The highly popular Ballad Workshop, as run by Anne Neilson and Gordeanna McCulloch, and up till 2009 as part of Celtic Connections, moved to Lauries Acoustic Music Bar to test their theory that there is still an appetite for the ancient story songs. With over 100 years singing experience between them, Gordeanna and Anne believe in the power of these marvellous old songs to communicate meaningfully to a contemporary audience, and are keen to share that thrill with others.The intention and objective of the Workshop is to give participants the confidence and the will to sing ballads by themselves. Although a progression is designed into the Workshop series, it is possible to sign up for an individual Workshop and learn something useful, as new ballads will be taught at each session.
After the initial success , the enthusiasm was such that The Ballad Workshop Club is now firmly and successfully established. Anne and Gordeanna host the Ballad Workshop Club. The Club is primarily oriented for those who may not have much experience of ballads but who want to learn more. Anne & Gordeanna look at the background to these stories, and any folklore that may shed light on their meaning and origin. Then, they work with the tunes, with the words, and with the phrasing, to produce an attractive and vibrant version.
..........................Norman Kennedy ......F.J. Child..... Jeannie Robertson..........Belle Stewart.......
So - do come to the next Ballad Workshop - learn a new ballad and bring one of your own, perhaps. This is a grand opportunity to air those wonderful story songs and wallow in blood and gore (if that's your thing!). Because this is a number restricted event, you should book your place using the link below.
NEXT WORKSHOPS! - in January, - during the Celtic Connections Festival period, we keep going, and feature -
-22nd January, the superb artiste from USA - SARA GREY, plus a dedication to the late RAY FISHER
-29th January, a very special guest - BRIAN PETERS. A wonderful singer and instrumentalist.
- 5th February, the outstanding KEVIN MITCHELL - all the way from Glasgow
PRICES - SARA GREY £7/£5 concessionary. The entry fee will include a donation to DIABETES UK - Rays favoured Charity. BRIAN PETERS and KEVIN MITCHELL events are £6/£4. For block bookings (3 Workshops), a discount is applicable.
IT IS NECESSARY TO BOOK FOR THESE EVENTS.
To MAKE A BOOKING, please e-mail ANNE NEILSON if you want to come along, or call her on 01355-239592.
Please NOTE: Celtic Connections will have a major TRIBUTE TO RAY FISHER on the evening of 22nd, See their website.
Our Venue is Lauries Acoustic Music Centre, 34 King Street, Glasgow (close to the Tron Theatre)
The time of the Workshop is 1pm to 3pm
As space is limited, we have to put a ceiling on the numbers who can attend (30 max.) and therefore urge you to make a reservation