serves the words so well. When you have a moment, have a listen to our version & let me know what you think. And by the way, I think Maddy does a great job with it too!!
                                           Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 06:44 PM

One last refresh for 2005, Happy New Year one & all,
                Dave,Nic & Nigel (The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 31 Dec 05 - 10:11 AM

Same to you all.

eric

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Paul Richardson
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 08:32 PM

I used to play in a rock band but once went with a mate to see the Halliard playing at the Boat House Folk Club near Matlock, Derbyshire -changed my musical direction (also discovered Dylan about this time)and eventually became part of of a Derby based folk band called Saga. We even went on to make a few albums (of variable quality!)
Thing is, Nic Jones bowled us over and we booked him often as possible at the folk club we consequently ran in Uttoxeter.
I still have tapes of Nic made on those nights.
Nic brought old lyrics, old times, old legends,to mean something in this day and age Timeless.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 07:34 AM

Happy New Year, Paul. Always fascinating to read about those "life defining" moments. Keep those tapes of Nic safe....have you condidered having digital copies made? You might find a visit to www.nicjones.net or www.thehalliard.com of interest.
      What music do you play & listen to these days?
      Here's to a music-filled 2006,
      All the Best,
                  Nigel P.(The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Nean Stoddart
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 04:01 PM

I too was at Brentwood School (1956-62), but cannot ,unfortunately remember Nigel Patterson or the Halliards . But i can affirm that Paul |Simon was living in Brentwood around that time. He was staying with Dave Mac Causland at his family's house and sung at the Brentwood Folk club that Dave was running at the Railway Tavern opposite the station. Dave had set up the club in 63 or 64 after we had met Paul in Paris I think he sang regularly there, almost as resident.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Nean Stoddart
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 04:03 PM

I too was at Brentwood School (1956-62), but cannot ,unfortunately remember Nigel Patterson or the Halliards . But I can affirm that Paul Simon was living in Brentwood around that time. He was staying with Dave Mac Causland at his family's house and sang at the Brentwood Folk club that Dave was running at the Railway Tavern opposite the station. Dave had set up the club in 63 or 64 after we had met Paul in Paris I think he sang regularly there, almost as resident.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,NIGEL PATERSON
Date: 09 Jan 06 - 12:42 PM

Nean Stoddart, forgive me for stating the obvious, but this is a thread about remembering The Halliard & not about Paul Simon appearing at Brentwood Folk Club. To add insult to injury, you've spelt my name incorrectly & pluralised Halliard (no "s") & to cap it all, you've posted twice!! Redeem yourself by visiting www.thehalliard.com
                   Happy New Year,
                                 Nigel PATERSON.(one "t")!!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Nean Stoddart
Date: 10 Jan 06 - 03:01 PM

Yes, I do apologise for the mis-spellings, And for submitting twice.An error.I was under the impression I would see the preview before submitting. I did correct some bits but missed the names.I tried to remove the post, but couldn't see how. Sorry ! And as for the subject of the thread, well, I came into the forum via a google query about the history of Brentwood Folk Club. And came upon the mention of Paul Simon in a posting by you, Nigel , on 16th Nov.,and by Lanfranc on the 17th.So now I know something about the Halliard too. Thanks

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 12:05 PM

Nean, all you have to do now is order a copy of "The Halliard, Broadside Songs" from Mollie Music & we'll be friends for life!! (why isn't there a smilie around when you need one!!)LOL,
                                 Very Best,
                                          Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 09:55 PM

If I were to tell all the stories I have been told....regarding this name....all would be lost.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 13 Jan 06 - 08:59 AM

Slightly belatedly...Happy Birthday to Nic & Dave (only two days apart) from The Halliard.
       May you both have many more,
       Love & Best Wishes,
                         Nigel P. (also from The Halliard!)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 31 Oct 10 - 09:37 AM

Did The Halliards ever play at St Osyth's College of Education Folk Club Clacton-on-Sea Essex?

Chris

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Howard Jones
Date: 31 Oct 10 - 01:14 PM

I've just come across this thread now it's been resurrected. The Halliard were just before my time, but their influence was still strong and they were often spoken about.

I too was at Brentwood School, although several years below them. My first attempts at performing in public were at Brentwood School Folk Club - one of the attractions was that it was run jointly with the girls' High School down the road (Brentwood was boys-only at this time). Griff Rhys-Jones has written about the school folk club from this era in his autobiography, but thankfully I don't get mentioned!

I then began going to the folk club at the Castle where Geoff and Pennie Harris were a big influence on me. I also regularly visited Blackmore and Chelmsford folk clubs. For a while I attended a guitar evening class run by Nigel.

Besides being fantastic musicians, the contribution the members of Halliard made to the Essex folk scene and the influence they had, both directly and indirectly, on aspiring performers like myself is incalculable. So thanks for everything.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: brother
Date: 31 Oct 10 - 04:51 PM

I am sure that I saw Halliard at Stockton Folk Club, this was when the club was in the Stork and Castle. As the club celebrated 40years at the Sun Inn recently it was obviously a long time ago .But I still remember what a great group they were.
Trevor Bond

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 01 Nov 10 - 06:06 AM

I was getting interested in the folk club scene (in Essex) in the late 1960's, and was just too late to see the Halliard. I saw Nic, probably at the club in Collier Row, around this time, but work then took me away, ending up in Swansea where I recorded Nic' gig at the Ivy Bush in Pontardawe in 1973 (might even have been 1972, I didn't note the date).

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 01 Nov 10 - 12:40 PM

Howard & Trevor...thank you for your kind words. Really didn't think we'd be remembered with such affection after all this time! Much to look back on with a real sense of a 'job well done', although I don't think we realised it at the time! With any luck, some of our Broadside Ballads will still be sung long after we've departed this mortal coil!
                                             Nigel Paterson (mandolin, The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Howard Fullbrook
Date: 08 Nov 10 - 04:43 PM

I have great memories of the Halliard, before and after the arrival of Nic! They were regular performers at the Farnborough Folk Club, where I was a resident, plus they played at my own club In Fleet, Hampshire a few times. Somewhere (back in England) I have some very 'rough' recordings of them playing at Farnborough.
The Broadside Ballads certainly are still being sung by many of my friends from those wonderful days.
Howard Fullbrook (currently in NZ)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Howard Fullbrook
Date: 10 Nov 10 - 04:40 PM

One thing I DO remember is that The Halliard toured the clubs in a MINI car! Must have been a bit cramped for Dave and Nic...guess you were OK Nigel?
Howard

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 12 Nov 10 - 07:17 AM

Yes Howard, I was...sort of! Only Dave & Nic could drive, so I always got the back seat, but had to share it with two guitars, a mandolin, a tenor recorder, three sleeping bags & anything else that wouldn't fit in the boot. Touring the folk clubs in the 60s was not all glitz & glamour & in a Mini, even less so! But, we often worked on new material as we drove. It was usually possible to find enough room to play the recorder &/or my mandolin, so Dave & Nic sang in the front & I sang & played in the back! On more than one occasion, we performed songs we had worked on in the car, the same evening...a bit hairy sometimes, but I don't remember any great disasters!
                         Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 14 Nov 10 - 11:57 AM

Howard, is there any way of digitising those 'rough' Halliard recordings & attaching them to an email? Very happy to PM you with my email address. I remember the Farnborough & Fleet clubs very well...amongst some of the best in which we played...well organised...responsive audiences...fond memories indeed,
                                                             Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Nov 10 - 05:36 PM

They were recorded on a portable cassette, the first model that Phillips marketed. They were then transferred to reel to reel. My good friend and fiddle player, Peter Lambert, put some of the tracks to CD a few years ago. My problem is that I'm in New Zealand until January 2012 and my copy of the CD is in the UK! Sadly, I haven't got the tracks on my laptop. Peter now lives in Perth, WA, it might be possible for him to post you a copy from there! If you give me a postal address I will ask him if will do it. He was a big fan of The Halliard so I'm sure he will!

