Box and Fiddle
Year 07 No 08
April 1984
Price 25p
12 pages
8 month subscription £3
Editor – Ian Smith, 50 Mount Vernon Road, Stranraer Tele 4098
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
We have come to the end of season No 7 and we trust you had many great and memorable evenings together. Now to recharge the batteries.
Six weeks clear notice must be given to the Association Secretary for any motion in connection with the Constitution before the AGM.
Please note that the prices quoted for the AGM Weekend do not include VAT, that must be added on. Havinf said that, we hope everyone has a great time.
Our thanks to all our contributors to the papers, writers, photographers, cartoonists, secretaries, etc. Without your assistance there would be no paper and we hope to see you all again come September.
Honoured Guest
By Jimmy Blue
Our honoured guest this year will be Andy Stewart. I have no doubt many of you will be saying to yourselves “but he doesn’t play the box or the fiddle”…well, perhaps not, but I have my scrapbook on my knees and Joan is at the typewriter and I am thumbing through hundreds of programmes and items from newspapers, etc…, from all over the world and a million memories are being relived of my long and happy association with Andy.
When, as a 17-year-old, I started playing the box, I little thought that I would in years to come tour Ireland, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Rhodesia and South Africa – and all this because Andy Stewart, having become the host of the ‘White Heather Club’ saw potential for a Scottish Dance Band becoming part of his music.
It was always a thrill if we were in the dressing-room having a wee run through some new – or some old – Scottish air, and there Andy would appear, all ears and interest and before we knew where we were, another song had been composed. Of course, it goes without saying that ‘The Scottish Soldier’ was the first!
He was always searching for a tune and those which come to mind are ‘The Battle’s O’er’, ‘By the Lochanside’, ‘The Black Bear’ and from Bbby MacLeod’s repertoire came ‘Donald, Whaur’s Yer Troosers’.
There are so many lovely stories relating to Andy Stewart – most of which I’ll keep for Dunblane – but one that comes to mind is a night in Wanganui, a delightful little city in New Zealand.
Unbeknown to us, Andy had got a chorus of ‘Campbeltown Loch’ (to the tune of ‘The Glendarual Highlanders’) from his great friend, the late Roddy MacMillan – also an excellent song-writer. Somewhere on route he had written another half-dozen verses and what a thrill it was to be in at the launching of that song (completely unrehearsed) – and it stopped the show!
Andy has always been a great ambassador for the music of Scotland. He has been an inspiration to us all for these Dunblane Weekends. He has worked professionally and closely with all four bandleaders who have been honoured at Dunblane, and as you will have gathered from his contributions in poem and prose and from the good fellowship on these, occasions, Andy is very much one of us.
Kirsty’s Ceilidh
On Sunday, 1st April, they came from Torphins, Shetland, Tobermory, London and Inverness. The ceilidh started with a lady piper, Sharon Walker from Pitlochry, of the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band.
Compere Eddie Rose introduced Fintry Style, Alex Fitzsimmons and singer Robert Wilson who have us a grand selection and had Hugh Ferguson on drums helping out with a great sound.
Robin and Deryn Waitt, the Bon Accord Duo from Canonbie in Dumfriesshire, set up their equipment on stage and offered its use to all – and what a great Duo. Their ‘Bunch of Thyme’ was beautiful and even with the Irish !!? accent. To we Scots this side of the Border it came over clear and we do hope you will join in again for a longer spot, especially if we have a 48-hour ceilidh. Thank you for traveling so far to help out Robin and Deryn.
Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank, on accordion, had Iain Henderson East Kilbride, on fiddle, Grant Crawford, also EK on keyboard and Hugh again on drums. Iain was on the doorstep of the ceilidh around 1.30pm and was soon helping out to set up the hall with Nigel and Bill Bisset, the workers. Allan had his 5 month old daughter Laura at her first ceilidh.
We then had a dance selection from Fiona Johnston, Stirling, and Leslie Thomson from Plean, they are stalwart supporters of all the ceilidhs. Douglas McDonald on accordion from Aberfeldy was on his first visit to the ceilidh as was Betty McKinnon from Perth, who played piano for a great selection, thank you for joining us.
Round about this time we had planned a big stramash with all players on stage, but by this time the hall was getting busier and new faces were appearing, new names to me, and the compere said “Kirsty, is this your usual 8 hour ceilidh or the 48-hour one everyone says you will need?”
Next on came young Bill black from Stanley, Duncan Black, Kate black and Betty McKinnon on piano, to give their usual rip-roaring, smashing selection and delightful voice of Kate in a beautiful royal blue jumpsuit. Kate had traveled from a party in Aberdeen straight to the ceilidh on the train herself with Ruby, her guide-dog. I hope you were none the worse of your journey and long ceilidh Kate. Thanks a million for coming, hope the sore throat is better.
Mary McCann from Perth gave us a delightful set of folk-style songs. Mary has a lovely, clear voice like Kate.
Next were Lorna, and brother Craig, McWhinney, another of my stalwart supporters from Balloch. When they started playing you could hardly see them. Now Craig, all of 13, is more relaxed and smiles and can keep big sister Lorna on her toes with his playing, the audience enjoyed listening to them.
Our youngest performer, William Bradley, just turned 10 years, picked up courage this year and was on stage as quick as a flash all smiles and received a great applause. I think mum up in the balcony was more nervous than he was, well done, stick in William, seeing you got a turn there was no time for auld Auntie Kirsty.
We had a set of Irish jigs from the dancers. The next group was the Oakbank Sound with David Wilson, accordion, Graham Edwardson, accordion, Gregor Borland, fiddle, Bobby Miller, bass, Gordon Smith, drums, and Kathryn Wilson on piano. A young band, great sound and all looking happy and enjoying themselves. We could have had longer but again we had to move on.
