Folk Folk is a new COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE which will see world class folk musicians playing in the heritage churches of Charnwood.
The idea of Alison Mott and Bob Edge, the focus of Folk Folk is on bringing people together in the enjoyment of music. Anyone is welcome to come, and we hope to showcase folk music from all cultures and traditions over time.
To cover the upfront costs of events, we'll be inviting people to buy shares* in the organisation in return for membership. Ticket sales (at a reduced rate for members) will restock this float. We also intend raising money for Loughborough Town of Sanctuary and other community activities from refreshment sales, etc.
It's important to us that our concerts take place in the centre of local communities, in buildings with good access and which people feel comfortable to come into alone - hence the idea to use churches. As the principal heritage building in many local settlements, it's also a nod to the part parishes played in fostering folk traditions in England in the past.
MEMBERSHIP OFFER
Our initial idea is for members to buy shares in *£50 units, but this is UP FOR DISCUSSION (in the comments here or via email). We need a float of around a thousand pounds for each event to be viable. (Read Bob's recent experiences of staging concerts in churches, below).
Folk Folk currently has a Chair, a Treasurer and a Secretary ready to go, but needs members. We'll encourage members to support the group with whatever skills they feel comfortable sharing, including event promotion, ticket selling and stewarding on the night.
THE STORY BEHIND THE IDEA
Bob arranged concerts at Holy Trinity Church, Barrow Upon Soar, in 2023 which saw Diana Jones and the Rosie Hood Band playing to a local audience, many of whom wouldn't have been able to travel to see them elsewhere.
He has concerts arranged at Barrow for November 20th (Evie Ladin & Sophie Wellington) and November 23rd (Donald Lindsay and Alasdair Roberts). He's regularly approached by folk musicians wanting to include a date in Charnwood on their tours (including Lady Maisery) and has had positive discussions with Loughborough Parish Church about staging some concerts there more centrally.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
Comment on Facebook to show interest and share your thoughts and ideas, or email [email protected] and/or [email protected].