Friendly Neets
Every Sunday from 23rd July
to 10th September 2017
Audience Quotes
'Great to see such an enthusiastic continuation of an old local tradition'
(Mrs Mallinson, Essex)
'A fascinating and informative evening - wonderful tunes, singing and narrative'
(D. Gartland, Northants)
'Came last year - worth coming back'
(A & T Shepherd, Oxon)
'Friendly Neets' represent a modern re-creation of the 'merry neets' that were frequently held in the North of England during the 18th, 19th and early 20th Centuries. These 'merry neets' were a traditional form of mutual entertainment, where members of a community would come together to tell tales, sing songs and play the tunes that they loved. These performances often held a special meaning, both for the performer and the audience. Occasionally based in the 'parlour' a pianist would often vamp along with
the other musicians.
The specially selected programme for our ‘Friendly Neets’ represent tunes that best characterise the wide range of music and song from the North East. The evening's repertoire draws on the traditional folk tunes of the Northumbrian Smallpipes as well as songs of the Tyneside Music Hall. The choice of music has been made accessible to appeal to an audience that is coming to this region’s music for the first time.
In addition to the varied music programme, in the interval we will provide a selection of some of the finest cheeses that Northumberland can produce (along with complimentary wine or a soft drink).
The Venue
Hindmarsh Hall in Alnmouth has been selected as the first location for ‘Friendly Neets’ because of the suitability of the hall. Hindmarsh Hall was known to exist as a Granary, one of a number of granaries in Alnmouth which was a thriving seaport at this time c.1791. It was used later as a Corn Exchange.
In 1937 the Hindmarsh family purchased and refitted the building giving it to the people of Alnmouth for village use.
Recently refurbished, it has a lift to aid audience members with mobility difficulties, a well equipped kitchen to aid the preparation of refreshments and a wonderful performing space. Alnmouth is a charming village with a strong sense of community in easy reach of Alnwick, and is situated on the estuary of the River Aln close to the wonderful Northumbrian coast.
The Musicians
Northumbrians and Pipers’ have been very fortunate in enlisting a group of talented and experienced musicians who are interested in playing the traditional tunes of the North East.
One has considerable experience of playing military music, including performing ensemble pieces with Northumbrian Smallpipes. We have also been fortunate in attracting an up-and-coming singer to join us