We had the Jimmy Blair Orchestra from Glasgow, again getting better every time we hear them and so well rehearsed and we had a selection of Jimmy’s own tunes too that came over very well, solos too. They even helped to sell tickets and I must thank the parents and friends who organise the bus and set up the equipment and also find time to join in. Thanks to all including the ladies and gentlemen of the band and especially Mrs Lola Blair for finding the time to come along.
We had Eddie Rose, the compere, with a funny sketch and selection of songs, accompanied by Betty McKinnon on oiano and Douglas Davidson on accordion. The two pipers arrived straight from work to play a selection, while Freeland was doing all the work all on his own setting everybody up. While Jim Barrie was walking around, shoes off, humming, Gus Millar sitting on his polo and Neil McMillan sending out a search party for Sandy Coghill, stuck on the motorway. You missed a great ceilish Sandy, but I’ll send you a copy of the tape of the Wallochmor trying to keep up with the young Colin Dewar.
Thanks Walloch for giving up your time to end a great day and also thank you for the Stramash that we finally managed to fit in. Sorry all whom I did not see. Would all who were there and did not get a turn, including Lyn shanks, send me your address please. Anyone fancy a 48 hour ceilidh? Boy what a day!!
Thank you to Ian Smith for being there too. Now the final final end I think!!
We were able to obtain the final £1,000 target to sponsor another Guide Dog. Anyone interested in joining us for the handing over of the cheque at Forfar, please write or phone and we can make arrangements at a later date.
Thank you once again to the ‘B&F’, Robbie Shepherd, Jill Kinnaird, Wallochmor, players, singers, dancers, donations to raffle etc, money, time and half-pennies, they are still coming in from Clubs.
Musselburgh Reflections
By Norrie Williams
Those who have been in the Brunton Main Hall on Musselburgh Festival Day will have seen the competitors emerge from the swing door over to the right and walk across a vast no-man’s land to mount that big stage which can be one of the loneliest spots on earth for a solo player waiting on the starting bell.
What goes on behind these swing doors? They give access to a long narrow store for stage props etc., the equivalent of the wings in a theatre. This ‘glory hole’ is used as the holding point for players waiting to enter the ‘arena’.
Throughout the day this is a busy place, especially during the Band and Trio Sections when it resembles Piccadilly Circus.
The atmosphere in this area is always taut, but about midway through the Evening Concert the tension increases dramatically as the moment of truth approaches for the select few who have reached the finals of one of the Senior Solo Traditional Accordion Classes.
Senior – A few years ago this title might have been more appropriatewhen the ages of this group could have ranged from 18 to 50, but of this year’s five intrepid souls the oldest is 18, a testimony to the technical expertise of today’s young players.
Judge
At this moment (7.20pm Saturday, 3rd March, 1984) in the ‘glory hole’ are Joan Blue – waiting on husband Jimmy who is going to judge the finals – Alex Little, MC, looking a picture of health and dotting happily back and forth through swing doors introducing the various turns, an ever-smiling Eddie MacDonald marshalling the ‘artistes’ and Jill Kinnaird of the BBC sitting quietly and unobtrusively to one side with clipboard and stopwatch.
As Freeland Barbour is on holiday, Jill is producing this year’s programmes of Festival highlights for ‘Take the Floor’.
Yours truly has been collecting the names of the tunes in the finalists’ march, strathspey and reel sets, at least the four that can be located.
The lad drawn to play second, Colin Dewar from Kingskettle, is missing.
Number one Raymond Laidlaw, Pencaitland, goes out through those doors on his lonely walk in front of 500 pairs of eyes and all our hearts go with him. His fine Guerrini instrument doesn’t matter at the moment, it’s the person behind it that is everyone’s concern.
One feels very proud indeed of these players who have gone through so much to reach this high point. There will obviously be some partisanship in the audience but when the chips are down like this everyone feels for each player in turn and wills them to go through note perfect. When the inevitable slip occurs, they all suffer along with the competitor. Pity they cannot all come out in first place, they deserve it.
Finishing
Raymond is just finishing his march when up the stairs comes Colin puffing and panting, having just bolted down a ‘chinky’ take-away, bungs on his Morino, says it feels a wee bit uncomfortable resting on his ‘sweet and sour’ or whatever, but not unduly perturbed he reaches the wings as the first competitor plays his final chord – a narrow squeak. Because of the panic we check that Colin’s bottom bellows strap is unfastened, wish him luck and out he goes.
I smugly hand Eddie MacDonald the third set of tunes and he says “thanks very much, but haven’t you forgotten something?” I scrutinize the paper to see if I have missed anything and look up puzzled. “Someone to play them,” he says.
I dash off along the maze of passages with my ears at full stretch listening for the march ‘Captain Carswell’ which will home me in on Jennifer Forrest of Airdrie. I find her with all the ‘diamonds’ on her Classique glittering in the lights.
We (the non-players) all keep up a light banter, imagining that this will put the players at ease. In fact, they’re probably thinking that they could do without this set of middle aged ‘ba-heids’ at this precise moment when they are trying to get into the right frame of mind.
Jennifer, who has had a good day – runner-up in Pipe Music and Trio Classes – but is obviously a bit tense, disappears into the hall.
Meanwhile a diminutive figure, wearing a full-length pale blue evening dress and a Hohner Gola, suddenly materializes, none other than Miss Rosemary Wright, the Principal of the British College of Accordionists.
Rosemary, who has been judging the classical all day, is going to do a spot immediately after the play-off. She actually looks more nervous than the five finalists, shaking her hands and working her fingers to limber up. Of course, she is also going out there to be judged and knows it. I have read all her articles on ‘Playing for others’ in the ‘Accordion Times’ and am rather wickedly looking forward to see how it works out in practice.
Edward Galley from Forfar (No 4) appears in harness, but his hands are getting sticky with perspiration, so he takes off his box and hands it to me. I buckle at the knees, not being used to Morino Vs – they are certainly Clyde-built. He rushes to the kitchen to run his hands under the cold tap – a good tip. We all get edgy while he’s away, but he makes it back during Jennifer’s reel.
