Songspell

Howard devised Songspell to perform, write and record in collaboration with other artists. He is a diverse musician, with a background in folk music. As well as being an accomplished guitarist, Howard can also play sitar and harp. Howard has played in two performance bands The Apple Droppers (named after the apples that were dropped on the Meanies in the film Yellow Submarine) and Hum, who performed in a variety of live music venues and created an acoustic open performance forum call the Purple Penguin in Harrogate.

Andrew has been a passionate musician since a young age. He began learning piano at age seven before learning the guitar at 13. He then played in touring bands before earning a degree in music technology.

Jo first started singing with Howard over twenty years ago; a friendship and musical collaboration that endures. Her performance experience ranges from playing intimate venues to regional theatres. She loves bringing Howard’s original melodies and lyrics to life with the maestro drumming of Simon. She believes that bands go beyond just beats- To tell stories of human experience in all their bitter sweet beauty.

Simon has been playing drums since he was a youngster. Known as a 'tidy drummer', he specializes in adding new dimensions when recording and playing with the band. His spectrum of musical experience ranges from brass bands to dance bands. As part of Songspell he focuses on bringing a unique sound to audiences. Simon also teaches drumming and has been recently interviewed by BBC Scotland about his workshops for a mental health charity.