Inspired by the lively traditional dance music of Europe, Hearken Quartet are an energetic ensemble of clarinet, Uillean pipes, guitar, piano and diatonic accordion. Bringing flesh flavours to Euro-bal music, whether its the chain dances of Brittany, Scandinavian couple dances, or the bourree of the French Auvergne, Hearken Quartet delivers delicious arrangements of tunes new and old that will whet the appetites of traditional and contemporary music fans alike.

The project began as a collaboration between Bruce Lambelle-Rudd and Bob Downham in 2017, forming a duo of melodeon and uilleann pipes/low whistle to explore the traditional dance music of continental Europe. In 2022 the band expanded to include music techhead Alex Walters and clarinet powerhouse M Lomas, who brought stomping accompaniment and wistful harmonies, resulting in a rousing atmosphere powered by a wall of sound.

Elye Cuthbertson is bringing a new sound to the folk scene with his unique approach to the melodeon. Elye has been immersing himself in English folk music for 10 years under the guidance of some of the finest teachers of the tradition. Combining this English folk experience with his passion for Balfolk and other traditions from throughout Europe, his compositions reflect his varied influences. Elye’s skill and inventiveness has been demonstrated through performances around the country, including his own concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Elye’s 2024 EP, Two Rainy Days, showcases his unusual style of melodeon playing and innovative tune writing.