An Orchestra ForCommunity Folk

We are the Yardarm Folk Orchestra - we're unique!
Community folk orchestras are rare, but we are a registered charity with over 60 active members of all ages and abilities. We perform for voluntary donations at community events across Essex, Sussex, Kent and London and are expanding the group, seeking new members to join us.

Fun-loving FolkTraditional tunes - with a twist!

Traditional genres evolve as they reach new generations of people, encouraging new musical ideas and interpretations.  Folk music is no exception.

We aim to celebrate the roots of traditional folk music, but to also make the genre accessible to musicians of all abilities. We have a structured but fun approach to folk revival and world music performance, putting our own unique twist on many famous tunes.

The Yardarm Folk Orchestra celebrates Folk from around the world through its lively and spirited appearances appealing to audiences both young and old.

 

    The Full OrchestraGroup Performances

    The Yardarm Folk Orchestra plays British and international folk music throughout the South-East region.  We have played at over 650 community, charity and fundraising events including festivals in Sussex, Essex, Kent and London, the Leigh Folk Festival and Tenterden Folk Festival.  We have also performed at well-known venues including the London Palladium and Cliffs Pavilion. In 2013, our first full-length documentary was broadcast as part of the Community Channel's "Brilliant Britain" season.

    Our full orchestra features a range of percussion, woodwind, brass and strings playing toe-tapping tunes with musical influences from around the world.

    Specialist GroupsEclectic Folk

    Several specialist groups play eclectic genres from around the world, performing live at community events and in theatrical productions.

    The Orchestra

    Our members come together to play traditional and popular folk tunes

    Ceilidh Band

    Seven members play ceilidhs and barn dances

    Katjama

    Four members play Klezmer and Eastern European folk and gipsy music

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    "Join us! Enjoy making music, making new friends and becoming a part of our fun and lively orchestra."Malcolm Reid, Music Director

    We know that joining a new group can seem daunting at first. Please get in touch to find out more about our organisation and its members, the tunes we play, events - or anything else!

    We would love to hear from you.

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