Feast of Fiddles was born in 1994 as the brainchild of melodeon-toting ringmaster Hugh Crabtree. My returning with the band to Nettlebed Village Club in Oxfordshire (the place of that 'one night experiment' some 30+ years and tours later) was a fascinating experience.

Members of the band have come from a variety of backgrounds over the years - classical, folk, rock and country - always of an extremely high standard in their respective fields. The addition of such an adaptable back line of Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar and Drums provides a solid foundation for all of their wide-ranging virtuosity. The guaranteed stylistically versatile and talented lineup (regardless of exact roster) proves that their reputation as the UK's premier fiddle ensemble is well earned, The 'Feast of FIddles' experience sells out venues across the UK year after year for good reason.

Hard work shouldn't look so effortless, it shouldn't work so well... but it does. 

This is the part I sometimes enjoy most. Not giving away state secrets, but allowing the fans to have glimpses of the hard work that they don't get to see. Performers don't just magically appear on stage completely prepared - there are hours spent in the days and weeks beforehand perfecting and shaping the show. This collaborative energy is what I seek to capture.

This first set was the rehearsal for Reg Meuross and The Strike preparing for Reg's 'Fire and Dust - A Woody Guthrie Story'. Commissioned and Produced by Pete Townshend, this is a song cycle written by Reg Meuross telling the story of Woody Guthrie's life and times along with several songs taken from Guthrie's own songbook (with the encouragement and blessing of the Woody Guthrie Estate). It took place at the spiritual home of Folk Music in the UK, Cecil Sharp House in London.

Show of Hands had been at the top of the folk music game for 30 years - so when it came time to go out on a high, they decided to book 'Kensington Village Hall' for the 6th time (The Royal Albert Hall in London) and invite all of their friends. The most effortless looking shows take a lot of effort before the stage is taken - it was a pleasure to be there and record it taking shape.

A full day of rehearsals in West London gave way to a glorious send off the following day.