Gold Badges are presented for unique or outstanding contributions to folk music, dance or song and/or exceptional contributions to the work of the English Folk Dance and Song Society.
Gold Badges for 2019 will be awarded to:
Chris Coe, traditional singer/instrumentalist
John Graham, who took over accordion duties at Headington Quarry Morris Dancers from
William Kimber himself
Kate Rusby, singer-songwriter
Mike Norris, former Chair of EFDSS and presenter of its weekly Classic Folk radio show
They join an illustrious list of Gold Badge holders including pioneering folk-song collector and EFDSS founder Cecil Sharp (1923), composer/collector Ralph Vaughan Williams (1943), performer/writer AL Lloyd (1975), Ewan MacCoIl (1987), Peggy Seeger (1987), EFDSS President Shirley Collins (2003) and EFDSS Vice President Eliza Carthy (2007).
Katy Spicer, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the English Folk Dance and Song Society, said:
This year’s recipients truly demonstrate the breadth, depth and vibrancy of our English folk arts. These four individuals have each made significant contributions to our folk culture while entertaining, inspiring, supporting and informing countless people. We are delighted to recognise them with these prestigious awards.
More information about Gold Badges
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