Please note- The entries are checked regularly but sometimes events are cancelled or artists, venues or dates changed. Please double check venue and date on the ticket website before booking. Sheffield Folk Guide is not responsible for any losses due to changes or errors in the listing. Please let me know if you see an error in the listing. For all sessions please see Jaki’s Sheffield Music Sessions website. For regular singing session please see useful info page. The colours of the blocks indicates the type of event:
Key to events:
Festival or special event
Concert
Dance
Workshop/ Session
Music and spoken word
Folk Club
Children’s event
► Click on the headline for more information and ticket link
March 2026
Thursday 19th March
Skye Consort & Emma Björling at the Samuel Worth Chapel
This internationally acclaimed ensemble brings together musicians from Canada and Sweden, blending traditional music from Scandinavia, Ireland, the British Isles and French-Canada with original compositions. Their sound – described as “scandi-celto-québecish neo-trad” – reimagines ancient melodies through rich, modern chamber-folk arrangements. As critic David Noel Edwards notes, “Lots of groups play those styles. None of them do it like Skye Consort.” Expect a vivid musical journey featuring voices, fiddle, nyckelharpa, cello, bouzouki, banjo and percussion, moving from whirling polskas and grooving reels to heartfelt songs and breathtaking hymns. Doors 7.30PM TICKETS
Banter at Live at Sam’s- House Concert
Banter are: Simon Care on melodeon, Nina Zella on keyboards & vocals, Tim Walker on drums, percussion, brass & vocals and Mark Jolley on bass, fiddle, guitar & vocals. Four fine musicians who’s roots are firmly in the traditional English genre, but who enjoy stretching the limits. Formed in 2015, they realised that a common love for the living traditions of English song and dance music was at their core and began to pursue it’s evolution, bringing in flavours from a wider palette of musical influences. Doors 7.30PM TICKETS
Old Baby Mackerel at Cafe No9
Old Baby Mackerel play high-energy, foot-stomping bluegrass featuring some of the UK’s best bluegrass musicians. Be prepared to be transported back in time to the early 20th century and across the Atlantic to North America where songs dramatized the small town fascination with locomotion, religion and the veneration of whisky and bootleg liquor. Gathered around a single condenser microphone in the true bluegrass style, the sounds of banjo, guitar, mandolin and double bass blend lightning-fast rhythm, virtuosic solos and evocative harmonies to get knees bouncing and elbows swinging. Doors 7PM TICKETS
White Sail at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Spring Sing at the Wharncliffe Arms
Come and join us on Thursday 19th March 8pm for the first Folk Night since the re-opening of The Wharncliffe Arms. The theme will be ‘Spring Sing’ so we’ll include songs marking this lovely time of year alongside lots of chorus songs and songs which are easy to join in. Song sheets will be available so just bring along your voices and your enthusiasm.
Prattyush Banerjee, Giuliano Modarelli & Gurdain Rayatt at Firth Hall
Scintillating crossover collaboration between three virtuoso’s at their respective instruments: guitar, tabla and sarod. TICKETS
Friday 20th March
Roswell Road at Cafe No9
When Zoë Wren and Jasmine Watkiss first met in a market square in Cambridgeshire, UK, their friends persuaded them to sing a tune together. Their musical chemistry was instantaneous and it led them to form Americana duo Roswell Road. The London-based multi-instrumentalists blend close harmonies with candid storytelling, drawing on real experiences from mental health to family love to real-life activist adventures at sea. Roswell Road’s sound, which has drawn comparisons to First Aid Kit and Fleetwood Mac, has taken them from sold-out shows at London’s Green Note to stages across Europe, including Costa Festival Ibiza and industry showcases in Canada, Ireland and France. They have supported artists from Catherine McGrath to Dea Matrona. Roswell Road will be celebrating the release of their debut album Rebel Joy, produced by The Dunwells, in March 2026. Doors 7PM TICKETS sold out
Sam Carter at Brewery and Tap, Doncaster
Roots Music Club. Sam Carter’s spring tour celebrates the release of The Oakham Poacher (2025), his first solo collection of traditional songs; some captured on record for the very first time. The EP highlights Carter’s distinctive fingerstyle guitar and storytelling flair, arriving soon after his acclaimed album Silver Horizon (2024), a Top 40 Folk Chart success and one of KLOF Mag’s Albums of the Year. Sam Carter’s live performances are nothing short of captivating, filled with the raw honesty, humour, and skilled musicianship that underscore his standing as one of contemporary folk’s brightest talents. TICKETS
Twmpath (Welsh Dancing) at Uni Central, UoS
Twmpath is traditional Welsh Dancing, everyone is welcome from experienced folk dancers to those with no experience at all! 6.30-10PM TICKETS
Saturday 21st March
Marilla’s Voice Workshop at the Old Band Room, Dungworth
New monthly workshop: 1-5pm at the Old Band Room, Dungworth. £50 per workshop.
A monthly afternoon workshop exploring voice and movement, open to all abilities, from ‘non-singers’ to professional voice users, with Marilla Homes, a certified Feldenkrais Practitioner and mixed modality therapist, classically trained singer, performer and teacher.
Activities will include Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement lessons, vocalising and singing, vocal techniques, vocal health, functional anatomy and physiology, sound healing, performance coaching, connecting, and sharing within the group. Each month we will learn a song together.
Book for one workshop, or multiple, there is no obligation to attend every month. Content will evolve around the participants in each month’s group FACEBOOK Booking
Russ Chandler at The Sheaf View, S2 3AA
Folk Songs, Music Hall, Protest Songs, Ragtime banjo, ukulele. Admission free, starts 8.30PM
Auka at Open House, Hathersage
Doors 7PM Inspired by the melodies and rhythms of the natural world, Auka perform genre-defying original music combining wide-ranging influences including Celtic music and jazz.
Auka’s music evokes the nature and landscapes that surround their home of Sheffield, taking audiences on an intimate journey over moorland, through woodland and along rivers. The trio consists of Kirsty Lomax on Irish flute & whistles, Matt Gilchrist on acoustic guitar and Joss Mann-Hazell (of Mishra) on double bass. The name ‘Auka’ comes from an Old Norse word meaning to grow or augment – a term that perfectly sums up the band’s organic and unique sound, where original folk melodies gradually swell from moments of delicate calm to those of frenetic energy. TICKETS
Blackbeard’s Tea Party at The Greystones
8PM Be prepared to stamp your wooden legs: Blackbeard’s Tea Party are back with their latest album ‘We Are People’. Blackbeard’s Tea Party continue to put their signature twist on British folk music with a contemporary rock sound. On this new collection they explore the past and the present to ask what it means to be British right now – from personal, political and piratical perspectives. On the ‘We Are People’ tour they will perform these new tracks along with classics from their back catalogue. Sea-shanties are given a bombastic rock edge, and folk instrumentals become late-night floor-fillers when this raucous bunch of reprobates hit the stage. They have dirt under their fingernails and a twinkle in their eyes, and you can expect fantastic musicianship, playful choreography and an unstoppable urge to move your body. Electric guitars, fiddle, melodeon, drums and 4-part harmonies combine to create music that is drenched in tradition, but filtered through a kaleidoscope of modern rock and pop. Tickets
Sunday 22nd March
Emily Portman at The Greystones
Emily Portman and friends, New Album launch tour – Dominion of Spells: Boldly original songs of metamorphosis, magic, and midlife—where selkies, owl goddesses, and fairy queens guide a quest for wonder. TICKETS
Steve Knightley at St Andrew’s Church, Psalter Lane
Following the success of his Winter Yards Band tour, Steve Knightley is delighted to announce Sanctuary – Songs from Sacred Spaces. Known for his songs of history and location , Steve will create an evening of material beautifully matched to these resonant venues — churches, chapels and ancient buildings chosen for their atmosphere and acoustic warmth. The concerts will also feature Dan Salvatore, whose haunting handpan soundscapes add a meditative, ambient dimension to the evening. Expect stripped-back arrangements, strong storytelling, and a focus on the relationship between song, space, and listener. Doors 7.30PM TICKETS
Jessica Dives & Grace Elizabeth Harvey at Cafe No9
After a successful national tour in Autumn 2025, Jessica Dives and Grace Elizabeth Harvey are coming together once more to blend their unique styles as special show to mark the start of Jessica’s Wind Phone tour, celebrating her new release and wider Wind Phone project.
