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The Sandy Denny Exhibition
Held at the Brasenose during the 2023 Fringe Festival, this was an extraordinary event that celebrated the life and legacy of the iconic folk singer. Organised by Georgia Rose Lucas, Sandy's daughter in Australia, the exhibition marked a significant milestone in the recognition of Sandy Denny's unparalleled contribution to music.
Photograph: Robin Turner 1971 - Lincoln Folk Festival (BBC)
This event was unprecedented, being the first of its kind dedicated solely to Sandy Denny's life and work. It offered a unique opportunity for fans and admirers to delve into the intimate details of her creative journey. The exhibition showcased an extensive array of memorabilia, including personal notebooks, clothing, guitars, jewellery, awards, and an extensive collection of photographs. Many of these items had not been seen by the public in over four decades, making the exhibition a truly remarkable experience for attendees.
The painstaking effort and dedication that went into organising and arranging the exhibition were evident. Over six months, Lucas, a graphic artist, and her international 'Project Songbird' team meticulously curated the collection, ensuring that each item told a part of Sandy Denny's story. This scrupulous approach allowed visitors to gain a profound insight into the life of this musical genius.
The exhibition not only celebrated Sandy Denny's musical achievements but also emphasised her enduring impact on the folk music landscape. It served as a poignant reminder of the depth and timelessness of her artistry.
One of the highlights of the event was the launch of a new CD by Carla Fuchs - SONGBIRD.
Collaborating closely with the Sandy Denny Estate, Fuchs worked tirelessly to bring to life forgotten lyrics from Sandy's notebooks. The result was a stunning fusion of Sandy's words and Fuchs' musical prowess, creating a bridge between the past and the present. The CD served as a testament to the enduring relevance and influence of Sandy Denny's work.
In essence, the Sandy Denny Exhibition at the Brasenose in 2023 was a testament to the enduring legacy of a true musical pioneer. Through the careful curation of memorabilia and the launch of new musical interpretations, the event paid homage to Sandy Denny's unparalleled talent and ensured that her influence would continue to resonate for generations to come.
All images courtesy of the Sandy Denny Estate.
The Fairport Convention Connection
By kind permission of the photographer, Brian Cooke, we have this exclusive original image, on the website and printed in the pub alongside an image of the band taken in 2021 at The Brasenose Fringe Festival.
Until the interruption of COVID in 2020 and 2019, Fairports Cropredy Convention, formerly Cropredy Festival was the longest continual running festival in the UK; starting in 1976. It is an annual festival of folk and rock music, headed by the British folk rock band Fairport Convention, and is held on the edge of Cropredy. The Brasenose holds a Fringe Festival of live music in support of the main event, which originally began in the garden. The Brasenose is also featured on the Fairport Convention's famous 'Nine' album cover.