Jackie Oates & John Spiers

Event information

Two of the most recognised musicians on the British folk scene today, combine their considerable talents to provide a beautiful and warm evening of the highest calibre music; the perfect antidote to the materialism of the festive season.

With their understated brilliance, the duo invite you into their captivating world of English carols, wassails and other historical traditions, festive songs and tunes from the British Isles and far beyond. Concerts include original music and selected covers, and a host of instruments are played - fiddle, melodeon, percussion, recorders and stomp box - creating a richly textured sound. By sharing insights into their own family traditions, the duo provide inspiration for a simpler and wholesome Christmas - one where tradition, family, ritual and celebration are the beating heart.

Multi award-winning and hugely influential folk musicians Jackie Oates and John Spiers bring their breadth of experience to this finely matched duo. Jackie (two-time BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner and five-time nominee) is an exquisite singer, expressive fiddler and composer with a string of critically acclaimed albums and reputation as one of our most gifted interpreters of traditional song. John (Bellowhead, Spiers & Boden) is a leading squeezebox player and composer who mixes infectious dance tunes with incredibly moving and sensitive slow airs. John expertly blends traditional squeezebox styles with contemporary dance music to create an infectious acoustic groove.

‘If you’re seeking music that beautifully honours the traditions of this season, look no further…they carry these cherished traditions with inspiring grace.’ Klofmag

‘They left the gaudy, commercialised crass-ness at home. Theirs is a Christmas for all’ Bristol 24/7

‘Two artists at the peak of their unadulterated skills, and all the better for that.’ At The Barrier