North Devon duo Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll share a love of traditional English fiddle music and also compose their own tunes. This years guest tutor is Grace Smith.
Workshops include technique, expression and repertoire (using our extensive folk library) and there will be plenty of time to play together and receive some individual help. This is an intensive weekend of workshops for fiddle players of all ages who can play folk dance tunes up to tempo either from the music provided, or by ear. Some music will be supplied in advance. Other tunes will be chosen at the event in response to participants’ requests – a Saturday afternoon ‘Open Space’ session offers a chance for workshops on areas requested by course participants, and for individual tuition.
Who is it for?
An intensive weekend for fiddle players of all ages and abilities – with the exception of complete beginners. You’ll need a basic grasp of your instrument and to be able to play either from the music provided or to pick up tunes quickly by ear.
The Team
The musical partnership of Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll has its roots in the traditional music of South West England but explores a contemporary sound that draws on inspiration from across the globe. Their latest album Cold Light bridges the gap between past and present with a mixture of traditional dance tunes, new compositions and self-penned songs. Nick & Becki are expert workshop leaders as well as performers and have a number of projects on offer alongside their duo repertoire.
Grace Smith: Grace is a dedicated music educator and is in high demand as a tutor. She has taught in many settings for a wide range of ages and experience levels, including for National Youth Folk Ensemble, Newcastle University, North East Fiddle School, Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company, music hubs and schools across the country, and worked as Producer for the 2023 Folkworks Summer School, and Musical Director for the course in 2024. As a performer, she can be seen with her own band, the Grace Smith Trio. She is also part of French-inspired dance band, Cri du Canard, as well as playing with Katie Doherty & the Navigators. Between 2015 and 2022, Grace performed at festivals and venues across Europe with Monster Ceilidh Band, including Rudolstadt Festival (Germany), Festival des Traversées Tatihou (France), and a live performance on BBC Radio 3.
“If you’re looking for the exciting future of instrumental folk music, you need search no further.”
Folk Radio UK on Overleaf by Grace Smith Trio.
Photo: Elly Lucas