Holcombe Alphorn Duo
Neil and Helen Grundy
The Holcombe Alphorn Duo developed an early interest in the sound and romance of the alphorn. On their first visit to Switzerland in 1987, a ‘Folklore’ evening in their Wengen hotel at last brought them together with an alphorn (probably much to the embarrassment of their two young sons!).
When, five years later they returned to Wengen they were fortunate to be introduced to a local player and make of alphorns, Will Michel of Lauterbrunnen. A damp Sunday morning became a magical experience as they learned about the instrument and how to play it in Willi’s workshop.
A few days later they opened the Folklore Evening at Hotel Fallen, Wengen, playing quartets with Willi and Armin Sigrist. A photograph of the performance appeared in the following year’s brochure of a well-known travel company!
Although the alphorn is deeply rooted in Swiss tradition, the Holcombe Duo are keen to widen interest in the instrument and its music in Britain.
As with many Swiss groups, they chose the name ‘Holcombe Alphorn Duo’ as a homage to their local area: Holcombe Hill, overlooking Ramsbottom in Lancashire, their local hill, or ‘hausberg‘.
Listen to us play
Please contact us if you require more information or would like to make a booking.
We have a very varied programme of music including works with organ, string orchestra, symphony orchestra, concert band and brass quartet as well as a large collection of swiss chorales both traditional and modern.
We are available to play for weddings, funerals, parties etc. and enjoy presenting illustrated talks. No event is too small but we do need space for the alphorns!
If you wish to discuss a booking with us please fill in our online form here or email us.
Rates are negotiable!
alphorns@holcombeduo.co.uk
The Holcombe Alphorn Duo are