Exeter Folk Duo Compose Bespoke Lullaby to Welcome Cattle at Devon County Show

An Exeter based folk duo Hidden Coves, brought a touch of magic and melody to the opening of this year’s Devon County Show, serenading the cattle with a specially composed lullaby as they bedded down for their first night in the cattle barn on Wednesday 20th May.

The performance marked the start of the Devon County Show offering a warm and reassuring welcome to the 500 cattle attending the three‑day event the eve before they faced some of the most prestigious competitions in the cattle sector.  With research showing that music can have a calming, beneficial effect on cattle – particularly dairy cows – the duo’s soft harmonies and acoustic arrangement created a peaceful atmosphere as the barn lights dimmed and the showground prepared for nighttime. 

The lullaby, written exclusively for the occasion, was performed by Ashe and Laurie who make up Hidden Coves.  The duo sung among the cattle lines, with farmers, stewards and early‑arriving exhibitors pausing to enjoy the moment.

Hidden Coves have become one of the South West’s most captivating emerging folk acts, known for their intimate storytelling, rich vocal blend and the way they weave the natural world into their music. Their sound – a mix of, guitar and close harmonies – is rooted in Devon’s landscapes and coastal folklore.  Their bespoke lullaby for the cattle was written especially for the Show, reflecting their signature style: gentle, lyrical and beautifully melodious.

Following the success of the evening serenade, the duo returned to the cattle section on Friday lunchtime to perform at the prestigious Burke Trophy presentation, one of the most anticipated moments in the livestock calendar. Their appearance provided a musical backdrop to the celebration of the country’s finest beef and dairy pairs.

The Devon County Show continues to champion rural life, community spirit and creative celebration – and this year, it seems, a little bedtime music for the cattle too.