Dear Settlement Members and Friends,
On Saturday 22nd February at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm), the Settlement is pleased to welcome back Derek Blyth and Rachel Thomas with a fabulous lecture / recital on the life and music of George Gershwin.
Gershwin was one of the most significant and popular American composers of all time. He wrote primarily for the Broadway musical theatre, but important as well are his orchestral and piano compositions in which he blended classical music with popular styles and jazz.
Derek’s wonderful storytelling together with Rachel’s engaging vocals will make this an evening not to be missed.
Licensed bar.
Book tickets at £12.50 here:
George Gershwin – LetchworthSettlement
Starting in March at the Settlement we will launch an exciting music programme, with one live event per month, under the title Settlement Sessions. First up, on Saturday 22nd March at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm), we present Edwina Hayes, one of the finest singer/songwriters this country has produced in years. Edwina learned her trade in the folk clubs of Yorkshire and has supported Jools Holland, Loudon Wainwright III and Nanci Griffith. Edwina brings together English Folk, Americana and the rich Northern singer/songwriter tradition to create a sound that is truly her own.
Licensed bar.
Book tickets at £13 here:
Settlement Sessions: Edwina Hayes –Letchworth Settlement
Our second artist has already graced the Kincaid Hall, appearing last year as a well-liked support act for Cut the Mustard, (who, by the way, will be returning later this year). Rhys Wilson will appear on Friday 11th April at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm), on vocals, guitars and keyboards, to treat us to his own material as well as covers from well-known artists. A highly entertaining evening.
Licensed bar.
Booking will open at the end of January, with tickets at £13.
Friday 9th May at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm) sees the return to Letchworth of Emily Slade, a singer/songwriter who spent her younger years growing up in North Hertfordshire (and attending the Dance Steps Academy here at the Settlement).
Emily is one of Britain’s foremost fingerstyle guitarists, carving out a staggering reputation amongst fellow musicians and support at grassroots level from the audiences at her concerts. This led to her supporting Folk icons such as Phil Beer, and even joining as a member of his band.
The partnership between her intricate guitar playing and enchanting vocals are rarely found in one person, making Emily an enthralling performer. Her winning personality and presence have endeared her to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
Licensed bar.
Booking will open at the end of February, with tickets at £13.
Friday 13th June at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm) sees Gary Stewart visit the Settlement. Gary is a Scottish singer/songwriter with four albums to his name and a strong following in his adopted home of Yorkshire. He will entertain us with a set of his own songs mainly about paranoia, love and resilience, with a second set of early songs by Paul Simon. Expect to hear many of Paul’s classic songs performed in Gary’s own style.
Licensed bar.
Booking will open at the end of March, with tickets at £13.
Our last concert on Friday 11th July at 7.30pm (doors: 7pm) and before the summer break (after which, watch this space for more eclectic music) brings Hannah Elizabeth and Griff Jameson to the Settlement. Hannah and Griff first joined forces in 2016, merging their individual backgrounds of traditional folk and folk pop/rock to create a stunning acoustic folk/roots duo, with original songs rich in emotive storytelling and a harmony-driven sound featuring guitar, violin and exquisite vocals.
Licensed bar.
Booking will open at the end of April, with tickets at £13.
See you there!
-Nick
