Fiddlers tune up for event

Jan 18 2008

THERE'S one helluva line-up for Kings Norton's Tower of Song this weekend.

Kicking off at 6pm today, and continuing from 11am tomorrow and Sunday, Fiddle Hell will be heaven for fans of violin music in all its forms, from classical to jazz, folk and rock.

"It's a place where lots of violinists meet and set their own agenda," says organiser and electric fiddle player Pete Hartley. "There will be performances and workshops, with people coming from as far as America, Holland and Italy to take part.

"Anybody can turn up and play - it seems like anarchy in action but it all falls into place."

Fiddle Hell began in the States and also takes place in Britain in Buxton. But this year Birmingham is debuting as a host city.

"Depending on how well it goes this could be a one-off or a regular Birmingham event," says 48-year-old Pete who lives in Stoke Prior.

Featured performers include jazz violinist Graham Clark and Trisha Clark (no relation) who will be taking an Irish music workshop. Pete will perform on Saturday with Virtuoso Strings which features Sally Minchin and Anna Chippendale, and on Sunday with his bluegrass band, Witchhazell, who play every Monday night at The French Hen in Clent.

For more details call 0121 486 1300.