WCCP Spring Residential Concertina Weekend 2026 in Somerset, Friday 20 - Sunday 22 March 2026

RNCM and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire graduate Iain Masson will lead a packed concertina workshop weekend for intermediate and advanced level players of all systems, in Halsway Manor (National Centre for Folk Arts), nestled at the foot of the idyllic Quantock Hills. The weekend will take place from Friday 20 - Sunday 22 March 2026.

The WCCP (West Country Concertina Players) is a club of friendly concertina enthusiasts formed in 1983. The group is proud to be one of the very few teaching clubs in the country.

Iain will conduct the Concertina Band, supported by vastly experienced tutors Harry Scurfield (Anglo), Sylvia Needham (Duet), Alex Wade (English) and Steve Dickinson (Concertina Care and Maintenance).

The weekend is open to all, though this is a popular weekend and priority will be given to WCCP members through an opportunity to book early.

Halsway Manor offers inspiring residential courses in traditional folk arts and nourishing creative retreats.

There will be time to relax in the comfort of Halsway Manor, with evening playing sessions in the bar, plus an informal tutors’ concert on the Saturday evening. There’s also the option to stay an extra night and book for Sunday supper and B&B – the perfect time to relax and unwind after a busy weekend of music and socialising.

Arrival & Departure

Unless otherwise specified, our midweek courses check-in from 4pm on a Monday and check out by 10am on Friday, and our weekend courses check in from 4pm on a Friday and depart on Sunday by 4pm. Dinner on the first night is usually at 6.30pm, and in general, no formal teaching or introductory sessions take place until after this.

Bring a friend

You can book on a course at Halsway and bring a friend who can explore the area while using Halsway as a base for meals and accommodation. Halsway Manor is in the Quantock Hills (England’s first designated National Landscape (formally AONB). We’re just minutes away from the West Somerset Railway (Britain's longest steam railway), a short drive or bus ride from Somerset’s Jurassic coast (ideal for fossil hunting), and surrounded by dramatic scenery and changing landscapes, from the wild hills of Exmoor to the flat expanse of the Somerset Levels.

Iain says, "I feel so excited and proud to be asked to conduct the super WCCP Spring Residential Concertina Weekend in 2026 and I am looking forward to meeting everyone. Let's have a wonderful time making music together and a satisfying musical adventure!"

https://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/event/wccp-weekend-2026