The fiddle lies at the heart of Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band. Partly because Judy, our band leader, is such an experienced and excellent folk tradition fiddler, but also for many other reasons. Most importantly, there’s something instantly uplifting about the sound of a fiddle playing a lively dance tune. This is why, for centuries, the fiddle has been at the heart of ceilidh and barn dance music, and it remains just as important today when played for special birthdays, anniversaries, fetes, corporate away days and weddings.
The fiddle is made for dancing. It’s the perfect dance instrument. Its bright, energetic sound carries across a room, while the bowing gives the music a natural rhythm and drive.
And, at Barnbuskers, we believe that a great fiddler does more than simply play the melody. They add energy, lift and excitement, helping dancers keep in time and encouraging everyone onto the dance floor.
Which is particularly important at a ceilidh or barn dance, where many guests may never have danced together before such as family or corporate get togethers which in modern times have become increasingly popular.
Sometimes, when band leader Judy is calling the dances, experienced violinist Rob (Judy’s brother) plays the lead fiddle for Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band and, in between dances, Judy often joins in with counter melodies around the tune.
A live fiddle-led ceilidh band creates an incredible atmosphere. The musicians respond to the dancers and the energy in the dance hall builds as the dancers become more confident.
Recently, Ruth, an extremely experienced orchestral and folk violinist has started playing with Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band. Here, on the left in the photo, she can be seen getting ready to play with guitarist Sarah in a Barnbuskers Duo when Judy called the dances at a Secret Valley corporate away day barn dance at Somerset rural venue Secret Valley. The Barnbuskers Duo is an increasingly popular, economic and effective band for the smaller celebration ceilidh or barn dance.
Folk music led by a violin brings people together. Children can dance with grandparents, friends can join in with relatives, and experienced dancers can help complete beginners. With a caller explaining the dances, everyone can participate.
The result is music that feels both traditional and excitingly alive. Cornwall based fiddler Laura (Judy’s daughter in the photo below) is a valued member of Somerset and Devon based Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band and often returns to play when time allows.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, milestone birthday, anniversary or simply a great party, a live ceilidh band with a fiddle at its heart can transform the evening.
After hundreds of years, the fiddle still does what it has always done best: get people dancing, laughing and celebrating together.
If you are also looking for a band to provide the ceilidh music and caller with the vibrant sound of a fiddle at it’s heart, we at Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band would love to hear from you. We provide traditional country dance folk music and a caller for lots of special occasions in Somerset and Devon throughout the year. Our musician line up for a fun ceilidh or barn dance can vary from four musicians with caller for very large events, a Barnbuskers trio of three musicians with caller or a low cost duo with caller for smaller budget events ideal for fund raisers. We can even supply a caller with Barnbuskers recorded music, ideal for small gatherings of friends such as a hen or children’s party. It all depends on your needs. For more information and our availability from Judy, our band leader, simply follow the link to our Barnbuskers ceilidh and barn dance band contact page.
We’re also on social media. As well as Barnbuskers blog, we can be found on Facebook, Threads, Instagram, X or Bluesky. There is also a mailing list. Our band leader and organiser, Judy (photo below), is also available for information via this WhatsApp button.
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