Jessica Dives Born in the South East and adopted by the North West, “exciting new talent” (Americana UK) Jessica Dives is an up and coming Folk Singer Songwriter with a “welcome vibrancy” (FATEA) For Jessica – storytelling is paramount. Jessica allows her fixation and fascination with people and stories to guide her and, with a long established background in theatre, has a natural and captivating confidence in performance. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Penistone Folk Ensemble: an entertaining evening of 17th Century music at Wentworth Woodhouse
From Playford to Susato, this fundraising event will explore music from a variety of composers from as far back as 1550, and earlier. Played on fiddles, mandolins, violas, concertina, and a whole host of other instruments, this event is sure to be a musical feast for all!
The first half of the concert will feature the music of Irish bard and harper, Turlough O’Carolan, with narration on his life by David Alton, and music by our special guest harpist, Alejandro Barnett. The second half will explore more music from the period, particularly the Playford collection, and will feature display dancers. The band and dancers will be in 17th Century costume, and will be playing the usual array of instruments to delight your ears. TICKETS
Thursday 26th March
Del Scott Miller at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Watkin Sharkey at Cafe No9
Born and raised in Norfolk (UK), Watkin Sharkey is a folk songwriter influenced by the likes
of Bob Dylan, Ralph Mctell & Michael Chapman. A new kid on the block, Sharkey has dived
into his first year of live performances with tours of the UK, France & Spain. Supporting Katie
Spencer in Sheffield & opening for Paul Armfield on his spring 2025 UK tour are notable
successes. With a debut album in the works, Watkin has a distinctive, contemporary sound
while tipping his hat to the 60s/70s folk tradition. With special support from Heather & Ben (Cowbird) Doors 7PM TICKETS
Playford in the Pub at Shakespears
8 PM, upstairs room. Fabulous tunes and energetic dances from the seventeenth-century onwards. The batty grandparent of ceilidh and contra dancing! Dancers, callers, musicians and beginners at all of these things welcome. Suggested donation £5 on the door Facebook group
Friday 27th March
Sullow at Bishop’s House
Sullow are an improvising trio comprising Jacken Elswyth, Daniel S. Evans and Joshua Barfoot of Shovel Dance Collective. Inflected and informed by traditional music, they negotiate an improvisation that has been variable described as ‘farmyard’ and ‘rodeo’. Repeated patterns rise and fall in quick attacks, short decays and dense bursts of momentary composition. For information on their music and performances check nothingofthehorses.com
Support from Spiral: the duo of Teresa Winter and Tom James Scott, active since summer 2023. In a performance setting they experiment with loose, evolving structures, moving between organ, guitar, violin, bass and vocals. TICKETS
Banjo Jen at Cafe No9 (the first of two back to back shows)
It’s been a loooong time coming, BUT (drum roll ….) local Sheffield songstress Banjo Jen is finally releasing new music this spring! And to celebrate she’s playing back-to-back shows at her favourite venue in the world (very handily situated just down the road!), the gorgeous intimate Café no.9. Joined by trusty bandmates ‘the Junk’ – bass legend Johnny Griff and queen of the squeezebox El Heneghan – these will be fun-filled nights of folky Americana, celebrating the release of singles ‘No Country for Old Men’ and ‘The Liar’ from the upcoming EP ‘In the End’ …and audience members will have the first exclusive opportunity to purchase the new recording before its official release. So come along, squeeze into the most gorgeous little venue in the world and join the party! Doors 7PM TICKETS
Saturday 28th March
Banjo Jen at Cafe No9 (2nd of two back to back shows)
It’s been a loooong time coming, BUT (drum roll ….) local Sheffield songstress Banjo Jen is finally releasing new music this spring! And to celebrate she’s playing back-to-back shows at her favourite venue in the world (very handily situated just down the road!), the gorgeous intimate Café no.9. Joined by trusty bandmates ‘the Junk’ – bass legend Johnny Griff and queen of the squeezebox El Heneghan – these will be fun-filled nights of folky Americana, celebrating the release of singles ‘No Country for Old Men’ and ‘The Liar’ from the upcoming EP ‘In the End’ …and audience members will have the first exclusive opportunity to purchase the new recording before its official release. So come along, squeeze into the most gorgeous little venue in the world and join the party! Doors 7PM TICKETS
Woodseats Live
A full day of free pub gigs- a wide range of styles of music. Folky performs taking part include Cold Bones Lullabies, Carl Jessop, Alastair Gordon. Facebook
Heather and Harlan at the Lantern theatre
It is enormously pleasing to be welcoming Heather Findlay back to The Lantern Theatre after the album launch of Wildflower in March 2025, this time accompanied by her son Harlan Findlay-Loftus on bass, keys, and guitar. Heather burst upon the musical scene in 1997 with Mostly Autumn, staying with them for 13 years, as well as having side projects such as Odin Dragonfly. A solo artist since 2010, she has continued to experiment with different band formats. Through 2025 Harlan has been increasingly providing additional instrumentation to Heather’s sets, creating a dynamic sound behind Heather’s guitar and voice. TICKETS
Sunday 29th March
Jon Wilks and The Grizzly Folk at The Greystones
8PM Multi talented Jon Wilks is a prominent singer, songwriter and highly acclaimed fingerpicking guitarist whose stand out talent has been applauded by such folk legends as Martin Carthy who described him as “bloody brilliant” and Martin Simpson who said Jon was “the real deal”.
Rooted in English folk traditions his work combines storytelling with traditional and original songs. Always with a keen eye and ear for a story, Jon’s live performances include absorbing tidbits about the songs, original singers and collectors, that he has unearthed during his extensive research on traditional music. He was the founder and editor of Tradfolk and has been featured regularly on BBC Radio 2’s Folk Show. This is a rare full band show. TICKETS
Craven at Bishops’ House
Doors 7PM Craven are a part English, part Welsh, dark folk trio based in the South West. Their music is at once grinding and symphonic, but also delicate and ethereal. Their sound draws far and wide from punk, electronic music, and film music as well as traditional music from both Europe and the wider world.
