Box and Fiddle
Year 19 No 04
December 1995 / January 1996
Price 70p
12 pages
7 month subscription £8.00
Editor – Ron Ramsay, 48 Hospitalfield Road, Arbroath, Angus, DD11 2LS
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian, EH22 2NL
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
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all readers, advertisers and contributors to the ‘B&F’.
Time certainly flies in when you are enjoying yourself. It hardly seems a year since I wished you all the compliments of the season.
I’m happy to tell you that the ‘B&F’ circulation is well up on last year with more readers from the South of England subscribing to it.
It is also nice to hear that the majority of Clubs are doing well with capacity audience, also that some new Clubs have joined the association. I still hear from some Clubs of a distinct lack of young players and I would ask readers to give this a bit of thought to see if you can come up with any ideas to remedy this situation. Should we be approaching music teachers, schools, etc inviting their pupils to come along to our clubs? Hold competitions specifically for youngsters? Have the first part of a club night devoted to youngsters? Suggestions will be welcomed and passed on to Clubs to act upon.
The ‘B&F’ is your paper and I welcome any ideads you may have to improve the content also letters to air your views about the music scene.
I wonder what the BBC and ITV will be providing for TV for us the Hogmanay? I for one will be pleasantly surprised and delighted if it is anything associated with Scottish Dance Music. It’s a great pity if a traditional Hogmanay Party is not broadcast but I’ll wait and see. I may be wrong!
On this note, thanks must be made to Ken Mutch, Robbie Shepherd and the team at ‘TTF’ and ‘Reel Blend’ for their efforts in keeping Scottish music going.
Look forward to your letters, reports, articles, photos in 1996.
Ron Ramsay
Playback Service for the Blind
by Ron Ramsay
The Playback Recording Service for the blind started with Playback, a cassette magazine for the visually handicapped, …………..
The Fiddler o’ Glenshee
by ?
A surprise 70th birthday party, which had been stealthily arranged, was held for Jimmy Ritchie ‘The Fiddler o’ Glenshee’, on Friday, 10th November.
Appropriately, this was held in Dalrulzion Hotel, this being the venue for the Sunday ceilidhs, for many years run by Jimmy, and also his home territory. The evening was enjoyed by many friends and musicians from as far as Bonar Bridge and Northumberland. After the initial shock of seeing so many weel kent faces, Jim took over and compered the proceedings. “I saw the thing was deein’ on its feet”.
First on the bandstand was Robert MacLeod from Tobermory. Other artistes appearing at the call of Jimmy’s colourful introductions were ; Andrew Townsley (fiddle) and Fiona Ritchie (accordion), Tom and Stella Clark, Ian Cruickshanks and Jim Brown (accordions), Ian Anderson (accordion) who stayed on to accompany Jim in a selection of his own compositions, the subject matter of which were mostly in the company. The tune – ‘Donald Ferrier o’ Glenisla’ was given an airing, appropriately Donald was one of the guests. Jim and Donald started a band, as keen young lads, over fifty years ago. It’s a pity Donald hadn’t his melodeon with him as they could have turned the clock back with a tune or two.
Some great piping was heard from, in order of appearance ; John McDougall, Donald McPherson, Dr John McAskill, Sheriff McPherson and Dave Ketchin. Johnny Murray of Lochee was called upon throughout the evening for accompaniment. At the bar, tales about Jim were exchanged and tributes paid which are normally expressed posthumously but here the subject was alive and enjoying every minute. The whole evening was a great success, thanks to Irene’s careful planning and ‘The Ritch’s’ popularity and self assurance which keeps that twinkle in his e’e and the life in his music.
