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Discussions => General Discussion => Topic started by: Ollie on January 01, 2008, 10:06:43 PM

Title: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ollie on January 01, 2008, 10:06:43 PM
I was just wondering how many of us played/danced/both for morris sides (by this I mean rapper, longsword, clog, molly, cotswold, border). It would be nice if after you have voted, just to say which Morris side you belong and what you do in it.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ollie on January 01, 2008, 10:08:45 PM
I belong to the Cambridge Morris Men. I dance and (once I've learnt the tunes) play mandolin/irish whistle/recorder for them. I have been dancing only 2 or 3 weeks, but am starting to get the hang of it.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Lester on January 01, 2008, 10:17:13 PM
I am currently musician and foreman of Aldbury Morris (http://www.aldburymorris.co.uk/). I was for a long time musician for Grand Union Morris (http://www.grandunionmorris.org).

I also play for Thames Valley Morris (http://www.tvmm.org.uk/index.htm), and Whaddon Morris, plus anyone else who will accept me. (Morris tart!)

I am also, for what it's worth, a trained Morris Ring musician.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: trombonetom on January 01, 2008, 10:18:30 PM
I started dancing with Earl of Stamford Morris 8 years ago. Recently I have started playing the melodeon with them (I first picked up a melodeon Easter '07).

We are a cotswold side
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Graham Spencer on January 01, 2008, 11:19:15 PM
Been dancing with Jockey (Birmingham) for more years than I care to remember  - 41, I think - and playing various instruments for Morris as well for most of that time. I adopted the melodeon about 25 years ago, as I recall....

Had one or two flirtations with other sides - Shakespeare & Silhill among others - but Jockey's a bit like the Jesuits - once you're in, you're in for life........

Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Mike Gott on January 02, 2008, 01:09:56 AM
Started as a dancer with Grimsby MM (cotswold and border) in '82 but had already dabbled with melodeon as a kid in the 60's thanks to living next door to a real, traditional and very old(!) melodeon player - so I got back into playing pretty quickly. I played for Barley Break, the Grimsby women's NW/Garland team alongside my Grimsby activities. I also managed to marry a Barley Break, so morris and melodeons have a lot to answer for. I had 4 years as musician for Tatterfoals NW/Garland in Scunthorpe before moving to the North West in 1989 and joining Rivington Morris (see link below to website with YouTube links) based in Blackrod, near Bolton as a musician. My wife currently shares team leader duties with another dancer whose husband shares bandleader duties with me.... Up until joining Rivington I played exclusively 1-row melodeon, I only bought a 2-row as I needed one to play the Rivington tunes and it remains a "morris melodeon". We get all over the place doing festivals so for heaven's sake come and say hello if you see us around. Was  in Bromyard in 2007 (GPS were you there?), and we see Earl of Stamford around fairly regularly.

Mike
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Gus V on January 02, 2008, 04:58:08 AM
I'm a second generation member of The Foggy Bottom Morris Men  (http://fbmm.org/)in Washington DC and was recently recruited on to Thames Valley International (http://publish.uwo.ca/~handford/tvi.html). I'm also a founding member, quasi-squire and musician for FBMM's psuedo-splinter experimental youth side, Funky Town Morris Men.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: C age ing on January 02, 2008, 08:52:33 AM
Right! Time to 'fess up. I occasionally, very, turn out for a masked side with Erika. The reason we are masked is because we are all incredibly ugly and if we don't wear masks, we have to hand out sick bags. As such I dare not name the side. :-[
Old Bill.
postscript:Just realised, incredibly ugly is the norm for Morris, Fee and Lin excepted.
Fee and Lin, your used currency notes expected soon, usual address..
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Graham Spencer on January 02, 2008, 09:35:01 AM
Was  in Bromyard in 2007 (GPS were you there?)

Not on that occasion - I was out of the country. I was there in 2005 & 2006 though.......
Graham
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Dazbo on January 02, 2008, 09:36:41 AM
Somehow, by default, I've become the lead musician for Boggart's Breakfast border team

::)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: brianread on January 02, 2008, 01:43:12 PM
No longer, I danced (and played) with Victory Morris, Sunset Morris (In LA) and then Bristol Morris 1975-1986.  Had 20 years "off" with the melodeon, but now play all the time!

Oh, and I danced with Abram Morris last year (it only happens once a year).