Craven comprises Will Bremner (Accordions), Elian Moisey (Double Bass, Viola da Gamba) and Rhiannon Takel (Violin, Octave Mandola, Harmonium). They use stomp boxes, bells, a foot-keyed harmonium and a pedal operated 120 year old drum to create a maximal sound with minimal musicians. This use of live, raw sound production is integral to their visceral storytelling, and is a hair’s breadth from carnage. TICKETS
April 2026
Wednesday 1st April
Nick Hart and Tom Moore at Shakespears
Nick Hart and Tom Moore are an English folk duo whose debut album, The Colour of Amber (2023), has been widely acclaimed for its vivid interpretations of traditional songs and tunes. The album pairs Hart’s tenor viol and distinctive vocals with Moore’s expressive viola, enhanced by drones and bass from an antique church harmonium, creating a sound that is both intimate and timeless. Both musicians are highly respected in the folk world. Nick, an award-winning singer and multi-instrumentalist, has been described as “probably the finest interpreter of traditional English folk songs this generation has produced” (Tradfolk). Tom, a violist, fiddle player, and producer, has been called “ingenious” (The Guardian) and “irresistible” (The Independent), and has performed across the UK and Europe. TICKETS –
The Séamus Óg Trio at Cafe No9
Séamus Óg is an emerging force within the contemporary folk scene, drawing deeply from his family’s rich musical heritage and strong Irish roots. Raised in a household where music was as essential as the air they breathed. Specialising in guitar and cittern; a resonant, ten-stringed instrument with chiming, layered tones that bring a distinctive texture to his sound, setting him apart within the modern folk landscape. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Patakas at Nether Edge Folk Club
Joe and Will Sartin are bringing driving rhythms and innovative harmony to their fresh interpretations of traditional music and their own original tunes and songs. The brothers beautifully and skilfully express the music-making and folk tradition that runs through the very core of their family. A few house singers before the guest. Doors 7.30PM Club Website
Thursday 2nd April
A.D. Scruffs at Cafe 9
A.D. Scruffs is an Americana, Folk & Roots Trio from Bristol, combining unique storytelling with a captivating stage presence bound to enthrall any audience they stand before. With songs soaked in that old time feeling, yet ever relevant for these times, the three members bring them to life with instruments like the banjo, double bass, resonator guitar and a rich blending of vocal harmonies layered on top. Catch their next show and you’ll find yourself entwined in the soundscape as you watch the band in their natural element; lost in the music. TICKETS
Gloria Monday at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Friday 3rd April
Sheffield Folk Session Festival
Sheffield Folk Sessions Festival is a whole, free weekend of Folk sessions in the fantastic pubs of the Kelham Island area of Sheffield. We have no paid acts or formal concerts; all our events are based on the idea of shared music. If you’re a folk Singer or Instrumentalist, you’ll find something great at our event. Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th Website
Harry Bird at Cafe No9
Harry Bird, “The Travelling Folkster”, is an internationally acclaimed singer songwriter, a modern day troubadour with a knack for storytelling, “genius songwriting” (RnR Magazine, UK) and a voice that has captivated audiences all over Europe and beyond.
Drawing on British folk, Americana and other world music genres, his multilingual performances are a freewheeling cabaret of finely crafted songs, captivating vocals and good humour. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Saturday 4th April
Sheffield Folk Session Festival
Sheffield Folk Sessions Festival is a whole, free weekend of Folk sessions in the fantastic pubs of the Kelham Island area of Sheffield. We have no paid acts or formal concerts; all our events are based on the idea of shared music. If you’re a folk Singer or Instrumentalist, you’ll find something great at our event. Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th Website. There’s a Family Fringe 10-4 on Saturday and Sunday at St Catherine’s Scout hut, Pitsmoor
Sunday 5th April
Sheffield Folk Session Festival
Sheffield Folk Sessions Festival is a whole, free weekend of Folk sessions in the fantastic pubs of the Kelham Island area of Sheffield. We have no paid acts or formal concerts; all our events are based on the idea of shared music. If you’re a folk Singer or Instrumentalist, you’ll find something great at our event. Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th Website. There’s a Family Fringe 10-4 on Saturday and Sunday at St Catherine’s Scout hut, Pitsmoor
Monday 6th April
Bank Holiday Bal with Feather and Fox + Emily Bowden & Simon Dumpleton at Crookes Social Club
For newcomers to this dance style: Balfolk is a lovely, welcoming, inclusive space to enjoy partner dances and group dances, or simply to enjoy listening to the music. At times lively and rambunctious, at other times mellow and meditative. There will be a beginners’ dance workshop at the start to meet each other and have a taster of some of the more common dances. Feather and Fox are Victor Lekeu and Christiane Bisitz. The make sublime original music on mandolin, cello, and voice. Their instruments are beautifully complementary and their energy is delicate, joyous and playful. They are over from Germany for their first tour in the UK. Not to be missed!Emily Bowden & Simon Dumpleton have been touring together on the UK and EU folk scene for over 10 years. They love the opportunity to play as a duo and will offer more intimate arrangements of their Emily & The Simons set on fiddle and chromatic accordion. Doors 2.30PM, Workshop 3PM, Bal 4PM TICKETS
Taff Rapids at The Greystones
North America meets Celtic Britain, Cardiff’s Taff Rapids have been taking International stages by storm with their captivating, unique, modern Transatlantic sound.
Official performers IBMA World of Bluegrass Showcase in 2023 and Folk Alliance International 2025 they deliver a high energy fusion of Bluegrass songwriting, driving instrumentation and a distinctly Welsh twist singing with both English and Welsh lyrics, tight harmonies and instrumental firepower. 8PM TICKETS
Tuesday 7th April
George Sansome & Matt Quinn at Kiveton Park Folk Club
Kiveton Park Folk Club, Kiveton Park Colliery Cricket Club, Doors 7.30PM. Floor spots (from 7.50PM) before the guest artist, £10 for non-members. The club website is not working. If you would like more details I can pass you email address on to the club organiser.
The Horsenecks & Vera Van Heeringen at Cafe No9
The Horsenecks are Gabrielle Macrae and Barry Southern. Based in Astoria, Oregon, they are two multi-instrumentalists who have come together from traditional music backgrounds to found a sound that weaves through layers of influence that include early Appalachian fiddle and banjo music, country, classic bluegrass and original folk.
Vera Van Heeringen, originally from The Netherlands, is firmly rooted in transatlantic traditions. Her emotionally astute songwriting is underpinned with an understated rich instrumental craft on guitar and mandolin. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Wednesday 8th April
Gilmore and Roberts at The Greystones
Contemporary acoustic folk duo Gilmore and Roberts combine award winning songwriting with astounding musicianship with trademark harmonies to create a powerful wall of sound. They’ve toured Canada and mainland Europe and played many of the biggest festivals winning countless accolades for their genre spanning work. 8PM TICKETS
Yorkshire Songster Launch at Shakespears
7.30PM A Musical Evening to Launch A Yorkshire Songster- a book of folk songs collected in Yorkshire, with Steve Gardham, Bryony Griffith, Alice Jones, Fay Hield, Pip and Will Noble, Mossy Christian, Megan Wisdom. Email for tickets see below for details
Thursday 9th April
Around About Dusk at the Samuel Worth Chapel
Around About Dusk bring their captivating blend of New Orleans jazz, European folk, roots and blues to the Samuel Worth Chapel for an evening of richly atmospheric live music.