Tension
Last man, James Grant, Eyemouth, is along in good time. He has had a long wait and this must tell. Again the small talk starts up to break the tension and this time a friendly argument ensues about the pronunciation of some of the tune titles.
The Airdrie lass comes back into the safety of the wings, obviously relieved, but shaking her head. Edward does his stint and returns and in answer to a “how did it go?” he makes facial expressions which could mean ‘not bad’.
Alex Little ushers James out and follows him to the stage for the introduction. This last player tackles tunes of incredible difficulty, requiring at least 10 fingers per hand and comes back at the end of his ordeal obviously not pleased with his efforts.
Various soothing comments are made as he passes through fastening up the shiny black Bugari.
Well, that’s it – another 10 minutes or so to wait for the results.
We disperse into the hall through those doors full of curiosity to hear Rosemary Wright. How will the audience, predominantly interested in traditional music, react to classical pieces played by an English visitor?
After a warm welcome and introduction by Alex Little, Rosemary, looking even tinier on that big stage announces her opening number in a clear, steady voice – no sign of nerves now.
This lady is in the virtuoso class and this level of playing can be appreciated even by those like myself who are not versed in this type of music – I always thought ‘Rallentando’ was a make of bicycle.
Recognition
The audience listen intently and give hearty applause. A second piece is rendered flawlessly with considerable expression and Rosemary gets well-deserved warm recognition.
She can be well pleased with he debut at Musselburgh. Time does not, unfortunately, permit an encore. Jimmy Blue, the Association Chairman, congratulates her as she glides out.
He then heads for the microphone to give the news that all are waiting for. For the second time that day Edward Galley collects the big one. As he passes once more through the glory hole with a handful of ironmongery he is pounced on by Robbie Shepherd, plus tape-recorder. Although he must be somewhat bewildered by events he sounds cool.
The concert continues, the aura of nervous tension behind these doors, although less intense, is still there, because various class winners are waiting to go on and do their party pieces.
I make off to snatch a quick cuppa, somewhat dazzled with admiration and emotion…
What has pleased me particularly about this Festival?
Firstly, the over-all high standard of playing in all classes. I may say this is also the opinion of the judges. A greater number of players in each section are now good or very good and this makes adjudication even harder. The quality was there right enough.
Increase
Secondly, the 50% increase in the junior fiddle entry and an almost full house in the new slow air competition. This is a tremendous encouragement to all connected with the organisation of the event. More power to the young players.
The standard of playing in the senior fiddle sections is also high, but the number are low. We cannot hope to emulate Kirriemuir or the ‘Golden Fiddle’, but we want the fiddle to come into greater prominence in the Association.
Finally, as last year, I was over the moon with the Trio and Band entries. In retrospect any recording company could have left tapes running for the enties two and a quarter hour session and without editing have issued two or three LPs of the most pleasing and contrasting styles and sounds. The standard was that good.
I was literally ‘high’ on the music at the end. The inventiveness and feeling shown throughout was nothing short of tremendous. Typical was a piano intro for the 6/8 march ‘Braemar Gathering’ and then the whole band hit it spot-on. Bob Scott and I were ten feet in the air. What an impact.
One of the most satisfying aspects is the fact that so many different musicians are taking the trouble to get together to work things out and rehearse. The no no duplication of players rule has reaped dividends.
Interest
Just for the record, if the Editor can spare the space, it would possibly be of interest to include a list of the players who participated in the groups – some well known names and some who will undoubtedly become so in the future. Just look at the statistics
Fiddlers - 15
Accordionists – 25
Pianists – 15
Bassists – 10
Drummers – 11
TOTAL - 76
Fiddle – Gregor Borland, Jean Ann Callander, Stella Clark, Judith Davidson, Bob Edwards, Margaret Ellis, Marie Fielding, Allan Johnstone, Gordon Johnstone, Andrew Knight, Margaret Quirrie, Alison Smith, Kathleen Smith, Maureen Turnbull and Jimmy Yeaman.
Accordion – Allan Anderson, George Carmichael, Kevin Clark, Tom Clark, Neil Copland, Colin Dewar, Alastair Edmondson, Owen Fielding, Jennifer Forrest, Ricki Franci, Gordon Hoggan, Simon Howie, Mark Kenneth, Colin Johnstone, Dorothy Lawson, Gary Mair, Malcolm Lillar, Craig McCallum, Lorna McWhinnie, Bruce Quirrie, Richard Ross, Donald Shaw, Dianne Smith, Hamish Smith and Gordon Wardlaw.
Piano – Neil Barron, Deborah Cavanagh, Colin Finlayson, Angus Howie, Dorothy Lawson, Morag McAskill, Alastair McGirr, Donald Mackenzie, Jean Milne, Anne Rutherford, Maureen Rutherford, Mrs Shaw, Gillian Simpson, Ian Strachan and Keith Wilson.
Double Bass – Duncan Burns, Douglas Cargill, John Delaney, Karen Leitch, Gregor McGillivray, Alastair MacLeod, Neil McMillan, John Quigley, Jimmy Ritchie and John Strachan.
Drums – George Darling, Hugh Gebbie, Neil Hutton, Graham Jamieson, Max Ketchin, Gus Millar, Billy O’Donnell, Grant Rennie, David Scott, Gordon Smith and George Stewart.
Livingston Accordion & Fiddle Club (Tenth Anniversary)
by Murdo McLeod
Every Club is indeed fortunate to have as one of its faithful players, someone who keeps the rhythm going – and in this, one of our regular features on personalities from our Club, we are happy to say a word or two about Angus Waulkinshaw.
He hails from Breich originally, but domiciled now in Polbeth. Angus is, of course, a drummer of long experience.
Coming from West Lothian, a district not lacking in famous musicians such as William Hannah, Angus’ family grew up in this tradition and indeed two of his brothers, Tom and James, were accordionists, but it was the drums that our present personality decided to take up.
