Box and Fiddle
Year 13 No 06
February 1990
Price 40p
12 pages
8 month subscription £4.60
Editor – Tom Clark, 55 Sutherland Crescent, Dundee, DD2 2HP
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
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
Musselburgh
With the Perth Festival behind us now, our thoughts will be turning to the big day at Musselburgh on Saturday, 3rd March. The preparations are well in hand with Norrie and Sheila Williams ‘working away like beavers’, getting things ready.
As always there is need for willing hands to help out on the day to carry out the various tasks, so send in your name etc as quickly as possible to Norrie, if you can help. We are looking forward to another enjoyable day.
Association Jerseys
Association jersey’s (with Association badge) will be on sale at Musselburgh Festival. Colours – red, blue and black and the price is £22.50.Contact Association Secretary Mr Andrew Nairn.
Tom Clark
Jack Cooper
by Tom Clark
The “Annual Gathering” of the N.A.A.F.C. usually held in June in the Station Hotel, Perth has become one of the highlights of the Scottish musical year, eagerly awaited by players and listeners from all over the country. When we attend at this Gathering, few of us give any serious thought to the work involved and the preparation required to ensure the success of this weekend.
The man responsible to the National Executive of the N.A.A.F.C. for the organisation and smooth running of events is, of course, Jack Cooper of Dundee.
Jack has a wealth of experience to call on to help him in his task. His association with the Scottish music and dance scene goes back a long way. From drumming in the Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band in the 50’s, to broadcasting with dance bands, T.V. appearances on the White Heather Club, recording sessions with various bands and involvement with the N.A.A.F.C.
In the midst of this fairly hectic programme, Jack managed to find time, along with Arthur Spink, to start up the Dundee Accordion and Fiddle Club and has been Chairman ever since.
When I spoke to his about a feature article in the “Box and Fiddle”, his first reaction was that he wasn’t likely to find time in the immediate future. So, I was very pleased when, a couple of days later, he appeared on my doorstep, armed with a file packed with all sorts of scraps of information, newspaper clippings, whole editions, photographs and details of his activities over the years.
THE EARLY DAYS
It all seems to have started with drumming in the B.B. Pipe Band at St. Andrew’s Church, Dundee, and later with the McLeod Pipe Band. It wasn’t long before Jack had adapted his style and technique to suit the growing interest in Scottish Dance Bands at the time and he soon found himself freelancing with many bands.
His first experience of a studio was as a drummer with the Betty Anderson Quartet, broadcasting on B.B.C.’s Scottish Dance Music programme from Coldside Studios in Dundee. This was to prove to be the first of many such sessions, both for broadcasting and recording with different outfits spanning his career up to the present day.
THE LOVE OF DANCING
Jack says it was watching dancers doing their stuff, whilst he was drumming, that probably gave him the desire to get involved. “I used to watch the dancers, and I decided that I would like to start a team of my own.” The repetition of the established and well known dances led Jack to think about writing and composing new dances, an activity that was to prove of great value to him in later years when he found himself Dance Director in the White Heather Club T.V. programmes. The “Gie Gordons Dancers” were formed, and led by Jack, danced their way throughout the country and over to the Continent.
One unforgettable experience about this time was when Jack and his team were privileged to take part in the Royal Command Variety Show in the Alhambra Theatre, Glasgow, in July 1958, dancing to the Jimmy Shand SDB. ”It was a marvellous experience” says Jack “and one I shall always remember”.
Jack tells me that he will always remember with gratitude the help and assistance given to him by Jimmy Shand in dancing with the band. “Jimmy was always prepared to help in any way he could, and it was through him that I was given the opportunity to appear in the Command Performance”. From an old clipping Jack lent me, I note that the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh seemed to take a special interest in the dancers, Her Majesty being a dancer.
Jack says that one of his treasurer memories is of the time he was involved in the Thames Television presentation of “This is Your Life” by Eammon Andrews when the subject was Jimmy Shand. “It was such an experience to see Jimmy being honoured in this very special way”.
THE WHITE HEATHER CLUB
Those of us who were around in those days of the late 50’s and the 60’s can probably recall a whole list of memories of the “White Heather Club” shows. For Jack, it was the highlight of his career. “It’s hard remembering all the details because there were just so many Shows, but it really was a great chapter in my life”. In the first few years of the show, Jack used his own team, the “Gie Gordons Dancers”. Later on, when rehearsals and filming became very time consuming, Jack was forced to give up the Show and return to work in the family business in Buchanan Street, Dundee, which he now runs.