If you remind me of the tunes, I can play _most_ of them.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Alison Scott on January 02, 2008, 03:13:18 PM
I just started with Chingford in September. I'm dancing clog and playing for both Cotswold and clog.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Andy Next Tune on January 02, 2008, 04:41:17 PM
I currently dance cotswold and rapper with Mersey Morris Men - and play for them as needed.

This marked the end of a 15+ year sabbatical from morris and melodeon. Previously I'd danced North West with The Rumworth Morris of Bolton, rapper with Old Moat, and played for Abram Morris in the 'early years'.

Happy New Year,

Andy
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Andrew Wigglesworth on January 02, 2008, 08:04:21 PM
Been dancing with Jockey (Birmingham) for more years than I care to remember  - 41, I think - and playing various instruments for Morris as well for most of that time. I adopted the melodeon about 25 years ago, as I recall....

Had one or two flirtations with other sides - Shakespeare & Silhill among others - but Jockey's a bit like the Jesuits - once you're in, you're in for life........



Were you one of the ones in Worcester the other week when I got "picked up" by Jockey Morris?
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Graham Spencer on January 02, 2008, 08:33:31 PM
Were you one of the ones in Worcester the other week when I got "picked up" by Jockey Morris?

No - I only got back to the UK a few days before Christmas.  Jockey have picked up all kinds of people and things over the years - beer, new members, beer, new tunes, beer, assorted ailments, beer, new dances, beer, useful contacts.....did I mention beer?

Graham
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Open_G on January 03, 2008, 02:24:46 PM
I play/have played for a few teams. Played in the past for Great North Clog (NW) in Darlington, Yorkshire Coast Morris (Cotswold & Border) in Scarborough and Makara Morris (Border) in Bridlington.

I'll play for anyone though- and have regularly been thrown into the midst of teams sans melodeonista on days of dance (always an experience to keep me on my toes)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ebor_fiddler on January 03, 2008, 09:27:38 PM
I fiddle for Ebor and have started learning the melodeon in sheer self-defence. My wife says I spend too much time practising, so I must be getting something right (pity about the tunes!)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Fi on January 04, 2008, 10:01:22 AM

I am with Cry Havoc based in Botley in Oxford (Abingdon, where I live, does have it's own side but they are an all male one). We do Cotswold, and are quite a large mixed side. Although I do love dancing, I'm now concentrating more on playing melodeon for them (thankfully there are a lot of musicians to hide behind) because being five months pregnant now makes dancing quite uncomfortable! I'll be back in my dancing shoes for next summer though, I just hope I can remember the steps  ;D
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Lin Leighton on January 04, 2008, 12:01:04 PM
I dance and play for Rattlejag Morris     ~~~~~www.rattlejagmorris.org.uk ~~~~~~

we are based in Retford North Nottinghamshire

our research is based on the dances performed by the ploughboys of North Nottinghamshire, North Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire area

Lin

Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: GuyWyatt on January 04, 2008, 02:51:24 PM
I dance with Hammersmith Morris Men (Cotswold), based in West London, and Sheffield City Morris (Cotswold). I play for Silkstone Greens, a brand new womens NW side based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. The only reason I can get away with playing is that I have a quiet box and the other musicians can drown me out. It was their first dance-out just before Christmas and therefore my first public performance as a musician.
I also used to dance with Wolfshead and Vixen (Border).

Guy
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: pipives on January 05, 2008, 03:45:58 PM
I started off playing melodeon for a northwest clog team when I was 12! I left them (sussex spinning jenny) to play for a Cotswold team called Daisy roots, based in hastings. In 2003 they split up and formed a new team called Oojah Kappivvy (don't ask!). I played for them until 2006 when I moved to Newcastle Upon Tyne and started dancing with the Newcastle Kingsmen rapper team. I also play for a couple of womens rapper teams and Tyne Bridge clog in Newcastle.
I have also danced some cotswold, and basic clog before.
I've played for many other teams here and there as a kind of adopted or emergency musician.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: trombonetom on January 05, 2008, 05:26:55 PM
Spinning jenny came up here on a canal boat last summer dancing season (I think)

Unfortunately I wasn't able to attend.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Mikefule on January 06, 2008, 09:13:11 AM
I joined Dolphin Morris Men (Nottingham) in 1983.  I've been Fool since 1987*.  I sometimes play harmonica for the dancing, especially for solo jigs, and I very rarely melodeon for the dancing.  I hope to play Anglo concertina for the dancing occasionally during the 2008 season.

