A passion for folk

English Dance and Song Winter 2021

This article appears in English Dance and Song, the magazine of the English Folk Dance and Song Society. The world’s oldest magazine for folk music and dance, EDS was first published in 1936 and is essential reading for anyone with a passion for folk arts. 

Leo Long, 20, tells us how being a member of the London Youth Folk Ensemble has not only developed his love of folk music and dance – but has also led to a role acting in a major film!

My name is Leo Long. I’m a folk musician, playing banjo and bodhran, and I was recently chosen for a leading role in a Netflix feature film.

I‘ve always been passionate about folk music, so being introduced to the London Youth Folk Ensemble was one of the best moments in my life. The live gigs are an amazing experience, and I love spending time with excellent and enthusiastic folk musicians of a similar age. As an autistic musician, it’s not always easy to join social groups, but we all respect each others’ talents when we play music together. 

The tutors have been very understanding of my needs every step of the way. Folk music is suitable for any age and anyone with special needs, particularly for anyone who prefers to learn by ear. I enjoy folk dance too.

Earlier this year, Beth Beamer, who is Acting Education Manager at the English Folk Dance and Song Society, passed me information about an acting audition. The production team was looking for an autistic teenager who could play music. At first, I wasn’t sure about auditioning for this role because I had never experienced acting, apart from in school plays. But in the end, I decided to be brave and give it a go. After the first audition, I felt more confident because my lines were very similar to how I’d say things in real life. 

Following the second audition and after a six-month wait, I finally received fantastic news from the casting director: I’d been chosen to play the part of Stevie, a gifted autistic drummer. I have endeavoured to master the drums in a short period of time. Now I’m shooting the full-length feature film under a very talented director, with top actors, a great crew and support team. I still can’t believe what’s happened!

Playing in the London Youth Folk Ensemble has taught me a variety of folk music styles and tunes, including jigs, slip jigs, reels, polkas and hornpipes. I use my whole body to play the music and play from the heart with deep passion. I am very grateful to the Ensemble for giving me the opportunity to develop my music – and now my acting.

I am looking forward to studying Music Composition at the University of Creative Arts from next year. I am an autistic musician and actor with special needs, and I’m excited for the future because I enjoy the challenge.

Find out more about London Youth Folk Ensemble