Some time later however, in 1960/61, a phone call from Iain McFadyen, the programme Producer, offering Jack the position of Dance Director, lured him back. “I just couldn’t resist the challenge” says Jack “working with some of the finest dancers in the country, it was one of the best experiences of my life. The wonderful atmosphere of the show, the association with Jimmy Shand, Bobby MacLeod, Ian Powrie and Andy Stewart and a host of others, was something I wouldn’t have missed for the world”.
It was now that Jack’s earlier experience in writing and composing dance routines came to his aid as he needed to come up with attractive sets for the camera. “With so many Shows, it wasn’t long before we ran out of routines” says Jack “so it meant a lot of hard work keeping ahead”.
NOSTAGLIA
In March 1983, Dougie Donnelly hosted a wonderful night of nostalgia for many who had been involved in the “White Heather Club” days.
All the stars were there. Jack was in the audience that night, at the recording. “It was marvellous to meet up with old friends I hadn’t seen for years. The old clips from some of the shows were just great to see again”. Scottish viewers loved it, and there were a few who were hopeful that the programme might have been the ‘kick start’ to the revival of such a show on T.V. (I suspect there were a few moist eyes as well).
THE ACCORDION CLUB SCENE
Around about the start of the 70’s, Scottish music saw the development of the phenomenon which was to bring about a complete transformation for listeners and musicians – Accordion and Fiddle Clubs.
As the number of Clubs increased, a co-ordinating body was formed to try and regulate their activities as far as possible. Jack was very much involved at the beginning and was a founder member of the N.A.A.F.C. along with other members of the Executive Committee.
At the same time, the formation of the Dundee Club took place, instigated by Jack together with Arthur Spink. “The opening night was in the Queen’s Hotel, Dundee, on Monday 1st February 1971. Guest artiste was Will Starr and inevitably it was a great night. We had 250 members joined up and we normally had about 120 attending each meeting. There was always a big turnout of players from all over Angus, Fife and many other areas”.
As a direct result of the Club scene, Scottish Dance Bands have become much more numerous again, with many fine young players taking the opportunity afforded by being able to play before large audiences. Many of these have gone on to become established in bands throughout the country.
Jack has been involved with many other bands, notably with John Huband and the Tayside Sound, a fine blend of experienced players, all from the Tayside area. With this group and many others, Jack has appeared regularly at Clubs all over Scotland.
“The Scottish music and dancing world has been very kind to me” says Jack “I have made so many friends over the years and have done many things which otherwise would have passed me by. There’s a great spirit of friendship amongst all those involved and let’s hope that this continues to grow over the years ahead. The band’s I’ve been involved with include –
Broadcasting
Betty Anderson Quartet
The Cameron Kerr S.D.B.
John Huband and the Tayside Sound
Guesting :-
Blue Bonnets S.D.B., Bill Black S.D.B., The Gie Gordons S.D.B., The Olympians, the Jack Forsyth S.D.B., Bobby Crowe, John Ellis, Jim Johnstone, Jimmy Shand, Dennis Morrison, the Craigowl SDB and the Simon Howie S.D.B.”
Jack has appeared on the Grampian T.V. series “Andy’s Party” with Andy Stewart and Jimmy Blue and his band (as drummer). Further appearances followed on S.T.V.’s “Thingummyjig” again as drummer with the Jimmy Blue Band.
“I’ve been privileged to make recording with some groups including Arthur Spink, Will Starr, John Ellis, John Huband and the Tayside Sound, John Huband’s Muirhead Orchestra, Stuart Anderson, Deirdre Adamson, Jimmy Blue and his Band and Ian Powrie and Friends”.
Phew! What a list. I don’t think there are many players on the scene who have been so involved in such a variety of ways as Jack has. How he managed to maintain such a pace, I just don’t know.
Jack is still very much involved in the playing side, as well as his other activities at Association and Club level, and always seems to retain his enthusiasm.
So, the next time you take part at the Station Hotel, spare a little thought for the guy who makes it all possible and pours himself into the task, year after year. Mind you, he enjoys every minute of it. Keep up the good work Jack!
Record Review
by Norrie Williams
Simon Howie and his SDB – Lapwing Records – LAP125C
Birlin Sporrans – John Ellis and his Highland Country Band – Lismor Recordings LILP5183
Tribute to the Blairgowrie Shepherd – The Glencraig SDB – Cassette only GCC100
Rob Gordon’s Old Time and Sequence Ball – Rob Gordon and his Band – Lismor LDDC8008
Encore – The Craigellachie Band – CB2
Dancing with the Ian Anderson SDB – Varis Records VRC1902
Jock Morgan
Obituary
It is with regret that we learned of the death of Jock Morgan on the 4th of January.