46th All Scotland Accordion Festival and Fiddle Championships – 28th October 1995
Forfar Musician is Scottish Champion
by Bill Wilkie
Senior Scottish Traditional
1) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
2) Ian Skinner (East Whitburn)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Senior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Willie Lawrie (Kinlochleven)
2) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
3) Scott Gordon (Galston)
All Scotland Senior Amateur
1)
2)
3)
Veterans’ Section
1) Willie Lawrie (Kinlochleven)
2) Jonathon Campbell (Kirkintilloch)
3) Bill Shorthouse (Kinross)
Scottish Traditional Button Key
1) Alexander Lindsay
Scottish Traditional (Under 12)
1) Craig Ritchie (Haddington)
2)
3)
Junior Scottish Traditional (Under 16)
1) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
3) David Nisbet (Earlston)
Junior Solo Pipe Music (Under 16)
1) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
2) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
Senior Ladies Scottish Trad
1) Pauline Bradley (Balloch)
2) Lindsay Weir (Culbokie)
3) Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill)
Junior Girls Scottish Traditional (Under 16)
1) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Jill Blackburn (Galashiels)
3) Claire Morrison (Forres)
Own Composition
1) George Burns (Cumbernauld)
2) Maureen Rutherford (Dundee)
3) John Leslie (Dunbar)
Trios
1) Sandy Leggat (Alloa)
2) Balgay Trio
3) Susan McIntosh
Senior Scottish Country Dance Band
1) Sandy Leggat (Alloa)
2) Lomond Ceilidh Band
3) Wendy Godfrey (Old Scone)
Junior Scottish Country Dance Band
1) Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
2)
3)
FIDDLE CLASSES
Junior Fiddle Under 12
1) Ida Tabis (Madderty)
2)
3)
Junior Fiddle Under 16
1) Jacqueline Beaumont (Sma’ Glen)
2)
3)
Senior Fiddle
1) Laura McGhee (Monifeith)
2) Sarah Fraser (Crieff)
3) Susan McIntosh (Skene)
Ayrshire Scottish Music Association
8th Annual Accordion and Fiddle Festival
By Cath Andrew
Well as they say, that is another Festival put to bed, and what a great day everyone had. The competitors were all in good form and all their attitudes towards the competitions were great.
How to Record a Cassette…..
by Donny & Diane
1995 Shetland Accordion & Fiddle Festival
No sooner had Lerwick’s Guizer Jarl, Peter Leask, declared the 1995 Shetland Festival open, when Nicol McLaren and the Glencraig SDB sounded off with a Boston Two Step, and we were off for four days and nights………………
Tune Association
By Murdo McLeod
From time to time, I write a note on tune title associations and they are almost invariably pipe tunes. Recently I had the pleasure of listening to Jim and Jean McConnachie who were guests at Livingston Club.
How very exciting to hear the two idioms, pipes and accordion, so uniquely combined to give us the pleasure of a wealth of excellent ‘pipey’ music. I hope that we hear more of the pipes entering our Accordion Club scene – where would we be without so many pipe competitions. In conversation with Jim after the meeting I was interested to hear of his association with that famous regiment that has produced so many famous pipers and tunes. A few days later I read with interest in the media the story of Piper Findlater V.C. The following may be of interest to you readers.
One of the most illustrious winners of the Victoria Cross was a piper, George Findlater, whose medal came up for sale very recently.
The circumstances of the award were such that the piper became a national celebrity, a legend in his lifetime recently.
Many of the readers will know a very fine retreat tune (9/8) call ‘The Heights of Dargai’ (included in many pipe tune books including Scots Guards Volume 1). This inhospitable spot lies in what was then called in those far-off days of Empire as the Northwest Frontier (of India). At the time of the particular battle commemorated by the tune the 92nd Gordon Highlanders were attached by fierce Afghan forces – not noted for their retiring propensities! The ‘rebels’ were in a commanding position on the heights above and in great danger of overwhelming the Highlanders below. It was then that Piper Findlater was ordered to inspire the soldiers for a forward charge. He was immediately shot in both ankles but continued to play the regimental march, ‘Cock o’ the North’ on his knees! He thus continued whilst the Regiment successfully took the Heights of Dargai. Happily, Piper Findlater, survived to be given the V.C. by Queen Victoria, being allowed, most unusually, to remain seated in front of the Monarch.
