Cat’s Whiskers Barn Dance Band

The Cat’s Whiskers Barn Dance Band usually comprises three musicians playing fiddle, accordion and keyboard (sometimes a few other things too), but we can provide more or less musicians as required. We have over 70 years experience of music making between us, and a similar time spent on the dance floor learning to appreciate good dance sound. Does this make us each over 140 years old? – not yet!

We have played many times at the country’s top folk dance clubs and festivals, including Sidmouth, Whitby, Broadstairs, Eastbourne, Chippenham, Bromyard, Lichfield, Southam and at the national centres for English traditional dance (Cecil Sharp House in London, Halsway Manor in Somerset). Occasionally with teams of experienced dancers we attend overseas dance festivals (Denmark, France, Spain).

We have worked with many of the country’s top callers, and with guests from Europe and America. Once we understand the background to your event we will select the caller most suitable for you, and make all the arrangements on your behalf.

Testimonials

“Just to thank you and your team for a really great night. We were overwhelmed by people saying how much they had enjoyed it, you and your team, the great music and the splendid caller. I am still hoarse from laughing(Judy). So thank you from all of us for a great night.”

Judy, Robin and Margaret, Dorridge, West Midlands

“To use the Black Country version what a bostin night we had. The weather might have been awful but no-one thought about that once the barn dance started. It was quite simply a brilliant fun packed evening. The caller was superb – and very patient – and we lost count of the number of people who said they had had a brilliant evening. Without hesitation I would recommend you and your excellent colleagues to anyone who want a party or a social event. Disco’s are old hat. Have a barn dance with Cats Whiskers and you will not go wrong. “

Mr.R.D, Rowley Regis, West Midlands

“Sue, Emma and I thought the band were fantastic last Saturday night, and were really everything that we had hoped for for our party. The music itself was excellent, and the dances chosen were great for getting our guests to mix together. We had loads of positive feedback from guests – they thought the music was wonderful and were very keen to get involved!”

Miss.E.P, Oxfordshire

“Thanks so much for playing at our wedding – we had a fantastic time. I was especially looking forward to the Barn Dancing and I wasn’t disappointed! I knew we were on to a good thing when [the hotel proprietor] asked us if he and his daughter could join in the Barn Dancing.”

Mrs.H.J, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire

“I had a wonderful 60th birthday celebration. The music was great and [the caller] amazing. How she managed to get everyone dancing was nothing short of a miracle. We have had lots of excellent feedback at what a great time everyone had so thank you all very much you were fantastic.”

Mrs.E.W, Malvern, Worcestershire

“Wow – thank you for your wonderful music at my 40th birthday party. You were all so professional and the caller’s instructions made my friends and family look like accomplished barn dancers! Everyone has made positive comments on your playing and making my party go with a real… ye hah!”

Mrs.R.L, Breewood, Staffordshire

“Many thanks for your wonderful music which was all we hoped for and more. We have had nothing but praise for you all and how refreshing and unusual it was not to have a disco!! A few who were unsure about the idea ended up thoroughly enjoying the entertainment and the day was a huge success.”

Mr. and Mrs.S.C, Bridgnorth, Shropshire

“We’ve had lots of comments from our friends and family about how great the band and caller were. It was just great to see so many of our guests up on the dance floor as well as my husband who normally has two left feet! It was just fantastic – we’re so pleased.”

Mrs.M.W, Aynho, Oxfordshire

“We’ve had lots of comments from our friends and family about how great the band and caller were. It was just great to see so many of our guests up on the dance floor as well as my husband who normally has two left feet! It was just fantastic – we’re so pleased.”

Mrs.M.W, Aynho, Oxfordshire

You were all 100% professional and completely focused on ensuring we and our guests had the most enjoyable and memorable wedding reception possible. Thank you.”

Mrs.A.B, Rugby, Warwickshire

“The band were fantastic and really made the night. It was a huge success and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. I would have no hesitation in recommending you for other events – my sister may actually be in touch soon about her 30th birthday next year!”

Mrs.T.D, Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire

“Thank you so much for entertaining us last night. You obviously realised that it went down a storm; everyone thought you were a terrific band and loved the caller. Thanks again for making it such a great evening. I would recommend you to anyone thinking of having a barn dance.”

Mrs. L. N, Oxfordshire