Keenly interested in all kinds of music from jazz to pop, Angus has had long experience of band playing – fist with the Anderson Brothers and then moving on to a position with Bill Ross who, many will recall played in Stewarts. One of the most memorable events in Angus’ life was with the band playing at Princes Street Gardens, when 15,000 took part in the final of the Ballroom Dancing Competition.
Twenty years ago Angus joined Willie McFarlane who has gone on to become one of the most popular bands in the district. Dancers tell us that the beat is the distinctive feature of this sound.
Asked to relate any funny events in his life received the reply – “Not a lot, except maybe the band !” I will allow Mr Waulkinshaw to explain that one to his musical master.
Looking back on a long career in the musical world Angus says that the standard of playing now, especially among the young ones, is extremely high and also that dancing in West Lothian is thriving. He can take some satisfaction from the fact that he has helped to foster this happy state of affairs.
Angus, quiet by nature, but always willing to give a hand at the Club when required is indeed one of our mainstays and long may he continue to enjoy his music and our company at the Livingston A&F Club.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – In reply to Mr Murdo McLeod’s “Letter to the Editor” in the January 84 issue of the B&F regarding the late Will Starr playing a four-row British Chromatic, perhaps I can throw some light on the subject.
Will Starr was a friend of the late William Wylie, accordion tuner and repairer, who worked with McCormick’s Music Ltd, 33 Bath Street, Glasgow, and was a most accomplished player on the three-row box.
Will Starr used to get his box tuned by Willie and happened to say he would like something unusual. It was Willie’s suggestion to make Will Starr’s box with an extra row of buttons.
These were duly ordered from Hohner and Willie drilled a fourth row on the keyboard plate. This extra row of buttons do not produce any sound as they are not connected to any reeds etc. They are only ornamental and confusing!
Many hours were spent in Willie’s ‘den’ as he called it – a haven for anybody interested in the working of the box.
Willie Wylie’s own box – a black Shand Morino is now owned by that fine player of ‘pipe tunes’ Charlie Kilpatrick.
Bill Butler
Helensburgh
Sir – What has happened to our beloved ‘B&F’? I feel the contents of our paper are below the quality readers have come to expect. There are several areas to which I direct my criticism :
a) Learning the Accordion. Do the majority of readers (who do play) want top take nine months to play the correct way? Surely anyone wishing to learn would take lessons weekly and not wait a month for this article.
b) The Reel Radio : What has happened to this once enjoyable column? Now when it appears it tells the bands in ‘future weeks’ months after we’ve heard them. Derek Hamilton may have been brutal in his comments, but he did at least come across with the information we wanted.
c) Adverts : apart from being a good and needed source of income, are full page adverts necessary? It is getting to the point where our paper is becoming a trade paper as adverts tend to outnumber articles of news, information, etc and finally :
d) Photographs : rather than having a full page containing photos fropm the one Club featuring the same faces, why not have photographs of bands so we can see the face behind the names.
I hope these comments may help to produce a better ‘B&F’ to the standard we are used to.
Grant Crawford
East Kilbride
Obituary
Mr Angus Park
The death occurred of Angus Park on Monday, 2nd April, 1984, the founder member of Newton St Boswells Accordion & Fiddle Club.
Starting the Club on 17th October, 1972, Angus was well known in the NAAFC. He was chairman of St Boswells Club up to his illness a few years ago. He was one of the original committee members of Musselburgh Festival and was also a keen rugby enthusiast.
Our deepest sympathy goes to Mrs Park and family.
A.S.B.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 23rd May 84 Karen Higgins & Norma Brodie 27th June 84 Robert Black SDB
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 6th May 84 Alasdair Hunter Trio
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 11th May 84 Annual Dance Oakbank Sound 16th Sept 84 Addie Harper Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 26th April 84 Garioch Fiddlers 24th May 84 George Bell SDB
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 26th April 84 Bobby Crowe, 31st May 84 Currie Brothers, 28th June 84 Raymond Chuchuk 26th July 84 Jean Farquhar and RGM 27th Sept 84 Gordon Pattullo
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callendar (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 26th May 84 Fiddlers 3 + 2 14th July 84 Craigowl SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 8th May 84 Jack Stalker SDB
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) – 1st May 84 Ian McCallum SDB
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 26th April 84 Jimmy Blair Accordion Orchestra
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 2nd May 84 A. Hunter Trio
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 24th April 84 Jim Dawson SDB
Forres (Brig Motel) – 9th May 84 Fraser McGlynn Trio
Fort William (Caol Community Club) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 1st May 84 Oakbank Sound
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 30th May 84 Currie Brothers
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 2nd May 84 Bob Gordon SDB 6th June 84 Craigowl SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th June Club Night
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 17th May 84 Wallochmor Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) – 31 Jan 84
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – Kenny Thomson and the Wardlaw SDB
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (formerly called Gretna Club) – 10th May 84 Currie Brothers 20th June 84 Charity Ceilidh
North East (Royal Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) – 25th May 84 Annual Dance Addie Harper Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel) -
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) -
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Ayr
3. Balloch
4. Banchory
5. Banff
6. Beith & District
7. Belford
8. Campbeltown
9. Castle Douglas
10. Cleland
11. Dalriada
12. Derwentside
13. Dingwall
14. Dundee
15. Dunblane
16. Dunfermline & District
17. East Kilbride
18. Edinburgh
19. Forres
20. Highland
21. Islesteps
22. Kelso
23. Kintore
24. Lesmahagow
25. Livingston
26. Lockerbie
27. M.A.F.I.A.
28. Newton St Boswells
29. North Cumbria
30. Peebles
31. Perth & District
32. Premier
33. Shetland
34. Thurso
35. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1983 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Buchan A&F Club
12. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
39. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
40. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
41. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
42. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
43. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
44. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
45. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
46. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
48. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
49. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
50. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
51. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
52. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
53. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
54. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
55. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
56. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
57. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
58. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
59. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
60. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
61. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
62. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Club Accord
67. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
68. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
69. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
70. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
71. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
72. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
73. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
75. Newcastleton Accordion Club
76. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
77. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
78. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
79. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
80. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
81. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £70
Half Page - £35
Quarter Page - £17.50
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
We have come to the end of season No 7 and we trust you had many great and memorable evenings together. Now to recharge the batteries.
