About

“Accordion Virtuoso”- Tom Robinson

“A State of Sonic Bliss”- The Line of Best Fit

“Epic in So Many Ways”- FATEA

With captivating musicianship and a sound that is unapologetically her own, Heather Ferrier is a force to be reckoned with. An “engaging talker and magnetic performer” (NARC magazine), the Stockport born Newcastle-based accordionist, clog dancer and composer is changing the perceptions of alt-folk on her own terms. Her latest single Challenge not Accepted creates music that sets the accordion free from its stereotypes and expresses everything Heather stands for using powerful melodies and jazz-influenced harmony. Bold, passionate and enthralling; her music has been played on BBC Radio 6 music, and well as being favourably reviewed in local and national publications.

When performing, Heather is now joined by guitarist Alasdair Paul (Pons Aelius) and drummer Adam Stapleford (Ponyland). On stage, the trio perform music that is an explosion of groove and melody that embellishes Heather’s signature alt-folk style. The combination of Ferrier, Paul and Stapleford’s medley of influences and genre-bending collaborations transcends the limits of contemporary instrumental folk music, employing Heather’s distinct compositional style to create a show with both emotive and upbeat moments. Heather has performed at festivals across the UK and Europe including Cambridge Folk Festival, Manchester Folk Festival, Alkantara Festival (Sicily) and a performance at the Bridgwater Hall as part of WOMEX 2024.

A keen collaborator in the North East, Heather also performs with prog-folk powerhouse Pons Aelius and Jon Doran and the Northern Assembly. She also collaborates with Estonian accordionist Maimu Jõgeda. As a duo, these two outstanding accordionists are best known for pushing boundaries and defying expectations. Together, they achieve a rare kind of musical alchemy – and the results are simply spectacular.