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FESTIVAL OF WESSEX 2026 • 45 Rachael McShane & The Cartographers A renowned folk singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player from the North East of England, Rachael McShane gained fame as an original member of the award-winning folk band Bellowhead. A much sought-after performer and recording artist, her 2009 debut solo album, No Man’s Fool , established impressive credentials that led her to signing with the prestigious Topic Records, the oldest independent record label in the world. Rachael is also the leader of The Cartographers, a band that brings together the exceptional talents of guitarist Ian Stephenson (Kan, Baltic Crossing), and melodeon player Julian Sutton (Kathryn Tickell, Sting). Playing with expertise and sparkle, their music is a powerful blend of traditional folk and contemporary sounds. The Cartographers have built a loyal following thanks to their lively performances and critically acclaimed albums, combining stunning vocals and impressive instrumentals with innovative arrangements in a refreshing take on traditional folk. 18 July: Village Hall, STUDLAND, BH19 3BT. 7.30pm. £14 / £6. 01929 450587. 19 July: Village Hall, MARNHULL, DT10 1JZ. 7.30pm. £14 / £6. 01258 820458. 23 August: Village Hall, BUCKLAND NEWTON, DT2 7BZ. 7.30pm. £14 / £6. 01300 345455. artsreach.co.uk King of the Blues Kings of the Blues is a dynamic live show led by guitarist Will Edmunds, tracing the evolution of blues from its raw Delta roots to the modern day. With 30 years of playing experience, Will brings authenticity and insight, joined by top UK musicians for a powerful and entertaining celebration of the music that shaped generations. 17 July: Ilminster Arts Centre, The Meeting House, East Street, ILMINSTER, TA19 0AN. 6.30pm. £18 / £9. 01460 54973 / ilminsterartscentre.com. Broadbeat 2026 Seven bands, vinyl deejays, go go girls and fab street food! Headliners are The Masonics, legends of the Medway scene they are drenched in ‘60s garage punk and are the best rhythm and beat combo since Thee Milkshakes (…and yes, 50% Milkshakes are included!). The Burntwick Smugglers will kick off the event, followed by Delicious Patricia, Nervous Twitch, Rosbif Attack, Monaux, and Quick Romance, all propelled along throughout the afternoon and evening by deejays Lee Grimshaw, The Birdman, and The Hold Tight DJs. 5 September: CICCIC, Memorial Hall, TAUNTON, TA1 3PF. 1pm - 12midnight. £35 / £25. £25. 01823 337477 / creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk . NERVOUS TWITCH Ida Pelliccioli Born in Bergamo, Italy, Pelliccioli took a unique path to a full-time music career. She earned two master's degrees from the Sorbonne University in Italian Literature and Ancient Greek History before fully dedicating herself to the piano. She studied at the Nice Conservatoire de Région and the Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris, and received artistic guidance from internationally acclaimed artists like Norma Fisher and Jorge Luis Prats. 26 and 27 June: Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, TINCLETON, near Dorchester, DT2 8QR. 7.30pm. £20. 01305 848909 / tincletongallery.com.