Their sound weaves enchanting melodies and close harmonies into songs that tell stories of wonder, nature, humanity and heartache – threaded with macabre humour and familiar folk tales. Expect music that conjures the romance of old cafés, the spirit of New Orleans porches, and the intimacy of campfire songs: warm, haunting and full of character. 7PM TICKETS
Domino Effect at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Julia Waldron + Charlie Osguthorpe
+ Gloria Monday at Nether Edge Bowling Club
Gloria Monday at Nether Edge Bowling Club 8PM start. Fundraising for Rethink Mental Illness charity. TICKETS
Friday 10th April
Heidi Talbot at The Greystones
Heidi Talbot was born in a small village in Co. Kildare, Ireland, became a folk star in the USA as a member of the Irish American band Cherish the Ladies, and now lives in Edinburgh teaching yoga in her spare time. With a background like that, it’s hardly surprising she should develop a style that switches easily between Celtic and Americana, but Subtlety is Talbot’s magic ingredient. From her “mesmerising” and “intoxicating” gossamer voice to the delicate re-working of traditional and contemporary material that has earned her rave reviews. She slips effortlessly between musical worlds but retains a personal modesty rooted in traditional folk. 8PM TICKETS
Saturday 11th April
Dublin By the Don singing session at The Harlequin
With Macdara Yeats, Jerry O’Reilly and Rosie Davis, from 8PM. Singing session prior to their concert at Alder Bar on Sunday.
Toby Hay + Holly Blackshaw at Bishops’ House
Doors 7PM Toby Hay is a guitar player and composer. Fascinated by the connection between landscape and music, he is inspired by the landscapes of the Cambrian Mountains where he lives, and is interested in the connection between improvisation and composition. Toby has toured all over the UK & Ireland performing solo, or collaborating with other musicians. He is the founder of Cambrian Records.
Holly Blackshaw: Never being much of a city girl, Holly was born and raised in and around Hull, East Yorkshire, but always found sanctuary in what wild she could in the warp lands. Holly grew in psych/rock/folk band Crooked Weather, where world wide travelling and touring ensued, before parting ways in 2020. During the pandemic Holly uprooted and moved to Radnorshire, Mid-Wales where she honed her sound as a solo artist and now, her first release is eagerly anticipated. Holly still holds all the places she’s set foot and settled close, carried by her lilting vocals and guitar playing. TICKETS
Sunday 12th April
Jerry O’Reilly & Rosie Davis + Macdara Yeates at Alder Bar
New Musical Traditions Club Doors 7.30PM TICKETS Jerry O’Reilly is one of Dublin’s best known traditional singers. In 2003 he released his first solo C.D. called “Down From Your Pulpits, Down From Your Thrones”. His second album, “Havoc In Heaven” was launched in early 2012 and has been described by The Irish Times as “a strapping collection which will fuel repertoires from Stonybatter to Sneem”. Rosie Davis was born in Woolton near Liverpool, and has been singing and dancing from the age of three.
Macdara Yeates (‘Dara’ for short) is a traditional folk singer from Dublin, Ireland. Described by the Irish Music Magazine as “a deep and powerful performer”, Macdara is known for his booming baritone renditions of Irish folk songs, ranging from traditional ‘big’ songs, songs of Dublin dock workers, and lesser-known ballads from his native inner-city Dublin. Born and raised in the Irish capital, Macdara is one of a crop of singers associated with the recent resurgence of young singing talent in the city
Hartwin Dhoore & Ross Grant at Portland Works
Don’t miss a rare opportunity to see this exciting duo in the UK. This will be their concert set but with space and opportunity for dancers. Two of the finest innovators within their own country’s traditional music culture, turned a lockdown collaboration into an exciting live act.
Hartwin Dhoore is an accordionist who grew up and is based in Flanders, Belgium. For many years he has been roaming international stages as a professional musician. Inspired by traditional European music, Hartwin has crafted his own style. Performing across Europe, Canada, and the USA his original compositions have found their way to a wide audience.
Ross Grant is a violinist who grew up in the midlands, England. His playing is rooted in English traditional music, but sees him take influence from many genres across the globe. He is a composer, educator and has performed with some of the biggest names in folk music and has toured across Europe. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Monday 13th April
Merry Hell at Cubley Hall Hotel, Penistone
Doors 7.30PM MERRY HELL just have to be one of the most vibrant and well supported acts on the folk n roots scene today. AND….They’ve been booked for the prestigious Fairport Convention Cropredy Festival! Need I say more?? Check ’em on social media and their website WWW.MERRYHELL.CO.UK TICKETS –
Wednesday 15th April
Wayward Jane at The Greystones
Wayward Jane’s music is a modern interpretation of American Folk and old time traditions, blending roots music with fresh nuanced arrangements and original songs. Their rich sound features fiddle, clawhammer banjo, double bass, guitar, wooden flute and close vocal harmonies.Wayward Jane’s live shows have a joyful energy ranging from bouncing, energetic tunes to tender and soulful songs, it’s a show that leaves audiences with a real glow in their hearts. The band are busy members of the Edinburgh traditional music scene playing in bands such as BROTHERS GILLESPIE, DOWALLY and MICHAEL STARKEY/HANNAH READ. 8PM TICKETS
Mike Simms + Robbie Thompson + Carl Jessop at Crookes Social Club
Acoustic Encounters – Evenings of hand-woven dreams These evenings are taking place on the third Wednesday of each month between March and July 2026, at Sheffield’s historic Crookes Social Club. Each evening will feature three primarily acoustic acts playing a 40/45 minute set each, all for £10 entry. An aim is to highlight local talent, but also welcome acts from further afield.
This evening will feature: Mike Simms – Eclectic musical input produces an eclectic musical output, Robbie Thompson – Gentle songs with echoes of Leonard Cohen, Carl Jessop – Fine original Sheffield folk songs TICKETS
Thursday 16th April
Sam Carter at Bishop’s House
Sam Carter’s spring tour celebrates the release of The Oakham Poacher (2025), his first solo collection of traditional songs; some captured on record for the very first time. The EP highlights Carter’s distinctive fingerstyle guitar and storytelling flair, arriving soon after his acclaimed album Silver Horizon (2024), a Top 40 Folk Chart success and one of KLOF Mag’s Albums of the Year. TICKETS sold out
Cobalt Tales at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Friday 17th April
Laura Wilkie and Ian Carr at the Greystones
Doors 7.30PM Laura & Ian are two leading figures in today’s contemporary traditional music world. Their performances centre around Laura’s debut album ‘Vent’ released on Hudson Records; a deep, immaculately researched dive into ancient women’s work songs (also known as ‘Waulking’ songs) from the Outer Hebrides. Relishing the chance to transform this material on the concert stage, and gleefully tearing into blistering high octane original compositions, their performances fly by, such is the rich variation in tempo and mood, as they tear the tunes apart, stitching them together again, teasing them into new shapes and textures with passion and humour. TICKETS
Dal:um at Bishops’ House
Doors 7PM Dal:um is a musical duo based in Seoul, who challenges the sonic possibilities of Korea’s most well-known traditional string instruments: the gayageum and geomungo. Ethereal and otherworldly, Dal:um creates a compelling soundworld that treasures subtle dynamics and the space between the notes.
