Tog Fàire

Simon is a flautist (specialising in folk but with a classical and jazz background), and whistle player. He also sings in both English and Scottish Gaelic, and this October won the Aigeallain Airgid (Silver Pendent), a prestigious singing competition at the Royal National Mòd. He's performed on the Gaelic language TV channel BBC Alba. Jake is a contemporary guitarist and arranger from Brighton with a varied musical background. Recording on several EDM, funk and folk records, writing and touring original music with the duo ‘redbook’ as well as performing with show bands across the UK, EU and UAE. Having known each other for many years and worked together in various genres and larger ensembles, Jake and Simon began swapping their favourite folk tunes and exploring sets as a duo at the start of 2023. They've now found their stride and love delving into every corner of the tradition, from toe-tapping and fiery jigs and reels, to haunting laments. Many of the tunes they play are collected from current composers and tradition bearers, alongside ones that can be traced back centuries. Simon is in Scotland as often as he can get away with, singing, playing and learning from whoever he can at festivals such as the Mòd and Fèis Rois. Both Simon and Jake can be found at sessions in Lewes, Brighton and London whenever they can find the time. After playing for Lewes Folk Club, the organiser, Valmai, said this about us: "A brilliant evening with Jake Tweddle & Simon Stallard. Beautiful, sensitive, exciting and very entertaining tunes & songs...The instruments were played with great skill and deep understanding, and complimented each other perfectly." We're new to Encore and still building this profile, but we are highly experienced performers.