h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hiya CrazyAce,
I used to be an avid cyclist in London, until my third bike was borrowed, and never returned. That was 10 years ago, and I now have a 2nd hand Puch (or should that read Puck?)
I am a Folk Fiddler, as a leisure activity, and do not practise, for my sins. I play a Bridge electric Five-string violin, with a kevlar bow, primarily because I got fed up with poor amplification for a standard fiddle. I play in a Croydon-based Folk Band called Crooked Stovepipe, playing for Barn Dances in the NW Kent area, averaging 30+ a year. I have been with them for 16 years. Raeched and passed Grade 6 at 14 years of age, and failed the theory. Stopped Classical from then until five years ago. I listen but don't play, unfortunately. I am too rusty now. I last played classical 25 years ago. Feel free to visit my home space, and leave a message.

Hi
I'm sorry I took so long to reply but I,ve had quite a few problems since the single sign on on thing started, anyway I think I've got it sussed now.
I play in a small orchestra called Wentworth Strings,we rehearse on Friday nights and do about three or four concerts a year all amateur stuff.no pay.
I don't get to folk sessions much these days as my cycle training takes up most of my spare time though I still
playing hornpipes, reels and slow airs at home when practicing I struggle a little
with the timing of jigs though.
Ive never tried an electric fiddle but they do so sound good
mine is a Stainer (copy) dated 1753.
I the sounds of of Aly Bain,Tom McConville and a local lad Robin Garside.
Write back tell who your heros
are. Cheers
Alan

Hi, sorry for the delay.
I'm not really involved in the Folk Circuit, and tend to fall back on older groups, such as Fairport,Steeleye, etc. There isn't a very large outlet for Folk here in Brentford, so I rely on a Festival in Broadstairs every August.(see http://www.broadstairsfolkfestival.com)
My main 'heroes' are Swarb of course, also Ian Cutler (http://iancutler.com) particularly as he plays the same fiddle as myself, and a little-known artist in the UK, Jean-luc Ponti.
Most of the people I know are small-time musicians, although I did enjoy Aiden Broadbridge this year. Extremely talented, particularly in the Scottish tradition.
As a Classically trined folk musician, I am not terribly adept, as our Accordianist will tell you, although I am getting more confident!

Hi again
Have you ever been to Whitby
Folk Festival, thats also in August and it's massive sessions, singarounds, dancing, trade stands and concerts from morning till night,all week long.
It's so good we chose as the place to get hitched.
If you've never been try to make it one year as a muso you will it, and probably
end up going every year like
the rest of us.
Keep on fiddling
Alan

Hi I'm Back.
I was on a digibox before and got shut out with the single sign on.
I now have a laptop and I am online propper. I don,t play with the orchestra any more and don't get to festivals much either, but I am still cycling. Hows life treating you.