Shropshire Star

Three voices to unite at a Presteigne venue to sing Appalachian old-time songs and originals.

Three unique voices will unite at a Presteigne venue to deliver Appalachian old-time songs and some beautifully crafted originals.

Published
Hannah Read, Vera Van Heerungen and Michael Starkey
Hannah Read, Vera Van Heerungen and Michael Starkey

Hannah Read, Vera Van Heerungen and Michael Starkey will be at The Assembly Rooms in Presteigne on Sunday, February 16 at 8pm with doors open at 7.30pm.

Over recent years, Hannah Read and Michael Starkey have fast become one of the most sought-after fiddle-banjo duos on the UK acoustic music scene. 

Their richly dynamic take on Appalachian old-time music has seen them enthral audiences up and down the country, both during their live shows and on their critically acclaimed debut duo album 'Cross The Rolling Water', released on Hudson Records.

They bring a unique depth of expression to traditional music, looking forwards and reaching out whilst still finding an anchor in its timeless language. 

At the heart of their sound is the complex and driving rhythmic interplay between fiddle and banjo, which draws the listener in “the way lungs draw in air” (Songlines), as they shine a light on “the powerful essence of the music” (RNR Magazine). 

To complete their sound, they bring a range of old, contemporary and original folk songs, sung with charismatic voices that are “destined to be appreciated for a very long time” (Old Time News).

 On the tour they are also have a special guest in Vera Van Heeringen, an accomplished and highly acclaimed multi-instrumentalist and songwriter.

She was part of the brilliant comedic New Rope String Band for five years and has toured with several Cajun and old-time greats such as Eddie LeJeune and Dirk Powell not to mention a few stints with Presteigne's own Dave Luke.



Tickets are £15 or adults and £10 for under 25’s and they are available at The Workhouse Gallery, Presteigne or online at wegottickets.com/event/642314