John Tams

Event information

Described by Mojo as "one of the ultimate British songwriters" John Tams has made over 50 albums as singer, musician or producer, with a career spanning over five decades in every medium. A founder member of the Albion Band and Home Service he is perhaps best known for his role as Rifleman Daniel Hagman alongside Sean Bean in the Sharpe television series. Other TV and film roles have included Sons and Lovers, The Raggedy Rawney and The Ruth Rendell Mysteries. A seven-times winner of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, his varied radio work has included being Executive Music Director on the critically acclaimed six-part Radio Ballads for Radio 2, which won two prestigious Sony Academy Awards.

He is particularly renowned for his work at the National Theatre including songmaker for the stage production of Warhorse, where he was a member of the original creative team and continues to guide its production in London and touring. He was Musical Director and acted in Bill Bryden's company on productions including The Mysteries, Larkrise to Candleford and A Midsummer Night's Dream and may others, several of which transferred to the West End or toured. His performance of 'Only Remembered' at the Royal Festival Hall in 2014 has garnered over 200,000 YouTube views to date, and a 2010 performance of 'Over the Hills and Far Away' over 700,000 views, and growing!

In April 2025, he will be one one of a number of stellar guest performers at Ashley Hutchings 80th birthday 'Million Dollar Bash' celebrations at Birmingham Town Hall.

As well as his songs, Tams likes to 'shoot the breeze' with yarns and tales from his decades performing in film, theatre, tv, radio and concert stages. On his fourth visit to Alstonefield, expect a highly engaging and entertaining evening, with songs to make you think, and laugh-out-loud anecdotes. His performances are selective and pretty rare these days, so book early!

Licensed bar, seasonal nibbles