In 2005 Harriette Ashcroft became the founding member of the Sing-along Band. Based in Exmouth Market, London EC1, her mission was to provide free, quality music drop-in's for children and their carers. Through that group, she met musician Ted Barnes in 2010 and they began to assemble the cast of 'The Sing-along Band'.
While still maintaining Exmouth Market Centre as their home, the band have been able to reach out to further audiences by touring with Arts Council support. This has included performances in schools, libraries, elderly support centres and community centres as well as appearances at summer festivals and arts centres.
While still maintaining Exmouth Market Centre as their home, the band have been able to reach out to further audiences by touring with Arts Council support. This has included performances in schools, libraries, elderly support centres and community centres.
As well as this the band have played at summer festivals including Latitude, Camp Bestival, Beautiful Days and HighTide as well as venues such as sell out shows with The National Theatre, The Union Chapel, Barbican and The Quarterhouse.
In 2018, supported by Arts Council England and Waltham Forest Council, they developed their intergenerational project ‘All Together Now’, bringing young families and older generations together through music.
They have made four albums/ books and are featured on the hugely successful YOTO product range.
"Sing-along is always a powerful reminder that life can be full of joy even in the hardest of time."
Sasha Wares, The Royal Court Theatre
"Somewhere between the lands of music and theatre, blended together with a large portion of audience involvement, Mrs H and the Sing-along Band cook up a euphoric communal experience that needs to be dived into."
Helen Thorn, Scummie Mummy podcast.
We create music that reintroduces our audiences to the joy of the 'sing-along'. Bringing together elements of Folk, Soul, Afro, Latin and Dub, we create music that unites generations and is truly for the whole family.
MRS H SINGS
In 2016 the band produced their first ever book to go alongside their new album, Mrs H Sings.
It features a ‘best of’ the first two albums, some new songs and an introduction by Toby Jones on CD and digital download.
The beautiful accompanying book comes with joyous full-page illustrations from the artist Jo Lamb, as well as lyrics to all the songs featured. Now you can join in with the Sing-along Band where ever you are!
It has become the calling card of their albums!
STARLIGHT DANCE
So happy with their book Mrs H Sings the band set about recording a new album and new material for the release Starlight Dance in 2019.
The album features a whole host of freshly written tunes, including up and dancing, Coconut Woman, live favourite, The Bread Song, vaudeville classic, All I Want is More, to the more contemplative Half Moon Face and Lost In Time.
Featuring the regular band plus the extra talents of Byron Wallen, Paul Jordanous and Emma Smith.
No Time to Lose
No Time To Lose is a celebration of the band coming together for the first time on an album. It was written and recorded as a direct result of the 'Sing-along' live sessions at their home in Exmouth market, London and captures their energy and warmth.
The album features the energetic classics of "Get on the train' and "Roll so slowly" alongside the beauty of the sing-along with tracks like "Song that I sing" and "Curly Locks". It was recorded at the LSO and band member's studios, and mixed by Robin Morrison. Featured guest artist Sam Amidon and artwork by Sophie Charalambous.
Dance Away
With Me Hot off the press is Mrs H and the Sing-along Bands latest album, 'Dance Away With Me'. Featuring 16 songs of fun and frolics etc, the album is a fitting statement to the musical strength of the present line up. Bringing together elements of Folk, Soul, Afro, Latin and Dub, the album reflects the band members various influences, as well as the multiculturalism of their home city, London.
The album comprises recently written, original songs alongside interpretations of traditional compositions performed on a plethora of instruments. From the all action Coming Down to the melancholic Ladybird, all the songs are filled with heart. The album was recorded in London 2014 after a successful kick-starter campaign. It was produced by Ted and Ali from the band and mixed by Robin Morrison with guest appearances by Emily Loizeau, Sam Amidon and Anita Lipniska.
Artwork by Jo Lamb.www.jolamb-art.com
Buy a copy here
T-shirts
Featuring the beautiful artwork of Jo Lamb,
we have been able to produce a limited run of childrens T-shirts.
They come in two sizes; 1 to 2 and 3 to 4.
Buy one (or more) here