Pagoda Project unites three standout UK artists—accordionist/composer/educator Paul Hutchinson, clarinettist/bass clarinettist Karen Wimhurst, and fiddle-singer Hannah Cumming, to reimagine British folk with fearless curiosity. Rooted in tradition yet restlessly inventive, the trio move from the ethereal to the gutsy, blending original works and re-shaped tunes with improvisation, humour and vivid dynamic contrast. Their on-stage chemistry and spontaneous interplay mean no two nights are never the same.
The evolution of Pagoda Project and the monthly gigs at ACE Space have been intertwinned. It started in January 2015 when Pagoda|duo (Paul and Karen) were the third gig to be booked at ACE Space. Little did we suspect that 11+ years on the monthly gigs would still be running and that Pagoda Project would be returning in their current trio line-up. Inbetween time Pagoda Project (Paul and Karen) appeared in February 2018 and again in May 2023 when, joined by Anna Tam they appeared as Coracle. Billed as Coracle the current trio (Paul, Karen and Hannah) were part of the Newbury Spring Festival last year.