What We Do

We play for English and Scottish ceilidhs and barn dances, usually around Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties (Buckinghamshire, Wiltshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Berkshire, and Gloucestershire), though we have also been as far afield as London, Kent, and the south coast. We normally provide a caller who will explain the dances clearly for dancers of all levels, whether novice or expert. A ceilidh is a great way to celebrate your wedding or birthday as it is inclusive of any age, from nipper to senior citizen! Though we usually use amplification we are nowhere near as loud as a disco, so there is no need for the older generation to run and hide when we play.

We also do corporate functions, and we possess the up-to-date PAT certificates and public liability insurance that are often required for such events.

Though our preference is to play as a four-piece, we can also offer options with fewer band members where budgets are tight.

History

The Larkrise Ranters were formed in 1997 out of a scratch band that came together to play for a fund-raising event at Larkrise First School in Oxford. Amongst the line-up for that event was Ed, who had recently come to folk music after some years playing guitar in a rock band. There have been a few line-up changes over the years, the most recent being the addition of Josh on bass and Toby on clarinet.

The band has become increasingly busy over the years, earning a widespread reputation for providing a reliable and professional service and a fun evening.