Folk Arts Oxford aims to promote folk and traditional dance, music and song in the Oxfordshire region. In particular we are interested in improving access for those who might face barriers to participation in the arts.

Through our funded project work: children in Headington have learned about local lad William Kimber, and the musical legacy he has left; a new band called Iris has been formed, who accompany all their songs with Makaton signing; children from mainstream and special schools in Oxfordshire have the chance to create music together, and perform on the main stage at Folk Weekend: Oxford.

Alongside our own projects and events, FAO works collaboratively with other local organisations, forging links and creating opportunities for folk artists to work in education and community projects, as well as showcase their talent in local events. 

Welcome to Folk Arts Oxford

Welcome to Folk Arts Oxford! Please have a browse around our websites and get in touch if you would like more information.

Who we are...

FAO is run by Cat Kelly, a professional folk artist who has been working in the folk scene for more than fifteen years. Cat has been actively involved with the Oxfordshire folk scene since 2007, leading the revival of the now flourishing Oxfolk ceilidh series, working with Oxford Folk Festival for three years, and in 2012 consolidating her community work in to the formation of Folk Arts Oxford and the launch of the new festival Folk Weekend: Oxford.

In 2015, Nina Hansell joined the team as Admin Manager, working part time. Nina is a fiddle player and morris dancer, formally of the famed ceilidh band The Bismarcks, and now of Polkaworks and Oxfordshire North-West side Old Speckled Hen.

What we do...

Folk Arts Oxford aims to work within the local folk community; creating opportunities and resources, and promoting high quality musical experiences for all ages and abilities.

Our work includes the Folk in Oxford website, celebrated festival Folk Weekend: Oxford and a variety of funded projects, most notably ‘Inclusive Folk’ which focuses on enabling people with disabilities to be a part of community arts events. We run training and development days for artists, and a variety of workshops for members of the public.

For more detail this page will tell you all about us.

Work with us!

We are always interested in hearing from individuals who want to make things happen in their community.

Whether you’re a folk artist wanting to work with us as an Associate Artist, or someone who wants a bit of help putting on an event or applying for funding - get in touch! Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone us on 01993 357240.

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