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.