Other places to go
If you enjoy live music, you might also want to check out the following established treasures. All have their own unique style and atmosphere:
Established in 2005, The Acoustic Ballroom is a monthly unplugged music night, usually held on the first Friday of every month at the Centre 70 in Wallingford. All styles of music and performance are welcome, the only rule is that it must be unplugged. Performers don't need to book in advance; usually spots are two or three songs.
Running for over 20 years, usually held the weekend after the summer bank holiday, Wallingford BunkFest is a free, community festival providing a unique, family friendly celebration. It has a main stage, second stage and an array of fringe events in various pubs and venues around the town, on a boat and even on a train! If you like live music, this is a weekend not to miss.
Founded in 2003 (so a little older than Peppard Unplugged!!!), and run by a dedicated group of volunteers, Goring Unplugged is a much-loved, totally unplugged music night in the heart of the Goring Gap in South Oxfordshire. Events run every couple of months. Like Peppard, they love to encourage local talent (young and old!) to play as well as more established acts. Performers need to apply to perform.
Further afield, and based in Bracknell, Graham Steel is an energetic advocate and promoter of live music of all genres from ground up to well known touring and recording artists. . . . and a lovely man as well. Look out for his weekly 'showcase' Acoustic Café events as well as Acoustic Couch and special performances by chosen artists and bands. If want to listen to live music check out his events. If you want to perform, go to some events and see what suits you. Events all use amps and PAs.
Established in 1982, Readifolk has been a focus of live, unplugged, folk and roots music in the Reading area for 40 years, with many eminent touring and recording artists passing through its doors, many considered 'folk royalty'. Their Guest Nights are well worth looking out for and feature two sets from the special guest, preceded by a few floor floor singers. Singers Nights are informal evenings, where everyone is invited to sing or play a tune, but there is no pressure and people are welcome to come and listen. Meets weekly on Sunday evening.
Regular open mic night just turn up or book a slot; TABLES for food also available to book. Message the pub or call 01491 756065
Where else?
The venues listed above are great places to mix and socialise with like-minded people with a love for music and if you attend regularly as an audience member, supporting other musicians, they will open up a raft of opportunities and places to visit and play.
In the Reading, South Oxfordshire area you should also try:
Amanda's Music Events: pre-booked, amp and PA open mic
Butlers Open Mic, hosted by Nicole Allen, just turn up, amp and PA open mic
Bohemian Night: just turn up, amp and PA open mic
Quirky Corner: just turn up, unplugged open mic
Castle Tap Sessions: monthly unplugged folk singaround
The Black Lion, Woodcote, 1st Monday of every month.
And further afield, but worth the trip:
Dragonfly Sky Singer Songwriter Showcase, a monthly showcase with feature artists