Six weeks clear notice must be given to the Association Secretary for any motion in connection with the Constitution before the AGM.
Please note that the prices quoted for the AGM Weekend do not include VAT, that must be added on. Havinf said that, we hope everyone has a great time.
Our thanks to all our contributors to the papers, writers, photographers, cartoonists, secretaries, etc. Without your assistance there would be no paper and we hope to see you all again come September.
Honoured Guest
By Jimmy Blue
Our honoured guest this year will be Andy Stewart. I have no doubt many of you will be saying to yourselves “but he doesn’t play the box or the fiddle”…well, perhaps not, but I have my scrapbook on my knees and Joan is at the typewriter and I am thumbing through hundreds of programmes and items from newspapers, etc…, from all over the world and a million memories are being relived of my long and happy association with Andy.
When, as a 17-year-old, I started playing the box, I little thought that I would in years to come tour Ireland, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Rhodesia and South Africa – and all this because Andy Stewart, having become the host of the ‘White Heather Club’ saw potential for a Scottish Dance Band becoming part of his music.
It was always a thrill if we were in the dressing-room having a wee run through some new – or some old – Scottish air, and there Andy would appear, all ears and interest and before we knew where we were, another song had been composed. Of course, it goes without saying that ‘The Scottish Soldier’ was the first!
He was always searching for a tune and those which come to mind are ‘The Battle’s O’er’, ‘By the Lochanside’, ‘The Black Bear’ and from Bbby MacLeod’s repertoire came ‘Donald, Whaur’s Yer Troosers’.
There are so many lovely stories relating to Andy Stewart – most of which I’ll keep for Dunblane – but one that comes to mind is a night in Wanganui, a delightful little city in New Zealand.
Unbeknown to us, Andy had got a chorus of ‘Campbeltown Loch’ (to the tune of ‘The Glendarual Highlanders’) from his great friend, the late Roddy MacMillan – also an excellent song-writer. Somewhere on route he had written another half-dozen verses and what a thrill it was to be in at the launching of that song (completely unrehearsed) – and it stopped the show!
Andy has always been a great ambassador for the music of Scotland. He has been an inspiration to us all for these Dunblane Weekends. He has worked professionally and closely with all four bandleaders who have been honoured at Dunblane, and as you will have gathered from his contributions in poem and prose and from the good fellowship on these, occasions, Andy is very much one of us.
Kirsty’s Ceilidh
On Sunday, 1st April, they came from Torphins, Shetland, Tobermory, London and Inverness. The ceilidh started with a lady piper, Sharon Walker from Pitlochry, of the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band.
Compere Eddie Rose introduced Fintry Style, Alex Fitzsimmons and singer Robert Wilson who have us a grand selection and had Hugh Ferguson on drums helping out with a great sound.
Robin and Deryn Waitt, the Bon Accord Duo from Canonbie in Dumfriesshire, set up their equipment on stage and offered its use to all – and what a great Duo. Their ‘Bunch of Thyme’ was beautiful and even with the Irish !!? accent. To we Scots this side of the Border it came over clear and we do hope you will join in again for a longer spot, especially if we have a 48-hour ceilidh. Thank you for traveling so far to help out Robin and Deryn.
Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank, on accordion, had Iain Henderson East Kilbride, on fiddle, Grant Crawford, also EK on keyboard and Hugh again on drums. Iain was on the doorstep of the ceilidh around 1.30pm and was soon helping out to set up the hall with Nigel and Bill Bisset, the workers. Allan had his 5 month old daughter Laura at her first ceilidh.
We then had a dance selection from Fiona Johnston, Stirling, and Leslie Thomson from Plean, they are stalwart supporters of all the ceilidhs. Douglas McDonald on accordion from Aberfeldy was on his first visit to the ceilidh as was Betty McKinnon from Perth, who played piano for a great selection, thank you for joining us.
Round about this time we had planned a big stramash with all players on stage, but by this time the hall was getting busier and new faces were appearing, new names to me, and the compere said “Kirsty, is this your usual 8 hour ceilidh or the 48-hour one everyone says you will need?”
Next on came young Bill black from Stanley, Duncan Black, Kate black and Betty McKinnon on piano, to give their usual rip-roaring, smashing selection and delightful voice of Kate in a beautiful royal blue jumpsuit. Kate had traveled from a party in Aberdeen straight to the ceilidh on the train herself with Ruby, her guide-dog. I hope you were none the worse of your journey and long ceilidh Kate. Thanks a million for coming, hope the sore throat is better.
Mary McCann from Perth gave us a delightful set of folk-style songs. Mary has a lovely, clear voice like Kate.
Next were Lorna, and brother Craig, McWhinney, another of my stalwart supporters from Balloch. When they started playing you could hardly see them. Now Craig, all of 13, is more relaxed and smiles and can keep big sister Lorna on her toes with his playing, the audience enjoyed listening to them.
Our youngest performer, William Bradley, just turned 10 years, picked up courage this year and was on stage as quick as a flash all smiles and received a great applause. I think mum up in the balcony was more nervous than he was, well done, stick in William, seeing you got a turn there was no time for auld Auntie Kirsty.
We had a set of Irish jigs from the dancers. The next group was the Oakbank Sound with David Wilson, accordion, Graham Edwardson, accordion, Gregor Borland, fiddle, Bobby Miller, bass, Gordon Smith, drums, and Kathryn Wilson on piano. A young band, great sound and all looking happy and enjoying themselves. We could have had longer but again we had to move on.
We had the Jimmy Blair Orchestra from Glasgow, again getting better every time we hear them and so well rehearsed and we had a selection of Jimmy’s own tunes too that came over very well, solos too. They even helped to sell tickets and I must thank the parents and friends who organise the bus and set up the equipment and also find time to join in. Thanks to all including the ladies and gentlemen of the band and especially Mrs Lola Blair for finding the time to come along.