Sad to relate, after he got the use of his legs back he was forced to play on public platforms as a reluctant ‘exhibit’ in order to get enough money to survive, shunned by the officer class. Such was the gratitude of the nation. Reader will recall that it was only in the last few weeks that the pension awards to V.C. holders was increased to a very modest amount.
It is gratifying to report that Findlater’s V.C. was bought in the last few days with the aid of various grants and the generosity of the last remaining descendants of the illustrious piper. The V.C. is now in the custody of the Trustees of the Regimental Museum in Aberdeen.
The tune referred to above was written by a J. Wallace presumably at the time but who he was I do not know. Perhaps one of your readers will throw some light on the query.
This then is a little bit about the circumstances attaching to the tune Heights of Dargai and perhaps it will not be out of place to give a respected thought to Piper George Findlater V.C. whenever we hear it played in the future?
P.S. The Gordon Highlanders in the course of their history won 19 V.C.s
Your Letters
Record Review
By Appointment – Steven Carcary with Guests – SMR052
The Rose and Thistle Collection of Scottish Country Dances – Ian Cruickshank SDB – TSW001
Take the Floor – Repeat Broadcasts
2nd Dec 95 – James Coutts SDB
9th Dec 95 – George Stirrat SDB
16th Dec 95 – Jim Johnstone SDB
23rd Dec 95 – Colin Dewar SDB OB Lockerbie
30th Dec 95 – Alan Gardiner SDB OB Hamilton Town Hall
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 28th Dec 95 - Garioch Blend
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 3rd Dec 95 – Club Night 29th Dec- Scottish Hour and Dance with Jim Halcrow and Friends
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Jan 96 – Jock Morgan
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 3rd Dec 95 – Angie Smith SDB 7th Jan 96 – Colin McKechnie SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 17th Dec 95 – Club Night / Dance 21st Jan 96 – Iain Anderson SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) – 26th Dec 95 – Bill Black SDB 29th Jan 96 – Paul Anderson
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 24th Jan 96 – Jock Fraser SDB
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 18th Dec 95 – Ian Anderson SDB 15th Jan 96 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Belford (Community Club) – 25th Jan 96 – Judith Linton Trio
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 10th Dec 95 – Jim Johnstone SDB 14th Jan 96 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 12th Dec 95 – Johnny Duncan Duo
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) - 12th Dec 95 – Club Night 16th Jan 96 – Pilgrims Way Trio
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 14th Dec 95 – Dochie McCallum & Friends
Campsie (Glazert House Hotel) - 5th Dec 95 – Peter Wood SDB
Carlisle (Border Regiment Club, Carlisle Castle) - 7th Dec 95 – Angie Smith Trio 11th Jan 96 – David Vernon
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 19th Dec 95 – Judith Linton Trio 16th Jan 96 – David Vernon
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 21st Dec 95 – Ian Muir Duo 18th Jan 96 – Iain MacPhail SDB
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) 7th Dec 95 – David Cunningham Jnr Trio 4th Jan 96 – Gordon Pattullo
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead)
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 6th Dec 95 – James Corbett 10th Jan 96 – Graeme Mitchell SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 16th Jan 96 – David Oswald SDB
Dundee (Dexters) –
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 12th Dec 95 – Alasdair MacCuish and the Black Rose CB
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 25th Jan 96 – Michael Garvin SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) – 1st Dec 95 – Dinner Dance
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 20th Dec 95 – Donald McLeod and Friends 22nd Jan 96 – Dochie McCallum & Friends
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 28th Jan 96 – Bruce Lindsay Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Dec 95 – Ian Hardie 10th Jan 96 – Jennifer Forrest SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) – 11th Dec 95 – Dochie McCallum & Friends 8th Jan 96 – Dick Black Band
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 21st Dec 95 – Paul Anderson 18th Jan 96 – Robert Whitehead SDB
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) - 6th Dec 95 – Brian Griffin Duo 3rd Jan 96 – Jim Brown Duo
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 26th Dec 95 – tbc 30th Jan 96 – Burns Night & Club Night
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 20th Dec 95 – Gordon Pattullo 17th Jan 96 – Ian Muir Trio
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th Dec 95 – Nicol McLaren SDB 5th Jan 96 – Gary Donaldson SDB
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 5th Dec 95 – Ian Powrie 9th Jan 96 – Oban Club
Islay (White Hart Hotel) -
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Waterhole, Lochfoot) – 5th Dec 95 – Nicol McLaren SDB 4th Jan 96 – Fiona Cuthbertson Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 13th Dec 95 – Club Night & Prize Draw 31st Jan 95 – John Fairbairn Trio
Kinlochshiel (Islander Function Room) -
Kintore (Torryburn Hotel) – 6th Dec 95 – James Coutts SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Dec 95 – Judith Linton Trio 11th Jan 96 – William Bradley SDB
Livingston (Deans Community Centre) 19th Dec 95 – Alan Roy 16th Jan 96 – Pentland Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 30th Jan 96 - Ceilidh
Mauchline (Sorn Village Hall) 19th Dec 95 – Gerard Burns Trio 16th Jan 96 – Ian Muir Trio
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Muirhead (Belmont Arms, Meigle) -
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29th Jan 95 – Mhairi Coutts Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 5th Dec 95 – Alex Green & Friends 9th Jan 96 – Club Night
Oban (Caledonian Hotel) – 7th Dec 95 – Jock Fraser SDB 11th Jan 95 – Local Artistes 21st Anniversary
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 25th Jan 96 – Bill Richardson SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Jan 96 – Gordon Pattullo
