Everyone in Devon who is involved in some folk activity, will combine their efforts during the month of April, to raise money to purchase Soundbeam equipment for people within the county, young or old, with a disability. The month of April will be known as the Devon Folk Awareness Month.

This month of fund-raising has been organised by “Devon Folk”, a committee of volunteers representing all the Folk Clubs in the county. “Devon Folk” is committed to keeping our folk traditions alive by sponsoring and organising folk events, through training and education and by supporting and publicising events organised by individual members or clubs. “Devon Folk” also produces a Folk Magazine three times a year called “What’s Afoot”. This magazine lists all the folk clubs in Devon, all the diary dates and has articles and reviews. For a copy, ring 01363 877216.

Soundbeams

The Soundbeams that Devon Folk wish to purchase, are made in Bristol and are an English development of a Russian invention. Music is made by the interruption of sonic waves produced by one or more 'shower-head-like' devices connected to a sophisticated control unit. Soundbeams are ideal for making music (one or multiple instruments)  by single hand movements to the whole body or even a group of people, when the control unit is set by a trained person. A full Soundbeam kit and tuition costing £2,700 is much sought after by music 'specialists' at homes for the handicapped and hospices. Devon Folk has four such places hoping they will be offered a Soundbeam.