Heather Ferrier captivated a packed Bridgwater Hall in Manchester during the opening ceremony of the 30th annual WOMEX in October 2024.
With her disarming personality and virtuoso accordion playing, she completely charmed the audience – and when she set the instrument aside to deliver a skilful, unaccompanied exhibition of North of England clog dancing, the hall erupted in applause.
A Stockport-born accordionist, clog dancer and composer, Heather has been described as an “engaging talker and magnetic performer” (NARC Magazine).
With captivating musicianship and a sound that is unapologetically her own, she is redefining perceptions of alt-folk and transforming the image of the accordion as an instrument.
Her latest EP Engine for the Sound embodies everything Heather stands for. Expanding her lineup with additional musicians, the record blends bold melodies and jazz-influenced harmonies, setting the accordion free from its stereotypes.
The EP has received acclaim from both local and national press and has been played on BBC Radio 6 Music.
“She can open up listeners to the possibilities of progressing folk styles in the 21st century”, says Fatea.
Heather also leads the Heather Ferrier Trio, joined by guitarist Alasdair Paul and drummer Adam Stapleford. On stage, their performances are an explosion of groove and melody, combining emotive moments with high-energy rhythm. Their genre-bending approach transcends the boundaries of instrumental folk, powered by Heather’s distinctive compositional style.
A graduate of Newcastle University’s Folk and Traditional Music BA (Hons) and the English Folk Expo one-year Artist Mentoring Pathway, Heather has appeared at leading events such as Cambridge Folk Festival, Focus Wales, and Newcastle Jazz & Improvised Music Festival. In 2024, she received funding from Help Musicians UK to support UK touring.
Heather and her trio will perform on Friday 03 October at St. Nicholas Church, Station Road, Baulking, Faringdon (SN7 7QE), presented by Cow Muck Promotions. Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets priced at £17.