I ran the Fleet Club, the Farnborough Folk Club (at The Old Ford, North Camp) was run originally by Alec Burbidge and then Geoff Barker, sadly neither of them are still with us. Fond memories indeed!

Regards,

Howard

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Howard Fullbrook
Date: 15 Nov 10 - 05:38 PM

Nigel,

My email address is [e-mail]

H.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Dec 10 - 09:32 AM

Memories? Cor blimey!!! I turned up at the Old Ford in North Camp sometime towards the end of 1967 after Alec Burbridge had been on at me for ages to turn up. I had met Alec and his group (all dressed in flowing luminescent orange shirts!) at the 4As Youth Club in Aldershot and then kept seeing him on the bus. This was my first ever visit to a folk club. And the Halliard were on! I loved it! And 40+ years later I'm still involved because of that evening, though it's English and French dance music now, with some French and Occitan songs (see my bands GIG CB! and Mistral on YouTube:
GIG CB! at Gennetines and Mistral at Gennetines)
I remember you, Nigel, on mandoline, Dave Moran (or was it Moron? Blame that Rip Rippingale!) and Nic. And 'The Calico Printers Clerk' has stuck in my memory all this time (not the words sadly, though I've now got your book). Wonderful chorus songs, with great tunes and some research and history. The Halliard, and Nic Jones, made such an impact on me I named my son Nicholas :-)
And Howard too - all those years ago! Doesn't time fly?
I think I've filled up my box now. More later
Chris Shaw ([e-mail])

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 15 Dec 10 - 11:52 AM

Chris, really enjoyed reading your reminiscences, although the 'Moran jibe' does wear a little thin after all these years! Dave was the driving force behind The Halliard. Most of the research into the Broadside Ballads that became the bulk of our repertoire was guided by Dave's knowledge of where the originals were housed, coupled with his ability to vocally improvise melodies which supported the words so skilfully. True, Nic & I further developed these tunes, but the essence of the melody was often Dave's alone.
            Sending you Season's Greetings & wishing you a happy & peaceful New Year,
                                  Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Phil Curtis
Date: 07 Feb 11 - 03:52 PM

Many happy memories of The Halliard -- recall having spent many evenings seeing them in folk clubs around S E England. Will probably upset the purists by saying I think "It's the Irish in me" is rather good. I purchased a copy in Guildford (1969?), cost me 19 shillings, still play it

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 08 Feb 11 - 02:13 AM

Phil, you certainly haven't upset THIS 'purist'! When we recorded 'ITIIM', it was felt to be a means to an end, a way of getting our feet on the recording ladder. Saga, who released the album, wanted to capitalise on the popularity of Irish Folk Song, particularly the success enjoyed by The Dubliners with 'Seven Drunken Nights". We still included one or two Irish songs in our gigs, so recording an 'Irish' album wasn't too much of an artistic trauma! After we had established our Broadside repertoire, there was a feeling in the group that 'ITIIM' didn't represent the 'true spirit' of The Halliard, so we tended to dismiss the album as a sort of 'one off necessary evil'. Now, more than forty years on, I agree with you, it really isn't such a bad album at all. I can't speak for Nic & Dave, but I certainly view it with nostalgic affection & if I'm really honest, there's a bit of pride mixed in too. You never forget your first album!
                                     Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Mar 11 - 01:01 PM

Barbara Thompson ( Barbara Astley)
I was a resident singer at a folk group near Cannock, Staffordshire from 1967 - 1971 and The Halliard were guest singers there on one occasion.
   Dave spent a day with me and taught me such a lot. For a long time I had recordings of the songs he and I sang together on my old tape recorder but that has unfortunately been defunct for many years. I have often wondered what happened to him as we lost touch. They were a fantastic group.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 27 Mar 11 - 07:23 AM

Hello Barbara,
                        Very good to hear about your fond memories & read your kind words. Dave is alive & well & currently living in Ireland. He has just celebrated one of those landmark birthdays...I daren't reveal which one, he'd probably kill me! Nic lives in the south west of England & I reside in east London. We're all retired, but Music in one form or another, is never far away
                        So glad you got in touch after all these years,
                                                                                                       Nigel (mandolin) The Halliard

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 28 Mar 11 - 09:22 AM

Barbara, forgot to ask...your old tape recorder may be defunct, but do you still have any of the recordings you made with Dave?
                                                                Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Paul Richardson
Date: 20 May 11 - 12:48 PM

I first saw The Halliard at The Boat Inn, Matlock, Derbyshire in 1968. I'd previously been in a semi-pro rock band, ended up in a folk group called Saga. Consequently booked Nic Jones at a couple of folk clubs I was involved with up until around 1980. Taped a few of the sessions also. Rate him up there alongside Martin Carthy.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 20 May 11 - 01:13 PM

I never had the pleasure of hearing The HALLIARD live; but some time in early to mid-70s Jon Raven sent me a vinyl 33 rpm album, on his own label whose name I fear I have forgotten, called "The Halliard & Jon Raven", which I reviewed very favourably in The Times Educational Supplement, whose folk critic I was at that time. I have just looked, but the Lincoln Imp [whom we blame for all such catastrophes in our house, as he resides on my desk at the end of a paper-knife] seems to have eaten this album! So what I write here is from memory.

It had a white sleeve. It did not consist of JR and the Halliard singing together, as the name might suggest, but of half the trax by Jon & half by the group. The lineup was definitely Dave Moran, Nigel Paterson, & Nick Jones ~ whose name, I distinctly remember, was spelt thus at that time; or, anyhow that was how it appeared on the sleeve.

Is my memory correct on these matters, Nigel? And could you remind me what the label was called, please?

~Michael~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 20 May 11 - 01:30 PM

Further to above post: it was obviously before Nic went solo and made a big impact with his Trailer label records. That was when I met him. He & Julia, & their children, subsequently became friends of Valerie's & mine as we lived in N Cambs villages only about 12 miles apart & became on drop-in terms. Then he had the accident. I remember we went on visiting while he was convalescent, until they moved to Yorkshire and subsequently, I believe, to Devon. Those delightful children will be grown up now. I so remember Helen, then about 6, exclaiming in delighted tones "That's my Daddy" as Nic was singing at Cambridge FF, & being carried about by me (can't quite remember why) at Norwich, maybe a year later ~ it was while the Bellamys still lived there, as I recall my, & Fred Woods, editor of Folk review, all somehow being accommodated in their charming but minute house opposite the Norwich & Norfolk Hospital for Alex Atterson's festival which I was reviewing, I think for The Guardian that year.

