Welcome to the Broadside Folk Club, Portsmouth
STOP PRESS - Folk Club no longer open to all.
For the moment, unless you are a known member, you will need an invitation to sing at the Broadside Folk Club.
For nearly 40 year the Broadside has been an open 'all welcome' Folk Club. It was place where like minded people could come to sing to each other. We didn't pay to listen or to sing, we did it for enjoyment. That heritage may now be under attack.
WHY? - PRS attempts to kill social music?
We have now had an approach from an individual perporting to be from the Performing Rights Society who informed a member that if we allow all comers to just turn up and enjoy the music we must pay the PRS over £1000 per year for the priviledge. This may be a scam but it may not. This is the same PRS that tried to take action against a shelf-stacker in a supermarket because she sang to herself while she worked. This is the same PRS that tried to stop a garage owner listening to a radio in case it was overheard by passers by. Given some of the ridiculous actions they have attempted in the past it may be genuine - we are not sure at this stage.
WHAT NOW? - Non regular members need an invitation
For the moment, and until we ascertain the legal position, if you are not a regular member you will need to request an invitation to join us. Please email us with your name and email address.
Free event Saturday 2pm, 31 March - Jake Wilson's songs on Scott's Polar Expedition
See more details about this performance on our news page
Our Acoustic Folk Music Singaround in Portsmouth
Please try to arrive between 8.00pm and 8.20pm ready for a prompt start at 8.30pm. George calls for order and the singaround then passes from person to person - one song at a time. We do allow late-comers if your circumstances do not allow a prompt arrival but as a courtesy, please try to arrive before the start.
There is a half time break, giving you the opportunity to socialise and discuss music. Depending on numbers you may get perform two to four times.
The bar is available all through the evening - a ring of the bell will bring one of the bar staff through from the main bar to the function room.