Search
Close this search box.

Manchester Folk Festival returns for a second year

Share
Tweet
Share
Chat

If you thought folk music is just a load of middle-aged men with long hair singing with a pint of real ale in one hand and a finger in one ear, think again.

Because Manchester Folk Festival is bringing everything from intimate traditional gigs to fun-fuelled big performances to a number of city centre venues this month, including live music, ceilidhs, singarounds and a massive Expo.

From punchy punk influences to soft traditional song, the festival offers something for everyone.

Highlights include Billy Bragg bringing his new album tour to the festival, a performance by alternative band This Is The Kit and an appearance from 70s folk rock legends Lindisfarne.

Award-winning musician Eliza Carthy and her 11-piece Wayward Band will perform at a unique pop up venue in the Great Northern Warehouse on Friday 19th October, whilst vocal harmony group The Wilsons will perform a special afternoon concert at HOME.

For fans of something a bit more raw, Xtra Mile Recordings are putting on a gig with gusto on Thursday 18th October at the O2 Ritz, bringing together cult performer Beans on Toast, folk rock powerhouse Skinny Lister and much-loved folk singer Will Varley. Time to put the venue’s legendary bouncing floor to the test.

The festival also hosts the English Folk Expo at HOME, a showcase for the national and international music industry which promotes the English folk, roots and acoustic music scene.

Manchester Folk Festival also celebrates the folk music of other cultures.

Following last year’s partnership with Prince Edward Island in Canada, for 2018 the festival’s international partner is Wales. A number of Welsh artists are featured including award-winning 9Bach and a highly-anticipated collaboration between two adventurous musicians: Welsh harpist Catrin Finch who is coming together with Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita.

Following on from a highly successful debut in 2017, this year’s festival will take place across five main locations: HOME, Gorilla, The Great Northern Warehouse, The O2 Ritz and the Anthony Burgess Foundation, showcasing a selection of bands, live music, hands-on workshops, and a huge celebration of folk tradition.

“Inviting the most exciting artists in folk today to play in the city’s vibrant and culturally significant music scene, Manchester Folk Festival invites audiences to leave their preconceptions of folk behind and experience this powerful and diverse genre in new and inspiring way,” says festival producer David Agnew, who also is the artistic director of The Met and Ramsbottom Festival.

And it’s not just about music. Bookable craft sessions are taking place at the Anthony Burgess Foundation, including spoon carving and leather belt making, whilst other activities include a Sacred Harp singing workshop at HOME. It’s free and open to all on Sunday 21st October.

Manchester Folk Festival takes place Thursday 18th – Sunday 21st October. Events are individually priced.

FIND OUT MORE

Share
Tweet
Share
Chat

Did we miss something? Let us know: [email protected]

Want to be the first to receive all the latest news stories, what’s on and events from the heart of Manchester? Sign up here.

Manchester is a successful city, but many people suffer. I Love Manchester helps raise awareness and funds to help improve the lives and prospects of people across Greater Manchester – and we can’t do it without your help. So please support us with what you can so we can continue to spread the love. Thank you in advance!

Support us

£
Support now wdgk loader image

Got a story worth sharing?

What’s the story? We are all ears when it comes to positive news and inspiring stories. You can send story ideas to [email protected]

An email you’ll love. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news stories delivered direct to your inbox.

Search
Close this search box.