Having started in the 60s as the Berkshire Tragedy, Peter and Chris, along with concertina and melodeon player, and clog dancer, Ian Dunmur, played together until Chris and Peter moved to the Lakes in 1987. Then Ian and Ailsa joined them to form Reunion. Sadly, the ravages of time took Ian and Ailsa from them and after a year or two of being a two-piece band, they became a family band, joined by daughter Jo and her husband Mick. Hence, Bald Mountain String Band was born. Peter and Jo play fiddles, Mick the ukulele and percussion and Chris on guitar and bass guitar.
Throughout this long association they have played traditional music gleaned from all over the British Isles and have a wonderfully extensive repertoire of tunes for traditional dances. Added to that are melodies just for listening to. They have worked with many different callers who will call a variety of dances including square dances from America.
Sally Hardaker often calls for them. She has a variety of interesting dances, some to challenge regular dancers and a great deal of patience for groups less quick to pick up the moves. She is also a flautist and enjoys any opportunity to play with the band. They have all been involved in clog and step dancing for over 50 years and very much enjoy making music for people to dance to.
Why Bald Mountain? Well, bald mountain is Mell Fell which has been their neighbour for more than 35 years. Saturday 7th December 7:30pm, Bar and Box Office from 6:45pm. Tickets £10 (£5 under 18) from on-line here by debit of credit card.
TICKETS BOUGHT ON-LINE ARE COLLECTED ON THE NIGHT FROM THE BOX OFFICE. Box Office enquiries 07931 679654.