How and when were you first introduced to Folk Camps?
The first person I spoke to at SELFolk, Nancy, persuaded me over tea break that I wouldn't regret going to Folk Camp. Evidently she was right...
What do you enjoy most about volunteering as Folk Camps staff?
Ask me after I've graduated from my apprenticeship!
What is your favourite part of Folk Camps?
Both the predictable fun and chaos of the late night ceilidh, and unpredictable things you never expect you'd be doing, like rapper dancing, leading a salsa lesson, rolling on the floor to a sound Doug sang and avocado jousting (the millennials took over).
What is your best Folk Camps memory or experience?
On a personal level, bringing my lovely dad along one weekend, as he introduced me to folk music and is where it all began for me. The night I remember the most on folk camp was playing some version of musical chairs in the marquee in the wee hours, where we laughed so hard we kept falling off the chairs.
What do you bring to this volunteer role?
My weakness and strength is saying yes to everything and getting involved, which probably has something to do with how I'm getting ready for staffing... I love playing piano accordion in a group and for dancers, so you'll find me happily in the ceilidh band. I'll probably be adding Cajun offbeat chords to confuse the dancers though...
Why do you volunteer as a member of Folk Camps staff?
Being part of folk camp community is something incredibly special and I feel so glad to be a part of its future, making music and memories with a great bunch of people.
Please tell us about your musical background background.
I played piano classically but my dad realised it wasn't the most portable folk instrument. He bought me a piano accordion off eBay and miraculously it was in great condition. My dad (some would say irresponsibly...) Took me to pub folk sessions in Faversham and I self taught for several years. Fast forward through finding SELFolk orchestra and London sessions, to now where I play in a ceilidh band called the Conquering Heroes. http://www.theconqueringheroes.co.uk When I'm not playing music, I'm a speech and language therapist for Deaf children, with a side helping of Morris dancing with Quaggy Morris.
What can people expect at your camps?
You'll find me playing English, Irish, Scottish, French, Cajun and American tunes. I'm happy to support the music workshop and play with beginners at a slower pace.
Steph‘s Folk Camps
Here is where Steph will be a member of staff this season. Follow the link to find out more.
Joint Musician : Marquee week 3 Rolvenden
All Folk Camps Staff
Find out about all the Folk Camps staff this season.