Sorry for drift ~ but all Jones-relevant, maybe?

~M~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 May 11 - 04:12 AM

Dear Michael,
                      In response to your first post, you're correct in almost every detail. The album cover was essentially white with a monochrome collage of some broadside ballads. As to the spelling of Nic(k)'s name,in all subsequent references to the album I can find (I don't have an original copy either!) it is spelt correctly without the 'k'. The vinyl album was released in 1968 on the Broadside label (BRO 106) with, as you say, the tracks shared between The Halliard & Jon Raven, but again, as you state correctly, Jon did not sing with us. A modified version of the album entitled: 'The Halliard:Jon Raven/The Jolly Machine' was issued on CD in 1997 (Mike Raven MR 77). This link will provide you with a little more detail:
http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/~zierke/nic.jones/records/thehalliard.html

Is there any chance that you still have a copy of the TES review you wrote all those years ago? I have a small Halliard archive, but reviews, good or bad, are very rare items. It would make a valuable addition.
                      Nic & Julia do indeed now live in Devon, Dave is currently in Ireland & I'm in sunny East London. Are you aware that on the 28th May at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, on London's South Bank, there will be a concert entitled: 'In Search of Nic Jones'? Nic will be making an appearance, surrounded by a coterie of musician friends...should be a truly memorable & emotional evening.
                      Fascinating to read your posts,
                                                                            Very Best Wishes,
                                                                                                          Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 21 May 11 - 05:14 AM

Many thanks for above post, Nigel. I have PM'd you in reply.

Regret am engaged on 28 May so shan't be able to go to what sounds like a fascinating occasion on S Bank; but do please remember me to Nic & anyone else around who might remember me from all those years ago!

All best

~Michael~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 May 11 - 06:42 AM

Remember you to Nic & Julia & anyone else with sufficiently long memories, I certainly will! And sincere thanks for the PM,
                                                      Kind Regards,
                                                                              Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 21 May 11 - 06:51 AM

Sufficiently long memories indeed, Nigel. Have just realised that review appeared 41 years ago! more than half of my long life.

Where does the time go?

~M~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 21 May 11 - 06:58 AM

Anyhow, my filing system can't be that bad, eh! Have emailed it to you & hope will arrive safely.

~M~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 May 11 - 12:48 PM

After 41 years I'm amazed & impressed that you can lay your hands on the cutting so readily. Yes, it has arrived safely in my inbox & has been swiftly transferred to my Halliard folder. And all this in less than one day...ain't technology a wonderful thing!
         As to where the time goes, I'm just as mystified as you, but go it does, but it's moments like this that make time's passing just that little bit easier to cope with,
                                             I wish you Well,
                                                                        Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Lynda
Date: 30 May 11 - 07:35 AM

Have just returned from a weekend in London where we attended the "In search of Nic Jones" concert at QEH - a very enjoyable and emotional evening. My husband and I were regulars at the Chelmsford Folk Club in the 60s and 70s (indeed it is where we met) when it was above the White Hart and later in the Saracen's Head. I was at Chelmsford High School for Girls when I started going and was thrilled when Dave Moran came and gave us a talk on folk music at school! We still have our copy of It's the Irish in Me too.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Jacqui
Date: 30 May 11 - 02:28 PM

I first heard the Halliard at Bolton Folk Club held at the Balmoral
on Bradshawgate. There was a repeat booking as your first visit was a terrific night and collected a host of new fans. I also cherish
my saga signed copy of It's the Irish in me, incidently it's been signed Nick Jones just to verify with Michael - spelt at the time.

Thanks for the memories.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 30 May 11 - 02:30 PM

Thank you, Jacqui. When did Nick drop the 'k', I wonder? Before he started recording for Trailer, certainly.

~Michael~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Julia
Date: 30 May 11 - 05:32 PM

Nic was always Nic from age 0 - his full name being Nicolas didn't require a K in place of the H when shortening, and only strangers insisted on adding a K. He doesn't remember when the K got tacked on, possibly on joining the Halliard when his name went into print.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 31 May 11 - 12:53 AM

So, then, why did Nic add a 'k' when signing for Jacqui? To accord with what the record sleeve said, or ...?

Don't forget to drop me an e-mail, Julia - see other thread which I have refreshed.

mgmyer[at]keme.co.uk

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 31 May 11 - 01:38 AM

... and moreover, the name is always spelt with an -h-, &, until the advent of Mr Jones on to the Scene, has always been abbrevd with a final -k. What made the Jones family {from year 0 you say; so it was obviously a parental not a personal decision} depart from this template?

I ask, not truculently, but with genuine curiosity. Like Arthur Clennam, the hero of Little Dorrit, it is just a thing of mine that "I want to know, you know".

~Mic~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 31 May 11 - 06:09 AM

Lynda & Jacqui, good to hear from both of you. Nic's concert certainly was a very special evening. Afterwards, when Nic was signing CDs, I got to sign a few too...really made my night! Interesting that you both mention 'It's the Irish In Me'. As a first album, it really didn't represent what we were trying to achieve in the folk clubs, but it gave us a 'foot on the ladder', & four decades later, it still sounds fresh & full of life...I have a great fondness for it.
                  Very Best Wishes to you both,
                                                                      Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Mervyn Stone Walsall West-Mids
Date: 07 Aug 11 - 05:20 PM

Outstanding nothing better i remember the very first time i saw this fantastic group at The M.E.B.Folk Club Walsall and they have left a lasting impression on me. My friends and my self never missed them when they were in area saw them many times.My mate even taped several of their gigs on a reel to reel recorder.We would get our cases of Newcastle Brown Ale sit in the front row and just listen to these 3
guy's just great i still listen to their songs today.Yes those were
the day's finishing up at Nellie Burns pub till 4 in the morning the Halliard even joined us on a couple of times,do you remember Nigel those were good day's

Regards Mervyn Stone

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Aug 11 - 03:21 PM

I remember the spoof the Halliard did on Tom Jones' Green Green Grass of home. Chelmsford folk club met on Sunday evening at the White Hart in Tindal Street then at the Saracens Head in the High Street. I have a recording I made of Peers Hayman and Peter Cox who did their farewell "gig" there on June 16th 1968. I only remember the date because it is my birthday. I have the recordings on a CD now as the orignal was getting stretched.In spite of my best efforts I can't find out anything about this duo. They did know I was recording them (on a Phillips Cassette recorder.) because I was sitting in the front row. I remember lots of banter between them and Dave Moran. Such happy times, not been to a proper folk club in years. Sue Barfield

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Aug 11 - 08:08 AM

Mervyn & Sue...very good to hear from both of you. I/we have many happy memories of time spent in the Midlands & Essex...well run clubs...responsive audiences who really appreciated what we were doing with the Broadside Ballad. Specific events fade in the mists of time, although the Tom Jones' spoof I remember well. Mervyn, do any of those reel to reel recordings still exist? Do get in touch if they do...there is very little 'documentary' material of The Halliard.
                   Kind Regards,
                                        Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave in Ireland( via Sicily)
Date: 16 Jan 12 - 10:51 AM

