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Andy and Margaret Watchorn, local musicians with a national and international reputation for the quality of their playing and musicianship, gave a concert at Low Newton Church on 15th August in aid of church funds. This is becoming an established annual event and has become so popular by now that the church was packed on this occasion with not a seat to spare. Those attending seemed to divide broadly into two groups. Those from North Northumberland - who know by now what an unmissable event this is - and holiday makers. That there were several children present this time helped create a fine atmosphere with a lot of audience participation and banter. The poor weather was no deterrent. The music, played on pipes, fiddle, Swedish pipes, hummelchen and guitar, comprised traditional music from the North and beyond with a fascinating input of music from Sweden as well. The Watchorns are regularly invited to play in Sweden where their reputation as a duo is well established and they have brought back to this country some delightful tunes with a distinctly Swedish feel. Margaret mainly played fiddle and Andy Northumbrian pipes though both turned a hand to the other instruments at times. Their playing seemed effortless and they produced a flow of fine music that had the audience enthralled and delighted. Before playing each music set they talked to the audience about the music and this was particularly welcome. Most of the children were sitting almost under their feet at the front and the Watchorns engaged directly with them in a delightfully relaxed manner. Once again this duo showed that rare combination of superb technique and musicianship that is by now their hallmark. But they also know how to give a rounded performance that engages the audience and enhances the enjoyment of the occasion as a consequence. They both have a love for the music they play and they communicate this so well. The prolonged applause at the end showed how much visitors and locals alike enjoyed the performance. They were reluctant to let the performers stop and an encore was then played that finally brought to an end a wonderful evening of magnificent music . Performances like this play a major part in maintaining the rich musical tradition of the county and deserve support. The size and enthusiasm of this audience augurs well for the future of the tradition.
Geoffrey Applegarth |
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