Tony Wall sings at Robert Harvey House
Tony Wall is a Birmingham-born singer and guitarist whose love of music began at home, inspired by his father Ernest and a well-worn harmonica. First picking up a guitar at the age of thirteen, Tony was drawn to folk music and finger-picking styles after hearing traditional songs played during a school trip to the Lake District.
Growing up in Birmingham, Tony honed his skills the hard way — learning on a stubborn second-hand guitar before upgrading (thanks to a very understanding mum) to an Ekco Ranger, an instrument he still plays and treasures today. Alongside his father, Tony performed favourite folk songs such as This World Is Not My Home, Last Thing on My Mind and Clementine, building memories that would stay with him for life.
In the late 1960s, Tony began performing publicly with friends, playing classics by Ralph McTell and Simon & Garfunkel in Birmingham’s folk clubs, including The Station in Sutton Coldfield and The Acorn in Erdington. He later formed a folk group, Common Folk, which built a strong local following before life, work and family took centre stage.
After many years away from performing, Tony returned to music later in life, finding comfort, joy and meaning in singing and playing once again. Today, music remains a daily pleasure and a reminder to live in the moment.
Tony’s performance at Robert Harvey House promises a warm, nostalgic afternoon of well-loved folk songs, gentle guitar playing and stories that will resonate with many of our residents and guests.
Families and friends are very welcome to join us.