Hello Nigel and all the folks offering up their memories of The Halliard and also Chelmsford club.I hadnt realised you all had such fond memories of those times and fair to say-it was a real pleasure playing for you.
To Sue Barfield. I found this about Piers( he lives in NZ)
Singer-songwriter Piers Hayman gave up the violin and bought his first guitar at art school when he became caught up in the UK folk music revival in the late 1950s. As a duo with Peter Cox, he performed at folk clubs all over the UK. In 1973 Piers moved to Holland and joined up with Dutch guitarist John Kuiper for the next nine years as a successful folk duo, recording three albums. He came to New Zealand in 1983, and has lived here, on and off, ever since, working as an author and illustrator. 2011 finds him "back in the clubs and back on the road" with a varied mix of contemporary and traditional material written and gathered during more than fifty years as a singer/songwriter.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 16 Jan 12 - 11:14 AM

Good to hear from you, Dave. I love it when a thread has been dormant for some time & then along comes someone like you & off we go again. You say: "...it was a real pleasure playing for you." Are you willing to reveal to the world the name you performed under at Chelmsford Folk Club? If not, then send me a PM & I promise to respect your privacy.
                                           Kind Regards,
                                                                Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave in Ireland( via Sicily)
Date: 16 Jan 12 - 01:27 PM

Gosh NIGEL, I thought you would know. Im afraid I sang with you and Nic-o in the Halliard and whilst hiding my light under the proverbial bush was always my way I guess I must now confirm I am that Dave Moran....How ya doin Nige?.... keep up the good work and occasionally perhaps I can add a helpful comment. Take care and a Happy New Year to all.
Dave Moran

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 18 Jan 12 - 05:57 AM

Dave, you old rat-bag. It was the 'via Sicily' that threw me! Where the hell in the world are you? I'm doing ok...working hard to promote & maintain my website & my Music Channel: NIGELPATERSONMUSIC on YouTube. At the moment we're all rather preoccupied with my wife's eldest daughter who is seriously ill. Grandchildren to look after, visits, arrangements...you know the score.
             Any helpful comments would be most welcome...on any topic!
             Love to Pat.
             A Happy New Year to you too!
                                                          Kindest Regards,
                                                                                    Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave Moran
Date: 20 Jan 12 - 11:44 AM

Nige, I am having a 2 month sojourn in the warmth of Syracusa Sicily. Back in Ireland in March. Sorry to hear of the family sickness. This might bring back a funny memory.
As this is a memories thread can I offer one of my favourite Halliard/Chelmsford stories. We had booked Arlo Guthrie for Chelmsford and he stayed in Woodham Walter overnight at Stu Wallaces place(where we published Folk Scene mag) He picked up a few readers letters and jumped on one from a State Penitentiary in the USA. He loved all the rules and 'cant does' at the top and picked up his guitar and turned it into a talking blues- 'You cannot write blasphemous words nor insult the governor etc.' We laughed a lot at his ability and thought nothing of it.
That night 1/2 way through his performance he said. 'I was a sitting there in Ashputtel, in Woodham Walter with Dave at the Folk Scenen Magazine and we came across this here penitentiary letter and I looked at that letter and read the words and said to meself this here makes a damn fine talkin blues and so I set it to the music an it goes somethin like this........ he sang the damn thing word for word and brought the audience to the verge of hysterical laughter. He had read it once composed it once and only ever sung it once- truly magic time! He also sang Goodnight Little Arlo by dad Woody! Great times
at lovely Chelmsford.
P.s Sorry to hear of the death of dear Johnny Silvo a fine & good man.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Julia Jones
Date: 30 Jan 12 - 08:34 AM

I've told you before Dave, with your mental cupboard full of stories and knowledge of those early days, there is an anecdotal book to be written! xx

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 16 Feb 12 - 01:44 PM

Long overdue, imho!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 17 Feb 12 - 06:21 AM

I am about to publish my first book (a biography). Maybe a collaboration? I don't remember ever seeing Halliard, but I did go to clubs in the Romford and Hornchurch areas in the late 1960's, and am a long-term folk enthusiast (ex-Morris, too).

I have already passed to (via Ralphie) Nic & Julia a recording I made of Nic at Pontardawe in 1973 - maybe one of the earliest live recordings of him?

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: howbe on
Date: 17 Feb 12 - 06:56 PM

Pleased I found this thread, well better late than never.
I have very fond memories of the Halliard and Chelmsford Folk Club and indeed the Essex folk scene in general from the mid 1960's to the mid 1970's when I left the area.

I dont know if you will remember me but I used to play guitar with
The Riggers who, you will remember I'm sure , were one of the resident groups at Chelmsford, mainly when the club was at the Saracens Head. Consequently I saw the Halliard many times or at least when you wer'nt away on tours yourselves.I seem to remember you often tried out your new material at the club so I remember song like "Frost, Jones and Williams", "Bold Nelson "( did you play bass recorder on that Nigel ) "Ten Thousend Miles Away" and "Bold Nevison".
My favorite song was always "Ladies Dont Go Thieving" which I appropriated myself and sang for many year.The cheques in the post.
The song that used to make me smile was The Workhouse Boy, not because of the story line which is of course pretty grim, but because when Dave sang " we all of us say it, and we say it with sneers" he seemed to have the ability not just to sneer with his face but with his entire body. It was a great pleasure for me to play at the same venue as you guys. Not only were you an entertaining group and musically very strong but you were also very inventive in adapting the old Boadside ballards and giving them a new lease of life which I cant remember other singers doing at the time.
I first went to the Chelmsford club when it was at the White Hart but most of my memories are from the Saracens Head period. What a great club it was. Aside from the Halliard I was able to see some top guest singers there. There were many nights when Patsy on the door had to turn lots of people away because we just could'ent fit any more in.Another important element of the club was that as well as the known guests the Halliard would often bring in singers from other areas of the country. This may not appear a very radical idea today but in the late 60's clubs tended to book guests from their own part of the country. This meant that we were able to see for the first time in Essex singers like Dave Burland, Tony Capstick, Harvey Andrews, Jon and Mike Raven, The Yetties and the Farriers and no doubt many others that I cant bring to mind at this moment.

The Essex/ East London folk scene was very strong at this time and it was possible to go to a folk club on every night of the week and even have a choice of several on Friday and Sundays. Several of them which Dave Moran was involved with I think
I used to go to the singers club at the Bull in Blackmoor on a Monday night when it was run by a couple of guys called Chris and Dave ( I think ). I understand it's still going though sadly not at the Bull anymore. Amongst the many singers who appeared there I always had a soft spot for the the inimitable Ernie the singing busman ( anybody else remember him) and Jim Garett and his rocket shaped guitar, a very clever songwriter.

Better stop now as nostalgia can be habit forming, but thanks to Nigel,Dave and Nic for the great memories of the golden decade of folk clubs.
All the best
Dominic Patten.

P.S Just noticed the post from Pavane. We proberbly met as I used to do the residents job at Hornchurch Folk Club. Best of luck with your book

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Jeanie
Date: 18 Feb 12 - 06:39 AM

How lovely to read your post, Dominic ! I have many happy memories of hearing you and The Riggers playing on Sunday nights at the King's Head, Hornchurch, and all the great guest performers, as well as venturing on the bus out to The Castle in Brentwood on Fridays and to Upminster: I think at The Bridge pub and then later at The Windmill Hall.   As you say, the late 60s/early 70s were a wonderful time for folk music in the area.

