Introducing The Churchfitters
The Churchfitters are a truly one-of-a-kind folk ensemble, blending creativity, humour, and superb musicianship into every performance. With members from England, Ireland, and France, they bring together an eclectic instrumental mix — think fiddles and flutes, but also a musical saw, a saucepan double-bass, and even a “bing-bong” machine made of hacksaw blades. Their name might be quirky, and their instruments even more so, but their music is deeply heartfelt and sincerely joyful.
Inventive, Unconventional, and Deeply Folk
The Churchfitters pride themselves on what they call “Folk Unlimited” — their sound stretches boundaries, without losing folk’s timeless soul. Rosie Short’s vocals float between plaintive folk, soulful blues, and ethereal melodies, while she navigates a dizzying array of instruments — flute, sax, banjo, dulcimer, ukulele and more. Meanwhile, Chris Short brings rapid-fire fiddle and mandolin, plus the unexpected whimsy of a musical saw. And anchoring their sound is Boris Lebret, a creative spirit who builds his own instruments: hub-cap bouzoukis, scrap-metal basses, and other delightfully odd contraptions.
A Live Experience That Surprises and Delights
When The Churchfitters take the stage, you’re in for more than a concert — it’s a musical spectacle. Their live shows mix fast traditional tunes, original songs, humour, and a real sense of wonder, carried on unexpected sounds. Reviewers and folk fans alike praise them for their inventiveness. Their energy is infectious, and their performances feel celebratory, unifying old-world tradition with joyful experimentation.
Why Their Show Is Special
Seeing The Churchfitters isn’t just about hearing folk music — it’s about feeling the delight in creation. Their instruments tell a story just as much as their lyrics: the home-made saw, the repurposed hubcap, the saucepan bass all reflect a spirit of resourcefulness and play. With exquisite harmonies, heart-stopping fiddle, and inventive textures, their music makes you laugh, tap your feet, and maybe even believe that folk can be reinvented in the most wonderfully odd ways.