Centre of English folk music

It’s a claim enhanced by the number of famous folk performers who have recently taken up residence in the area.

I’m happy to say that most of us in the North-East merely exchange knowing smiles at this and allow those dainty southerners to wallow in their moment of glory, while we get on with the business of filling folk clubs, concert halls, pub sessions, singarounds and ceilidhs with fine music and song.

Tonight we can choose between awardwinning traditional singer Chris Wood at the world-renowned Cumberland Arms in Byker, and veritable folk legend Johnny Sylvo at Ashington Leisure Centre.

Chris Wood is also at Kirkby Fleetham Village Hall tomorrow with top local songstress Wendy Arrowsmith in support, and then on Saturday we’re spoiled for choice with Chris and Kellie While at Washington’s Davy Lamp, and Eliza Carthy at Durham’s Gala Theatre.

There are two outstanding folk shows at Gateshead Sage this week, with multi-cultural band Baltic Crossing on Sunday and leading Irish combo Four Men and a Dog on Monday. Also, on Monday, Phil Drane is at The North Briton in Aycliffe Village and American duo Tanya Opland and Mike Freeman are at Stockton’s Sun Inn. Tuesday sees Tanya and Mike at Cramlington’s Hind, and Keith Morrison at Croxdale’s Daleside Inn.

As well as all this of course, there are any number of other gatherings and events, most of which happen regularly and with a high degree of musicianship and enjoyment, but rarely raise their profile beyond a faithful following of enthusiasts, who would never let silly “regional smugness” intrude on a good time and strike a raw nerve in any way. As I wouldn’t, myself, of course.