KNUTSFORD Music Festival has announced an exciting line-up for this year.

The summer celebration returns from June 13-16 with a wealth of talented singers performing live at venues across the town centre.

BBC Radio 2 Folk Show host and Knutsford resident Mark Ratcliffe brings another fantastic selection of artists.

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Knutsford Little Theatre plays host to Frankie Archer, winner of the 2023 Christian Rapheal Prize on Thursday, June 13.

Chester and District Standard: Acclaimed singer-songwriter Frankie ArcherAcclaimed singer-songwriter Frankie Archer (Image: Frankie Archer)

Frankie has featured on ‘Later With Jools Holland and been championed by tastemakers at BBC Radio 2 and 6Music.

Broadcaster Mark Radcliffe has described her music as ‘gorgeous trad playing and creative vocal twists - a fascinating and intoxicating blend of the contemporary and the traditional’.

Frankie has exploded onto the electrofolk scene with music that transcends stereotypes using a combination of samples, synths, and earthy Northumbrian fiddle to capture her audience.

Chester and District Standard: Virginia Kettles Rolling FolkVirginia Kettles Rolling Folk (Image: Virginia Kettles Rolling Folk)

This double headlined event also includes Virginia Kettles Rolling Folk. Virginia Kettle is at the heart of the creative force within Merry Hell.

As a prolific writer of songs, Rolling Folk gives Virginia the chance to share a variety of songs not included in the Merry Hell repertoire. Offering the same level of song writing excellence but a bit different, this has a more intimate feel as well as some additional musical explorations.

Chester and District Standard: Singer-songwriter Thea GilmoreSinger-songwriter Thea Gilmore (Image: Thea Gilmore)

 

Acclaimed British singer-songwriter Thea Gilmore showcases her remarkable talents at St John’s Church on Friday, June 14.

Admired by cultural icons such as Bruce Springsteen and Billy Bragg, Thea has made 20 albums since the release of her first album Burning Dorothy in 1998 and earned a reputation as one of the most distinctive singer songwriters of her generation.

UK Blues Award finalist Alice Armstrong headlines on Saturday Night Blues on June 15.

 

Chester and District Standard: Alice Armstrong headlines Saturday Night BluesAlice Armstrong headlines Saturday Night Blues (Image: Alice Armstrong)

This contemporary artist combine her incredible voice and stage presence with multi award-winning keyboard player Stevie Watts. Together as a duo, they are an explosive cocktail and will perform some original material along with a variety of covers from all genres.

Transatlantic folk band, The Magpies close the festival on Sunday, June June.

Founding members Bella Gaffney, an award winning singer-songwriter, guitarist and banjoist, and Holly Brandon, an acclaimed fiddle player and tunesmith, perform alongside gifted singer-songwriter and guitarist Ellie Gowers.

This trio is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and innovative acts on the contemporary roots scene.

Combining sublime harmonies with exquisite musicianship and impressive songwriting.

For full listings and tickets visit knutsfordmusicfestival.com.

Music on the Moor returns on Saturday, June 15, as a free, open-air festival for everyone, celebrating up and coming local talent.

Throughout the weekend, fringe events hosted by local bars, cafes, restaurants and shops will be held across the town.