Sarah McQuaid
Wednesday 4th February
7.30pm Doors 7.00pm
£16
Sarah McQuaid’s lush, velvety voice combines with her engaging personality and “brilliant musicianship” (fRoots) on acoustic and electric guitars, keyboards and (occasionally) drum to create a truly immersive experience. Her live performances are full of warmth, wit, and intimacy, and have earned her loyal followings on both sides of the Atlantic.
Born in Spain, raised in Chicago, holding dual Irish and American citizenship and now settled in rural England, she brings the eclecticism of her background to her “captivating, unorthodox songwriting” (PopMatters) and choice of material. From contemplative ballads to playful blues to atmospheric instrumentals, Sarah’s music invites reflection, connection, and a deep appreciation of the quiet power of a well-crafted song.
In the words of one audience member: “Sarah is a truly impressive artist who takes you on a journey through storytelling, blending a variety of musical genres and instruments with ease and creativity. Her lyrics are down-to-earth yet incredibly captivating. Attending her concert feels like diving into a book of short stories — some resonate deeply, some spark your imagination, others make you pause and reflect, and a few bring tears or spontaneous laughter. Sarah’s connection with the audience is both gentle and profound. You don’t just watch a performance — you become part of it, part of the story she’s telling. … To anyone considering seeing her live: go. It’s worth every second. You’ll leave with your heart full and your soul touched — guaranteed.”
sarahmcquaid.com
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instagram.com/sarahmcquaidmusic
HEARTLANDS
Rupert Egerton-Smith piano
Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th March
7.00pm Doors 6.30pm
£21
Heartlands presents core piano repertoire of particular significance to the pianist, bookended by Busoni’s monumental arrangement of Bach’s 2nd Partita for solo violin and Balakirev’s Islamey, also based around a violin theme.
Regarded as a masterpiece of transcription, Busoni’s arrangement has deep emotional scope, moving from moments of sublime intimacy to soaring majesty. Beethoven’s Sonata No.21 is a key work from his ‘heroic’ decade of composition taking the listener on an emotional journey from struggle to triumph and release.
One of Brahms’ most evocative intermezzi opens the second half before a selection of Rachmaninov’s lyrical and soulful preludes. Balakirev’s oriental fantasy, Islamey, was composed after a visit to the Caucasian mountains, their “majestic beauty” making a deep impression on the composer. It is renowned for its pianistic challenges.
A virtuosic recital programme drawn across a broad arc of passion and nostalgia. Performed and presented by Rupert Egerton-Smith, described by New York Concert Review as a ‘pianist and musician of the highest calibre’.
www.rupertegerton-smith.com
BSW PRESENT LIL’JIM
Wednesday 1st April
7.30pm Doors 7.00pm
£15
Lil' Jim is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist and dynamic force in the world of Cajun and Zydeco music. With over two decades of infectious performances and musical versatility, he bridges traditional roots with modern flair—making him an unforgettable live presence.
Hailing from a rich musical lineage, Lil Jim’s father was an original member of the pioneering group R. Cajun & the Zydeco Brothers—a band instrumental in shaping the Cajun and Zydeco scene in Britain more than 40 years ago. This family background steeped him in the authentic sounds of the bayou from a young age.
Beyond group work, Lil Jim launched his solo career roughly seven years ago, creating a reputation for delivering "foot-stomping Cajun, Zydeco, and Blues music" with heart and high energy. Whether handling guitar or accordion, his performance is both soulful and electrifying—lethal in its ability to spark dance floors or move audiences emotionally.
A global artist, Lil Jim has toured extensively across the UK, Europe, and the USA—gracing the stages of iconic festivals such as: Fairport’s Cropredy Convention (UK), Shrewsbury Folk Festival (UK), Sidmouth Folk Festival (UK), Maverick Festival (UK) & Gate To Southwell Festival (UK).
He’s also appeared at genre-dedicated events like the Gloucester Cajun & Zydeco Festival and theBristol Cajun & Zydeco Festival, underscoring his reputation as one of Europe’s most popular contemporary Cajun/Zydeco artists.
Lil Jim’s shows are marked by magnetic stage presence—capable of shifting from a tender vocal moment to a barnstorming barn dance in seconds. Audiences consistently rave that "to truly experience Lil Jim you need to see him live." His combination of high-spirited accordion riffs and genuine charm keeps crowds hooked and on their feet.