The Johanna Graham Quartet, Cornwall’s best kept secret, are coming to Exeter for a warm up gig on the way to Dean Street for the launch of their debut album ‘Don’t Let Me Be Lonely’. The band, Martin Bowie, Damian Rodd, Tim Greenhalgh and Johanna herself, put a fresh spin on jazz standards, with original compositions and modern classics arranged in her own unique way. They play the Voodoo Lounge at Exeter Phoenix on May 24. Details: www.exeterphoenix.org.uk or call 01392 667080.
Would you like to have the opportunity to sing informally with Exeter Festival Chorus? There is a chance to join them at their next Open Rehearsal on Wednesday, June 4, at the Maynard School. They will be working on music for their next concert “Summer Vespers”, with music by Bach, Copland, Tavener and Tchaikovsky. It starts at 7.15pm and the rehearsal will be directed by EFC’s inspirational conductor, Nigel Perrin. There will be no charge for visitors to attend and places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. To book your place call 01647 253104 or email membership@
exeterfestivalchorus.org.uk
Olde Tyme Music Hall comes to Exeter’s Barnfield Theatre with a special show on May 28. At 3pm you can enjoy a two hours of comedy, music and good old fashioned entertainment as the performers pay tribute to Flanagan & Allen, Vera Lynn, Harry Lauder and Pearly Kings & Queens. At 7.30pm there will be an evening of piano magic with Richard Lennox, who will play a selection of piano classics and pay tribute to some keyboard legends including Liberace, Rick Wakeman, Richard Clayderman, Bobby Crush and even Les Dawson. Ticket details for both concerts on 01392 271808.
A free family and music festival takes place in Mid Devon this weekend. The Heart Of Devon event takes place in Bow Village Field on the A3072 between Copplestone & Okehampton, on Sunday, May 25. There will be music from 2pm-9pm, plus over 30 craft, plant and food stalls and a display of Vintage Vehicles. There will also be hot food and refreshments. The music line-up includes David Harbottle & Freya Jonas, Street Heat Samba Band, India Electric Co (Cole Stacey & Joseph O Keefe), Michael Tinker, Reggae Band, Audio Razor, Sitting Pretty and Eat The Rich.
Tickets have now sold out for this year’s Beautiful Days festival following the announcement of more acts and entertainment. The legendary three-day festival, organised by the Levellers, is being held at its usual home of Escot in Ottery St Mary from August. Latest acts announced for the main stages include psychedelic rock quartet Syd Arthur, the flamboyant Gabby Young & Other Animals, folk husband-and-wife duo Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, and Scottish folk musician Rachel Sermanni.
They join previously confirmed acts Steve Earle & The Dukes, Seasick Steve, Levellers, Jimmy Cliff, Reverend & The Makers, The Bad Shepherds and many more.
As usual the Sunday is the dedicated dressing up day and this year’s theme is black and white.