You and the others on this thread may not know that there is a vast collection of recordings from the folk clubs of this time that is now held in the archives of the Essex Record Office in Chelmsford. It is the collection made by John Durrant, and you can find the catalogue here: Essex Folk Archives You and The Riggers feature very prominently in the list, along with many other familiar names from those times.

As far as early live recordings of Nic Jones are concerned, I *think* the live recording of "I'm going in a field"(on "Nic Jones Unearthed") must have been recorded at Brentwood Folk Club ca. 1970-71, and maybe some of the other songs on that album, too. A guitar string broke during the song & Nic carried on regardless, and prior to that some of us (including me !) had got a note wrong in the chorus and we were kindly "reminded" to get it right by Nic - it's all on the recording.

With very best wishes. As you say, "nostalgia can be habit forming" - but I count myself very lucky to have so many happy memories.

- jeanie

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Howard Jones
Date: 18 Feb 12 - 07:02 AM

Hello Dominic! I also remember you from those days, and Ernie and Jim too. Blackmore and Brentwood were the first folk clubs I went to - Blackmore was run by Dave Geliher and Simon Thorndycraft back then. I also went to Chelmsford, in the Saracen's and later when it moved into a night club, on the disco's night off (!) As you say, the local folk scene was very strong at the time, with plenty of clubs and lots of very good local performers, as well as bringing in guests. I was very much a novice myself but there were a lot of good people to learn from (I even went to Nigel's guitar evening class for a while).

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 18 Feb 12 - 12:47 PM

Dominic,
Yes I remember you very well, might still have you on cassette somewhere (When Foggy Duo guested). I remember you singing Dandelion Blues, and was it Fire & Rain as well? I expect you knew my sister better though (Lesley Jennings). I remember the singing postman at Blackmore, (I still have the ?Folkweave recording) and Jim's guitar, too. And Bill singing Ladies dont go thieving. Didn't you get to park Disley's car?

But I moved to Wales and lost touch - lovely to hear from you again.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Feb 12 - 09:23 AM

Gee I thought the Arlo Guthrie memory might stir a few memories but not Ernie the Singing Postman! Who also played the Saracens Head( Chelmsford Folk Club) for us too. Raphael Tuck I think was his managers name- had launched The Singing Postman and he advertised his LP and single called Hev Ya Got a Loight Boy! in Folk Scene on the back page and we were fascinated by the idea of him. We booked him and met him over at Ashputtel.He duly arrived all smart in a suit and then when he got to the club he needed to change into his postman's uniform- which he did in the Gents, the only performer who ever changed for his performance. He actually went down very well with his broad Suffolk accent(I think) and light amiable songs.
Dont think he ever made a 2nd LP but was enjoyed that night and clearly elsewhere on the Essex and Suffolk border. Hev You Got a Loight was his biggie I think.
We did used to try out the new material at Chelmsford and its amazing how many of the songs are still sung.By the way Nic and I ( & Nigel) dont charge for nicking our stuff we are just thrilled its still happening- even as far away as Australia especially Calico and Boys of Bedlam and also Ladies (Go A Thieving)
Finally lovely to hear from the Rigger's Dominic as Trevor and I were long time old friends before even the advent of the Riggers- from when Trev worked in the mens shop in the main street almost opp the Queens Head( our 1st club venue). I was very sorry to hear what happened from Julia (Jones) recently.
Dave Moran

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave Moran
Date: 21 Feb 12 - 07:47 AM

Olde age is getting me confused of course- Dominic talked about
Ernie the singing busman and immediately thought..... oh yeah Allan Smethurst( The Singing Postman!)Sorry about that, though still and all Hev Yew Gotta Loight Boy did cause a tiny stir in the late 60's and gave me a bit of a laugh.
dave

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 Feb 12 - 12:19 PM

Dominic, First of all, great to hear from you after all this time...stirred up some memories alright! The recorder I played on 'Bold Nelson' was a Tenor...nothing half so exotic as a Bass!

And Howard, you attended my Evening Class for Guitar? I do hope I managed to teach you something of value!

pavane, you say you never saw The Halliard. You missed a treat, or so people with very long memories tell me!
                           Very Best,
                                        Nigel Paterson, Mandolin, The Halliard.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 21 Feb 12 - 02:48 PM

Something I will always regret - but at least I saw Nic. It's a shame that I didn't venture as far as Chelmsford at that time.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Feb 12 - 07:24 AM

pavane, if you'd made it to The White Hart in Chelmsford, there'd have been a warm welcome awaiting, that's for sure. Good Music...Good Ale & the audience, when given half a chance, sang all the verses as well as the choruses!
                              Many Happy Memories,
                                                                Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: howbe on
Date: 23 Feb 12 - 03:18 PM

Hi All
Nigel, I thought your recorder was exotic, even though it was only a tenor. Must have been the way you played it.

Dave, although as you said, I was refering to Ernie the singing busman, you wer'nt far out with The Singing Postman because in all the times I heard Ernie he only seemed to have four songs, two of which were Allan Smethurst songs including Have You Got A Light Boy.
Also you mentioned the sad passing of Trevor Moore of the Riggers.
I hadent see Trev for a long time but fortunately a friend let me know so I was able to attend his funeral, the first time I'd been to Chelmsford in about 30 years. We shared some very good times together and it was a pleasure to have known him. Amazing to think its over three years ago now.

Howard,your right it was Dave Galiher at Blackmore. Dont remember Chelmsford clubs " disco period " very well though. I do seem to remember you were one of Mr Delderfields merry men in Blackmore Morris as well.

Pavane,I remember a Lesley from that period so I assume that was your sister. Also remember Foggy Duo,and singing Fire and Rain.
Still rate James Taylor very highly.

Jeanie, nice to hear from you. I did actually know about the Essex Folk Archives because I stayed the night at John Durrants house having attended Trev's funeral.Great to think that those recording have been preserved for posterity but a bit alarming to wonder what peaple might think of them in another 30-40 years. I certainly think The Riggers offerings should come with a disclaimer like ( to paraphrase The Fast Show ) " of course we were very very drunk at the time " . But as you say those days were the best of times.


Great news about Nic Jones doing a couple of festival dates this year and particually good to see how highly his work is regarded by the younger crop of singers today ( quite rightly too ) and not just this ageing duffer. What about a Halliard reun..., well perhaps not, but it would be fun.

All the best
Dominic Patten

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Phil Edwards
Date: 23 Feb 12 - 03:38 PM

good to see how highly his work is regarded by the younger crop of singers today ( quite rightly too )

I'm newer (been doing this stuff for four or five years) but not exactly younger - I'm old enough to have been into Nic the first time round, although in fact I missed out completely (something to do with punk, I think). I discovered Nic in about 2008, and oh my. I read somewhere that some people don't get the recognition they deserve, not because their influence is too small but because it's too big - it's like living under the shadow of a mountain, when you look out of the window you don't even see it. I've been trying to get out from under Nic's influence - in the nicest possible way - ever since I first heard him. I don't think I've managed it yet!

