www.foolishvirgins.com

 

Ray started playing squeezebox at the age of about 9. By the time he was 12 he was playing in clubs and pubs, but when he reached 16 his brother brought him back a 12 sting guitar from Germany. The squeezebox was sold and forgotten for the next 20 years, and the guitar took first place in Ray’s musical life along with an electric guitar and a synthesiser.

After his marriage, in 1992. His wife surprised him with an old 120 bass Hohner Verdi, having mentioned a pining for another squeezebox. This was the dawn of a new era. Having got back in the saddle again, Ray became friends with Jock Thompson from the Cambridge Crofters; together they co-founded a new Ceilidh band called the Hayriders for which Ray still plays for occasionally after many successful years with them

Ray caught the eye of Bill Sables and was invited to join the Foolish Virgins, and the rest they say is history. Ray is still a keen Guitarist but also loves his Piano; recently he started to take up the Banjo and Mandolin with as much passion as he has for his other instruments. He has formed a new concert band with his friends and is often called upon to cover for box players or is unwell.

A firm session player, Ray has a penchant for French musette and Eastern music which he is studying.  He likes to guide young musicians and to help them fulfil their ambitions and teaches Accordion free of charge. Watch this space!