*20 years and no bl**dy engraved tankard!
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: tim54 on January 06, 2008, 09:39:06 AM
Hi all,

I've had 20 years playing for The Maids of Clifton, a North West side based in Nottingham. Tunes are mainly English marches, polkas and the occasional French tune.

Happy New Year.

Tim
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Chris Armstrong on January 07, 2008, 12:54:04 PM
Started dancing Morris in 1972 with Heston Boys Morris (Cotswold, Flamborough Sword), a school side started by Tony Peagram who had been involved with morris and country dancing since the 1940's. Played a bit of harmonica and drum.

Formed Heston Morris Men(foreman) in 1977-80 well we grew up!

Joined Datchet Morris Men 1980-2000 (Cotswold,Rapper, Longsword, Mumming). In 1991 was instrumental in change of style to Border style. First dalliance with writing dances.
Played bass drum for Taeppas Tump (ladies northwest) for two years.

Moved to Eastbourne 1999 and bought my first melodeon, an Erica. Joined Old Star Morris (Mixed Border) as foreman and stood behind their lead melodeon player whilst serving my melodeon apprenticeship.

In 2001 I set up a new border morris side after one of those 'political side break up's' www.huntersmoonmorris.co.uk (http://www.huntersmoonmorris.co.uk) www.myspace.com/huntersmoonmorris (http://www.myspace.com/huntersmoonmorris) where I am lead melodeon. Don't dance as much morris as i should do, but love my melodeon playing.
In my spare time!! I sing traditional english songs and play drums for two traditional music dance bands.

Also, suffer with MAD as many of you do to!!

Latest count 7
Erica d/g
Lilly d/g
Beltuna sara d/g
Hohner s/row 4 stop c
Hohner s/row 2 stop d
Hohner s/row g (on loan to another member of the side)
Meteor (East German box in bits)

Wow, I have just realised that's nearly 35 years of morris and music not bad for a youngster of 46.

Chris
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Delboy on January 07, 2008, 08:53:21 PM
I've been with Thelwall MM for about 25 year. These days I stick to playing melodeon as arthritis stopped me dancing about 5 years ago.
On balance though, I think I prefer playing to dancing.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Howard Mitchell on January 08, 2008, 05:41:51 PM
I joined the Beaux of London City in 1970 and learned the melodeon and anglo in the early 70s. Moved to Hitchin in 1975 and joined the Bedford Morris Men, added B/C/C# accordion for a while but never really got on with it and baritone horn for North West. Then moved to Manchester in 1986, had a year with Stockport Morris before joining the Manchester Morris Men and later becoming their bandmaster.  Moved to Derby in 1999 and had 1 season with Winster but I haven't joined any side permanently. Still play with Manchester on occasions and with other sides when asked.

Mitch 
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Dunny on January 11, 2008, 10:31:26 PM
I'm a previous member of Ilmington, dancer and musician and I'm currently one of the musicians with Shakespeare.

Also I run the Tredington Mummers and I'm a member of the Shakespeare Mummers ( I get to wear a frock at least once a year!) ;D
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Waltham on January 12, 2008, 09:51:36 PM
I've been a member of Winchester MM for 10+ years, once as a dancer, latterly only as a musician alas.  Prior to that I was in Dublin City and before that Red Stags.  I'll be playing for some of the sessions at the Ring Jigs Instructional next weekend, but probably fiddling rather than squeezing, perhaps I'll see a few of you there.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Revles on January 15, 2008, 05:16:20 PM
Have been invited to go and watch the 'Offcumdens'.a branch of the Deal 'Hoodeners' with whom I play............it's their practice night.......so we'll see how it goes..you never know.Les.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: DaveW on January 19, 2008, 12:56:22 PM
I belong to East Kent Morris Men aka EKMM. Since 8 years I think, dancer less and less, melodeon player more and more. We are looking for recruits to bring down the average age. Two years ago it was 60+ but now we have a few young men coming along. We also have women musicians. Google EKMM to see our site (discard the entries for East Kent Morris Minor Club). We practice in Ashford (Kent) for those intending.

DaveW

ps I have been waiting for those persons curious to enquire what my avatar is. No takers so far so I will confide to the english morris community that it is an iceing sugar representation of  'Invicta' the hooden horse of Kent _ Hoorah_  ;D ;D. Did you Hop-Hoodeners want to know that?
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Robin Harrison on January 19, 2008, 04:33:28 PM
I'm Musician for the Toronto Morris Men and danced for Thames Valley international before that ( and used to dance for Greensleeves when a student in London,England)
             Robin

Hi Gus.......glad to see you here !
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Pushpull on January 19, 2008, 05:35:39 PM
We are looking for recruits to bring down the average age.