We had Eddie Rose, the compere, with a funny sketch and selection of songs, accompanied by Betty McKinnon on oiano and Douglas Davidson on accordion. The two pipers arrived straight from work to play a selection, while Freeland was doing all the work all on his own setting everybody up. While Jim Barrie was walking around, shoes off, humming, Gus Millar sitting on his polo and Neil McMillan sending out a search party for Sandy Coghill, stuck on the motorway. You missed a great ceilish Sandy, but I’ll send you a copy of the tape of the Wallochmor trying to keep up with the young Colin Dewar.
Thanks Walloch for giving up your time to end a great day and also thank you for the Stramash that we finally managed to fit in. Sorry all whom I did not see. Would all who were there and did not get a turn, including Lyn shanks, send me your address please. Anyone fancy a 48 hour ceilidh? Boy what a day!!
Thank you to Ian Smith for being there too. Now the final final end I think!!
We were able to obtain the final £1,000 target to sponsor another Guide Dog. Anyone interested in joining us for the handing over of the cheque at Forfar, please write or phone and we can make arrangements at a later date.
Thank you once again to the ‘B&F’, Robbie Shepherd, Jill Kinnaird, Wallochmor, players, singers, dancers, donations to raffle etc, money, time and half-pennies, they are still coming in from Clubs.
Musselburgh Reflections
By Norrie Williams
Those who have been in the Brunton Main Hall on Musselburgh Festival Day will have seen the competitors emerge from the swing door over to the right and walk across a vast no-man’s land to mount that big stage which can be one of the loneliest spots on earth for a solo player waiting on the starting bell.
What goes on behind these swing doors? They give access to a long narrow store for stage props etc., the equivalent of the wings in a theatre. This ‘glory hole’ is used as the holding point for players waiting to enter the ‘arena’.
Throughout the day this is a busy place, especially during the Band and Trio Sections when it resembles Piccadilly Circus.
The atmosphere in this area is always taut, but about midway through the Evening Concert the tension increases dramatically as the moment of truth approaches for the select few who have reached the finals of one of the Senior Solo Traditional Accordion Classes.
Senior – A few years ago this title might have been more appropriatewhen the ages of this group could have ranged from 18 to 50, but of this year’s five intrepid souls the oldest is 18, a testimony to the technical expertise of today’s young players.
Judge
At this moment (7.20pm Saturday, 3rd March, 1984) in the ‘glory hole’ are Joan Blue – waiting on husband Jimmy who is going to judge the finals – Alex Little, MC, looking a picture of health and dotting happily back and forth through swing doors introducing the various turns, an ever-smiling Eddie MacDonald marshalling the ‘artistes’ and Jill Kinnaird of the BBC sitting quietly and unobtrusively to one side with clipboard and stopwatch.
As Freeland Barbour is on holiday, Jill is producing this year’s programmes of Festival highlights for ‘Take the Floor’.
Yours truly has been collecting the names of the tunes in the finalists’ march, strathspey and reel sets, at least the four that can be located.
The lad drawn to play second, Colin Dewar from Kingskettle, is missing.
Number one Raymond Laidlaw, Pencaitland, goes out through those doors on his lonely walk in front of 500 pairs of eyes and all our hearts go with him. His fine Guerrini instrument doesn’t matter at the moment, it’s the person behind it that is everyone’s concern.
One feels very proud indeed of these players who have gone through so much to reach this high point. There will obviously be some partisanship in the audience but when the chips are down like this everyone feels for each player in turn and wills them to go through note perfect. When the inevitable slip occurs, they all suffer along with the competitor. Pity they cannot all come out in first place, they deserve it.
Finishing
Raymond is just finishing his march when up the stairs comes Colin puffing and panting, having just bolted down a ‘chinky’ take-away, bungs on his Morino, says it feels a wee bit uncomfortable resting on his ‘sweet and sour’ or whatever, but not unduly perturbed he reaches the wings as the first competitor plays his final chord – a narrow squeak. Because of the panic we check that Colin’s bottom bellows strap is unfastened, wish him luck and out he goes.
I smugly hand Eddie MacDonald the third set of tunes and he says “thanks very much, but haven’t you forgotten something?” I scrutinize the paper to see if I have missed anything and look up puzzled. “Someone to play them,” he says.
I dash off along the maze of passages with my ears at full stretch listening for the march ‘Captain Carswell’ which will home me in on Jennifer Forrest of Airdrie. I find her with all the ‘diamonds’ on her Classique glittering in the lights.
We (the non-players) all keep up a light banter, imagining that this will put the players at ease. In fact, they’re probably thinking that they could do without this set of middle aged ‘ba-heids’ at this precise moment when they are trying to get into the right frame of mind.
Jennifer, who has had a good day – runner-up in Pipe Music and Trio Classes – but is obviously a bit tense, disappears into the hall.
Meanwhile a diminutive figure, wearing a full-length pale blue evening dress and a Hohner Gola, suddenly materializes, none other than Miss Rosemary Wright, the Principal of the British College of Accordionists.
Rosemary, who has been judging the classical all day, is going to do a spot immediately after the play-off. She actually looks more nervous than the five finalists, shaking her hands and working her fingers to limber up. Of course, she is also going out there to be judged and knows it. I have read all her articles on ‘Playing for others’ in the ‘Accordion Times’ and am rather wickedly looking forward to see how it works out in practice.
Edward Galley from Forfar (No 4) appears in harness, but his hands are getting sticky with perspiration, so he takes off his box and hands it to me. I buckle at the knees, not being used to Morino Vs – they are certainly Clyde-built. He rushes to the kitchen to run his hands under the cold tap – a good tip. We all get edgy while he’s away, but he makes it back during Jennifer’s reel.
Tension
Last man, James Grant, Eyemouth, is along in good time. He has had a long wait and this must tell. Again the small talk starts up to break the tension and this time a friendly argument ensues about the pronunciation of some of the tune titles.
