About

Phoenix Ceilidh Band was formed around 2006, we’ve brought the joy of traditional dancing with live music to all sorts of parties, gatherings and celebrations across the north of England. Tony led all but a handful of the first 438 ceilidhs, calling the dances from the floor with his own distinctive blend of charm and gentle humour. The band’s success is due in great measure to his hard work. Tony left in 2020 for a well-earned retirement and since then in his place we now have callers Dominic, Steve and occasionally Anita.

The core of the dance band’s repertoire is Irish dance music – jigs, polkas, reels, waltzes and slides. It may seem odd to use Irish music for dances which are mainly English, but we have found that the unique sparkle of Irish tunes can transform even the plainest dance into something very special.

The bouzouki is the band’s preferred rhythm instrument. This, along with a pedal keyboard, fills out the low register with tasteful bass drones. Add in a button accordion, a fiddle which is occasionally alternated with a whistle or flute makes up our Ceilidh band.

Ticket price also includes supper and an email will be sent out prior to the event to request any dietary requirements.