Wednesday 9 September 2015

Gretton Music Festival 2015

Ah, the great British weather.  August Bank Holiday Monday was a bit of a wash out, but fortunately I was able to take refuge in The Hatton Arms for the open mic event, part of the sixth annual Gretton Music Festival.

It never ceases to amaze me how many talented musicians there are around here. 

The highlight of the afternoon for me was a new outfit called The Top Banana Band - they were absolutely amazing!  Brilliant cover versions of I Feel Good, Mustang Sally, Brown Eyed Girl, Soul Man and The Blues Brothers' Shake Your Tailfeather and Everybody Needs Somebody To Love to name but a few.  They had the whole pub singing and clapping along - we would have been dancing too if there had been enough room!  Can't wait to see them again.

Earlier in the weekend we saw the young performers at Gretton Recreation Ground, and were dazzled by Charlie Botting and Cara Hamer, both classical/crossover artists who were fabulous.  I had a goosebump moment when Cara sang 'Run' by Snow Patrol - she's certainly a name to watch for the future.

On Saturday afternoon we were entertained by the lovely Al and friends, and then Mark Thompson, who sang a fantastic tribute set to Frank Sinatra in honour of 100 years since the birth of ol' blue eyes.

Sunday afternoon my friends and I headed to 'Puccini and Prosecco', hosted by impresario Martin McEvoy.  It was very informative, entertaining and enjoyable, with Martin seeking to bring opera back to the masses and demystify it.  I've attended one of Martin's opera appreciation courses, and he explains all the different types of opera and voices - highly recommended.

It might not be Glastonbury - even though we probably had enough rain to rival it on the Monday - but it's a great community event, with something for everybody, and is thoroughly enjoyed by all.  Thanks to all the performers, organisers and venues. We're looking forward to next year's event already!

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