IT’S GOOD to hear from many of my musician friends that they are gigging again around Christmas after not being able to in 2020.

I had another good week of gigs and it was nice to be interviewed on the Sylvie Blackmore radio show on BBC Surrey on Sunday. Lots of live music coming up.

On Saturday, the Rushmoor Odd Fellows Male Voice Choir will be singing with guest soprano Emma Mabin in aid of Friends of Farnham Hospital at Farnham Maltings (7.30pm).

Tickets are £12.50 and are available from the box office on 01252 745444 or online at farnhammaltings.com

This Sunday from 3pm it’s the Songbird Christmas Special at The Keep in Castle Street, Guildford. Songbird have played a monthly residency at the venue for some time and comprise vocalist Debby Bracknell and pianist Andy Walls.

They will be playing a festive selection of pop, soul and jazz favourites.

The Christmas Belles will also be performing so a lovely afternoon is in store. Entry is free and food will be available before the gig until 2.30pm. Make a table booking by emailing [email protected] to avoid disappointment.

Live music is thriving at the Hogs Back Brewery, with sold-out shows this weekend for the TR5’s and The MxX then, leading up to Christmas, there are gigs in the Tap Room at the brewery by Green Shield Tramps, Jump 66 and Don’t Look Now. More details at www.hogsback.co.uk

A reminder that this Friday at Farnborough Football Club it’s Stolen By Thieves playing indie/rock classics. Contact Pete Cole on 07802 683738 for details.

Next Friday (December 17) it’s another show for Music At The Pottery, Farnham. This time it’s their Christmas special which includes Sandy McLelland, Paul & Glen, Peter Crutchfield and the Dirty Carols. It’s sold out but may be worth checking for any returns at www.thefarnhampottery.co.uk

Meanwhile on Saturday, December 18, Grayshott Folk Club have their Christmas Special with Melrose Quartet which comprises top Folk musicians Nancy Kerr, James Fagan, Jess Arrowsmith and Richard Arrowsmith. The show will be based on The Rudolph Variations, which is their full-length album that features a range of joyous seasonal songs, from traditional carols to contemporary wassails. It will be a fun evening of music and song, and even an award for the most memorable Christmas jumper!

Tickets are £18 and available from Des O’Byrne on 01428 60709.

Brian Player continues his folk, roots and acoustic music show each Tuesday at 8pm on Wey Valley Radio based in Alton, on 101.1FM or online at www.weyvalley.uk

My new single Easy Life is released on Friday on all online platforms including Spotify and Apple Music.

GIG GUIDE

(free entry and 8pm

unless stated):

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9

Open Mic at The Good Intent, Petersfield

Will Clements at The Mulberry, Farnham

London Piano Players at The Wheatsheaf, Farnham

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10

Flying Tigers at The Plough, Farnham

Gavin Thomas at The Britannia, Guildford

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11

Thunderhead at The Plough, Farnham

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12

Songbird at The Keep, Guildford

Anna Palmer at The Mulberry, Farnham

MONDAY, DECEMBER 13

Acoustic Café at Rose and Crown, Sandhurst

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14

Unplug The Wood at Lion Brewery, Ash (7pm)

Julie’s Open Mic at Village Inn, Sandhurst

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15

Jam Night at The Plough, Farnham

* Send listings and any events or new music releases you would like me to feature to [email protected] A good photo is also useful.