Music in Amport and Monxton

Magical mix of music and mirth - Amport Church, Saturday 26 May

Amport Church is set to come alive with the best of music and mirth from Simon Mayor and Hilary James, who form one half of the Mandolinquents quartet.

The concert will raise funds for both the Church and The Alzheimer’s Society, a fitting cause as the date marks the close of Dementia Awareness Week. A representative from the Alzheimer’s Society will be at the event

Simon and Hilary are maestros of the mandolin, but have equally amazing powers over the violin, guitar, the inimitable mando bass, which Hilary plays, as well as singing a mix of folk and blues. They also share a sense of humour that brings lightness to an evening’s entertainment without descending into the trivial. Yorkshireman Simon’s tributes to northern singer / songwriter Jake Thackray are also extremely lifelike and entertaining. 

Much of the material they perform is self-penned, both for music and lyrics, but they are also expert at taking historic and popular verse and setting it to music. 

Simon and Hilary have recently co-authored some excellent children’s books, delightfully illustrated by Hilary and with accompanying CDs.

As international performers they have achieved wide acclaim. Simon’s latest album, Music from a Small Island, was named “folk record of the year” by the Daily Telegraph, which described Hilary’s singing as “elegant”.

The talented duo will make a return visit to Amport Church on the evening of Saturday, May 26. The event will raise funds for the upkeep of the church and the Alzheimers Society. Tickets, priced at £12 and already selling fast, can be obtained from Maggie Jeffery on 01264 772633