Churchfitters In Concert

Saturday September 27th 2008

ROSIE SHORT (London) : lead vocals, banjo, dulcimer, flute, soprano saxophone, tin whistle, guitar, percussion.

CHRIS SHORT (London) : violin, mandolin, vocals.

TOPHER LOUDON (Belfast) : lead vocals, guitar, bouzouki.

BORIS LEBRET (Brittany) : double bass, bass banjo, percussion, vocals.

Based in Brittany since 1993, the Churchfitters is one of the most inspired groups on the folk scene today. Their energetic and festive show unites the rythmns of rock and pop with the universal appeal of traditional music. Three explosive voices and the use of a dozen or so acoustic instruments (fiddle, guitar, double bass, flute, banjo, dulcimer, mandoline, saxophone...) allow them a rich musical language with which to express their varied programme of compositions and songs and melodies from Ireland and the UK.

The group Churchfitters was founded in 1978 by singer/songwriter Anthony McCartan from Belfast and multi-instrumentist Geoff Coombs from Essex.
Rosie Short joined soon after its formation having previously been playing in a London-based traditional Irish outfit. During the years that followed, the group frequently changed its line-up making a point of always including members from diverse musical backgrounds in order to maintain a fresh and original approach to Irish music. They enjoyed great success on the East Anglian folk scene before slimming down to a duo (Anthony and Rosie) in order to tour extensively throughout Europe and even as far as Australia.
In 1993 the duo decided to move to Brittany and was joined by Rosie's brother Chris who had been in London playing in World, Irish and Bluegrass groups. From their base in Brittany they then toured as a trio throughout France and Europe until Anthony's departure in early 2004.
With the arrival of Boris Lebret (double bass and percussion) and Topher Loudon (vocals and guitar), the group's tradition of breaking with the more classic treatment of Irish music has been upheld. Topher's rock background and Boris's experience with diverse styles of contemporary music create the driving rythmns over which Chris and Rosie's more melodic and folky styles are laid.
And the unique and unmistakable sound of the Churchfitters continues ...

Support  Trim Rig And A Doxy

This is a not to be missed evening, so make sure you have reserved your tickets by ringing Les Worrall on 01673 843036

There will be a bar, but bring your own food.