The incredible Line-up for the 2025 festival included the artists below.
Bonfire Radicals
The electrifying sound of Birmingham’s fiery, (un)traditional folk band Bonfire Radicals is both intensely creative and irresistibly fun. Their live set is a frenzy of energy – “dynamic and high octane” (Fatea Magazine) – and captures the adventurous breadth of their musical imaginations which emerge from a melting pot of original and traditional tunes from the British Isles to the Balkans.
Michelle Holloway
Michelle Holloway is a performer, teacher and community musician based in Birmingham. She sings lead vocals and plays recorder with Birmingham’s (un)traditional, fiery folk band Bonfire Radicals. Here, she treats us to a rare solo performance.
Tamsin Elliott & Tarek Elazhary
Folk musician Tamsin Elliott and Egyptian oud player Tarek Elazhary’s acclaimed collaboration, “So Far We Have Come,” explores the captivating intersections of Egyptian Maqam and English folk music. Their friendship-forged album, lauded by The Guardian and The Observer, showcases a unique blend of quartertone accordion, lever harp, and oud. This innovative duo, celebrated for their mesmerizing performances and cross-cultural explorations, exemplifies a forward-thinking generation of musicians dedicated to creating authentic and resonant musical expressions that transcend borders.
Charles & Anna
Charles Allison & Anna Mullens are both experienced performers across a range of genres. Local musicians, fully embedded in the town’s folk music and Morris scene, they enjoy exploring a variety of mainly English tunes and songs, weaving together the sounds of fiddle, melodeon and voice.
Patakas
Exceptionally talented local brothers, Joe and Will Sartin, performing as ‘Patakas’ (pronounced pa : ta : kus) are a skilful, innovative and assured acoustic duo bursting on to the folk scene. With Joe’s sublime voice and guitar playing and Will’s dexterous mandolin, the brothers beautifully and skilfully express the music-making and folk tradition that run through the very core of their family. They bring rhythms and innovative harmony to their fresh interpretations of traditional music and their own original tunes and songs.
Martin Simpson
“What’s it like being the best guitar player in the world…?” Martin Simpson, with characteristic modesty, deflected this question from a BBC Radio 4 interviewer. However, 40 years after his debut album, “Golden Vanity” (1976), his reputation as a guitarist of unparalleled talent is undeniable. A master of English traditional folk, American folk and blues, and his own captivating compositions, he consistently ranks among the world’s finest fingerstyle guitarists. 1 Renowned for his virtuosity on acoustic and slide guitar, and a skilled banjo player, Simpson’s solo performances are captivating. 2 Whether interpreting traditional material or sharing his own poignant songs, he is a remarkable storyteller, deeply moving and utterly compelling.
Leveret
Leveret is a unique collaboration between three of England’s finest folk musicians. Andy Cutting, Sam Sweeney and Rob Harbron are each regarded as exceptional performers and masters of their instruments. Together their performances combine consummate musicianship, compelling delivery and captivating spontaneity. Leveret’s music is not arranged in the conventional sense and instead they rely on mutual trust, listening and responding. Their playing is relaxed and natural, drawing audiences in and inviting them to share in music making that is truly spontaneous and yet deeply timeless.
Quimantu
Formed in 1981 by Mauricio Venegas-Astorga, Quimantu, a well-loved group among Whitchurch folk fans, has become a leading voice for Chilean and Latin American music in the UK and Europe. Blending traditional folk styles with influences from classical, Celtic, African, and Indian music, the band delivers exceptional performances characterized by intricate musicianship, soulful melodies, and captivating vocal arrangements, now enhanced by the addition of Laura Venegas-Rojas’s vibrant voice. Quimantu actively seeks collaborations with diverse musicians, including the Andover Museum Loft Singers, fostering an international perspective and conveying a powerful message of social and political justice through their music. Their passion for music and their deep-seated values of equality and freedom resonate with audiences, creating a profound and moving experience.
Holly Clarke
Holly Clarke, a captivating singer, draws inspiration from old ballads and stories, transporting listeners into their heart. With infectious energy and passion, she performs songs of the supernatural, folklore, love, and loss. Renowned for her powerful voice and guitar skills, Holly has shared stages with acclaimed musicians like Nancy Kerr and Daoiri Farrell. Beyond her captivating performances, she’s a gifted composer, with her tunes played by renowned artists. As a dedicated advocate for queer musicians, she founded the “Folk is Queer” concert series. Whether solo, with her duo, or with her trio “Holly and the Reivers,” Holly delivers an unforgettable blend of traditional song and contemporary composition.
