About Baldock and Letchworth Blues, Folk and Roots Club
Baldock and Letchworth Blues, Folk and Roots Club started out at the beginning of 1999 as the Mad Nanny! Folk Club. Our intention was to offer a diversity of folk and traditional music.
Since then we've broadened the musical range and are noted for our diversity of musical style and quality guests and local performers. We are based at the Orange Tree, Baldock; a lovely 17th century inn. The Orange Tree is under the management of Rob Scahill, who has developed the pub to include a purpose built function room which extends out from the old lounge. This gives us the benefit of a modern performance area, with the ambience of the old world inn. The pub is highly regarded for its real ales and wide range of beverages and locally sourced food, see their website here
You don't have to be a member to attend the club, but it does offer the benefit of discounted entry. Joining is easy; annual membership only costs £5, and guarantees a discount of at least £1 on any guest night.
Baldock and Letchworth Blues, Folk and Roots Club hosts a wide range of guest artistes, from established musical icons to talented newcomers, and encompassing a diversity of styles, including traditional and contemporary acoustic music, blues, bluegrass and folk/roots from many countries.
Previous guests at the club have included such iconic names as Julie Felix and Irish legend Andy Irvine, masters of the English folk revival Martin Carthy, Dave Swarbrick and John Kirkpatrick; American old time superstar Bruce Molsky, Canadian Old Man Luedecke, and blues heroes Dave Kelly (The Blues Band), Brooks Williams(USA), John Emil(USA), Hans Theessink (Holland) and Sonny Black.
Guests are supported by a resident band or singers, and amateur singers and musicians are welcome to perform as ‘floor spots’ on guest nights. Everyone can play at the club's less formal open floor or session/singaround nights - the ideal way to try out that new song before standing up at the front! We also host regular showcases which feature a selection of acts.
Children are very welcome at all club evenings, and up to two under 16s get free entry when accompanied by an adult. Entry prices vary according to the guest performer, and there are concessions for people who aren't working, are students or retired.
We hope you can join us for some wonderful live music!