We offer a range of workshops as part of the Priddy Folk Festival. These last roughly an hour, and are free (unless otherwise stated)
Mendip Dance Party
Sunday 10.30 Eastwater
SomerStep were formed to keep the tradition of step dancing alive on the Mendips. Join SomerStep for some social dances, and at the same time learn some simple traditional steps in jig, reel and waltz time. The group will finish with the Priddy Hankerchief step dance, related to the broom dance. All abilities and ages welcome.
Border Morris Workshop with Wild Moon
Saturday 14.00 Eastwater
Wild Moon Morris are a dark Border Morris side with an energetic step and flourishing yells celebrating Somerset folklore. Come and join them, and they’ll teach you one of their dances. No experience needed – as they’ll step you through it. (You’ll find they don’t bite.) Suitable for adults and older children. Come give it a go, who knows where this may lead?
Different Styles of Jig Workshop with Rowan Piggott
Saturday 10.30 Village Hall (Wristband Only)
Rowan is a folk fiddler, singer, writer and tune collector who grew up in the foothills of the Burren on the west coast of Ireland, surrounded by traditional music. Recognised as “one of the folk scene’s young stars” (The Guardian) and able to shift between different traditions and musical accents while retaining his signature sound, Rowan has published three successful books of traditional music. He is a sought-after teacher, leading workshops at festivals all over the UK and writing articles for specialist magazines. In this workshop, Rowan will teach different styles of English, Swedish & Irish jigs and explore the differences in rhythmic feel, bowing and ornamentation.
Sing in a Choir with Issy Emeney
Sunday 10.30 Village Hall
Back again by popular demand, Issy is a multi-talented musician, artist and author as well as a highly-acclaimed melodeon player. She is a great teacher and leads and arranges music for the acclaimed Mendip Folk Choir.
Cornish Dance with Kekezza
Saturday 10.30 Eastwater
Join Kekezza for a workshop exploring the rich variety of Cornish dance. You’ll be introduced to a mix of traditional styles – from celebratory feast day dances to social set dances and the rhythmic and percussive scoot dancing. Open to all experience levels, the workshop offers something for everyone, with dance styles suitable for everyone. You’ll learn new dances and more about Cornish dance, Cornwall’s cultural heritage. Please wear comfortable shoes – avoid rubber soles if possible, as they can stick to the floor.
Play in a Band with the Somerset Russets
Sunday 12:00 Village Hall
Back again this year, The Somerset Russets Village Band invite you to share the joy of playing dance music in four-part harmony. Expect arrangements of traditional tunes and new ones, from the British Isles and further afield. The ability to sight-read is an advantage but ear players are welcome to pick tunes up “on the fly”. Bring a music stand if you have one, but it’s not essential.
