Heather Joyce brings a lifetime of soul filled singing to her unique, custom built Jay concertina.

“ I’ve accompanied my songs on many different instruments over the years, but my concertina feels like finally coming home.

It all started with the National Theatre production of War Horse. I was captivated by the narrator, striding out on stage with a squeeze box. I fell in love with that naked warmth and passion. I knew that I had to find a way to frame my songs with this glorious sound.

Reeds, buttons and bellows have dominated the past two years - all made possible by the amazing Edward Jay, who created the incredible beastie that I now play. Known as Megan - cos it’s all about the bass.

Megan is a duet concertina, a hybrid instrument designed and made by Edward using a 3-D printer but with handmade leather bellows, and classy accordion reeds from the Czech republic. It’s an instrument that combines many traditions, but at its heart, it’s cutting-edge contemporary.

This mirrors my own singing and songwriting perfectly. Megan and I are learning and growing together have already delighted audiences in England, France, and Canada. 

I would like to thank Didie Sendra, Dave Elliot, Rob Harbron and Nigel Sture for all the concertina advice, repairs and lessons. But also the wondrous Adina Presman for sticking a towel over my head and telling me to get on with it.”