Copyright © Captain Swing 2001 .  Last updated:  06/01/2008 11:45

Captain Swing. English Ceilidh Band based in the West Midlands. Exciting Music, Dynamic Dances.

Introduction:                                      info'       more info'       history             

Captain Swing are a five piece English Ceilidh Band; four musicians and a caller, playing exciting music for dynamic dances.

Current CD "..and other likely stories." available now. Listen to excerpts on the Music page. Click links to find out more 

Browse the site to find out details about the band, the gigs, music and reviews. Click on the links above for quick access to items on this page, or navigate the pages at your leisure. Enjoy.

If you're looking for an exciting, friendly and experienced band to play at your event then get clicking and email your requirements to: Captain Swing

Download the latest Captain Swing flier with band info' and latest gigs list. (adobe acrobat)           

Information:

• What sort of Dances?      Captain Swing play music for English Country Dances, often called Barn Dances or Ceilidhs. This is traditionally a social evening of country dance, music and occasionally songs. The event is led by the caller who leads everybody through the dances.

• Who for?      These dances are fun and can be enjoyed by anyone, of any age, ability or sex. They are ideal for all kinds of social events. No experience is necessary as the caller explains everything you need to know. An entertaining time for all is guaranteed.

• What sort of Music?      The musical repertoire of the band is based mainly on traditional English dance tunes and music written by Andy. This is complemented by classics from 1066 to 1966! The talented line-up of skilful multi-instrumentalists play in a wide range and variety of styles, drawing influences from traditional Roots, Folk Rock, Jazz, Country and Rock 'n' Roll. The music is fresh and exciting, with no two tunes ever sounding the same.

• Interested?      Captain Swing are now available for your dance. Please contact the Band by Email or any other medium

• Where can we see you next?      Current public dates are listed on the Gig Guide page

More information:

info' (major events)
Four Fools Folk Festival		The original band, formed in 1988, have performed throughout the Midlands and further afield ever since. Click on the green arrows to go to that event review. Click here to go to the Reviews page
Lichfield Folk Festival
The Bard Ceilidhs Birmingham
Postlip Hall Tythe Barn
Dance House Swindon
Corn Hall Cirencester
Upton Folk Festival
Chester Folk Festival
Redditch Folk Festival
Chippenham Folk Festival
Broadstairs Folk Festival
Bridgnorth Folk Festival

A little bit of History:

The name Captain Swing originates from a dubious historical English character from the 19th century, famous for allegedly inspiring the riots which led to the 1832 Reform Act. Captain Swing has also been used as the title of a stage play produced by the RSC in 1978, a book by Larry Duplechan about an American jazz singer, an album by Michelle Shocked, the name of a wrestler, the trading name of a defunct festival catering service, used in some song lyrics by the 1970s punk band the Sex Pistols, and recently the title of a music magazine. Apart from the historical character none of this was known to the band when the name was adopted by today's Captain Swing!