Artefact Sound: Shovel Dance Collective

• Shovel Dance Collective

Shovel Dance Collective is a group of nine musicians united by their passion for traditional music from the British Isles, Ireland and beyond. An inspiring group of young people, students and dissident punks who approach folk not as an artefact from the past, but as a communal activity that happens in the here and now. Together they search for new meanings, hidden queer and feminist narratives in their musical heritage. With an arsenal of classical and folk instruments, including bagpipes, harps, pipe organ and Celtic percussion, they perform extended improvisations on simple melodies and recurring refrains. In this way, centuries-old songs blend with ‘experimental’ elements. As such, Shovel Dance Collective builds a bridge between the present and the past. No one is in charge. On stage, they form a democratic semicircle, without a clear leader. Endearing, deeply human and full of positivity: anyone who sees Shovel Dance Collective live will walk out with feelings of joy and connection.