Two musicians. Two weighty acoustic stringed instruments. A dialogue between traditional and experimental practices. A melding of both new possibilities and deeply traveled resonances.
Silence and expression.
Contemporary and traditional.
Fullness and emptiness.
Similar and different.
with support from Ruth Webber TICKETS
Will Finn and Rosie Calvert at Cafe No9
Will Finn and Rosie Calvert are an award-winning husband-and-wife duo who came together through their love of music. First coming to prominence with their acapella quartet The Teacups, the pair perform traditional and contemporary folk music with vibrancy and flair – intricate harmonies; rousing and varied instrumentation; and joyful, warm stage presence.
Graduates of their native Newcastle’s Folk and Traditional Music degree, Rosie and Will’s music combines influences ranging from old English ballads to gothic Americana, but they are most defined by their spell-binding harmonies. With only two voices, their arrangements have been described as “deceptively full”, and their joy in singing is infectious – chorus songs abound and singing along is encouraged! Audiences are immediately put at their ease by the pair’s inviting stage presence and warm banter, and the duo rise to ever greater heights with their second studio album. Their musical chemistry and virtuosity have matured and developed, creating a transformative and evocative sound that leaves listeners eager for more.
Saturday 18th April
Oysterband’s JOHN JONES at The Greystones
Following a hugely successful, and emotional Oysterband farewell tour, the voice and spirit of the band goes on. Having said goodbye to their army of faithful fans in the UK and throughout Europe John is about to embark on his next chapter and has enlisted the help of two longstanding friends and fellow band members, Ray Cooper (Chopper) and Al Scott. Playing a variety of instruments they present a show featuring traditional material, some new songs and a few from each of their back catalogues. 8PM TICKETS
Swedish Polska workshop at St Mary’s Walkley
10AM -4PM Lucy and Ella are back for another day workshop focused on the polska, a much beloved and sometimes mysticised couple dance from Sweden (we’re here to demystify, don’t worry). Taught by Lucy Huzzard and Ella Sprung of the Third Beat Dance Collective, both graduates from the Eric Sahlström Institute folk dance course in Sweden, who have been teaching dance classes together since 2016.
Whether you’re new to the polska and are curious about the thriving folk dance scene in Sheffield and beyond, or you’re looking to polish your turns, learn some extra tips and tricks and solidify your knowledge of this beautiful dance- this workshop is for you! TICKETS
Soapsuds / C Joynes / Dominic Lash / Pefkin at Bishops’ House
Doors 7PM Soapsuds is the duo of C Joynes (guitar) and Dominic Lash (double-bass). First introduced by mutual friend and colleague Rhodri Davies, the pair have worked together regularly in a variety of contexts since Lash’s relocation from Bristol to Cambridge in 2021.
As Soapsuds, they use the resonant physicality of the double bass and archtop guitar to explore territories of spontaneity where things may not be always what they seem. Theirmusic has a fluid shapeshifting quality, emerging from a process of free improvisation, spontaneous composition, and a free-wheeling exploration of popular and unpopular music of all stripes. Themes emerge and retreat, jolted by sudden hand-brake turns into rock’n’roll, tin-pan alley or hokey folk hoe-downs. Outbursts of jazz-punk skronk collapse
into minimalist abstraction and acoustic sensitivity. What seems to be a prearranged tune might be freely improvised, while those passages of abstract sonics might turn out to have been composed by Sun Ra or Charles Mingus.
Soapsuds play a music of simultaneous familiarity and elusiveness that is as satisfying to witness as it is impossible to pin down.
Support from Pefkin, our own Queen of Sound in a very DIY style! Long-form psych-drone-folk hymnals – she may play a fully improvised set. TICKETS
Sarah Jane Scouten at Cafe No9 (also Sunday 19th)
“An agile voice, ruminative songwriting, and love for classic country, indie pop, and everything in between.” — American Songwriter
In March 2020, Canadian folk & country artist Sarah Jane Scouten was living in rural Scotland. With tours cancelled, days stretched endlessly, punctuated only by the steady unfolding of Scottish springtime, leaf by leaf, petal by petal. Growing up on the west coast of Canada, to her the flora of Dumfries and Galloway was a pageant of scent and colour, altogether new but still strangely familiar. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Sunday 19th April
Mambo Jambo concert for 0-5s at The Greystones
Join Concerteenies favourites, Pete and Frankie from Mambo Jambo, as they arrive with a whole bunch instruments for an animal-themed session! We may travel across the sea, to the rainforest and jungle, arrive at a farm, and turn up in Australia! Of course we’re going to encounter lots of animals, lots of music and songs. Expect to shake along, sing along, flutter like a butterfly, swim with the fish, boing like a kangaroo and more!
With dancing, listening as well as bubbles, percussion, props and informal introductions, this is a fun and informal gig for 0-5 year-olds, their adults and siblings. 10.30 & 11.45 AM TICKETS
Well Dressed Band Ceilidh at The Broomhall Centre
Doors 6.30PM Bring and share supper before the ceilidh. Fundraising for Nether Edge and Sharrow Sustainable Transformation TICKETS
Sarah Jane Scouten at Cafe No9 (also Sat 18th)
An agile voice, ruminative songwriting, and love for classic country, indie pop, and everything in between.” — American Songwriter
In March 2020, Canadian folk & country artist Sarah Jane Scouten was living in rural Scotland. With tours cancelled, days stretched endlessly, punctuated only by the steady unfolding of Scottish springtime, leaf by leaf, petal by petal. Growing up on the west coast of Canada, to her the flora of Dumfries and Galloway was a pageant of scent and colour, altogether new but still strangely familiar. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Tuesday 21st April
Joose Keskitalo at Cafe No9
Finnish-born Joose Keskitalo is regarded as one of the most original contemporary singer-songwriters in Finland. A prolific songwriter who has published music in Finland since 2004, being involved in projects like the psychedelic folk collective Paavoharju.
Joose Keskitalo experiments with forms and stories found in Francis Child’s collection of ballads and Shakespeare’s history plays, notions of Alchemy and other old traditions with a strange Outsider Folk feel to it. Be prepared to hear stories about selling your soul to the devil, King Henry IV, the peasant’s revolt and old Greek mythology. The music ranges from traditional folk to Jethro Tullish blues rock. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Wednesday 22nd April
Holly Clarke at Yellow Arch Studios
7.30PM Wild, Feral, Fierce Album launch tour. Holly Clarke, a singer who draws from the old ballads and stories, conjures a performance that immediately captivates any listener. As a performer, Holly transports the listener into the heart of ballads, immersing them in the narratives that have shaped humanities experience through time. From songs of the supernatural and folklore, to the tales of love and loss, Holly Clarke sings with an infectious energy and passion for traditional song. TICKETS
Thursday 23rd April
Ruth Notman Trio at The Greystones
Highly acclaimed, contemporary folk singer/songwriter and one of the leading figures in the nu folk revival bridging the gap between classic folk music and modern audiences.
