The second annual Big Boulder Music and Arts Festival took place on Heeley Park on Sunday, September 8th, with over 700 people filling Taggy’s Field for a later summer afternoon of live music and art.
A set from local band, Tandem kicked things off and they were followed on stage by Hungarian Lanterns before York-based singer/songwriter Holly Taymar performed with he assistance of guitarist/percussionist Chris Bilton as The Bronze.
Alternative acoustic act Maia, folk, blues and roots duo Rita Payne and Big Tent and The Gypsy Lantern also took to the stage before Latin acoustic power trio Mas Y Mas brought the festival to a close with their unique brand of sensual fiesta.
“The atmosphere was perfect” said Tessa Adams, a musician from Atherton Road in Arbourthorne. “Nothing felt forced – it was really friendly and relaxing – my son Luke, who’s just turned two, had a big grin on his face all day and was up dancing straight away!”.
Free activities taking place alongside the music stage were kite making, stone balancing, scavenger hunting and wood land crafts run by the Heeley Park team.
“We’ve been overwhelmed bu the response” said Bev Nunn, events organiser at Heeley Development Trust, “it was really nice to see so many kids, parents and teachers from local schools”.
Planning for next years festival has already begun, with a monthly programme of fundraising music nights being held at the Heeley Institute. From award winning folk, acoustic and blues to traditional gypsy jazz there have been performances from highly-rated emerging bands alongside seasoned veterans with international profiles.
