Committee member John Foxen talks about his group’s love of music.

Romford Recorder: Trio Folking Young, comprising music teacher Di Russell and two of her former pupils, Berwyn DuBois and James Doherty. [Picture: Peter Walters]Trio Folking Young, comprising music teacher Di Russell and two of her former pupils, Berwyn DuBois and James Doherty. [Picture: Peter Walters] (Image: Archant)

“Why sit at home watching The X Factor thinking, “I could do better”, when you could go out and try to?

“HaverFolk offers performers of all levels a chance to show their skills in public.

“Unlike X Factor there is no panel of snide judges, but a sympathetic, supportive audience, many of them fellow performers who know how nerve-wracking it is facing the public for the first, second or even 22nd time.

“Folk music is music made by the people for the people.

Romford Recorder: The audience at one of the group's shows. [Picture: Peter Walters]The audience at one of the group's shows. [Picture: Peter Walters] (Image: Archant)

“So on any given night you might hear traditional ballads, songs from the 1960s, something by Ed Sheeran, a sea shanty, music hall ditties or an operatic aria.

“These may be performed unaccompanied, or with guitars, concertinas or esoteric instruments as a hammered dulcimer or bowed psaltery.

“It’s a cheap night out too – your first evening is free, then £1.50 for an open session and £3 for the once a month guest nights which feature top class acts.

“So, if you play, sing or just want to hear live music in good company, try HaverFolk.”