Ruth’s music is characterised by her rich vocals and her ability to connect with listeners through heartfelt lyrics and melodies. Highly respected by industry veterans and fans alike Ruth is a prominent, highly significant figure in the folk genre.
Joining her tonight will be multi instrumentalist Jon Doran, one half of folk duo Janice Burns and Jon Doran, and renowned melodeon player and singer Saul Rose. 8PM TICKETS
Serandite & Ruth Webber with Mad Hatters Lightshow at Samuel Worth Chapel
Sheffield General Cemetery Trust is excited to present an evening of bold, genre-bending music in the atmospheric surroundings of the Samuel Worth Chapel. Two distinctive acts share the stage, each offering a unique soundscape that pushes the boundaries of folk, and experimental music.
Serandite is an improvising trio inspired by patterns found in nature. Harpist Phoebe Niamh (meraki), percussionist Sarah Heneghan (Key of She), and guitarist Tim Knowles (Timothy Knowles et al.) sculpt iridescent soundscapes and mesmerise audiences with inter-arts collaborations.
Ruth Webber’s music spans different themes, energies, and instruments. As a singer-songwriter she likes to draw the listener into memories and moments, full of half-truths and misremembered events. TICKETS
Den Miller at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
Friday 24th April
The Rosie Hood Band at Yellow Arch Studio
Doors 7PM, The Rosie Hood Band play a hometown show with their new line-up for 2026. A Horizon Folk Award nominee, Rosie Hood is known for her powerful, clear vocals and captivating performances combining poetic writing with honest interpretations of traditional English songs. In her ‘Classy’ (MOJO) 4-piece, Rosie is joined by fiddle-player Bridget Slater, melodeon-player & percussionist Robyn Wallace and fiddle-player Rosie Butler-Hall. The instrumentalists bring dynamic lift and drive, expanding Rosie’s vision to re-work traditional songs and bring unheard stories to life. ‘To me, the story is always the most important thing, that’s the ‘Seed Of Gold’ within a song’ explains Rosie. TICKETS
Ceilidh Soc Ceilidh at The Edge, Endcliffe Student Village
Lively ceilidhs, all are welcome. Mainly students but many older folk also attend. There is usually a dance display by a Sheffield Morris side in the interval. £5 pay on the door. Doors 7.45PM
Jack’s Rake at Shakespears
New Album (Wildfires) launch 8.30PM “Jacks Rake had the place screaming for more … One of Sheffield’s favorites, with good reason. Loads of energy and crazy fiddles” RSVP to Facebook event
Saturday 25th April
Scott Doonican ONE MAN SHOW at The Lantern Theatre
Expect silliness, shenanigans, singalongs and stories a-plenty. TICKETS
Kris Drever at Firth Hall
Kris Drever is among Scotland’s most acclaimed and distinctive contemporary musicians, celebrated for his warm voice, virtuosically expressive guitar playing and imaginative and evocative songwriting. Plus Support: Annie Dressner Raised in the Orkney Islands, Drever has carved out a unique place at the intersection of traditional folk and modern acoustic music, as a solo artist and as one third of the award-winning trio Lau. 7.30PM TICKETS
M G Boulter at Cafe No9
M G Boulter has been quietly working at creating rich and evocative story songs since 2013. Garnering praise from reviewers like Uncut describing his work as ‘gorgeous in a word’ and R2 listing him as ‘a weapons grade songwriter’, M G creates vignettes of suburban lives and is a contemporary voice in the long tradition of the singer-songwriter. Often referred to as the artist’s artist M G has been a much sought after collaborator in the folk and Americana scenes, having significant tenures in the Simone Felice Group, The Duke and the King, Emily Portman’s Coracle Band, Blue Rose Code and Jon Boden’s Remnant Kings. Spring 2026 will see the release of his essay collection exploring the psycho-geography of his Essex home, alongside an EP retrospective, all gathered in a beautiful hardback book and CD package entitled Tidelines. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Sunday 26th April
True Foxes at The Greystones
Highly acclaimed folk/Americana duo. Since forming in 2019 cousins Ami and Chloe have performed over 700 shows throughout the UK, appeared at over 30 festivals, including Wychwood, Oyster Rock, Paradhis, Oceanfest, Golowan, Royal Cornwall Show and a packed house at Shrewsbury Folk Festival. 8PM TICKETS
Mayukh Gangopadhyay & Jyotirmoy Chakrabarty at Cafe No9
Mayukh Gangopadhyay, World Music Artiste specialized in Indian Instrument ‘Sarod’ diciple of Shri Arnab Chakrabarty & Pandit Abhik Mukherjee. He has received CCRT Scholarship from Govt of India and has been performing many concerts in UK and Europe. Jyotirmoy Chakrabarty is a young Tabla Player from India and a disciple of Pandit Samar Saha- ITC SRA- Kolkata. Doors 7PM TICKETS
Wednesday 29th April
Jethro Tull at City Hall
One of the world’s most successful and enduring Progressive Rock bands. The Jethro Tull brand has continued to this day, as writer, producer, flautist, vocalist and occasional guitarist, Anderson leads the band with boundless energy. TICKETS
Sarah McQuaid at The Lantern Theatre
“Settle down, and I’ll try to make a soothing sound,” Sarah McQuaid sings on the opening number of her current concert set. That she does. Starting off a cappella, then layering acoustic and electric guitars, floor tom drum, keyboards and lush vocal harmonies, she uses looping technology to create a gentle, organic progression that’s a world away from the frenetic showiness of some of its less subtle practitioners.
Throughout the concert, she continues to move between the battery of instruments onstage with ease and grace, chatting amiably to the audience between songs and occasionally prevailing on them to lend their own voices to the mix.
Sarah’s original compositions — which themselves span a wide range of styles, from contemplative ballads to playful blues to atmospheric instrumentals — predominate, but she also sprinkles in the odd folk song, evergreen classic or unexpected contemporary cover.
Enhancing the show are beautiful lighting effects created by Martin Stansbury, Sarah’s longtime manager and sound engineer — a lyric about car headlights triggering a bright flash across Sarah’s eyes on one song, shimmering columns of purple and green swooping over the stage to evoke the Aurora Borealis during another. TICKETS
The Ruth Eliza Trio at Cafe No9
Ruth Eliza, Matthew Ord and Tom Kimber (banjo, guitar and mandolin).
Ruth Eliza is a clawhammer banjo player and singer-songwriter based in Lancaster, UK.
Drawing on her love of old-time Appalachian folk music and contemporary Bluegrass and Americana, she creates a fresh take on Anglo-Folk-Americana. Her delivery of open, honest and raw yet well-arranged songs and tunes, combined with her unique banjo style, captivates audiences. From lively energetic numbers to gentle flowing tunes, her set is varied and contoured, taking the listener on a journey. Doors 7PM TICKETS
The Furrow Collective trio at The Greystones
Doors 7.30PM “Unfortunately due to other work commitments, Rachel Newton is unable to be with us at this gig but the other three members will be there and we are looking forward to having them join us.”
