Simon Mayor – Winter with Mandolins (Acoustics, 1992)
Simon Mayor’s Winter with Mandolins, first released in 1992, presents a grand mélange of carols and seasonal winter music, enriched by diverse influences. The album features breathtaking arrangements from various traditions, including Russian-style mandolin ensembles (“Christmas Candle”), Celtic-inspired pieces (“I Saw Three Ships”), and traditional Basque and Provençal carols. It also includes western classical selections like Handel’s Royal Fireworks, alongside original compositions by Mayor.
The album stands out with notable contributions from guest musicians: Alan Whetton’s soprano saxophone; Brendan Power’s harmonica; and Hilary James on basses. These collaborations complement Mayor’s skillful and lovely solo performances and arrangements, and underscore his reputation as one of the world’s leading mandolinists. Moreover, he is also an accomplished fiddler, guitarist, and composer.
Winter with Mandolins prominently features the mandolin as well as related musical instruments from the mandolin family, including the mandola and mandocello.
Simon Mayor’s debut, The Mandolin Album, marked the beginning of a musical career to establish a uniquely British voice for the mandolin. The album gained immediate acclaim, earning Recording of the Week on BBC Radio 2. Mayor’s subsequent albums have featured a mix of original, traditional, and western classical music.
Beyond recording, Mayor has made significant contributions to mandolin education through his books and DVDs, including New Celtic Mandolin and The Mandolin Tutor. His influence extends to his regular column in Acoustic Magazine and performances at international festivals like the Rudolstadt International Folk Festival and the Vancouver Folk Festival.
Mayor’s versatility is evident in his work with the UK’s first modern mandolin quartet, the Mandolinquents. The group evolved from an all-star lineup in 1997 and now features classical guitarist Gerald Garcia, banjo champion Richard Collins, and Hilary James on mandobass.
A talented fiddler as well, Mayor has played swing fiddle for the show Five Guys Named Moe and participates in folk fiddle performances when possible. He tours regularly with Hilary James, focusing on children’s music through educational programs and performances. Together, they have written over fifty children’s songs, featured on BBC programs and used in educational settings.
Mayor’s humor and musical wit also shines brightly in his satirical work for the BBC, as seen in his radio series Marooned with a Mandolin. His admiration for Yorkshire songwriter Jake Thackray has inspired him to perform special programs of Thackray’s songs, adding another layer to his diverse career.
Author: Ryan Emmert
