THE new season of entertainment in the Oldridge Bar at Kingshill House, Dursley, kicks off on Friday 25 September with an evening of traditional Irish music with a performance by Host of the Air, featuring Mick Toher on guitar/bouzouki/mandolin and vocals, Ursula Toher on fiddle/whistle and vocals, and Phil Dee on concertina/melodeon and vocals.

Host of the Air play and sing traditional Irish music in a contemporary style influenced by the many new and exciting Irish groups touring Europe and America. Mick and Ursula have been playing together since ’93 and invited Phil to join them after several one-off gigs together. Their combination of instruments creates an authentic Irish sound with Mick’s DADGAD tuned guitar or bouzouki providing the platform for the jigs and reels they particularly enjoy playing. Mick is especially fond of the songs from his hometown of Cork, some of which he sings in his native Gaelic, and is particularly influenced by singers from the area such as Jimmy Crowley. Ursula has enjoyed adapting her classical training to the Irish style of fiddle playing, influenced by the playing of Kevin Burke and Martin Hayes. With a lifetime of English traditional music behind him, Phil has absorbed the Irish tradition and has been stimulated by the more contemporary Irish concertina style.

Regulars will know that, along with the music, you can also have a bite to eat. The Bar and Kitchen open at 7pm, with entertainment starting at 8pm. Entry is free but the hat is passed around.

If you would like any further information please call Kingshill House on 01453 549133 or email admin@kingshillhouse.org.uk