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. 

Final performance!

I realise I have been terribly slack in keeping this blog updated - the truth is I was so busy practising my signing that I didn't have time for much else! Thankfully all the practice paid off and we had a fabulous (if slightly nervous!) time at the performance during Folk Weekend. Thank you to all the fantastic audience who came along, sang, signed, made noises and ran around, and generally made for a really lovely morning.

Iris now have the beginnings of a website, which is currently hosted at http://catkelly.co.uk/iris.html - you can see videos of the songs from the performance (filmed by my mum!) and a few photos. We're hoping to do more gigs in 2016 and have a few pencilled in already. Do get in touch if you'd like us to come and perform for you!

- Cat :)