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 12th Dec 95 – Sandy Leggat SDB 9th Jan 96 – Laurie Accordion Orchestra
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 7th Dec 95 – Ian Muir Trio 4th Jan 96 – Club Night
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 3rd Dec 95 – Jim Lindsay 13th Jan 96 – Simon Howie SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 11th Dec 95 – Braehead Band & Ann & Roy
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Dec 95 – Paul Anderson 4th Jan 96 – Club Night
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 5th Dec 95 – Tom Alexander 9th Jan 96 – Robert Whitehead SDB
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) – 19th Dec 95 – The Wick Fiddlers 16th Jan 96 – Ceilidh night
Yarrow (Gordon Arms) - 20th Dec 95 – Club Night
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Banchory
4. Banff
5. Beith
6. Biggar
7. Bromley
8. Button Key
9. Campsie
10. Castle Douglas
11. Coalburn
12. Dingwall
13. Dunoon & Cowal
14. East Kilbride
15. Fintry
16. Forres
19. Glendale
20. Glenfarg
21. Glenrothes
22. Gretna
23. Highland
24. Inveraray
25. Kelso
26. Kintore
27. Lesmahagow
28. Livingston
29. Lockerbie
30. Montrose
31. Newtongrange
32. North East
33. Oban
34. Peebles
35. Renfrew
36. Rothbury
37. Thurso
38. Turriff
39. Tynedale
40. Wick
41. Yarrow
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1995
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Bromley A&F Club
15. Button Key A&F Club (
16. Campbeltown A&F Club (
17. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
18. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
19. Coalburn A&F Club (
20. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
21. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
22. Derwentside A&F Club
23. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
24. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
25. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
29. Ellon A&F Club (
30. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
31. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
32. Forfar A&F Club (
33. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
34. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
35. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
37. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
38. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
39. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
40. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
41. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
42. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991 - present)
43. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
44. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
45. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
46. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
47. Kintore A&F Club (
48. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
49. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
50. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
51. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
52. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
53. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
54. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
55. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
56. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
57. Mull A&F Club
58. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
59. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
60. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
61. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
62. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
63. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
64. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
65. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
66. Renfrew A&F Club (
67. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
68. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
69. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
70. Sutherland A&F Club (
71. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
72. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
73. Tranent A&F Club
74. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
75. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
76. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
77. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
78. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
79. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
80. Buchan A&F Club
81. Callander A&F Club (
82. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
83. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
84. Club Accord
85. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
86. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
87. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
88. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
89. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
90. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
91. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
92. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
93. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
94. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
95. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
96. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
97. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
98. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
99. Newcastleton Accordion Club
100. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
101. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
102. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
103. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
104. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
105. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
106. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
107. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £94
Half Page - £47
Quarter Page - £24
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian, EH22 2NL
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
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all readers, advertisers and contributors to the ‘B&F’.
