A Good Ole Norfolk “Tune-Up” at The Reindeer, Norwich
Sunday 25th January 2026
On a rather dank and chilly winter afternoon a fair throng decided to get in out of the weather and found themselves in The Reindeer for the first of the “Norfolk Tune-Up” events. As to the name, when the old boys got together for an occasion of music making, it was never a ‘session’, even less a ‘concert’ of any kind; most likely it was getting together for a ‘tune-up’’, as they would have it, and so we have decided to use the phrase, as singularly appropriate. By the start time of 4.00, the pub was gratifyingly full and others added to the company as the afternoon wore on.
What followed was the best part of three hours of music, song and step dance, just about all with a Norfolk provenance in one way or another. It kicked off with a couple of sets of tunes, the music being led by the fairly recently-formed Unthank Irregulars band, but with many people playing along, ranged around the stage area. More sets of tunes – hornpipes, polkas, jigs, schottisches and waltzes, the usual fare – followed at intervals, being interspersed with songs from several different performers, as well as a step dance, as fancy took. Of particular note was the couple dancing of Barry Mobbs and Monica Rackham, adding grace and a visual spectacle to the proceedings, with impressive frequency. In addition, both Richard Blake and Tom Knights gave us several dulcimer solo pieces. Too many people contributed to be noted individually, but special mention should perhaps be made of Sheila Park, who gave us several songs, some of which she learned in person from Harry Cox.
A wonderful atmosphere pervaded the proceedings and it was gratifying to see people of all ages enjoying the event. By the time things were drawing to a close, the pub had apparently run out of cask ale and everyone seemed contented that it was a great success.
Future events
The plan is to continue with these “Tune-Up” events monthly, in different places around the county. The stand-alone events are on Sundays, at different times, depending upon what suits the venue. In addition, there will be a “Tune-Up” aspect to other, larger events – dates below. In many ways a cross between a ‘led session’ and a concert party, the emphasis is on varied entertainment, but also on participation. Many of the tunes have been posted online on the website and more will follow. In addition, there are plans to add recordings, all to help people to learn the tunes. Do come along to join in the tunes, sing a song or do a turn, or just soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant local musical heritage.
Dates
“Tune-Up” dates – all Sundays:
- 26 April: Briston Three Horseshoes 1-4pm
- 17 May: Erpingham Spread Eagle 4.30-7.30pm
- 14 June: Shotesham Globe 4-7pm
- 30 August: North Lopham King’s Head 4-7pm
- 18 October: Dereham Cock Inn 3-6pm
In addition, there’ll be a “Tune-Up” element to the following:
- Saturday 28 March: Briston Copeman Centre 12.00 – 4.00: A Celebration of Norfolk Music, Song and Dance
- Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July: Strumpshaw Tree Fair – details to follow
- Sunday 19 July: Warham Three Horseshoes – Stepdance Day – details to follow.
- Saturday 8 August – Thorpe Abbot Folk Day – details to follow
- Saturday 5 or Sunday 6 September – Bungay Folk Festival – details to follow
- Saturday 19 September: Stowmarket Traditional Music Day – details to follow
Further dates to be added in due course.
Chris Holderness