The Barford Angel

In Britain the dulcimer has, over the years, been popular as both a classical instrument and as an instrument for busking. As a folk instrument it was popular in East Anglia and was particularly widespread among village musicians in Norfolk. In fact between the wars it was noted that there were 25 'players of the dulcimore' (as it was known locally) within 10 miles of one small parish near Norwich. The last of these great Norfolk players was Billy Bennington. Bennington was given the name 'The Barford Angel' because he used to carry his dulcimer on his back while cycling and the shape of the dulcimer made him look as though he had angel's wings. The Barford Angel was originally released on LP in 1986 and this new production has the addition of eight extra tracks from the seminal Topic record 'English Country Music In East Anglia'