Mercury prize nominee and Songlines Award winner Sam Lee is set to perform at Gregynog Hall on November 24 as the culmination of a fabulous folk series.
Sam performed at Glastonbury in 2024 and has toured across Europe and the UK. His singular interpretations of folk songs and themes break down the barriers between traditional and contemporary music.
He is also known for his love of wilderness and nature, making him a perfect match for a historic house set in 750 acres of stunning nature reserve.
Gregynog Hall has played a leading role in the development of Wales’ classical music scene it was the home of the Davies sisters in the 1930s. Music festivals were held at Gregynog Hall, attended by famous musicians such as Sir Adrian Boult, Walford Davies and Gustav Holst.
Gwen and Margaret Davies were always passionate about the arts. Prior to the Great War, they had begun collecting paintings and other works of art, notably French Impressionists and post-Impressionists – Monet, Renoir, Cezanne, Pisarro, Sisley, Morisot – which was very daring stuff for the times.
Their adviser was a man called Hugh Blaker who was the brother of the sisters’ governess. Gwen was also a talented musician and music was very important to both sisters.
They converted the Billiard Room in their home into a Music Room which continues to host concerts including a free programme of chamber music on Saturday mornings.
Now Gregynog is looking beyond its traditional classical remit and to host contemporary interpretations of traditional music. Gregynog Hall’s Autumn 2024 Folk Series concludes on Sunday, November 24 with a performance by Sam and his band.
Lee’s most recent album ‘Songdreaming’ was a Mojo Album of the Month earlier this year and is the recipient of five-star reviews. With a lyrical focus on the perilous state of the natural world that has informed Sam’s work since his debut, ‘Songdreaming’ represents his most expansive and fully realised album to date.
“I wanted to sing a vision of what a conversation between us and the land could be, to restore and inspire a practice of songful immersion in nature that brings with it healing, something we need now more than ever,” he said.
Gregynog Hall offers a range of accommodation which allows visitors to make a weekend of it and explore the estate’s amazing 750-acre estate.
Gregynog Hall’s woodland is part of Wales’ national forest with miles of paths to explore so pack your boots as well! Early tickets cost £22.50 including booking fee (£27.50 full price). Details are available at www.gregynog.org and you can book accommodation by calling the Hall on 01686 650224 or email enquiries@gregynog.org.