Time certainly flies in when you are enjoying yourself. It hardly seems a year since I wished you all the compliments of the season.
I’m happy to tell you that the ‘B&F’ circulation is well up on last year with more readers from the South of England subscribing to it.
It is also nice to hear that the majority of Clubs are doing well with capacity audience, also that some new Clubs have joined the association. I still hear from some Clubs of a distinct lack of young players and I would ask readers to give this a bit of thought to see if you can come up with any ideas to remedy this situation. Should we be approaching music teachers, schools, etc inviting their pupils to come along to our clubs? Hold competitions specifically for youngsters? Have the first part of a club night devoted to youngsters? Suggestions will be welcomed and passed on to Clubs to act upon.
The ‘B&F’ is your paper and I welcome any ideads you may have to improve the content also letters to air your views about the music scene.
I wonder what the BBC and ITV will be providing for TV for us the Hogmanay? I for one will be pleasantly surprised and delighted if it is anything associated with Scottish Dance Music. It’s a great pity if a traditional Hogmanay Party is not broadcast but I’ll wait and see. I may be wrong!
On this note, thanks must be made to Ken Mutch, Robbie Shepherd and the team at ‘TTF’ and ‘Reel Blend’ for their efforts in keeping Scottish music going.
Look forward to your letters, reports, articles, photos in 1996.
Ron Ramsay
Playback Service for the Blind
by Ron Ramsay
The Playback Recording Service for the blind started with Playback, a cassette magazine for the visually handicapped, …………..
The Fiddler o’ Glenshee
by ?
A surprise 70th birthday party, which had been stealthily arranged, was held for Jimmy Ritchie ‘The Fiddler o’ Glenshee’, on Friday, 10th November.
Appropriately, this was held in Dalrulzion Hotel, this being the venue for the Sunday ceilidhs, for many years run by Jimmy, and also his home territory. The evening was enjoyed by many friends and musicians from as far as Bonar Bridge and Northumberland. After the initial shock of seeing so many weel kent faces, Jim took over and compered the proceedings. “I saw the thing was deein’ on its feet”.
First on the bandstand was Robert MacLeod from Tobermory. Other artistes appearing at the call of Jimmy’s colourful introductions were ; Andrew Townsley (fiddle) and Fiona Ritchie (accordion), Tom and Stella Clark, Ian Cruickshanks and Jim Brown (accordions), Ian Anderson (accordion) who stayed on to accompany Jim in a selection of his own compositions, the subject matter of which were mostly in the company. The tune – ‘Donald Ferrier o’ Glenisla’ was given an airing, appropriately Donald was one of the guests. Jim and Donald started a band, as keen young lads, over fifty years ago. It’s a pity Donald hadn’t his melodeon with him as they could have turned the clock back with a tune or two.
Some great piping was heard from, in order of appearance ; John McDougall, Donald McPherson, Dr John McAskill, Sheriff McPherson and Dave Ketchin. Johnny Murray of Lochee was called upon throughout the evening for accompaniment. At the bar, tales about Jim were exchanged and tributes paid which are normally expressed posthumously but here the subject was alive and enjoying every minute. The whole evening was a great success, thanks to Irene’s careful planning and ‘The Ritch’s’ popularity and self assurance which keeps that twinkle in his e’e and the life in his music.