After Nic

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave Moran
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 08:05 AM

Worth an early mention that Nic is to be awarded a Gold Medal or Badge(no less) by the English Folk Dance & Song Society on 22nd September next at Cecil Sharp House in London and I think all will be welcome( of course you have to buy a ticket) and so please ask your friends to attend Very early days but a concert is envisaged with Items including a short film, (which is the promo for a l-hr documentary Nic & his music, which is a work in progress); the citation and presentation of the Gold Badge; interspersed with musical interludes by famous names from his folk music past etc. I will be allowed to sell ice creams in the interval I suspect. Joking apart should be a goodie so as they say watch this space!!!Look out Dom I could sing!!!
Meanwhile does anyone remember the visit of American blues legend, Spider John Koerner to Chelmsford, he of Blues Rags & Hollers fame - he had extremely large feet and boots that fitted and played a 7 string National Guitar( 2 bottom Es) and was his own foot stompin rythm section and did a great version of Good time Charlie's Back in Town Again- he has a few youtubes and is still doing it . Finally has anyone any news of the Talismen?
Dave.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: howbe on
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 11:43 AM

Great to hear about the planned Cecil Sharp House Concert as I'd love to attend if there are tickets. Keep us informed Dave. Also be good to see you singing or selling ice creams,perhaps both at the same time if you can multi-task.
I remember Spider John at Chelmsford, mainly for the size of his feet as you mentioned, but also his very fluid and free style of playing. A very good night at the club. Lucky to have seen him then as I seem to remember that he is now not allowed entry into the UK
for some reason.
Funnily enough I was going to ask you and Nigel about what became of the Talismen. I dont remember them that well, but a couple of songs spring to mind " Dark as a Dungeon" and " Slightly Faded " . Also was it one of the group that had a pre-war Gibson guitar, looked like something out of a skip but sounded absolutely fantastic.
Was there also another group that did the residency at Chelmsford around that time?
Anyway all the best
Dom

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 12:03 PM

Fans of Spider John (sorry about the thread creep) will be interested to know he is appearing at Reading South Street monthly blues club this year so presumably is touring elsewhere. I've put the dates up on my regular thread on stuff in this area (Ascot UK).

RtS

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 12:07 PM

Spider John is in Reading in July (3rd Thursday). Not getting too excited in case he pulls out, after being disappointed when the Braithwaite Whiteley tour was cut short last year before Reading due to illness.

RtS

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Dave Moran
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 03:11 PM

Dom,
I reckon Im certainly gonna get the ice cream franchise and Nigel will probably be selling nuts & raisins!! Bit tough to play the mandolin and sell a bag of nuts .... but you never know'.De old memory aint what it used to be- who else were our residents??
Help anyone? Your memory outstrips mine I dont remember the Talisman's pre war Gibson- though a moderate guitar player I always lusted after Gibsons. The loveliest Gibson I ever heard at Chelmsford was Alex Campbell's. He was lovely whether sober and witty or slightly enebriated but still very funny- remember he used to blame the Gibson for a bum note- Aw you're drunk Woman- Come on !
Folk Scene Magazine did his little autobiography- 'Frae Glasga Toon' with many songs and anecdotes- bit of a rarity now is the little book- he also did a great song on the Folk Scene LP called the Chicago Fire Tragedy with I think the late John Pearse on 2nd guitar. Ive got 1 copy and Julia Jones has 2- some great stuff on that. Anyone else got a copy???It has a picture of people at the early pre Saracens Head folk Club and liner notes by Transatlantic Records Nat Joseph
Its now very very rare.
Roger the Skiffler, Thanks for the info on Spider John and I would urge anyone in the UK to go see him he is a special special guy and great boots!. He had a great harmonica player on the Blues Rags LP called Tony 'Little Sun' Glover and he wrote a hilarious article for Folk Scene about the American Folk festival Scene about 1966/7.
Dave Moran

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: howbe on
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 04:10 PM

Dave, I am now stuck with a mental image of The Halliard reforming as sellers of fine confectionary for the EFDSS. Any chance of singing something as well?
The Gibson I remember may well have belonged to a guitarist from the group that I cant name, if indeed they are not a figment of my imagination. I'm still in contact with Dave Brown ( and Sue ) of the Riggers so I'll ask him. His memories better than mine.
Dom

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:33 PM

"Nic is to be awarded a Gold Medal or Badge(no less) by the English Folk Dance & Song Society on 22nd September next at Cecil Sharp House"

If you want a folk-themed cake for the occasion, or a similar event, just let me know! My daughter's creations have included a Morris dancer cake with hat, bells and baldrick, and a model of my melodeon (Hohner Erica). She is in Wales, but I could deliver.

This is her web site The melodeon cake is not yet there, but the Morris one is on the Corporate tab (though it may be moving soon)

Dominic, I will try and dig out Foggy Duo and put them on MP3 - such gems as The Day my Canary Died : "Instead of tweeting, he dropped a greeting...". Might even have you on there somewhere.

Pip_radish - I DID get into Nic first time round, and have all his albums in vinyl, unfortunately a bit scratched in places as they were well played. I STILL cannot work out the (variable) time structure of Lord Bateman.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Guest Dave Moran
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 02:42 PM

One of my favourite memories as a Halliard was actually not on stage but in the performers tent at the Cambridge Folk Festival and we were due to go on soon. Lots of notable and lesser performers in the beer tent including in the corner, the legendary blues and ragtime singer/ guitarist Rev Gary Davis who was blind. As he sat in the corner quietly playing- up on stage were the Watersons who wacked straight into a superb unaccompanied version of Hal an Tow- except Gary Davis loved their singing and proceeded to accompany them in the tent - on his guitar- with a strong blues twist and it really did sound great!!!
It was actually what folk music was like in those years what I hope it might become again-open to all types of music but most of all not taking itself so seriously- the Hal n Tow Blues- I loved it.

pavane The cake idea is a seriously good one - had a look on the site really nice cakes. Would be seriously interested in suggestions for the design for Nickies cake. A present from me & Nige & Chelmsford FC- come on Nige we can go halvies. 1st suggestion?? I await serious proposals.
Dom - who had the Gibson??
Dave Moran

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 03:09 PM

I look forward to the cake suggestions. Surely a guitar and fiddle somewhere? Chessmen too?

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 03:20 AM

Very happy to go halves with the cake. As to design, yes, there surely should be references as pavane suggests...can't think of anything more appropriate,
                                                                                           Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 10:10 AM

And perhaps a penguin egg too

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 12:48 PM

Nice touch....

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 01:25 PM

Nice touch?!

A TREAT!!!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 02 Apr 12 - 07:22 AM

Michael, I'll do my very best to save you a piece!
                                                                         Nigel ;)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 15 May 12 - 08:20 AM

Along with Nic receiving his gold medal in September, 'The Halliard' (Dave Moran, Nic Jones & Nigel Paterson) will be reforming for one performance on the night, ably assisted by some of our friends. We are tending to refer to it as: 'The Halliard Big Band'! I'm lead to believe that the evening will be filmed/recorded. Tickets are now available, but I don't have the details to hand. Am blowing the dust off my mandolin as I type...not easy!
                                                                                                 Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 15 May 12 - 01:23 PM

If I bring the cake, can I get in free?

