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. 

Projects

As part of our 'Development' strand, FAO runs externally funded projects aimed at promoting folk and traditional music, song, and dance in the Oxfordshire region.

If you have a project idea, why not get in touch to see if we can help? We are able to offer support on all aspects of putting a project together, including project development, grant writing, budgeting, administration, marketing, and management of projects. As an organisation we are able to access funding streams not open to individuals, and would be very happy to hear from anyone who is interested in running a folk project in the Oxfordshire region.

Click on the links below for more information about our current projects:

Back to the Quarry

BTTQ is a project exploring the history of local morris dancer and concertina player William Kimber, and bringing the story to the wider community.

Makaton Folk Song

This exciting and unique project saw twelve folk songs translated for singing with Makaton signing, and performed with a live band at Folk Weekend 2015.

Inclusive Folk pilot 

A pilot project starting to bridge the accessibility gap; working with children with Special Needs and Disabilities and their schools and families, aiming to build their confidence to attend cultural events such as Folk Weekend.

Hands up for Singing

A project focused on integration between mainstream pupils and those from special schools, using music and Makaton-signed folk song. This project culminates in a celebration concert to open Folk Weekend: Oxford 2018.

Songs of Life and Love

A project in conjunction with the Bodleian Library, bringing new life to some of their old Broadside Ballads, and getting them sung by community choirs.