Hmm you too, eh?

Roy.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: pipives on January 19, 2008, 07:05:54 PM

ps I have been waiting for those persons curious to enquire what my avatar is. No takers so far so I will confide to the english morris community that it is an iceing sugar representation of  'Invicta' the hooden horse of Kent _ Hoorah_  ;D ;D. Did you Hop-Hoodeners want to know that?

I had a rough idea what that was, coming from Sussex myself, and up until 2006 spending a lot of time with morris teams in Kent. Didn't realise it was made from icing sugar though!
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ebor_fiddler on January 19, 2008, 10:15:11 PM
I always thought "Invicta" was a locomotive!
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: oldclubII on January 20, 2008, 03:30:25 AM
It's actually a watch...

http://www.invictawatch.com/
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: DaveW on January 20, 2008, 05:47:02 PM
I always thought "Invicta" was a locomotive!


You're right, the iron version is in the Farmers market near East Station. Supposed to outdate 'The Rocket', but I don't think that's true. There was Ferry of the same name - all 'Undefeated'
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Rob2Hook on January 29, 2008, 01:52:24 PM
Yes,

Like so many of us tarts, especially Musos, play for Basingclog (North west) and Hook (Border) with different boxes for each.

P.S. picked up some part time work for Customs and Exiles (NW + Border)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Peter Brook on January 29, 2008, 10:15:09 PM
I always thought "Invicta" was a locomotive!


You're right, the iron version is in the Farmers market near East Station. Supposed to outdate 'The Rocket', but I don't think that's true. There was Ferry of the same name - all 'Undefeated'

OFF TOPIC

The first passenger railway service in the UK ran from Canterbury to Whitstable. The "train" consisted of passenger and freight carriages and was pulled by two powerful stationary steam engines and a series of ropes and pulleys.  This included passing through at least one tunnel. "Invicta" was hitched on when the reach of this system ran out and pulled the "train" for the last mile or two into Whitstable. George Stevenson was of course the engineer at the centre of all this.

"Invicta" does mean unconquered or undefeated which is meant to refer to the fact that Rome did not conquer the main indigenous tribe of Kent but signed a peace treaty. The White horse was the emblem of the tribe - now the emblem of Kent.

 :)

Now back to melodeons....
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Peter_T on April 12, 2011, 12:57:49 PM
Dance with Mad Hatter Morris, Peasmarsh, near Guildford, Surrey. Don't yet play for them. I probably got the melodeon before I started dancing Morris, but it seems to take longer....

Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Anahata on April 12, 2011, 01:25:56 PM
Ooh - hadn't spotted this thread before.
I play for Pig Dyke Molly (http://www.pigdyke.co.uk)
Previously I've played for Chelmsford, Angel and Hammersmith (all Cotswold) and also danced with Chelmsford and Angel Morris.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Thrupenny Bit on April 12, 2011, 01:53:06 PM
Ohhh.... no I've missed it too.
I once went to a practise with Great Western Morris.......
one day I'll get it right!
Q
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Tufty on April 12, 2011, 02:45:25 PM
At present I play melodeon for "Jet Set Border Morris" (Whitby N.Yorks) after a long spell doing other stuff. Long ago played for Kempsey Morris, who I think became part of "Faithfull City" from Worcester.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Malcolm on April 12, 2011, 03:14:48 PM
I started playing for The Famous Angel Morris Men of Islington and then joined the band for Cockleshell Clog when we moved down here to Southend.  Also for Barnstaple Morris as an Honorary Member and Northern Lights, dancers from The Northern Dance School in Skipton at the World Folk Dance Festival a few times.  There's something about playing out in the street with a dance team that is really satisfying, even if it is only for one man and his dog and playing for dance is really useful experience in my view.  I have had some great fun with all the dance teams I've played for and wouldn't have missed it for the world.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Pete Dunk on April 12, 2011, 03:40:58 PM
I'm a musician for Woodchurch Morris (Kent), a Cotswold side. I mostly play English concertina rather than melodeon. Woodchurch are the 'home' side at the Tenterden Folk Festival.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Owen Woods on April 12, 2011, 03:55:08 PM
Musician and dancer for Granta Blue Morris (Squire), Cambridge Morris Men, Gog Magog Molly, Bittersweet Border and have been to practices for St Albans Morris Men.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Bob Ellis on April 12, 2011, 05:13:15 PM
I have danced Morris since the late 1960s, although it is only on rare occasions that I do so now. I started with Hammersmith and have also danced with Herga, Apley, and Fenstanton over too many years. For the last twelve years, I have been a musician with Crook Morris, based in Kendal.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ollie on April 12, 2011, 05:19:09 PM
Grief, I've moved on a bit since I started this topic! Blimey, 2 or 3 weeks...

