HOLMES HOOKE, Master of Ceremonies

Holmes Hooke, Master of Ceremonies

Biography

“Imagine putting together a group of planets preoccupied with the workings of their own orbits. What's needed now is the sun. Holmes Hooke brought that with him as though it were in his back pocket. The planets saw a wider view of themselves and of each other. New trees took root in the doing: ...sustained as though they might again endure a long cold year.” Del Vezeau - Founder of the Canadian Guitar Festival

Possessing a keen wit and capable of a sensitive and yet brutally honest turn of phrase is what makes Holmes one of the most distinctive artists today. He's sought out by festivals and clubs for his performance poetry, stories and songs as well as for his highly creative talents as a host and master of ceremony.

Many of Holmes’ word compositions have been set to music, and performed by over 40 artists, including John McDermott, Tanglefoot, Bobby Watt, Rick Fielding, Jeff Wiseman, Katherine Wheatley, Wendell Ferguson, and Brendan Nolan.

Holmes is currently concentrating on his writing and has written and illustrated a well received children's book.

His poem “Plant a Tree” was recently included in a time capsule buried in Scotland, to be opened in a huge celebration one hundred years from now. Holmes says he definitely plans to be there.

Discography

  • Something That Won't Let Go (2003)
  • Caught by the Tale (With Oliver Schroer & Bobby Watt 1999)
  • Mariposa '97
  • Mariposa '96
  • Holmespun Tales (1995)
  • Brean Durg Muc (1991)

Performance Highlights

Much to our delight, Holmes Hooke will return as our Master of Ceremonies for our 2010 season. In addition to hosting the Festival since 2004, Holmes has received the following accolades:

  • Acoustic Workshop Song of the Year 1995
  • Ontario Council of Folk Festivals “Songs From the Heart” 1995
  • The Stan Rogers Golden Quill Award 1993

I'm thinking about the old times the way things used to be
I'm thinking about the songs we'd sing those sweet old melodies
And I'm thinking about the voices that sang the harmonies
Oh what I've give to hear them all again

From 'TO HEAR THEM ALL AGAIN' By Holmes Hooke