The Haar Band

Conway Hall is proud to present folk super-group The Haar, supported by young talent Lizzy Hardingham. The Haar brings the fresh talent of traditional Irish singer Molly Donnery combined with three of the most exciting instrumentalists on the folk and traditional music circuit: Cormac Byrne, Adam Summerhayes and Murray Grainger. Four musicians, each at the pinnacle of their respective fields, whose spontaneity thrives on the trust they put in each other to create their unique and “splendid balance of swirling instrumental magic and beautifully sung narratives” (Folk Radio UK). The band has its origins in a chance meeting between Adam, Cormac and Molly at a trad session at Craiceann Bodhrán Festival, Inis Oírr, resulting in an improvised live performance recorded by the shipwreck of the Plassey on the wild Atlantic seafront. It was to become typical of the unique ‘live reactive composition’ that characterises their music. The Haar take a familiar tune and turn it into something fresh that mysteriously feels as if you have known it forever. As the band themselves say: “We let our imaginations run free with these old favourites,” and the result is breathtaking and ambitious. “We need more music like this; spontaneous, alive and affecting, The Haar will take you on a journey and have you appreciating the purest of life’s pleasures. Wonderful stuff.” – Folk Radio UK Folk infused singer songwriter Lizzy Hardingham sings songs that drive straight to the heart, giving audiences a chance for genuine connection and empathy. Hardingham is paving her way as a powerhouse performer with beautifully delivered songs, her wonderful voice grabbing the listener from the very first note and holding on until the last. Think Christine Collister, Joni Mitchell, Sandy Denny and KT Tunstall all wrapped into one. Her sensitively penned songs have been spun on radio stations throughout the UK, across the pond and in Europe; with BBC Cambridgeshire heralding her as “A truly passionate and important voice”. This paragon of vocal vigour and songwriting sorcery has supported the likes of Lady Maisery, Gilmore & Roberts and Bob Fox (to name a few) and is emerging gracefully into the world of headline shows. Her newest record, Seven, features a varied mix of traditional and self-penned songs about our seas. ​“It’s a voice that demands to be heard as words alone can’t do it justice.” – Fatea Magazine