Well, it's now 3 1/2 years, I'm Squire of Cambridge Morris Men, a founder member and Foreman of Granta Blue Morris, member of Devil's Dyke Morris Men (all Cotswold) and I'm going to my first Gog Magog practice next week.

Crumbs...   :o
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Owen Woods on April 12, 2011, 05:24:46 PM
Blimey, you're starting soon :P If you're going to Gogs next week then I might too (:)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Ellie on April 12, 2011, 05:52:06 PM
I dance with Hurst Morris People (cotswold) and Taeppas Tump (NW), occasionally get my box out in practise for both, but never in public  (:)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Telemorris on April 12, 2011, 06:18:45 PM
I dance with Bridgetown Morris, Cotswold and Border (Ragman). Learning to play.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: xgx on April 12, 2011, 06:58:52 PM
Danced with Peterborough Morris (Cotswold), Yaxley Morris (Cotswold[ish] in the Summer and Molly in the Winter... the side have since morphed into Pig Dyke)   ...then the knees gave out  :'(

Currently playing along with CrossKey Clog (NW).
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Mike Averill on April 12, 2011, 07:07:34 PM
I used to be a morris dancer but Im better now  ;D

I joined Brighton Morris back in 1986. In 1988 I moved to essex and was a founder dancer and musician with Bullnose morris. I also joined Cockleshell clog at about the same time. Spent several plough mondays dancing and playing with the Molly side from Good Easter. Joined Darkhorse Rapper in 2000 playing and later dancing until it folded a couple of years ago. Also danced and played with the Maldon Green Jackets for a while.

These days Im retired from morris dancing having discovered the buzz of irish step dance.

  
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: oread_uk on April 12, 2011, 07:15:18 PM
I dance with Boggart's breakfast.  Not playing yet as not good enough  ;D

If you end up dancing for the Gogs Ollie, no doubt our paths will cross sometime, Boggarts like Gogs.  I think it's the colours...

Liz  (:)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: **DTN** on April 12, 2011, 09:29:38 PM

- HOOK EAGLE BORDER
- CHILTERN HUNDREDS N/West

DTN
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Thrupenny Bit on April 12, 2011, 09:33:34 PM
' I used to be a morris dancer but Im better now  ....'
I prefer to keep taking the tablets.....

'Im retired from morris dancing ...'    ???
sorry, that's a concept too far for me!
 ;)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: mglamb on April 12, 2011, 09:34:23 PM
Ex Foggy Bottom MM (Cotswold, Washington, DC)
Ex Albemarle MM (Cotswold, Charlottesville, VA)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: malcolmbebb on April 12, 2011, 09:36:20 PM
Well I dance with Bourne River Morris in Bournemouth and Bathampton Morris Men, both Cotswold. Brief spells with Gloucestershire, Lassington Oak (Cotswold) and Winterbourn Down (Border).
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: strad on April 12, 2011, 09:58:34 PM
More years ago than I care to recall I fiddled for Bristol University Morris (The Bums)

Nigel
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Alan Morley on April 12, 2011, 10:01:20 PM
I used to play for morris
Ripley Green Garters - ladies North West Clog
and a Border side - who shall remain nameless....

But got most fun with playing in Tight Squeeze barn dance band for a while - which came out of playing at sessions.
I fancy another barn dance band atm but there is a lack of similar minded musicians in my area....AdMag and Partysounds on the net don't produce results.

Almo
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Andy Simpson on April 12, 2011, 10:11:32 PM
None of the 20-odd people who answered no have chimed in yet so allow me to be the first...  ;D
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: ladydetemps on April 12, 2011, 10:28:56 PM
I don't belong to any morris side. Not my thaang really.

