PARSLEY HAY Ceilidh Band

Founding member Barry Butler wrote in 1987 - “The seed of the idea to form a ceilidh / twmpath band was sown in Oct 1977, when some caravanning friends suggested it would be a good idea to have one. I gathered local musicians from Isca Morris (Pete Clark, Colin Edmunds, Bob Gribble, Ian Lewis and Ken Hunt), and in March 1978 we played our first gig. The name “Parsley Hay” comes from Derbyshire, a pleasant hamlet in middle of nowhere. As that was the way we played, it seemed appropriate.”

There have been many changes to the line-up over the years, and amongst those who have graced the “Hay stage” have been - Huw Williams (Crasdant) & Tony Williams, Dean Ryan (Juice), Geoff Cripps (Allan yn y fan), Mike Lease, Angharad Jones, Jane Reynolds, the Kilbrides, and of course Barry & Rosemary Butler. Callers such as Rod Jones, Mike Hughes, Trevor Reynolds, Dave Parsons, Mark Elvins, Hilary Herbet, Ian Lewis and Adrian Foss have appeared with Parsley Hay.

The regular cast are Ken Hunt (electric violin & caller), Mike Collins (acoustic electric guitar) and Steve Allen (drum kit), with Tony Williams (Bass) and/or Tim Jones (drum kit) as and when the venue dictates.

  Pronounced ‘kay-lee’ (from the Gaelic), it’s basically the same as a (Welsh) Twmpath or (English) Folk Dance (we are NOT a Country and Western type band).

     Parsley Hay will help you provide your own entertainment, during which the dancing and music is ususally split into 2  sessions, and with a break for food, drink or just oxygen!

     We ask that dancers wear comfortable clothing and footwear, be prepared to have a laugh, and join in as often as the body (and mind) will allow.

     If your organisation has limited numbers or resources, then why not open the dance to the public (we know lots of people who like to come to our gigs), or join up with another group, and share the event (and cost!).

     Parsley Hay provide a PA for their own use, and we do require at least 2 x 13amp power points near the stage or performance area. We’re unable to operate without them.