Tom McConville

Tom McConville has for many years been regarded as the top fiddle player in the country. Styles and techniques learned in the company of masters Sean McGuire, Stephane Grapelli and Bluegrass legend Byron Berline, give Tom an endless variety of interpretations to his songs and tunes. His live performance combines a rollercoaster of musical delights from fast, rhythmic dance tunes through beautiful slow airs and of course, great singing – all presented with his inimitable sense of humour and style.

Renowned for his musical accompaniments, Tom has played on literally hundreds of albums. The list includes: Barbara Dickson, Richard Thompson, Allan Taylor and Lindisfarne.

Tom began his career in the ever-vibrant folk scene of Tyneside. His work with a local band gave the opportunity to support his hero Sean McGuire and many other top names including The Fureys, De Dannan, John Doonan, Boys of the Lough and even a lock-in with the Dubliners. Tom went on to work in a duo with Bob Fox, topped the Cambridge Folk Festival with Kieron Halpin and shared stages with Mark O’Connor, Paul Brady, The Chieftains and many more.

In 2009 Tom won the coveted ‘Musician of The Year’ at the BBC Folk awards.

Tom McConville has never forgotten his roots and is as happy in the intimate atmosphere of a folk club as he is at the largest festivals. He is currently touring with his own band; members of which include: Guitarist David Newey is a singer songwriter, and one of the most sought after accompanists in the business. He has recently toured with bands Rubus, Nandobinyan, Arlen and with with Christi Andropolis. David’s driving rhythm and unique style, incorporating both fingerstyle and flatpicking, has taken him to all the major festivals and concerts throughout the UK, Europe and the USA.

Phil Murray introduced the acoustic bass guitar to the live music scene more than 30 years ago and is acknowledged as its finest exponent. His unique and innovative style adds power, drive and sensitive accompaniment to all elements of acoustic music. Phil currently records and tours with the indomitable Doonan Family Band. A founder member of the legendary Hedgehog Pie and folk rockers Jack the Lad, Phil has played major venues and festivals all over the world. He is a consummate pro whose humour and ability to engage an audience complements Tom’s dry Geordie wit.

Shona Kipling began playing accordion aged eleven winning competitions run by Comhaltas and became UK champion twice, played in three all-Ireland finals and was a finalist in the BBC Young Folk Awards. Shona was the only female and only traditional musician out of 2000 applicants to be awarded the first BBC Fame Academy Bursary. She graduated from Newcastle University with a first class degree in folk and traditional music. Playing a mixture of Irish, English, Scandinavian and self-penned material she recorded her debut CD “Pure Chance” and later “Box On” which earned Shona a nomination for the Horizon award in the BBC Folk Awards. Both albums have received excellent reviews.

This event takes place upstairs in the Witham Room. There is lift access.

Running time approx. 2.5 hours including interval