This thread aught to be called morris anonymous.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Malcolm on April 12, 2011, 10:29:37 PM
Just answered No to the questionairre(?) as my dancing days are long over and I now play just for the hell of it - and, no, there isn't a morris/border/clog/molly/rapper/whatever side called Just For The Hell Of it.  At least not as far as I am aware......?
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Sandy on April 12, 2011, 10:46:59 PM
Am learning to play for dance with Aynho Apricots and the very new Adderbury 'Sharp and Blunt' side........should cause a slight stir at the Adderbury Day of Dance this Saturday !!......maybe due to cake offerings  :P
 (:)

Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Martyn on April 12, 2011, 10:59:34 PM
I play anglo concertina and melodeon for the Chelmsford Morris Men's side  (Cotswold in the summer, Border in the winter)  and the Ladies North-West clog and step clog sides.

 :||: :M :M :M :M :M :M

Martyn
www.melodeonrepairs.co.uk
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Chris Ryall on April 13, 2011, 02:05:36 AM
Technically a 'no' at present, but I danced or played variously with Sallyport, Newcastle, "Whitby Scratch", Mersey, Morton Bay (Oz) and Mockbegger over 20 years.


None of the 20-odd people who answered no have chimed in yet so allow me to be the first...  ;D

.. Two of us now  :|glug
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Steve Fox on April 13, 2011, 08:06:05 AM
I've just started to play for Leeds Morris Men (Cotswold), which I absolutely love.  My only regret is that I didn't start sooner.  Once I have got my head around all the tunes, I rather fancy learning to dance too, as I know that would improve my playing.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Thrupenny Bit on April 13, 2011, 09:39:35 AM
Sandy - As I open my emails, I've just recieved notes for a workshop this weekend with Roy Dommett, one of his notes are about the Adderbury 'Sharp and Blunt' era. Have litterally just got the info, haven't read it yet so unsure of contents, but somewhat taken back by the coincidence!
Has Roy had any involvement or input with the new side?
Q
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: rmenhinick on April 13, 2011, 10:21:58 AM
I play with Fleet Morris - they came to the rescue when I was looking around for a melodeon teacher to get me started. I spotted Fleet Morris (Ladies Cotswold Side) at Fleet (Christmas) Festivities a couple of years ago and noted that they had two melodeon players, so I emailed the side and asked if they would put me in contact with the players. They suggested that I come along to a practice and just join in so I did - initially with my PA.

I quickly learned that despite being able to play every tune on the PA, I could only play it in Cmaj and they played everything in G/D :( So bought a Pokerwork and took flight with the melodeon! After three months or so I was deemed fit to play out with the side as long as I kept the volume (and speed) down :-\

Learning with a Morris Band has been ideal for me because
I'm now confident enough to go and play the occasional pub session and have been made very welcome when I've 'crashed' sessions while away on holiday in Devon & Cornwall. As a keen folk singer I'm now trying to play and sing (tricky, as another thread on here will testify ::)) so I can make a contribution at some of the local folk and acoustic clubs.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Chris Brimley on April 13, 2011, 10:25:04 AM
I played for a ladies' clog side many, many, many years ago, not since.

Almo - 'Tight Squeeze' - great name!
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Martin J on April 13, 2011, 11:35:33 AM
I think your poll will be a bit skewed as I am only the second thread contributor who doesn't play for a team ?  I therefore voted no.....
BUT, I have played and guested for quite a lot of teams if I'm around and they are missing a player - so not really a morris man but I do like going to ales   ;D  Does that qualify ?  ;)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Albert on April 13, 2011, 12:07:30 PM
I play for On The Border Morris in Burlington Vermont and am, help us all, squire.  Fifteen years ago I played for Mountain Top Morris from Lincoln Vermont in the Green Mountains.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Keithypete. on April 13, 2011, 01:06:33 PM
   I have danced with, and played for Bunnies from Hell for 17 years - not quite from their inception.

   We practice once a year wether We need to or not. Very much looking forward to Easter Bunnies now.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Sandy on April 13, 2011, 02:48:29 PM
Sandy - As I open my emails, I've just recieved notes for a workshop this weekend with Roy Dommett, one of his notes are about the Adderbury 'Sharp and Blunt' era. Have litterally just got the info, haven't read it yet so unsure of contents, but somewhat taken back by the coincidence!
Has Roy had any involvement or input with the new side?
Q

Interesting!. Would like to hear about it. I don't think Roy has had any input or involvement with the new side. As far as I know, there were a few local ladies who wanted to start a ladies morris side in the village. Most members are new to the morris scene since last year including myself.......which is why I probably had to google Roy Dommett  :|bl
Anyway, thanks for that Q
cheers
Sandy.........very much looking forward to our first Day of Dance  :M :|glug :|||:
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Anahata on April 13, 2011, 03:03:01 PM
Interesting!. Would like to hear about it. I don't think Roy has had any input or involvement with the new side.