The Airdrie lass comes back into the safety of the wings, obviously relieved, but shaking her head. Edward does his stint and returns and in answer to a “how did it go?” he makes facial expressions which could mean ‘not bad’.
Alex Little ushers James out and follows him to the stage for the introduction. This last player tackles tunes of incredible difficulty, requiring at least 10 fingers per hand and comes back at the end of his ordeal obviously not pleased with his efforts.
Various soothing comments are made as he passes through fastening up the shiny black Bugari.
Well, that’s it – another 10 minutes or so to wait for the results.
We disperse into the hall through those doors full of curiosity to hear Rosemary Wright. How will the audience, predominantly interested in traditional music, react to classical pieces played by an English visitor?
After a warm welcome and introduction by Alex Little, Rosemary, looking even tinier on that big stage announces her opening number in a clear, steady voice – no sign of nerves now.
This lady is in the virtuoso class and this level of playing can be appreciated even by those like myself who are not versed in this type of music – I always thought ‘Rallentando’ was a make of bicycle.
Recognition
The audience listen intently and give hearty applause. A second piece is rendered flawlessly with considerable expression and Rosemary gets well-deserved warm recognition.
She can be well pleased with he debut at Musselburgh. Time does not, unfortunately, permit an encore. Jimmy Blue, the Association Chairman, congratulates her as she glides out.
He then heads for the microphone to give the news that all are waiting for. For the second time that day Edward Galley collects the big one. As he passes once more through the glory hole with a handful of ironmongery he is pounced on by Robbie Shepherd, plus tape-recorder. Although he must be somewhat bewildered by events he sounds cool.
The concert continues, the aura of nervous tension behind these doors, although less intense, is still there, because various class winners are waiting to go on and do their party pieces.
I make off to snatch a quick cuppa, somewhat dazzled with admiration and emotion…
What has pleased me particularly about this Festival?
Firstly, the over-all high standard of playing in all classes. I may say this is also the opinion of the judges. A greater number of players in each section are now good or very good and this makes adjudication even harder. The quality was there right enough.
Increase
Secondly, the 50% increase in the junior fiddle entry and an almost full house in the new slow air competition. This is a tremendous encouragement to all connected with the organisation of the event. More power to the young players.
The standard of playing in the senior fiddle sections is also high, but the number are low. We cannot hope to emulate Kirriemuir or the ‘Golden Fiddle’, but we want the fiddle to come into greater prominence in the Association.
Finally, as last year, I was over the moon with the Trio and Band entries. In retrospect any recording company could have left tapes running for the enties two and a quarter hour session and without editing have issued two or three LPs of the most pleasing and contrasting styles and sounds. The standard was that good.
I was literally ‘high’ on the music at the end. The inventiveness and feeling shown throughout was nothing short of tremendous. Typical was a piano intro for the 6/8 march ‘Braemar Gathering’ and then the whole band hit it spot-on. Bob Scott and I were ten feet in the air. What an impact.
One of the most satisfying aspects is the fact that so many different musicians are taking the trouble to get together to work things out and rehearse. The no no duplication of players rule has reaped dividends.
Interest
Just for the record, if the Editor can spare the space, it would possibly be of interest to include a list of the players who participated in the groups – some well known names and some who will undoubtedly become so in the future. Just look at the statistics
Fiddlers - 15
Accordionists – 25
Pianists – 15
Bassists – 10
Drummers – 11
TOTAL - 76
Fiddle – Gregor Borland, Jean Ann Callander, Stella Clark, Judith Davidson, Bob Edwards, Margaret Ellis, Marie Fielding, Allan Johnstone, Gordon Johnstone, Andrew Knight, Margaret Quirrie, Alison Smith, Kathleen Smith, Maureen Turnbull and Jimmy Yeaman.
Accordion – Allan Anderson, George Carmichael, Kevin Clark, Tom Clark, Neil Copland, Colin Dewar, Alastair Edmondson, Owen Fielding, Jennifer Forrest, Ricki Franci, Gordon Hoggan, Simon Howie, Mark Kenneth, Colin Johnstone, Dorothy Lawson, Gary Mair, Malcolm Lillar, Craig McCallum, Lorna McWhinnie, Bruce Quirrie, Richard Ross, Donald Shaw, Dianne Smith, Hamish Smith and Gordon Wardlaw.
Piano – Neil Barron, Deborah Cavanagh, Colin Finlayson, Angus Howie, Dorothy Lawson, Morag McAskill, Alastair McGirr, Donald Mackenzie, Jean Milne, Anne Rutherford, Maureen Rutherford, Mrs Shaw, Gillian Simpson, Ian Strachan and Keith Wilson.
Double Bass – Duncan Burns, Douglas Cargill, John Delaney, Karen Leitch, Gregor McGillivray, Alastair MacLeod, Neil McMillan, John Quigley, Jimmy Ritchie and John Strachan.
Drums – George Darling, Hugh Gebbie, Neil Hutton, Graham Jamieson, Max Ketchin, Gus Millar, Billy O’Donnell, Grant Rennie, David Scott, Gordon Smith and George Stewart.
Livingston Accordion & Fiddle Club (Tenth Anniversary)
by Murdo McLeod
Every Club is indeed fortunate to have as one of its faithful players, someone who keeps the rhythm going – and in this, one of our regular features on personalities from our Club, we are happy to say a word or two about Angus Waulkinshaw.
He hails from Breich originally, but domiciled now in Polbeth. Angus is, of course, a drummer of long experience.
Coming from West Lothian, a district not lacking in famous musicians such as William Hannah, Angus’ family grew up in this tradition and indeed two of his brothers, Tom and James, were accordionists, but it was the drums that our present personality decided to take up.
Keenly interested in all kinds of music from jazz to pop, Angus has had long experience of band playing – fist with the Anderson Brothers and then moving on to a position with Bill Ross who, many will recall played in Stewarts. One of the most memorable events in Angus’ life was with the band playing at Princes Street Gardens, when 15,000 took part in the final of the Ballroom Dancing Competition.
