The Eelgrinders

Rich, uplifting and powerful music combining the clear harmonies of English bagpipes together with the interlacing rhythms of violin, accordion and percussion.

"european roots empowered by the heart of Albion" - English Dance & Song

"fine arrangements of their own compositions provide arresting sounds. Excellent musicianship" - Folk Roots

"this is one hell of an album" - Folk On Tap

A richly varied musical landscape of contrasting textures and interweaving melodies.

"well thought out, brilliantly arranged and the musicianship is superb, highly recommended" - English Dance & Song

"listen to this and be amazed" - Taplas

"formidable" - Trad Magazine (France)

A duet CD of traditional English and Border music arranged for bagpipes and accordion by David Faulkner and Steve Turner. Exciting pipe music spanning four centuries, much of it previously unrecorded, encompassing dance tunes, slow airs and sets of variations.

"a dynamic and innately responsive approach to the music" - Living Tradition

"full of beauty, creativity and thoughtfulness" - Common Stock

"The playing is lovely and the two musicians imaginative and sympathetic to the music and each other. This is music with an old,inclusive soul ... totally engrossing" - Eliza Carthy

The debut CD by duo Helena Torpy and Steve Turner. A finely crafted album of fiddle and accordion music, evocative often slow moving pieces with a rich full sound and resonant harmonies. A collection of beautiful tunes both original and traditional, perfect listening for a winter’s evening by the fire or for a relaxing summer’s day.

"expressive and fluid and hugely enjoyable .. rich resonant harmonies and constant fullness of sound which belies the presence of just the two instruments ... very very sweet, a CD to savour." - Living Tradition

"a finely balanced collection of traditional and self composed tunes ... a relaxing yet stimulating listen" - fRoots

"quintessentially English, elegant, eccentric: musical etiquette at its grandest" - Karen Tweed

Concerts

The Eelgrinders are one of England's most innovative contemporary acoustic groups who perform an exciting programme mixing new and traditional music played on traditional and modern instruments. They are now gaining a well-deserved reputation for their original compositions reflecting the diversity of the British musical landscape. Eel grinders music has been featured on Radio 3's Late Junction program. Expect elements of classical, traditional and jazz, with richly textured arrangements and sumptuous and powerful harmonies executed with a sparkling virtuosity.

Dances

The Eel Grinders have over twelve years experience playing for dance, specialising in both British and European traditions. David Faulkner calls dances for the Eel Grinders, or we can work with a caller of your choice.

Workshops

The Eelgrinders teach traditional French Dance workshops - with the stylish dance variations from the Morvan region a speciality.

Also individual instrument and group music workshops, technique, repertoire and group work.