THE RAREBITS CEILIDH BAND
Contents
Our History
The Music
Listen to Sample Tracks
Where do we Play?
Links
Contact Information
Our History
The Rarebits were formed originally as a duo in the then very active Chepstow Folk Club in the late 70's. In the early days there were many changes in the line up sometimes the band would outnumber the audience. The nucleus of the band have been together from that time. Keith in the band for 18yrs. and Gerry, playing with us for 13yrs. have passed their apprenticeship's but Geoff coming from a classical background is only in his sixth full year, however his playing guarantees a place in the starting line up.
The band including caller Eric usually go out as a five piece, the programme includes song spots and instrumentals to complement the dancing. The caller is an integral part of the band as he contributes to the music as and when possible.
Instrumentally we are Geoff fiddle, Gerry recorders, clarinet, saxaphone, Steve acoustic guitar, Keith piano accordian, Eric concertinas, bodrahn and mandolin. In our number we include five vocalists offering solo and group songs. Top of Page
The Music
The musical material that we draw on is essentially Celtic with a strong Irish influence, we include Scots and Welsh material also, but we are not exclusive as our extensive set includes American, English and some from more exotic sources. On demand we present 'Welsh nights', Scots nights and Irish nights all through the medium of the English language
Our dance material is aimed at the less experienced dancer, we reckon that a complete novice can start the evening with us, enjoy every dance in the programme without feeling bewildered and acquire a fair repertoire of skills in the course of that evening.
Our good quality, fairly sophisticated P.A. is sufficient for most venues however, it takes about one hour to set up, consequently we need access to the venue at least one hour before the scheduled start.
Sample Tracks
The Mason's Apron, The Merry Blacksmith & Drowsy Maggie.
Glwgsen, Caerdroia, Blodau'r Drain, Ffarwel I't Marion.
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Where do we Play?
The majority of our bookings are in village halls and the like, for P.T.A's, Sports Clubs and similar organisations though increasingly we are being sought for weddings. We prefer to play local gigs but we are prepared to travel.
In England we have played in Birmingham, Bristol, Bath, Bournemouth many places beginning with letters other than B, and extensively in South Wales.Top of Page
Links
If The Rarebits are unavailable contact jigsnreels.com for a possible alternative group.
Forest Folk Club
Up the Lane Studios
Contact Information
Eric Taylor
E-mail; therarebitsband@hotmail.com
Phone or Fax; (UK) 01291 424725
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