Trees For Life Ticket Portal

MUSIC FROM HANNAH READ & MICHAEL STARKEY, with CAHALEN MORRISON

Sunday 9th February 2025, 4 - 6pm

Over recent years, Hannah Read and Michael Starkey have fast become one of the most
sought-after fiddle-banjo duos on the UK acoustic music scene. Their richly dynamic take on
Appalachian old-time music has seen them enthrall audiences up and down the country, both
during their live shows and on their critically acclaimed debut duo album 'Cross The Rolling
Water' released on Hudson Records.

They bring a unique depth of expression to traditional music, looking forwards and reaching out whilst still finding an anchor in its timeless language. At the heart of their sound is the complex and driving rhythmic interplay between fiddle and banjo, which draws the listener in “the way lungs draw in air” (Songlines), as they shine a light on “the powerful essence of the music” (RNR Magazine). To complete their sound, they bring a range of old, contemporary and original folk songs, sung with charismatic voices that are “destined to be appreciated for a very long time” (Old Time News). On the tour they are also have a special guest in Cahalen Morrison, hailing from New Mexico. An insightful and poetic wordsmith and songwriter, a subtle and accomplished roots multi-instrumentalist and a captivating singer.

QUOTES:
“So exciting to hear such a diversity of old and new tunes and depth of expression, all in the language of
old-time music, but at the same time reaching out” - Bruce Molsky

“Gripping… all in all, it’s a foot-tappin’ delight, music and playing that draws you in the way lungs draw in
air, the tunesmithery interspersed with fine balladry” - ★★★★ Songlines

“Wow! World Class.” - Andy Kershaw (broadcaster/journalist)

“Gem of a recording, an infectious, dynamic, richly layered album that's a timeless, irresistible and
thoroughly entertaining treat” - Folk Radio UK

“Intimate and inventive musicianship… arranged and played beautifully” - Living Tradition

“Nothing has brought me as much pleasure as this record this week” - Ricky Ross, BBC Scotland
“Excellent” - Folk London

“Skilled players with a focus on the powerful essence of the music, their intuitive interactions draw every
last nuance of sentiment in both the old and new” - ★★★★ RNR Magazine

“Outstanding performances, charismatic voices, well balanced instruments, great synergy between
Hannah and Michael, admirable choice of tunes and songs, impressive musical virtuosity… destined to
be appreciated for a very long time” - Old Time News

“There are so many joyful moments… Hannah’s fantastically rhythmic and widely varied bowing, linked
with Michael’s five-string propulsion, is a case in point” - Tony Trischka

Salt House have been a mainstay on the folk scene for over a decade. The band’s reputation as thoughtful and innovative interpreters of both old ballads and contemporary songs has been solidified with acclaimed album releases and extensive touring. Described as a "gentle, lulling delight" by The Guardian, Salt House blend heartfelt vocal and instrumental interplay, offering listeners a moment of reflection and connection.

New songs that sound like they’ve always been here, ancient ballads woken up. Poems given melodies they’ve long deserved.

Salt House's sound is influenced by the landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, Northumberland and Shetland, the respective homes of band members Ewan MacPherson (vocals, electric and acoustic guitars), Anna Hughes (vocals, fiddle, viola, tenor guitar) and Jenny Sturgeon (vocals, keys, guitar). They incorporate their natural surroundings into the fabric of the music that speaks of a shared love of place, people, and evolving tradition.

More about the band members:

Jenny Sturgeon, who has a PhD in seabird ecology, is known for her introspective solo work and collaborations with Birdvox and Outliers. Through her creative output as a sound artist and songwriter she explores themes of landscape and human connections. Her solo project ‘The Living Mountain’ based on the writing of Nan Shepherd was released to wide critical acclaim.

Anna Hughes, a versatile multi-instrumentalist and composer, draws on her transitory life experiences to create music that reflects forgotten landscapes and the wonders of the natural world. Working across multi-disciplinary projects Anna is a sought after collaborator as well as working with duo project Watersmeet.

Ewan MacPherson, is a multi-instrumentalist and singer with over two decades of experience working at the forefront of the folk / trad music scene. He toured extensively with Shooglenifty for thirteen years, was a member of Malinky and Nu-Nordic Quartet Fribo. His session work includes working with a variety of artists from the British Isles and beyond. His most recent solo project album ‘Hushman’ was described by KLOF Magazine as “…a little masterpiece of confidence and understatement. Wonderful.”

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Salt House and their individual artistic endeavours, we encourage you to explore their official website or connect with them on social media for updates on their music and upcoming performances.

"effortless" BBC 6

“elegant” Mojo Magazine