By the way, if you want it you had better order it/them!
(And my daughter the cakemaker is expecting her own daughter in August)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 May 12 - 11:53 AM

Pavane, you'll need to contact Dave Moran about the cake. He was the 'Boss' of The Halliard. I was just a humble singer & Mandolin player.
                                                                   Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 05 Aug 12 - 05:40 AM

Am very happy to report that the gig on 22nd Sept. at C#House is sold out.
                                                                              Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Aug 12 - 03:42 PM

Yes indeed,

I have great memories of The Halliard! Can't make the gig, but please resuscitate your arrangement of "Down in Yon Forest", so I can see it when the DVD comes out! I've never forgotten it -- or many others.

Best wishes,

Paul Magnussen

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,999
Date: 16 Aug 12 - 05:36 PM

That the concert is sold-out is great news.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 18 Aug 12 - 06:14 AM

Really sorry to disappoint you, Paul, but DIYF is not on the set list for the gig. With Nic unable to play guitar as he used to, his son Joe would have had to have learned it. He lives many miles away from me, making rehearsals impossible. You will, however, still be able to enjoy such 'gems' as: 'The Lancashire Lads' & 'Calico Printer's Clerk'. To be frank, I'm not sure I could still play DIYF on my Mandolin. The Mandolin part made frequent use of harmonics, requiring a very steady hand, of which Dystonia has robbed me!
         Very pleased you took the trouble to get in touch...a true 'Halliard' fan!
         Kind Regards,
                              Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: pavane
Date: 24 Oct 12 - 01:26 PM

I hope the concert went well - I haven't seen a report.
In the event, my daughter would not have been able to supply a cake - too busy sprogging.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: johnmac
Date: 24 Sep 13 - 10:52 AM

Message to howbe on aka Dominic Patten. this is my third attempt at this message, I am useless with computers. I doubt very much if you will remenber me. I ran a small and not very successful club in South Ockendon at which you (solo and with the Riggers) played a few times. Reading this
thread has brought back great memories of what was a very productive and creative time for folk music. I have just recalled, this second in fact, that you also played a concert our club organised at the Thameside Theatre in Grays. Do you still own that lovely Guild guitar? Great memories of your club in Hornchurch and later Upminster where I saw some of the best people on the scene, many happily still working. I went to Shrewsbury Festival recently and was delighted to see and hear Nic Jones after so many years. I recall he was a friend of yours. We tried to get him for our club without success. Hope you are well and still making music. All the very best. John Mcgettigan

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Brian Cleave
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 05:19 PM

Hi just found this thread and thought I would add my twopenny worth. I remember the Halliard from when I served in the RAF and was stationed at Wyton (Cambridgshire)in the 60's. It was my intoduction to folk which I still love, and why I have just googled Halliard (from a distant memory)and ended up on this site. Thanks for the music and memories. Brian

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 18 Oct 13 - 11:20 PM

BTW ~~ @Dave Moran or anyone else who knows --

I have often wondered, but never got round to asking; some people with that surname pronounce it MORE-'n and some Mer-RAN --

How is Dave correctly referred to?

All Best, either way

~Michael~

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 07:16 AM

Michael, pronounced : Mer-RAN,
                                                 Nigel

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,henryp
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 06:59 PM

Nic and Joe appeared in Preston tonight, and received a great reception.

The Harris Library in Preston holds the Harkness Collection of broadsheets. This was the source of the words of The Calico Printer's Clerk, and perhaps more songs.

Earlier this month, my choir sang in the Harris Library and I wondered whether all The Halliard visited the Harris Library together?

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 07:31 AM

Henryp, if my memory serves me correctly, Nic, Dave & I visited the Harkness Collection on more than one occasion. So yes, all The Halliard visited the Harris Library together. Boy, that winds back the years!
                               Kindest Regards,
                                                          Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Oct 13 - 07:51 AM

Brian Cleave, how nice to hear from you. I don't remember whether The Halliard played at RAF Wyton, but we certainly did a gig or two at RAF Wittering. As for the Music & the Memories, you're more than welcome. They are very precious to us too.
                                           Kindest Regards,
                                                                     Nigel Paterson (Mandolin, The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,NIck Hamlyn
Date: 08 Aug 15 - 05:22 AM

Just found this thread – rather late, apparently. I was a pupil at Brentwood School from 1962 until 1968 and I remember The Halliard performing at the school folk club on one of the first occasions I attended it. They played Ewan MacColl's "Go Down You Murderer", with Nigel Paterson playing his tenor recorder, a song that I had not heard before but later performed myself at the school folk club and elsewhere. One folk gig stands out in particular – it was in Shenfield in 1968 or 1969 where Nigel was the main performer. I played two or three of my own songs, which used different guitar tunings. Retuning in between, I lost my way and couldn't seem to find any usable arrangement (nerves!). Nigel very kindly lent me his guitar so that I could continue – I changed my plan and played something in standard tuning! By 1970 I was at the University of East Anglia and a regular performer at the folk club there. Stars from the folk scene were frequent bookings at the club and on one occasion this was Nic Jones, playing on his Fender guitar. At Brentwood, I remember the Paul Simon concert happening, but a minimum age limit was set and I was too young to go.
Nick Hamlyn.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 13 Aug 15 - 05:51 AM

Dear Nick, thank you for breathing life into the thread. Very impressed that you remembered the Tenor Recorder (I learned the descant recorder at Brentwood Prep in the 50s). My 'random act of kindness', loaning you my guitar is sadly lost in the mists of my time, but I'm very touched the memory remains fresh in yours. When Nic was enjoying his solo career, I'm reasonably sure he played a 'Fylde'...don't think he played a Fender professionally. A great pity you didn't get to see Paul Simon at the School Folk Club...1.5 hours of Paul at the height of his solo powers...all for free!
             Very Good to hear from you,
                                                         Nigel Paterson.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Linda Jones
Date: 09 Oct 18 - 05:06 PM

Hello All
What a blast from the past this is..........with posts from people whose names I recall from many years ago - Dave Moran; Dominic Pattern, Howard Jones, Simon Thorndycroft.......... others from Hornchurch FC; The Castle in Brentwood, The Bull at Blackmoor, Jim Garrett with his rocket guitar. I used to sing and play guitar particularly at the Bull in Blackmoor, Writtle and sometimes Hornchurch. Paul Simon at the Castle was a bit before my time. Anyone recall the folk club in Writtle - hosted by Ian Finlay? Dave Royale - writer of Simon Spider and others. Bill Delderfield - who went to the same school as me. Years have flown by but it was a great social life at that time. Living now on the Isle of Wight, which is beautiful. Take care
Linda Jones

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 10 Oct 18 - 02:07 AM

Linda, thank you for a timely revival of this thread...I was beginning to think it was about to go extinct! The folk scene in Essex was great fun,loads of clubs, enthusiastic audiences & plenty of local talent. 'Expensive' guests like Paul Simon provided the icing on the cake. Very happy days.
                                          Nigel Paterson (mandolin, The Halliard)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Peter
Date: 10 Oct 18 - 04:23 AM

Brought back a few memories for me. I have been trying to remember just how under age I was when I first went to Brentwood FC to work out the 50th anniversary of my first introduction to folk clubs.

I may no longer be one of the youngest in the room at a folk club but, half a century on, it is disturbing that I am sometimes still below the median age.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 11 Oct 18 - 03:40 AM

Peter's post begs the question: "Are folk clubs failing to attract younger people to their audiences?"

