We are a Sea Shanty band comprising of 6 or 7 local men who had a common interest in Sea Shanties and their history.
We initially met nearly a year ago and so began our voyage of discovery. Three became, four, then 7.
We found a venue and started to sing. At first we were like Church mice, quiet, introverted and embarrassed. All of us recognised as the weeks went by that our journeys were based partly on our mental health needs as well as fellowship. The majority of us are retired. Some have health issues or have partners with health issues, or have lost partners. Through the Shanty and understanding it’s origins we have found routes to understand our places In life. Add to that the introduction of trying to comprehend the 16th, 17th and 18th century nautical terminology the final piece of our jigsaw was added. ….Well almost, …..Rum was added. What Shanty group could ignore the role of Grog, Nelsons Blood, sugarcane spirit. Arghhhh!
We gave an initial concert at Bishopstone Station. Work was “in progress” but we loved it and the reactions were super. Shanties are work songs, sung by the crew on watch, not by a practiced orchestrated choir. They can be discordant , rough and after a Rum ration slightly drunken! We have aimed at a non accompanied version, acapella in choral speak, which is the most traditional format.
After several months of meeting we decided a “pop up” session on the beach would be fun and would test the waters. We sang at the Martello, near Frankie’s Cafe and then besides Skipper Watersports. We took a collecting bucket, people would either pay us to go, or, enjoy us and contribute to the lifeboat. We had a great reception and raised £130.
From this followed a request to sing for the National Coastwatch Institute at the Old Coastguard lookout on Newhaven cliff. This was to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their inception and the circumnavigation of UK by their Flag Ensign via every NCI Station.
Further accolades followed and we repeated the Beach pop ups but advertised ourselves. A further £170 was raised. We are now planning a Shanty based benefit for the RNLI at the Newhaven Boathouse on November 8th. We will also be performing at their Xmas Fayre in November at Seaford’s Con Club.
Our plan is following the success of The Wreckers in bringing men together, creating a fun form of fellowship, singing and socialising, we can help create other groups in other nearby towns.
If you want more information we have a Facebook page Sea Shanty Band The Wreckers
And why Wreckers you may ask? The Shags of Seaford were reputedly notorious for creating false lights to entice vessels ashore so wrecking them. The friendly townsfolk would then salvage the cargo and anything of value they could carry. The townsfolk always slept with their windows open so they could hear the cries of seafarers in distress. Maybe our fundraising for the RNLI will help those poor souls rest.
Keep hauling and heaving folks.
The Wreckers 2024.
Celebrating Seaford 