Anyone who came to Tenby Arts Club last Friday feeling depressed by the weather, the high fuel prices or any other woes, went away cheered by an evening of excellent acoustic music from Tim and Sandra Robinson, otherwise known as The Claret Duo. Both accomplished musicians, they played a variety of genres from the last 400 years (writes A.D.)!

The evening began with By the time it gets dark, written by Sandy Denny of Fairport Convention. This was followed by a 1969 song Woodstock, bemoaning the lack of home comforts at music festivals. Next a change of pace with toe-tapping early 19th century dance music played on the accordion and flute. On to a jazz standard, Cheek to Cheek, arranged by Tim for solo guitar, which had the audience singing along. Back in time to the restoration of Charles II and a tune called Epping Forest for guitar and flute. Next was an old English tune, the Bear Dance. A suitably ghoulish song followed which was by Dave Swarbrick, again of Fairport Convention, Crazy Man Michael.

Sandra then brought out a Nepalese flute, which they had bought when trekking the Anapurna circuit in the Himalayas, and played a courtship song on it. A song originally played by Hedy West on a long-necked banjo, Cotton Mill Girl, followed, and the whole audience joined in the chorus.

As time was pressing, the Claret Duo launched into their final number, a Mary Hopkin song, Those were the days, again with audience participation. This song was actually based on a traditional Russian tune, and the performance concluded with some Cossack dance music!

During the evening, the Claret Duo variously played guitar, flute, accordion, mandolin, Nepalese flute and bodhran drum. The evening ended as usual with the audience members having a closer look at the instruments and a chat with the musicians over tea, coffee and biscuits. It was noted that during the evening, sketches of the performers had been made and at the end, were duly signed by the subjects!

It was an excellent evening, and this Friday's meeting will be a complete contrast, but no less fascinating. The Rev. Peter Lewis is talking about The Christmas Truce. This will be at 7.30 pm at St. Johns Hall, and will be £2 for members and £4 for non-members, including light refreshments.