"The last time Adderbury Morris Men danced was around 1880, but the dances were not noted down until the 1st World War when Miss Janet Blunt, whom older residents may remember, secured them from Mr Walton. She in turn, notified Cecil Sharp, a prominent folk song and dance collector, who also made an effort to collect some of the dances from him."
(from your parish magazine 1975 - according to Morris Ring Web Site (http://www.themorrisring.org/more/Tunes/abcAdderbury.html))

So that's where the name comes from. I was interested, because I'd never hard of Janet Blunt either.
Went to an Adderbury DoD several years ago - deffo only the two men's teams then!

Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Thrupenny Bit on April 13, 2011, 03:46:29 PM
I'll have a chat with Roy at some point ( or more likely he''ll let us know what's going on where in the morris world! )
and report back. For those who don't know, Roy Dommett in the early 70's started workshops, usually with Tubby Renolds in tow as they were really worried that the morris would fall away. He's a modern version of Sharp, collecting source material whenever possible, or analysing collected stuff. Now an older gentleman, and in poor health, last did a workshop 10 years ago in California. After our 40th Anniversay bash last year where he was guest of honour, has rejouvenated himself and wants to do a limited series of workshops.....starting with our event this weekend. I did put it in the 'Events' listing by the way.
Will stop now or else will thread drift ( sorry peeps! ) PM me if anyone wants any more of my ramblings about Roy.
Most importantly - Good luck with the new side Sandy, and most of all .....enjoy!
Q
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Noodle on April 13, 2011, 04:25:57 PM

and a Border side - who shall remain nameless....


Almo

This makes me wonder...



Anyway, I joined Black Pig Border Morris in around October last year. Started learning melodeon around December. I dance and play. Bit of useless trivia, my Dad's a founding member.

Sergeant Musgraves, Northwest a couple of months ago. Both dances and tunes are a little more complex... I do both. Well, try to.

Bunnies From Hell. Cotswold. Been going to practices for years as my parents have both danced for them. Just started playing for them. You won't catch me dancing Cotswold any time soon!

I shall be going to the next Stone Monkey rapper practice to see if I'm cut out for dancing.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Sandy on April 13, 2011, 06:51:54 PM
Interesting!. Would like to hear about it. I don't think Roy has had any input or involvement with the new side.

"The last time Adderbury Morris Men danced was around 1880, but the dances were not noted down until the 1st World War when Miss Janet Blunt, whom older residents may remember, secured them from Mr Walton. She in turn, notified Cecil Sharp, a prominent folk song and dance collector, who also made an effort to collect some of the dances from him."
(from your parish magazine 1975 - according to Morris Ring Web Site (http://www.themorrisring.org/more/Tunes/abcAdderbury.html))

So that's where the name comes from. I was interested, because I'd never hard of Janet Blunt either.
Went to an Adderbury DoD several years ago - deffo only the two men's teams then!



whoops. I thought Q was referring to the new side rather than the 'era' that I've just spotted.  :|bl We must not forget Wynnie Wyatt either who saved all the Adderbury documentation from a fire after Janet Blunt had died.

cheers
Sandy......(not quite with it today  ::))
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Thrupenny Bit on April 13, 2011, 07:54:55 PM
I've clicked on the Adderbury link ( seems a 'slow' day for me too ) . In the notations 'RD' is Roy Dommett, the hint is that some of the original material is from him, and of course Tim Radford started the first revival side.
Tim's daughter plays for us when babies permit. Small world!
Q
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: pokerwork50 on April 13, 2011, 08:36:06 PM
Hi,
I dance and play for a newish border side...Bacchus Border Morris.
See us at Rochester Sweeps this year!
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: smiley on April 14, 2011, 12:10:06 AM
I was a member of a few sides in Australia over the years and survived a few Morris Ales in my time.
Blackwattle (in Sydney); Canberra Morris Men and Adelaide Morris Men.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: savantuk on April 14, 2011, 12:17:39 AM
Hi,

I danced Border morris and Longsword with Carlisle Sword Morris and Clog for a good few years, and played melodeon for the team when I was not dancing, and for the ladies side, playing for step and clog dances.

