The Greatest Folk Festival in the World

Anglia Television celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Cambridge Folk Festival.

The Cambridge Folk Festival is celebrated in this documentary profile by Anglia Television, with the festival's tenth anniversary in July 1974 attracting large crowds, many of whom camp on site. Festivalgoers revel in the unique atmosphere; drinking, chatting, dancing and listening to the best folk artists from Britain, Europe and the United States. Live performances are interspersed with quotes from organiser Ken Woollard, who talks about the festival's success, and interviews with festivalgoers about what makes them return to Cambridge every summer. American singer-songwriter Arlo Guthrie performs 'Deportees' to a large crowd, whilst others meet, share food and play music in the tent field. Performances from British folk artists Rosemary Hardman, and Pigsty Hill Light Orchestra is followed by a trio of songs by Loudon Wainwright III; 'Liza', 'Muse Blues' and 'Unrequited to the Nth Degree'. The following morning, early risers wander through the litter-strewn fields, as sleeping campers wake, rubbish is collected and the crowds begin to form for another day of live music. George Deacon and Marion Ross perform a traditional English ballad, whilst Scottish quartet Boys of the Lough continue their celtic revival. Crowds drink and enjoy the festival atmosphere as Breton musician Alan Stivell performs a traditional song with his harp, before his full band closes the festival with a raucous set combining traditional celtic music with modern rock instrumentation.

Featured Events

Cambridge Folk Festival, 1974

Keywords

Dancing; Festivals; Folk music; Music; Musicians; Singers