Beth Gifford, violist and vocalist, is one of a new wave of versatile young musicians sweeping the Uk. As a classically trained Violist brought up in English Ceilidh tradition Beth is inspired by the rhythm, shape and vibrance of traditional dance music but has had extensive orchestral and classical ensemble training and performance experience.
Beth writes her own songs and tunes and is currently performing with Playford string quartet Mrs Savage's Whim, Ceilidh band Take the Biscuit and Duo Gifford, Brookes.
Beth is a commited and driven teacher, running workshops, courses, ensembles and teaching instrumental lessons for EFDSS, her own company One of the FEW and Camden Music Service.
Beth has performed with; Anna Mullens & Beth Gifford, (2014-16) (including festival performances at Sidmouth and Shepley Festivals,) The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble (2009-2014) including performing at, Cropredy 2014 with Fairport Convention Towersey, Shambala and Cromer Festivals. Ceilidh Bands The Diatonics, The Comittee Band, Chalktown. Tutor bands for The Full English Learning Project and Shooting Roots, As a soloist with The Maltings Sinfonia and baroque group Summo Campana. She was violist with The Cornwell Quartet from 2012-14 and has extensive orchestral experience. She is also passionate about new music and has premiered works by composers Luke Deane, Luke Ivison and Trevor Lines and led an improvisation ensemble at Fizzle with saxophonist Paul Dunmall.
Beth has a BMus (Hons) from Birmingham Conservatoire in Viola Performance and holds ABRSM Grade 8s in Viola, Singing and Piano.