Kathryn Tickell

Information

The internationally-acclaimed star of Northumbrian music joins forces with some of the UK’s most talented musicians to present a spellbinding evening of beautiful music at Band on the Wall.

Kathryn Tickell is considered the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes, playing with Sting, The Chieftains, The Penguin Café Orchestra, Evelyn Glennie, Andy Sheppard and many others as well as releasing 14 of her own albums. She learned in the traditional way from old shepherd musicians in outlying hill farms in Northumberland. Now considered one of the world's great players, Tickell’s wonderful evocation of the Northumbrian landscape and its people has  captivated and thrilled audiences across the world.

The Kathryn Tickell Band features Julian Sutton on melodeon (who also performs with the Kate Rusby Band), Joss Clapp on acoustic bass guitar, and younger brother Peter Tickell (who also performs with the Peatbog Faeries) on fiddle. This distinctive quartet provides a characterful setting for Kathryn’s music, matching virtuosity with sheer musicality and creativity.  The choice of instruments is inspired; whether it’s the interweaving melodies and driving sound of twin fiddles, the distinctive pairing of pipes and melodeon, or the excitement of the full band, with guitar and acoustic bass guitar adding depth and rhythmic complexity. 

This seated concert will begin at 8pm but Picturehouse Cafe Bar open for delicious food and drinks from 5.30pm

 “From infectiously danceable to immensely emotional, every tune is a gem.” Mel McClellan, BBC

“Tickell appeared with her usual crack team of accompanists. The quartet's near-telepathic ensemble tightness made for a marvellously dense yet never crowded sound.”  The Scotsman

“To say that Kathryn plays pipes is like saying that Shakespeare was a bit of a writer… one of the true stars of our music.”  Living Tradition