46th All Scotland Accordion Festival and Fiddle Championships – 28th October 1995
Forfar Musician is Scottish Champion
by Bill Wilkie
Senior Scottish Traditional
1) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
2) Ian Skinner (East Whitburn)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Senior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Willie Lawrie (Kinlochleven)
2) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
3) Scott Gordon (Galston)
All Scotland Senior Amateur
1)
2)
3)
Veterans’ Section
1) Willie Lawrie (Kinlochleven)
2) Jonathon Campbell (Kirkintilloch)
3) Bill Shorthouse (Kinross)
Scottish Traditional Button Key
1) Alexander Lindsay
Scottish Traditional (Under 12)
1) Craig Ritchie (Haddington)
2)
3)
Junior Scottish Traditional (Under 16)
1) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
3) David Nisbet (Earlston)
Junior Solo Pipe Music (Under 16)
1) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
2) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
Senior Ladies Scottish Trad
1) Pauline Bradley (Balloch)
2) Lindsay Weir (Culbokie)
3) Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill)
Junior Girls Scottish Traditional (Under 16)
1) Janette Morrison (Forres)
2) Jill Blackburn (Galashiels)
3) Claire Morrison (Forres)
Own Composition
1) George Burns (Cumbernauld)
2) Maureen Rutherford (Dundee)
3) John Leslie (Dunbar)
Trios
1) Sandy Leggat (Alloa)
2) Balgay Trio
3) Susan McIntosh
Senior Scottish Country Dance Band
1) Sandy Leggat (Alloa)
2) Lomond Ceilidh Band
3) Wendy Godfrey (Old Scone)
Junior Scottish Country Dance Band
1) Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
2)
3)
FIDDLE CLASSES
Junior Fiddle Under 12
1) Ida Tabis (Madderty)
2)
3)
Junior Fiddle Under 16
1) Jacqueline Beaumont (Sma’ Glen)
2)
3)
Senior Fiddle
1) Laura McGhee (Monifeith)
2) Sarah Fraser (Crieff)
3) Susan McIntosh (Skene)
Ayrshire Scottish Music Association
8th Annual Accordion and Fiddle Festival
By Cath Andrew
Well as they say, that is another Festival put to bed, and what a great day everyone had. The competitors were all in good form and all their attitudes towards the competitions were great.
How to Record a Cassette…..
by Donny & Diane
1995 Shetland Accordion & Fiddle Festival
No sooner had Lerwick’s Guizer Jarl, Peter Leask, declared the 1995 Shetland Festival open, when Nicol McLaren and the Glencraig SDB sounded off with a Boston Two Step, and we were off for four days and nights………………
Tune Association
By Murdo McLeod
From time to time, I write a note on tune title associations and they are almost invariably pipe tunes. Recently I had the pleasure of listening to Jim and Jean McConnachie who were guests at Livingston Club.
How very exciting to hear the two idioms, pipes and accordion, so uniquely combined to give us the pleasure of a wealth of excellent ‘pipey’ music. I hope that we hear more of the pipes entering our Accordion Club scene – where would we be without so many pipe competitions. In conversation with Jim after the meeting I was interested to hear of his association with that famous regiment that has produced so many famous pipers and tunes. A few days later I read with interest in the media the story of Piper Findlater V.C. The following may be of interest to you readers.
One of the most illustrious winners of the Victoria Cross was a piper, George Findlater, whose medal came up for sale very recently.
The circumstances of the award were such that the piper became a national celebrity, a legend in his lifetime recently.
Many of the readers will know a very fine retreat tune (9/8) call ‘The Heights of Dargai’ (included in many pipe tune books including Scots Guards Volume 1). This inhospitable spot lies in what was then called in those far-off days of Empire as the Northwest Frontier (of India). At the time of the particular battle commemorated by the tune the 92nd Gordon Highlanders were attached by fierce Afghan forces – not noted for their retiring propensities! The ‘rebels’ were in a commanding position on the heights above and in great danger of overwhelming the Highlanders below. It was then that Piper Findlater was ordered to inspire the soldiers for a forward charge. He was immediately shot in both ankles but continued to play the regimental march, ‘Cock o’ the North’ on his knees! He thus continued whilst the Regiment successfully took the Heights of Dargai. Happily, Piper Findlater, survived to be given the V.C. by Queen Victoria, being allowed, most unusually, to remain seated in front of the Monarch.
Sad to relate, after he got the use of his legs back he was forced to play on public platforms as a reluctant ‘exhibit’ in order to get enough money to survive, shunned by the officer class. Such was the gratitude of the nation. Reader will recall that it was only in the last few weeks that the pension awards to V.C. holders was increased to a very modest amount.