Twenty years ago Angus joined Willie McFarlane who has gone on to become one of the most popular bands in the district. Dancers tell us that the beat is the distinctive feature of this sound.
Asked to relate any funny events in his life received the reply – “Not a lot, except maybe the band !” I will allow Mr Waulkinshaw to explain that one to his musical master.
Looking back on a long career in the musical world Angus says that the standard of playing now, especially among the young ones, is extremely high and also that dancing in West Lothian is thriving. He can take some satisfaction from the fact that he has helped to foster this happy state of affairs.
Angus, quiet by nature, but always willing to give a hand at the Club when required is indeed one of our mainstays and long may he continue to enjoy his music and our company at the Livingston A&F Club.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – In reply to Mr Murdo McLeod’s “Letter to the Editor” in the January 84 issue of the B&F regarding the late Will Starr playing a four-row British Chromatic, perhaps I can throw some light on the subject.
Will Starr was a friend of the late William Wylie, accordion tuner and repairer, who worked with McCormick’s Music Ltd, 33 Bath Street, Glasgow, and was a most accomplished player on the three-row box.
Will Starr used to get his box tuned by Willie and happened to say he would like something unusual. It was Willie’s suggestion to make Will Starr’s box with an extra row of buttons.
These were duly ordered from Hohner and Willie drilled a fourth row on the keyboard plate. This extra row of buttons do not produce any sound as they are not connected to any reeds etc. They are only ornamental and confusing!
Many hours were spent in Willie’s ‘den’ as he called it – a haven for anybody interested in the working of the box.
Willie Wylie’s own box – a black Shand Morino is now owned by that fine player of ‘pipe tunes’ Charlie Kilpatrick.
Bill Butler
Helensburgh
Sir – What has happened to our beloved ‘B&F’? I feel the contents of our paper are below the quality readers have come to expect. There are several areas to which I direct my criticism :
a) Learning the Accordion. Do the majority of readers (who do play) want top take nine months to play the correct way? Surely anyone wishing to learn would take lessons weekly and not wait a month for this article.
b) The Reel Radio : What has happened to this once enjoyable column? Now when it appears it tells the bands in ‘future weeks’ months after we’ve heard them. Derek Hamilton may have been brutal in his comments, but he did at least come across with the information we wanted.
c) Adverts : apart from being a good and needed source of income, are full page adverts necessary? It is getting to the point where our paper is becoming a trade paper as adverts tend to outnumber articles of news, information, etc and finally :
d) Photographs : rather than having a full page containing photos fropm the one Club featuring the same faces, why not have photographs of bands so we can see the face behind the names.
I hope these comments may help to produce a better ‘B&F’ to the standard we are used to.
Grant Crawford
East Kilbride
Obituary
Mr Angus Park
The death occurred of Angus Park on Monday, 2nd April, 1984, the founder member of Newton St Boswells Accordion & Fiddle Club.
Starting the Club on 17th October, 1972, Angus was well known in the NAAFC. He was chairman of St Boswells Club up to his illness a few years ago. He was one of the original committee members of Musselburgh Festival and was also a keen rugby enthusiast.
Our deepest sympathy goes to Mrs Park and family.
A.S.B.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 23rd May 84 Karen Higgins & Norma Brodie 27th June 84 Robert Black SDB
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 6th May 84 Alasdair Hunter Trio
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 11th May 84 Annual Dance Oakbank Sound 16th Sept 84 Addie Harper Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 26th April 84 Garioch Fiddlers 24th May 84 George Bell SDB
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 26th April 84 Bobby Crowe, 31st May 84 Currie Brothers, 28th June 84 Raymond Chuchuk 26th July 84 Jean Farquhar and RGM 27th Sept 84 Gordon Pattullo
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callendar (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 26th May 84 Fiddlers 3 + 2 14th July 84 Craigowl SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 8th May 84 Jack Stalker SDB
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) – 1st May 84 Ian McCallum SDB
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 26th April 84 Jimmy Blair Accordion Orchestra
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 2nd May 84 A. Hunter Trio
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 24th April 84 Jim Dawson SDB
Forres (Brig Motel) – 9th May 84 Fraser McGlynn Trio
Fort William (Caol Community Club) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 1st May 84 Oakbank Sound
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 30th May 84 Currie Brothers
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 2nd May 84 Bob Gordon SDB 6th June 84 Craigowl SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th June Club Night
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 17th May 84 Wallochmor Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) – 31 Jan 84
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – Kenny Thomson and the Wardlaw SDB
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (formerly called Gretna Club) – 10th May 84 Currie Brothers 20th June 84 Charity Ceilidh
North East (Royal Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) – 25th May 84 Annual Dance Addie Harper Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel) -
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) -
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Ayr
3. Balloch
4. Banchory
5. Banff
6. Beith & District
7. Belford
8. Campbeltown
9. Castle Douglas
10. Cleland
11. Dalriada
12. Derwentside
13. Dingwall
14. Dundee
15. Dunblane
16. Dunfermline & District
17. East Kilbride
18. Edinburgh
19. Forres
20. Highland
21. Islesteps
22. Kelso
23. Kintore
24. Lesmahagow
25. Livingston
26. Lockerbie
27. M.A.F.I.A.
28. Newton St Boswells
29. North Cumbria
30. Peebles
31. Perth & District
32. Premier
33. Shetland
34. Thurso
35. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1983 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Buchan A&F Club
12. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
39. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
40. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
41. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
42. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
43. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
44. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
45. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
46. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
48. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
49. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
50. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
51. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
52. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
53. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
54. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
55. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
56. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
57. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
58. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
59. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
60. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
61. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
62. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Club Accord
67. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
68. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
69. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
70. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
71. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
72. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
73. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
75. Newcastleton Accordion Club
76. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
77. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
78. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
79. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
80. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
81. Wellbank A&F Club
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