The Magpies
The Magpies, a transatlantic folk band, are rapidly emerging as a leading force in the contemporary roots scene. Their captivating blend of sublime harmonies, exquisite musicianship, and insightful songwriting seamlessly weaves together Anglo and American folk traditions, drawing inspiration from Celtic folk, bluegrass, and Appalachian influences. Founded by award-winning singer-songwriter Bella Gaffney and acclaimed fiddle player Holly Brandon, and featuring the talented Ellie Gowers (who graced the Whitchurch Folk Festival stage in 2024), The Magpies create a unique brand of transatlantic folk music while championing gender equality within the music industry.
Goblin Band
Goblin Band formed from sessions of the same name run out of the Hobgoblin Music shop in central London, organised by a collection of young queer folk-obsessive friends and shop employees looking to forge their own way into folk music. This gave rise to a band of multi-instrumentalists firmly rooted in the folk music of Britain, interpreted via the socialist tradition concerned with folk’s relationship to the history of the working classes, capitalism, and colonialism. Through a fusion of harmony singing, fiddle, squeezebox, hurdy gurdy, recorders and more, Goblin Band deliver a charismatic alternative expression of English traditional culture in a way which is at once riotously joyful and deeply sincere.
Out of Hand – Ceilidh
For our ceilidh this year, Out of Hand is one of the most energetic, danceable bands on the UK ceilidh circuit. Comprising Stuart Duncan, Will Sartin, Penny Kempson, Richard Portlock, and Chris Campbell, this dynamic band is marked by the exuberance of youth. Their vibrant energy has quickly established them as a favorite on the ceilidh scene. The caller is Ian Nichols.
Guinea Lane
Guinea Lane Saxophones feature an idiosyncratic and eclectic mix of music including traditional folk, classical and jazz.
Andover Museum Loft Singers
The Andover Museum Loft Singers are a vibrant community choir based in Andover, Hampshire, dedicated to traditional and contemporary folk music. Founded in the 1970s, they rehearse in the loft of Andover Museum, lending their name a fitting historical touch. Under the direction of Paul Sartin until his passing in 2022, the choir became known for its rich harmonies and dynamic arrangements of folk songs from Britain and beyond. They perform at festivals, concerts, and local events, keeping the folk tradition alive through powerful, unaccompanied singing that brings communities together in celebration of shared musical heritage.
Keltyke
Keltyke are three local folk musicians, Tom, Gill and Guy. Together they perform traditional, contemporary and self-penned material on melodeon, guitar and vocals.
Seb Stone
Seb Stone is a traditional singer, whistle player and uilleann piper from the Peak District. In 2022 he won Bromyard Folk Festival’s ‘Future of Folk’ award, and has his first festival season in 2023. He draws on a varied repertoire of traditional English and Irish songs, often focussing on the stories they have to tell, and their relevance to our modern world. Seb is a keen session player, and when he’s not poring over broadsides or field recordings, he can be found playing sessions in Sheffield’s thriving folk scene. His debut album, Young Tamlyn’s Away, came out at the end of March 2024.
Vincent Lindsay Clarke
A classical guitarist of world renown and Whitchurch resident, Vincent made his debut in London in 1983. He then became a member of the Segovia Trio in 1987 and the Modern Guitar Trio in 2001. He has travelled extensively around the world performing his own music. His composition ‘Fiesta Americana’ was written for Berta Rojas, who’s recording of the work was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award. In 2003 his work March on the Red Planet was performed by 100 guitarists at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
Jon Wilks
Jon Wilks is a much-admired fingerpicking guitarist and singer (and local Whitchurch resident). His upcoming 5th solo album is anticipated to showcase a rich blend of historical influences, traditional folk, and his own exquisite songwriting. Lauded by KLOF for his authentic love of traditional song, Wilks has been recognized by Guitarist magazine for his talent. With a background as a journalist, he weaves captivating narratives into his live shows, sharing fascinating stories about the original singers and collectors he’s discovered through his extensive research on UK folk music.
Wildforms – pre-concert & interval Music
Thanks to Wildforms for expertly producing a soundtrack of nature recordings blended with synthetic sounds especially for the festival, to reflect the local natural world including sounds of the River Test.