Had to stop due to poor health - bummer >:(
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: FlatHampster on April 14, 2011, 05:40:06 AM

I dance with the Adelaide Morris Men in Australia, and started learning to play melodeon about a year an half ago. Im attending practice with a womens NW side called Lancashire Witches to try and learn the tunes, but its a long slow process.

Ive been lurking on this list ever since I first started to investigate buying a melodeon of my own, but this is my first post. I love TOTM, but never get round to recording anything.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: LesB on April 14, 2011, 08:37:15 AM
I dance with Southport Swords http//www.southportswords.org.uk (http://http//www.southportswords.org.uk) & I am reserve musician. If anyone in the area fancies a try at Longsword pm me.
Cheers
Les
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Bob Ellis on April 14, 2011, 11:20:46 AM
I dance with the Adelaide Morris Men in Australia, and started learning to play melodeon about a year an half ago. Im attending practice with a womens NW side called Lancashire Witches to try and learn the tunes, but its a long slow process.
Ive been lurking on this list ever since I first started to investigate buying a melodeon of my own, but this is my first post. I love TOTM, but never get round to recording anything.

Now I know why there are no witches left in Lancashire - they must all have been transported to Australia.  >:E

Welcome to the group, FlatHampster (interesting name). If you post something about your progress and/or problems with the melodeon, maybe we can provide some pointers to help you along.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Guy on April 14, 2011, 11:35:28 AM
Hi,

I've been playing for Clocs Canton(NW side) for something like 20 years, currently have gone back to Full Moon Morris after a 10 year gap, have played for Cobblers Awl (step clog) and Kemey's Folley (Border), and  for various Welsh dance teams (ok, I know, not Morris)...and sat in with other sides when regular musicians are unavailable. This has led to the origin of the now-traditional Welsh cry of "the music's too #*&$+@% fast" which echoes round the Valleys on Summer evenings....

Cheers,
Guy
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Bob Ellis on April 14, 2011, 02:38:51 PM
Now I know why there are no witches left in Lancashire - they must all have been transported to Australia.  >:E

Or New England? I'm still upset no one got my Salam joke  :-\

Idle curiousity led me to check back through this thread, but I can't see anywhere that you mentioned Salem. It's not just the joke that I appear to have missed.  ???
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Howard Mitchell on April 14, 2011, 03:13:42 PM
Started in 1970 with The Beaux of London City. Learned to dance Cotswold and some Northwest and a bit of longsword. Danced rapper with a university side.
Moved to Herfordshire in 1976 and joined the Bedford Morris Men.  Much melodeon playing (and some euphonium) for Cotwold and Northwest.
Moved to Manchester in 1986.  Had a year with the Stockport Men playing Northwest.
Joined the Manchester MM in 1987, played and sometimes danced for Cotswold and Northwest. They made me an honourary member when I moved to Derby 1999 so technically I'm still a member.
Had a year with the Winster MM dancing and playing.
I'm now in Leicester but not a member of any side.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Anahata on April 14, 2011, 03:22:52 PM
Idle curiousity led me to check back through this thread, but I can't see anywhere that you mentioned Salem.

Not this thread, but THIS: http://forum.melodeon.net/index.php/topic,6623.msg82529.html#msg82529
I saw it at the time, but couldn't think of a suitably witty response...
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: Bob Ellis on April 14, 2011, 04:37:48 PM
Idle curiousity led me to check back through this thread, but I can't see anywhere that you mentioned Salem.

Not this thread, but THIS: http://forum.melodeon.net/index.php/topic,6623.msg82529.html#msg82529
I saw it at the time, but couldn't think of a suitably witty response...

Thanks, Anahata......neither can I.  ::)
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: WestOz on April 15, 2011, 08:01:23 AM
I started Morris Dancing with Perth Morris Men (Australia) in 1971, danced with Hong Kong MM 1980 to1983, then back to Perth. Currently play melodeon, with occasional dancing.
Title: Re: How Many of Us Morris?
Post by: strad on April 15, 2011, 11:39:34 AM
Advice given to me one Sunday morning outside a pub, just before the side started dancing
was "You have to learn to play with a hangover!" That was after an all day tour on Saturday
when I lost count of the number of pubs we stopped at.

Nigel
 
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