A CD of modern Morris dances and tunes to commemorate the
50th anniversary of Stafford Morris men in 2007.

In 2007, Stafford Morris decided to record some of the tunes used for "recently remembered" Morris dances. 
It was also an opportunity to literally 'put on record' the musical skills of some of our senior members.

Terry Carter: A professional musician with a wealth of experience in the music education field as well as a great interest and considerable skills on a range of medieval instruments. On this CD he plays the traditional Morris instruments of the Pipe and Tabor. This is in fact playing two instruments simultaneously; the three hole pipe for the melody and the drum to provide the rhythm. Terry, a relative newcomer by Stafford standards has been with the side since the 1990s. Although he ahs participated in quite a few dances, it is a musician than he has made his main contribution.

Jack Brown: Whilst not a founder member of the Stafford side, Jack has probably been involved with Morris dancing longer than any other member. He was on the staff of the English Folk Dance and Song Society when the fledgling Stafford Morris Men appeared and was drafted in to help them with their dancing. He has played the melodeon for some 50 years and is a mine of information about the tunes as well a the dances. He plays a C/C# box, mainly so that he can play on his own as he does not approve of bands playing for Cotswold dances. Shortly after the release of this CD Jack was awarded the EFDSS Gold badge in recognition of his contribution to the folk world.

Peter Stephens: He was involved with Morris dancing in his native Exeter but on arrival in Stafford, he joined the English Electric Morris group and used his mouth organ to accompany the dancers. He soon became a major part of that group, but when difficulties arose, he and some friends formed the Stafford Morris men in 1957. Peter was the first Squire and he has maintained his involvement for over 50 years being re-appointed Squire for the Golden Anniversary celebrations. He soon progressed from the Mouth Organ to the Melodeon and now manages to play the majority of tunes the we currently need. Peter has been the inspiration for numerous dancers and players of many years. Here he performs a tiny part of his repertoire.

Gordon Taylor: Having moved to Stafford from his native County Durham, Gordon was able to use his skills as a fiddler to support the newly formed Stafford Morris Men. He has continued with the club as a dancer and musician for over 50 years and is now our leading authority on the music. On this CD you are treated to Gordon's fiddle sequence, which Stafford men use for their Winlaton Rapper Dance. Gordon is always happy to encourage new musicians and we are privileged to have his expertise to support our dancing.

The CD is accompanied by a leaflet that explains the dances and contains the musical notation that is being played on the CD.

"We like traditional dances, but also enjoy doing some of the more recently developed dances. This CD is not intended to replace live instruction, but it may assist sides trying to learn these dances."