It is gratifying to report that Findlater’s V.C. was bought in the last few days with the aid of various grants and the generosity of the last remaining descendants of the illustrious piper. The V.C. is now in the custody of the Trustees of the Regimental Museum in Aberdeen.
The tune referred to above was written by a J. Wallace presumably at the time but who he was I do not know. Perhaps one of your readers will throw some light on the query.
This then is a little bit about the circumstances attaching to the tune Heights of Dargai and perhaps it will not be out of place to give a respected thought to Piper George Findlater V.C. whenever we hear it played in the future?
P.S. The Gordon Highlanders in the course of their history won 19 V.C.s
Your Letters
Record Review
By Appointment – Steven Carcary with Guests – SMR052
The Rose and Thistle Collection of Scottish Country Dances – Ian Cruickshank SDB – TSW001
Take the Floor – Repeat Broadcasts
2nd Dec 95 – James Coutts SDB
9th Dec 95 – George Stirrat SDB
16th Dec 95 – Jim Johnstone SDB
23rd Dec 95 – Colin Dewar SDB OB Lockerbie
30th Dec 95 – Alan Gardiner SDB OB Hamilton Town Hall
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 28th Dec 95 - Garioch Blend
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 3rd Dec 95 – Club Night 29th Dec- Scottish Hour and Dance with Jim Halcrow and Friends
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Jan 96 – Jock Morgan
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 3rd Dec 95 – Angie Smith SDB 7th Jan 96 – Colin McKechnie SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 17th Dec 95 – Club Night / Dance 21st Jan 96 – Iain Anderson SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) – 26th Dec 95 – Bill Black SDB 29th Jan 96 – Paul Anderson
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 24th Jan 96 – Jock Fraser SDB
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 18th Dec 95 – Ian Anderson SDB 15th Jan 96 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Belford (Community Club) – 25th Jan 96 – Judith Linton Trio
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 10th Dec 95 – Jim Johnstone SDB 14th Jan 96 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 12th Dec 95 – Johnny Duncan Duo
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) - 12th Dec 95 – Club Night 16th Jan 96 – Pilgrims Way Trio
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 14th Dec 95 – Dochie McCallum & Friends
Campsie (Glazert House Hotel) - 5th Dec 95 – Peter Wood SDB
Carlisle (Border Regiment Club, Carlisle Castle) - 7th Dec 95 – Angie Smith Trio 11th Jan 96 – David Vernon
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 19th Dec 95 – Judith Linton Trio 16th Jan 96 – David Vernon
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 21st Dec 95 – Ian Muir Duo 18th Jan 96 – Iain MacPhail SDB
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) 7th Dec 95 – David Cunningham Jnr Trio 4th Jan 96 – Gordon Pattullo
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead)
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 6th Dec 95 – James Corbett 10th Jan 96 – Graeme Mitchell SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 16th Jan 96 – David Oswald SDB
Dundee (Dexters) –
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 12th Dec 95 – Alasdair MacCuish and the Black Rose CB
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 25th Jan 96 – Michael Garvin SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) – 1st Dec 95 – Dinner Dance
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 20th Dec 95 – Donald McLeod and Friends 22nd Jan 96 – Dochie McCallum & Friends
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 28th Jan 96 – Bruce Lindsay Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Dec 95 – Ian Hardie 10th Jan 96 – Jennifer Forrest SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) – 11th Dec 95 – Dochie McCallum & Friends 8th Jan 96 – Dick Black Band
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 21st Dec 95 – Paul Anderson 18th Jan 96 – Robert Whitehead SDB
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) - 6th Dec 95 – Brian Griffin Duo 3rd Jan 96 – Jim Brown Duo
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 26th Dec 95 – tbc 30th Jan 96 – Burns Night & Club Night
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 20th Dec 95 – Gordon Pattullo 17th Jan 96 – Ian Muir Trio
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th Dec 95 – Nicol McLaren SDB 5th Jan 96 – Gary Donaldson SDB
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 5th Dec 95 – Ian Powrie 9th Jan 96 – Oban Club
Islay (White Hart Hotel) -
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Waterhole, Lochfoot) – 5th Dec 95 – Nicol McLaren SDB 4th Jan 96 – Fiona Cuthbertson Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 13th Dec 95 – Club Night & Prize Draw 31st Jan 95 – John Fairbairn Trio
Kinlochshiel (Islander Function Room) -
Kintore (Torryburn Hotel) – 6th Dec 95 – James Coutts SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Dec 95 – Judith Linton Trio 11th Jan 96 – William Bradley SDB
Livingston (Deans Community Centre) 19th Dec 95 – Alan Roy 16th Jan 96 – Pentland Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 30th Jan 96 - Ceilidh
Mauchline (Sorn Village Hall) 19th Dec 95 – Gerard Burns Trio 16th Jan 96 – Ian Muir Trio
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Muirhead (Belmont Arms, Meigle) -
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29th Jan 95 – Mhairi Coutts Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 5th Dec 95 – Alex Green & Friends 9th Jan 96 – Club Night
Oban (Caledonian Hotel) – 7th Dec 95 – Jock Fraser SDB 11th Jan 95 – Local Artistes 21st Anniversary
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 25th Jan 96 – Bill Richardson SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Jan 96 – Gordon Pattullo
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 12th Dec 95 – Sandy Leggat SDB 9th Jan 96 – Laurie Accordion Orchestra