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 11 Oct 18 - 04:08 AM

Not that it is any consolation but I've found the same with Jazz and Blues audiences, usually old gits like me these days.

RtS

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Keith Bottjer
Date: 22 Sep 19 - 08:30 PM

Hi Folks
I have just found this great thread. Good to see Nigel and Dave contributing. I used to attend Chelmsford Folk Club in the sixties when The Halliard ( In those days Dave and Nigel were with Geoff Harris) were Resident. Great evenings with some amazing guests. To sit only 2 metres away from Bert Jansch, John Renbourne, Davy Graham, Martin Carthy and many others was, for a beginner guitar player absolute heaven and ripping the ends from my fingers trying to recall and play Anji and Blues Run The Game after such an evening was painful but elevating. Ha Ha! I can remember that the lads were kind enough to run a workshop session on (I seem to recall) Wednesdays where they would help us to learn. Always been grateful for that generosity of giving of their time and skills to us. I also seem to recall that a singer called Pete Beard that used to attend those workshops started another group and they became quite successful at least locally. I can’t remember the name but I’m sure that Nigel would know to whom I refer.
Saw a flyer of yours in a guitar workshop in Barleylands Craft Centre Nigel. Still looking good mate! I’ll continue watching the blog and thread with interest.
Best Regards all.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Howard Jones
Date: 23 Sep 19 - 05:17 AM

Hi Linda, good to hear from you. What good times we had!

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 24 May 20 - 03:44 PM

Hi, I have a copy of the Halliard's LP. Very scratchy but still wonderful, Nic Jones vocals.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Noreen
Date: 26 May 20 - 09:40 AM

Good for you, anonymous GUEST! Hope you are enjoying it.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 27 May 20 - 09:52 AM

Anonymous Guest, if, by "Halliards' LP" you mean "The Irish in me", released by Saga, then all three of us: Dave, Nic & myself, sang. The Halliard produced three albums in total, all of which can still be purchased here There is a fourth album, shared with & released by the late Mike Raven, but not available from Nic's website. Dear Guest, if your LP was in mint condition, it would be worth something in excess of £50.00 in today's money.
                                  Happy listening,
                                                             Nigel Paterson (Mandolin, The Halliard).

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,John Filbey
Date: 21 Jan 21 - 03:29 AM

Nigel, this thread must be one of the longest timelines I have seen! I was a frequent attendee of the Chelmsford Folk Club, when I became a "day boy". Also frequent visitor to Corn Exchange to see the likes of The Animals, Pink Floyd (psychedelia not well received by the Mid-Essex crowd!), Soft Machine, Moody Blues and Hendrix(35p ticket!).Also remember a club the other side of Tindal Square, where acts included The Graham Bond Organisation, Klu J?. Very grateful that Nic got me a Summer job at the outdoor baths in 1966. Sorry to read that your Brentwood days were not enjoyable. I remember you as a consummate gymnast, definitely Shortie's favourite! I'm still in touch with OBs including Marten Davies, Graham Boyd and Tony Wallington.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 23 Jan 21 - 04:43 AM

John, thank you for extending the thread timeline! Always good to hear from folk who remember the early days.
                      Nigel, Nic & Dave (Yes, we're all still around...just!)

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Gill Varndell
Date: 08 Oct 21 - 10:41 AM

Gv
Are you still out there? My memories of Halliard are as a schoolgirl member of Romford Folk Club.I was hooked straight away. I followed Nic Jones obsessively.
I bought the vinyl and later whatever cds were available. Romford Folk Club had some amazing performers including the Young Tradition, Incredible String Band, and so on ad infinitum. Nic Jones is still my favourite to listen to.I coveted his percussive guitar style and wished I could play at all!
Good, good days.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Oct 21 - 12:32 PM

Hi Nigel - happy memories of you three gentlemen at the Boat Club in Stourport-on-Severn in the early-mid 60s. You won't remember me but you might remember the club, over the boathouse. A private club, so though the bar closed at 10:30 the gig ran later, and folks stacked up their pints when the bar stopped serving. I'm in the States now, I had a reunion with a few of the old house band & regular floor singers a few years ago, but they're all gone now. Glad you're still around. All the best to you - John Roberts.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Anglo
Date: 09 Oct 21 - 12:34 PM

Oops, last post was me. I didn't intend the anonymous handle, must have tossed my cookie.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,maeve
Date: 09 Oct 21 - 03:34 PM

Hello, John! I have sent an email to Nigel to let him know of your kind note.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 10 Oct 21 - 03:54 AM

Good morning, John,
                                 It never ceases to amaze me, after so much time has passed, that good folk such as yourself, take the time to get in touch & refresh treasured memories. I do remember the Boat Club & the stacked pints! More especially, it's the audience that I'm so happy to be reminded of...one of the best on the circuit...so responsive, warm & welcoming. Dave, Nic & I are still here: JUST! Your kind message is more important to me than you could ever had imagined. I'm living with a type of dementia. Slowly but surely, precious memories such as these are being lost. I'm so grateful that you've written, & so grateful to Maeve for her email. I never would've known, otherwise. I look upon Maeve as the guardian of my Mudcat Memories.
               Very best wishes to you,
                                                      Nigel P.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 12 Oct 21 - 10:31 AM

Just one refresh.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Anglo
Date: 13 Oct 21 - 02:52 PM

Well, the years go by, and some of us are still here. I'm far distant now in upstate New York, and as I said all my friends from Stourport in the old days are gone now, except for one I completely lost touch with, so I don't know if Tony Baylis is still around or not (maybe I should post a Mudcat query). Last I heard he was in Pershore. But I'm glad you guys are all still with us. I still sing a couple of the songs I learned from you in the old days, and I'll keep playing them as long as I can. The best to you, Nigel, and to Dave and Nic.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 14 Oct 21 - 02:46 AM

Good morning, John,
                                  Please tell me which of our songs you still sing. I'd love to hear about that,
                                          Very Best Wishes,
                                                                      Nigel.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 27 Oct 21 - 10:43 AM

A little refresh...just in case one or two of you may still be hankering after the golden days of the 60s UK Folk Revival.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Linda Jones
Date: 19 Sep 23 - 01:14 PM

Hello Howard. Please excuse the late response, but better late than never. Hope all is well with you. Are you still in essex?
Linda

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Howard Jones
Date: 19 Sep 23 - 01:26 PM

Hi Linda, I'm fine, thanks for asking, and still playing. I moved up north about 40 years ago and now I only seem to get back to Essex for funerals :( I still see one or two people at other music events. Lots of good memories of Blackmore, Brentwood and Chelmsford folk clubs.

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: GUEST,Linda Jones
Date: 19 Sep 23 - 01:14 PM

Hello Howard. Please excuse the late response, but better late than never. Hope all is well with you. Are you still in essex?
Linda

Subject: RE: The Halliard - any memories of this group?
From: Howard Jones
Date: 19 Sep 23 - 01:26 PM

Hi Linda, I'm fine, thanks for asking, and still playing. I moved up north about 40 years ago and now I only seem to get back to Essex for funerals :( I still see one or two people at other music events. Lots of good memories of Blackmore, Brentwood and Chelmsford folk clubs.