Drawn together by a shared love of the traditional song and balladry of England, Scotland and beyond and an open, intuitive approach to collaboration, The Furrow Collective share timeless songs of this world and others, with storytelling at their heart.
The Furrow Collective trio consists of three talented and individually acclaimed performers: Lucy Farrell (viola, voice & saw), Emily Portman (banjo, concertina, voice) and Alasdair Roberts (guitars, voice). Drawn together by a shared love of the traditional song and balladry of England, Scotland and beyond and an open, intuitive approach to collaboration, the group released their debut album At Our Next Meeting in 2013. TICKETS
Thursday 30th April
John Smith at The Greystones
Pioneering singer, songwriter, guitarist John Smith has been at the forefront of British folk and roots for over 20 years. He has amassed over 125 million Spotify streams and played his songs all over the world. He cut his teeth opening for the late, great, John Martyn and has since worked with a host of artists including Sarah Jarosz, Patty Griffin, Joan Baez, David Gray, Tom Jones and Jackson Browne. 8PM TICKETS
Griffin and Collier at Samuel Worth Chapel
Doors 7PM Griffin and Collier are a new folk duo from Kate Griffin and Ford Collier, the creative force behind the critically acclaimed global folk band Mishra. Known for award-winning collaborations spanning traditions from around the world, they now turn towards a more intimate sound rooted in the folk music of the British Isles and America.
Their music is driven by exceptional instrumental skill and adventurous arranging. Kate’s boundary-pushing clawhammer banjo draws on the earthy tones of old-time Americana, while Ford’s expressive Irish low whistle is shaped by contemporary pioneers such as Brian Finnegan and Michael McGoldrick. Together, they create a dynamic tapestry that shifts from hypnotic banjo and driving guitar rhythms to flowing, intricately reimagined whistle tunes, tracing the continuing journey of traditional music across time and place. Support comes from Emily Keeble TICKETS
Sarah Dean at Crookes Folk Club
Crookes Folk Club at The Princess Royal, Slinn Street, Crookes Doors 8.15, starts 8.30. Around 45 mins of floor spots before the guest artist in first half. Sign up if you want to perform. Entry by donation (cash only please). See Facebook for details
May 2026
Friday 1st May
May Day Morris Sunrise Dance: Pecsaetan + Sheffield City Morris at Parkwood Springs
Meet in the Parkwood Springs car park 5AM, walking up the hill for a sunrise dance at 5.30AM. All welcome.
Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd May: Wath Festival
Wath Festival, Includes Ceilidh, concerts, Saturday town centre celebrations all culminating in the traditional reading of the will of Thomas Tuke, and the throwing of bread rolls from the church spire. This year artists include Jackie Oates & John Spiers, Bar-steward Sons of Val Doonican, The Hunch and Jacks Rake. TICKETS
Thursday 7th May
Granny’s Attic St Andrews Church, Psalter Lane
Doors 7PM With exceptional musicianship and boundless energy, Granny’s Attic are going from strength to strength. Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne (melodeon, anglo concertina, vocals), George Sansome (guitar, vocals) and Lewis Wood (violin, vocals) have honed their skills touring the UK and Europe since 2009. The trio have been heralded for their lively performances and skilled delivery of traditional material, playing with verve, energy and their own inimitable style. Though grounded in tradition, they are keen to push new boundaries by exploring fresh approaches and writing their own compositions. TICKETS
Friday 8th May
Northern Resonance at Bishop’s House
Doors 7PM Northern Resonance is the Scandinavian string trio that takes newly composed folk music into enormous soundscapes. With their previously untested combination of instruments; Anna Ekborg Hans-Ers (Viola D’amore) Petrus Dillner (Nyckelharpa) Jerker “JJ” Hans-Ers (Hardanger Fiddle) they let Scandinavian music meet explosive rhythms and grand chamber-like arrangements that takes folk music in a new direction. TICKETS
Ceilidh Soc Ceilidh at The Edge, Endcliffe Student Village
Lively ceilidhs, all are welcome. Mainly students but many older folk also attend. There is usually a dance display by a Sheffield Morris side in the interval. £5 pay on the door. Doors 7.45PM
New Horizons and guests at Beehive Folk Club- Charity Night for Weston Park
Beehive Folk club at Harthill Village Hall A few floor spots, followed by the guest artist. Tickets are usually £10., email to go on the ticket list and pay (cash) on the door, see club website for details. Bring your own drinks.
Sunday 10th May
Peter & Barbara Snape + Jeff Warner at Alder Bar
New Musical Traditions Club Doors 7.30PM TICKETS Peter and Barbara Snape are a very popular duo from the North West of England with a repertoire that is distinctly ‘northern’ in nature and liberally sprinkled with the ‘feel-good’ factor. Barbara’s versatile singing voice is full of character with both the sensitivity to move you with tales of hardships or sentimental love songs and the robustness to belt out invigorating, earthy numbers with such confidence that you will feel compelled to join in. Peter’s well-crafted accompaniments on the melodeon give life to the songs and the occasional dance tune will certainly set your feet tapping.
Jeff Warner is among the nation’s foremost performer/interpreters of traditional music. His songs from the lumber camps, fishing villages and mountain tops of America connect 21st century audiences with the everyday lives–and artistry–of 19th century Americans. “Providing more than just rich entertainment, Jeff will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the land you live in” (Caffé Lena, Saratoga, NY). His songs, rich in local history and a sense of place, bring us the latest news from the distant past. Jeff grew up listening to the songs and stories of his father Frank Warner and the traditional singers his parents met during their folksong collecting trips through rural America. He accompanied his parents on their later field trips and is the editor of his mother’s book, Traditional American Folk Songs: From the Anne and Frank Warner Collection.
Wednesday 20th May
Cahalen Morrison Live at Sam’s Hose Concert
Originally hailing from the high desert of Northern New Mexico, Cahalen Morrison has made a name for himself over the past decade, touring solo, as a duo with Eli
West, or with his roadhouse country band Western Centuries. Cahalen has played shows and festivals all over the world and performed on stage with the likes of Transatlantic Sessions, Tim O’Brien, Kelly Joe Phelps, Hot Rize, Crooked Still and Kris Drever.
Equally at home on guitar, banjo, mandolin, singing three-part harmony or unaccompanied, he has carved out a place for himself as a unique voice in American music. An insightful and poetic wordsmith and songwriter, a subtle and accomplished roots multi-instrumentalist and a captivating singer. Well known for his singular turn of phrase and curiously poignant songs, he dips deep into the well of tradition while continuously pushing boundaries of contemporary songwriting. Doors 7.30PM TICKETS
Jez Lowe at Nether Edge Folk Club
This event sold out before tickets could be released to non members. Club website
Friday 22nd May
Ceilidh Soc Ceilidh at The Edge, Endcliffe Student Village
Lively ceilidhs, all are welcome. Mainly students but many older folk also attend. There is usually a dance display by a Sheffield Morris side in the interval. £5 pay on the door. Doors 7.45PM
Sunday 24th May
Whit Sing at The Old Band Room, Dungworth
12-2PM Whitsun Hymns and songs. Words provided. There will be a bar, hot drinks and cakes. Free event, just come along.