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 7th Dec 95 – Ian Muir Trio 4th Jan 96 – Club Night
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 3rd Dec 95 – Jim Lindsay 13th Jan 96 – Simon Howie SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 11th Dec 95 – Braehead Band & Ann & Roy
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Dec 95 – Paul Anderson 4th Jan 96 – Club Night
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 5th Dec 95 – Tom Alexander 9th Jan 96 – Robert Whitehead SDB
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) – 19th Dec 95 – The Wick Fiddlers 16th Jan 96 – Ceilidh night
Yarrow (Gordon Arms) - 20th Dec 95 – Club Night
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Banchory
4. Banff
5. Beith
6. Biggar
7. Bromley
8. Button Key
9. Campsie
10. Castle Douglas
11. Coalburn
12. Dingwall
13. Dunoon & Cowal
14. East Kilbride
15. Fintry
16. Forres
19. Glendale
20. Glenfarg
21. Glenrothes
22. Gretna
23. Highland
24. Inveraray
25. Kelso
26. Kintore
27. Lesmahagow
28. Livingston
29. Lockerbie
30. Montrose
31. Newtongrange
32. North East
33. Oban
34. Peebles
35. Renfrew
36. Rothbury
37. Thurso
38. Turriff
39. Tynedale
40. Wick
41. Yarrow
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1995
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Bromley A&F Club
15. Button Key A&F Club (
16. Campbeltown A&F Club (
17. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
18. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
19. Coalburn A&F Club (
20. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
21. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
22. Derwentside A&F Club
23. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
24. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
25. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
29. Ellon A&F Club (
30. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
31. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
32. Forfar A&F Club (
33. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
34. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
35. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
37. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
38. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
39. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
40. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
41. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
42. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991 - present)
43. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
44. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
45. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
46. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
47. Kintore A&F Club (
48. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
49. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
50. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
51. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
52. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
53. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
54. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
55. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
56. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
57. Mull A&F Club
58. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
59. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
60. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
61. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
62. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
63. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
64. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
65. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
66. Renfrew A&F Club (
67. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
68. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
69. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
70. Sutherland A&F Club (
71. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
72. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
73. Tranent A&F Club
74. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
75. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
76. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
77. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
78. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
79. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
80. Buchan A&F Club
81. Callander A&F Club (
82. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
83. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
84. Club Accord
85. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
86. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
87. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
88. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
89. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
90. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
91. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
92. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
93. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
94. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
95. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
96. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
97. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
98. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
99. Newcastleton Accordion Club
100. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
101. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
102. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
103. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
104. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
105. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
106. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
107. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £94
Half Page - £47
Quarter Page - £24