Behind Wildforms is Dan, a Hampshire-native deeply rooted in the ecological and sonic landscapes of the county. Wildforms flows between an immersive live performer, organic noise-manipulator, and field recording workshop leader.
Joshua Chinappen
Joshua Chinappen is a highly motivated and talented songwriter, performer. With his small guitar, looper, and plethora of songs, he showcases his music wherever he can.
Ellie Watkiss
Born in London with a love of soundtrack music, Ellie Watkiss, as a songwriter, typically engages with the folk / pop styles built on an acoustic backdrop.
Angling for Farthings
Angling For Farthings (18thC slang for busking) sing traditional songs from 19th Century Hampshire, accompanied by guitar, ukukele, harmonium and percussion.
Keith Bell
Local Whitchurch legend and original member of the Whitchurch Folk Festival gang, back in the 80s and 90s, Keith is an incredible singer and acoustic guitarist with an Americana twinge.
Jonathan Ozanne
Luca Simons
LJ Simons is a singer/songwriter from South London. He plays in multiple bands and as a solo artist, in the styles of funk, pop, rock and blues, influenced by the likes of John Mayer, Toto and Hollow Coves.
Emilie Turner-Groẞer
Noah Scott
Trad inspired with a science-fantasy spin. Expect mandolin, synthesisers and liripipe hoods.
Kai Wilks
Whitchurch lad best known as the frontman for Brighton-based indie lords, Cutflowers. Seen here in rare solo acoustic guise.
ManChoir Mutineers
ManChoir Mutineers offer something substantially different for those who love singing that’s harmonic, heartfelt and of real quality. Created from a diverse group of Oxfordshire men in 2013, ManChoir Mutineers sing a wide range of classic pop, folk and even polyphonic Georgian material unaccompanied but with a vulnerability and openness that shares their enjoyment of singing with the audience. At its core, ManChoir Mutineers are a celebration of what ordinary guys in the community can achieve when they do something they love together. The material and the men who sing it will entertain you, make you smile, challenge you musically and move you in surprising ways.
Eloise Carter
Evergreen
Kalopsia
Three-piece Alt-Folk originals sung with a captivating voice and emotive arrangements, sometimes incorporating poems and sonnets by Shakespeare, Byron and Shelley, conjuring a fragile, atmospheric and timeless emotional experience.
Mayfly Morris
Inspired by Boss Morris’s electrifying performance at the local Paul Sartin Tribute Concert, Mayfly Morris was born right here in Whitchurch. This mixed-gender Cotswold side brings a vibrant and contemporary energy to traditional folk dance. Drawing inspiration from both traditional and innovative styles, Mayfly Morris aims to share the joy of Morris dancing with audiences of all ages, while embracing a spirit of inclusivity and community.
Bampton Morris Men
Bampton Morris Men are one of the oldest continuously performing Morris sides in the country, dating back to the 1800s. This renowned side, known for their spirited Cotswold Morris style, has been entertaining audiences for generations with their energetic dances and lively music. Notably, they were a particular favourite of the late, great Paul Sartin. Their performances are a vibrant celebration of tradition, showcasing the classic routines and intricate patterns that have made Bampton Morris Men a beloved fixture in the folk dance world.
Winchester Morris Men
Winchester Morris Men are a vibrant and energetic side performing the Cotswold style of Morris dancing. They bring a modern twist to traditional routines, incorporating lively music and intricate choreography. With a strong emphasis on community and inclusivity, Winchester Morris Men are dedicated to sharing the joy of morris dancing with audiences of all ages.
Hook Eagle Morris
Hook Eagle Morris is a traditional border Morris side based in Hook, Hampshire. Known for their energetic, boisterous style, they perform with tattered coats, painted faces, and sticks, embodying the lively and slightly anarchic spirit of border Morris. Formed in the early 1990s, they have become a fixture at festivals, pub events, and folk gatherings, accompanied by a raucous band playing melodeons and fiddles.
Longparish Mummers
The Longparish Mummers are a traditional mumming group from the Test Valley, keeping the centuries-old folk theatre tradition alive with their lively and often humorous performances. Rooted in the ritual dramas once performed in villages across England, their play features classic mumming characters, fast-paced rhyming dialogue, and the timeless themes of good versus evil, death and rebirth, and festive mischief. With a mix of historic script elements and local quirks, the Longparish Mummers bring an authentic yet engaging folk spectacle to modern audiences
