The Gardeners Green Folk Music Club in Merville will host a house concert Oct. 20 with Tom Lewis, a performer who has for many years headlined folk festivals and maritime events all over England, Europe and North America.
Tom's repertoire, from traditional shanties to songs fashioned out of his own seafaring background, is by turns reflective, dramatic and humorous.
Tom was born in Northern Ireland and that Celtic heritage is obvious in his clear, strong voice, evoking quiet sorrow for a fisherman lost to the sea just as honestly as it powers out a shanty "to be heard above the gales."
Tom accompanies himself on button accordion and ukulele — but it's that powerful vocal style and infectious humour that make him a true entertainer. He is a 24-year veteran of Her Majesty's Royal Naval diesel submarines.
His songs cover a wide range of nautical topics, from life on board H.M. ships, through the loneliness and lure of the sea, to traditional shanties and classic nautical poetry set to his own, and others' melodies.
For more information, check out www.tomlewis.net.
As this is a house concert, held in a private home, seating is limited and tickets must be reserved in advance. The ticket price is $20 per person and includes hot drinks and a big dessert buffet.
Gardeners Green events are non-profit and all the money taken at the door goes directly to the performer. The club will also hold a popular charity raffle. Reservations can be made by ringing 250-337-5337.
— Gardeners Green Folk Music Club