Friday 29th May
Fri 29th to Sunday 31st Barnsley Folk Festival at Barnsley Civic
Line up includes Kate Rusby TICKETS
Saturday 30th May
The Levellers at Electric Sheffield
Levellers are still going strong after over 30 years in the game. They have long been, and still are, one of the best live bands around and in 2020 they released new studio album ‘Peace’ which entered the UK Official Album Charts at #8 – the band’s highest charting entry since 1997’s Mouth to Mouth reached #5 and improving on previous release We the Collective’s #12 position in 2018. Tickets Sold Out
June 2026
Thursday 4th June
Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango at Sidney and Matilda
Kate Griffin (UK banjo player) and Matchume Zango (Mozambique multi-instrumentalist) are forging a new cross-cultural collaboration celebrating the universal power of traditional music. They both bring echoes of their respective traditions to a vibrant new sound full of world rhythms, contemporary song-writing and joy. 7.30PM TICKETS
Friday 5th June
The Melrose Quartet at Beehive Folk Club
From deep roots in their hometown’s vibrant music, song and dance scene, to smashing concert appearances in the UK and abroad, Sheffield-based Melrose Quartet have attracted a reputation for making music that truly connects with people. All four are internationally renowned singers, instrumentalists, writer/composers and teachers
Beehive Folk club at Harthill Village Hall A few floor spots, followed by the guest artist. Tickets are usually £10., email to go on the ticket list and pay (cash) on the door, see club website for details. Bring your own drinks.
Tuesday 9th June
Topette!! at Crookes Social Club
Doors 7PM Anglo – French folksters Topette!! are delighted to be returning to the fantastic Crookes Club in Sheffield on their 2026 UK Tour. The band play exciting acoustic dance music, perfect for French (balfolk) dancing, but equally good for listeners.
Topette!! will be celebrating the release of their fifth album, Tazon, and playing a varied set from across their 12 year history…
Featuring; Andy Cutting – diatonic button accordion, Julien Cartonnet – French bagpipes & tenor banjo, James Delarre – violin & viola, Laurence Hunt – percussion, Barn Stradling – acoustic bass guitar TICKETS
Thursday 11th June
Bouzouki III at Highfield Trinity Church
Bouzouki III is a fresh new band that brings together three leading exponents of the Irish bouzouki in the UK – Benji Kirkpatrick, James Fagan, and Jon Doran. The three players draw inspiration from their own musical backgrounds and celebrate their love of the Irish bouzouki through tune and, as all are accomplished singers, through song. TICKETS Doors 7.30PM
Tuesday 16th June
Lady Maisery and Jimmy & Sid present Wakefire: An Incantation To Summer at Firth Hall
7PM Having bewitched audiences annually with their much-loved wintertime show, two of the most engaging and inventive acts on the English folk scene return with their hotly anticipated next alchemic collaboration: an essential incantation to the summertime.
Award winning trio Lady Maisery (Hannah James, Rowan Rheingans and Hazel Askew) have for nearly a decade produced “some of the most exquisite, thrilling work in the English folk scene” (The Guardian). The beguiling musical partnership of Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith complete the powerful line-up. With more folk songs collected about the month of May than any other time apart from Christmas, the charismatic supergroup embark on a journey to mark this season in song. TICKETS –
Tuesday 30th June
Spooky Men’s Chorale at Firth Hall
A magnificent, many headed beast which has single-handedly turned the world of men’s singing upside down. Bypassing well trodden avenues, The Spooky Men’s Chorale carve out new territories of mighty man sounds, exquisite tenderness and charming stupidity to both celebrate and mock masculinity. TICKETS –
July 2026
2nd to 5th July
Gate to Southwell Festival near Southwell, Nottinghamshire
Artists include The Proclaimers, Richard Thompson with Zara Philips, Peat & Diesel, Elephant Sessions. TICKETS
6th to 10th July
Folk Unbound music camp near Castleton
A residential folk music camp for trans men, trans women, non binary folks, cis women and marginalised genders. DETAILS
August 2026
September 2026
Monday 7th September
Spell Songs at Firth Hall
Folk supergroup Spell Songs with live painting by award-winning artist Jackie Morris – back in the Octagon after a sell out show in May 2025
A much-anticipated live performance by folk ‘supergroup’ Spell Songs, the musical evolution of the iconic Lost Words and Lost Spells books by acclaimed author Robert Macfarlane and award-winning artist Jackie Morris, commissioned by Folk by the Oak Festival and featuring the collaborative genius of Karine Polwart, Julie Fowlis, Seckou Keita, Kris Drever, Rachel Newton, Beth Porter and Jim Molyneux.
Spell Songs are renowned for enthralling live performances that expertly blend virtuosic kora, electroharp, cello, Indian harmonium and more, gorgeously layered with musical and linguistic influences spanning from Orkney to Senegal. Inspired by Robert and Jackie’s latest work, The Book of Birds, Spell Song’s new studio album In Thin Air is released on 4th September and this uplifting performance will include a wealth of beautiful new songs alongside favourites from The Lost Words Spell Songs (2019) and Spell Songs II, Let The Light In (2021). TICKETS
Saturday 19th September
Gaelforce at St. James Rooms, Rotherham
Raising the Rafters folk club returns from its summer break with a bang with a concert from the superb Celtic Folk/Rock outfit GAELFORCE.
They have been to Rafters a couple of times before and played to a packed house, so make sure you get your ticket and don’t miss out ….. Limited number of Early Bird advance tickets now available. Supporting PROSTATE CANCER U.K. TICKETS
October 2026
November 2026
Friday 13th November
The Tumbling Paddies at The Foundry
Ireland’s hottest band, The Tumbling Paddies are coming back to the UK! Their signature, high energy, fun filled live show is not to be missed! The Tumbling Paddies will perform all their hits including Pretty Girl, Night on The Town and The Way I Am, which recently topped the Irish charts for 10 consecutive weeks.
Dance and sing along to the greatest Irish anthems with the Paddies uplifting versions of Dirty Old Town, Fields of Athenry and Zombie, in what promises to be an incredible night of live music. 7.30PM TICKETS
Saturday 21st November
Bellowhead at Sheffield City Hall
6.30PM Supported by Seckou Keita. Bellowhead celebrate the 20th anniversary of their full-length debut album Burlesque in 2026. The 11-piece folk outfit made a watertight case for ‘big being beautiful’ with the release of Burlesque which features songs including London Town, Frog’s Legs and Dragon’s Teeth and Rigs of The Time. TICKETS
December 2026
Sunday 13th December
Kate Rusby at Sheffield City Hall
7PM There’s nothing quite like Kate Rusby at Christmas. For more than two decades, Kate has enchanted audiences with her sparkling Christmas concerts – nights filled with warmth, wonder, laughter, and that unmistakable Rusby magic. Returning in December 2026, marking a remarkable 21 years of her annual Christmas outing, each performance will be filled with warmth, wit, and her unmistakable Yorkshire charm. TICKETS