We're headed to England today for a visit with Simon Mayor. Unlike in the US where mandolin is a common instrument in many areas, it is a less common and less-vaunted source of fine music in England, except in the hands of Simon Mayor and a handful of other Brits. Simon plays in a number of configurations, most featuring his partner, Hilary James, but also as part of a mandolin quartet (or quintet) called the Mandolinquents. Among Simon's creations are at least 5 albums that Simon and Hilary made for kids. Though mandolin is Simon's principle instrument, you'll find him occasionally on violin/fiddle as well. Simon lives in Reading, England.
Past/present religious/spiritual influences: Methodist, Non-affiliated
All featured music is written and performed by Simon Mayor, Hilary James, and Friends, unless otherwise noted:
The Buttermere Waltz - from The Second Mandolin Album, & a video of Simon playing the Buttermere Waltz on violin at Buttermere.
Dead Sea Dances - from The Second Mandolin Album
Sumer Is Icumen In - traditional, from When Summer Comes Again
Clickety Clack - from Snowmen and Kings and All Sorts of Things
Linden Lea - lyrics by William Barnes, from The Second Mandolin Album, and here are the lyrics of Linden Lea
Lord Marlborough - from The English Mandolin
Hewlett - by Turlough O'Carolan, from Carolan
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