Lauren South is a rising star in the folk music scene, known for her captivating voice and skillful guitar playing. She has quickly made a name for herself with her unique blend of traditional folk melodies and contemporary lyrical storytelling. Lauren’s music resonates with audiences of all ages, drawing them in with its emotional depth and narrative richness. Her performances are a journey through tales of love, loss, and the beauty of the natural world, all delivered with a genuine passion for her craft. At the Bromyard Folk Festival, attendees can look forward to an intimate and engaging set from Lauren, showcasing her talent for connecting with her audience through the power of song. Her presence on stage is both powerful and inspiring, making her a highly anticipated act at this year’s festival.
Category: Club Stage
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Cobblers Child
Cobblers Child is a group of four friends who began playing together during the pandemic lockdowns as a way to maintain their sanity in uncertain times. With a blend of melodeon, guitar, whistles, and Northumbrian pipes, they created a rich musical tapestry that perfectly complements Martin and Emma’s vocals. It wasn’t long before they discovered that their music and infectious enthusiasm resonated with others.
Their repertoire includes both traditional and contemporary compositions. Martin has a passion for unearthing forgotten gems that still resonate in today’s world, breathing new life into them with beautiful melodies and arrangements. Many of his songs are inspired by stories from the inland waterways, collected during their travels on a narrowboat. Paul contributes lively tunes that add to the band’s toe-tapping sets.
The Band
Paul Baker, a dedicated melodeon enthusiast and collector, began his folk music journey at the University of Sheffield, where he formed the ceilidh band Hekety alongside friends like Richard and Jess Arrowsmith (Melrose Quartet). Originally a guitarist, Paul’s strong sense of rhythm transitioned seamlessly to the melodeon. His diverse musical influences are rooted in his love of dance traditions, which he brings to Cobblers Child.
Martin Vogwell (Guitar/Mandola/Vocals) has been a touring musician for over 25 years, including a decade with Folklaw, performing across the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. He has released four well-received solo albums and fronts the band Bewelian, known for their intricate arrangements. Martin’s songwriting is inspired by archival material and the stories of the canals. He also performs with his wife Emma as The Vogwells duo.
Emma Vogwell (Whistle/Vocals) has a long history as a touring musician, contributing vocals, saxophone, and whistle to various bands, both folk and beyond. As part of The Vogwells, she and Martin have been active in the Gloucestershire folk scene, collaborating on projects like the GlosTrad project with the late collector Gwilym Davies and Steve Rowley. They have performed at folk clubs from Edinburgh to Cornwall.
Polly Stirzaker (Northumbrian Small Pipes/Whistle) has deep roots in traditional music, having busked with highland pipes on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in her youth. She has played fiddle, melodeon, and whistle with various ceilidh bands and hosts regular “slow sessions” for developing musicians. In Cobblers Child, Polly brings the distinctive sound of the Northumbrian Pipes, which she learned in an evening class while working in Newcastle.
Paul and Polly are also active dancers and musicians for the Cotswold Morris side Lassington Oak from Highnam near Gloucester, participating in many local folk traditions, including Wassailing, Harvest Home, and May Day celebrations.
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We Mavericks
We Mavericks are a captivating folk duo that brings together the exceptional talents of Lindsay Martin and Victoria Vigenser. With Lindsay’s masterful string work and harmonies complementing Victoria’s powerful voice and driving rhythms, they create a musical connection that is as profound as it is hard to describe. Originating from New South Wales and New Zealand respectively, these travelling troubadours have forged a unique sound that blends the raw, evocative storytelling of Americana with the rich traditions of Celtic music.
Their performances are a compelling mix of grit and grace, with songs that resonate deeply with audiences. We Mavericks are known for their original compositions, which are steeped in authenticity and emotional depth. Their music explores themes of love, struggle, and the human condition, all delivered with a raw intensity that leaves a lasting impression. The duo’s harmonies are particularly striking, weaving together their voices in a way that feels both natural and profound, adding layers of meaning to their already powerful lyrics.
The influence of Americana and Celtic traditional music is evident in We Mavericks’ sound, but they are far from confined by these genres. Instead, they take these influences and create something wholly their own, with a style that is both timeless and refreshingly contemporary. Lindsay’s expertise on strings, whether it be fiddle, mandolin, or guitar, provides a rich musical foundation for Victoria’s vocals, which are as commanding as they are expressive. Together, they craft songs that are both musically intricate and deeply moving.
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Rowan Woodhouse
Rowan Woodhouse is a rising star in the folk music scene, recognized for his exceptional talent and deep connection to the tradition. Hailing from Worcestershire, Rowan’s musical journey began in the world of choral music, where he developed a strong foundation in classical singing. His early experiences in choral ensembles provided him with the technical skill and vocal discipline that now underpin his unique approach to folk singing.
Rowan’s passion for folk music was ignited during a transformative year in the Outer Hebrides, where he studied for an HNC at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI). Immersed in the rich cultural landscape of South Uist, he learned to sing traditional Gaelic songs under the guidance of Paul McCallum. This experience not only deepened his appreciation for the folk tradition but also helped him develop a distinct style that blends the precision of classical singing with the emotive storytelling of folk music.
Currently, Rowan is furthering his studies in Folk and Traditional Music at Newcastle University, where he continues to refine his craft and explore the vast repertoire of traditional songs. His classical roots and ongoing participation in various folk choirs, including Stream of Sound in the West Midlands, have shaped his approach to folk singing, allowing him to bring a fresh and nuanced perspective to the genre. His performances are characterized by a blend of technical excellence and heartfelt expression, making his interpretations of traditional songs both powerful and memorable.
Rowan’s dedication to his craft was recognised last year when he won the prestigious Future of Young Folk Award at the festival, an accolade that highlights his potential to become a leading voice in the folk community. With his deep respect for tradition and his innovative approach to singing, Rowan Woodhouse is poised to make a significant impact on the future of folk music.
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Nigel Smith
Nigel Smith is a beloved figure in the folk music community, known not only as the master of the festival bar but also as a soulful singer who brings traditional folk songs to life with warmth and authenticity. As the landlord of the historic Fleece Inn in Bretforton, Nigel has long been a central figure in the local folk scene, hosting countless folk nights and creating a welcoming space for musicians and music lovers alike. His deep connection to the music he performs, coupled with his natural ability to engage and uplift an audience, makes him a standout performer in any setting.
Nigel’s journey as a folk singer is intertwined with his role as the guardian of the Fleece Inn, a venue with a rich history and a vibrant musical tradition. His performances are marked by a genuine love for the songs he sings, often delivering renditions of traditional folk tunes that resonate with the history and spirit of the music. Whether performing a rousing chorus in the bar or a more intimate ballad on stage, Nigel’s voice has a way of connecting with listeners, evoking both the joy and the pathos of folk music.
After making his festival debut last year, Nigel quickly became a favorite among festival-goers, who were charmed by his heartfelt performances and his easygoing, approachable manner. His return to the festival this year is highly anticipated, as he continues to delight audiences with his blend of traditional songs and engaging stage presence. Nigel’s role as both a performer and the landlord of the Fleece Inn gives him a unique perspective on the folk tradition, one that he shares generously with those who come to hear him sing.
In addition to his musical talents, Nigel is also known for his hospitality, ensuring that festival-goers are well cared for, both in terms of refreshment and entertainment. His ability to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, whether in the pub or on the festival stage, has endeared him to many, making him an integral part of the folk community. Nigel Smith is not just a performer; he is a custodian of folk culture, keeping the traditions alive and thriving in Bretforton and beyond.