Music and Dance in Schools

The 'Compact Ceilidh Band' - myself and Gina Le Faux (one of the finest fiddle players in the world) - is available now to cover those aspects of the curriculum found in P.E. and Music that many teachers are reluctant to tackle (its definitely not the same with that tired old BBC tape...). We can even add a twist to Speaking and Listening! With sessions tailored to suit your needs (and budgets,) the Compact Ceilidh Band can deliver all aspects of traditional music and dance – or provide you with great, fun party entertainment, in school time or after!

As already said, the band comprises Gina Le Faux, highly respected on the folk scene as one of Britain’s finest fiddlers,expert on the traditional music of the British Isles, and an experienced instrumental teacher and workshop leader, and myself, not only fiddler, guitarist and dance caller, but a fully qualified and very experienced teacher across the Key Stages. Gina and I have been playing together regularly for dances for the past fifteen years or so, and between us have many many years experience of traditional dance and music.

For your peace of mind we have: 

• Full current CRB checks;
• Our own PAT tested equipment
• Extensive Public Liability Insurance
• Patience, tolerance, stamina, and great senses of humour!

Please note: the Compact Ceilidh Band is available for a huge variety of non-educational bookings, (ceilidhs, barn dances, funerals, incidental music - you name it!) exclusively through our agents, 'Wildfolk'. (www.wildfolk.co.uk)

Instrumental tuition

If you happen to live in West Yorkshire, I am able to offer the following:

• Tuition in classical guitar;
• Traditional style fiddle and mandolin tuition;
• Accompanying traditional music on guitar.

I am also available for festival workshops in any of the above  please contact for further discussion (prices, availablity, etc.).

Private tuition and workshops

For those interested in making their own custom-built stringed instrument, I am able to offer group or individual tuition in all aspects of small stringed instrument construction. 

Musical Instrument Technology in Schools

In partnership with luthier and violin repairer/restorer Gina Le Faux, we offer short courses in Instrument Technology for  technology students at KS3/KS4 level. More details to follow...