Jock was well known in Music Hall circles for his fine Scottish fiddle playing and had a good association with some of Scotland’s top Scottish Dance Bands and their leaders.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) –
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) –
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 18th Feb 90 Dave Stewart & Rab Smillie
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) –
Belford (Community Club) – 22nd Feb 90 John Leslie Youth Orchestra
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 11th Feb 90 Alex MacArthur SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 13th Feb 90 Tommy Ford
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 20th Feb 90 Bobby Crowe & Angus Fitchet
Coalburn (Miners Welfare) - 15th Feb 90 Iain MacPhail Trio
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 7th Feb 90 Willie Simpson & Gordon Pattullo
17th Feb 90 Dance to Alan McIntosh SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 20th Feb 90 Currie Brothers
Dundee (The Marquee) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 22nd Feb 90 Karen Higgins SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 26th Feb 90 Donnie McGregor & Friends
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 14th Feb 90 Melanie Christie SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 19th Feb 90 Gordon Young Trio
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Driveway Inn) – 6th Feb 90 Deirdre Adamson Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 28th Feb 90 Robert Whitehead SDB
Kinlochshiel (Tingle Creek Hotel) -
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 8th Feb 90 Stuart McKeown SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 27th Feb 90 Colin Forgrieve
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) 22nd Feb 90 Castle Douglas Club
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 26th Feb 90 Michael Philip SDB
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 6th Feb 90 Dingwall Club
Oban (Highlander Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 15th Feb 90 Jennifer Forrest SDB
Peebles (Greentree Hotel) – 22nd Feb 90 Jimmy Blue & Ian Powrie
Perth (Station Hotel) –
Premier NI (Camlin function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloom) – 13th Feb 90 Willie McFarlane Band
Rothbury (Jubilee Hall) - 1st Feb 90 Jimmy Lindsay
Shetland (venue?) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) - 15th Feb 90 Oakbank Sound
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Banchory
3. Belford
4. Button Key
5. Castle Douglas
6. Coalburn
7. Dingwall
8. Dunblane
9. Fintry
10. Forfar
11. Forres
12. Glendale
13. Highland
14. Islesteps
15. Kinlochshiel
16. Lesmahagow
17. Livingston
18. Mauchline
19. North East
20. Ormiston
21. Premier
22. Renfrew
23. Rothbury
24. Shetland
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1989 (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. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
3. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
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. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Button Key A&F Club (
13. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
14. Coalburn A&F Club
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
20. Dundee & District A&F Club
21. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
22. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Fintry A&F Club
26. Forfar 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. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Mull A&F Club
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
46. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
47. 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)
48. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
49. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
50. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
51. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
52. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
53. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
54. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
55. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
56. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
57. Sutherland A&F Club (
58. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. 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. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
65. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
66. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
67. Buchan A&F Club
68. Callander A&F Club (
69. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
70. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
71. Club Accord
72. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
73. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
74. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
75. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
76. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
77. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
78. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
79. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
80. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
81. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
82. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
83. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
84. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
85. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
86. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
87. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
88. Newcastleton Accordion Club
89. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
90. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
91. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
92. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
93. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
94. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
95. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £92
Half Page - £46
Quarter Page - £23
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
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
Musselburgh
With the Perth Festival behind us now, our thoughts will be turning to the big day at Musselburgh on Saturday, 3rd March. The preparations are well in hand with Norrie and Sheila Williams ‘working away like beavers’, getting things ready.
As always there is need for willing hands to help out on the day to carry out the various tasks, so send in your name etc as quickly as possible to Norrie, if you can help. We are looking forward to another enjoyable day.
Association Jerseys
Association jersey’s (with Association badge) will be on sale at Musselburgh Festival. Colours – red, blue and black and the price is £22.50.Contact Association Secretary Mr Andrew Nairn.
Tom Clark
Jack Cooper
by Tom Clark
The “Annual Gathering” of the N.A.A.F.C. usually held in June in the Station Hotel, Perth has become one of the highlights of the Scottish musical year, eagerly awaited by players and listeners from all over the country. When we attend at this Gathering, few of us give any serious thought to the work involved and the preparation required to ensure the success of this weekend.
The man responsible to the National Executive of the N.A.A.F.C. for the organisation and smooth running of events is, of course, Jack Cooper of Dundee.
Jack has a wealth of experience to call on to help him in his task. His association with the Scottish music and dance scene goes back a long way. From drumming in the Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band in the 50’s, to broadcasting with dance bands, T.V. appearances on the White Heather Club, recording sessions with various bands and involvement with the N.A.A.F.C.
In the midst of this fairly hectic programme, Jack managed to find time, along with Arthur Spink, to start up the Dundee Accordion and Fiddle Club and has been Chairman ever since.
When I spoke to his about a feature article in the “Box and Fiddle”, his first reaction was that he wasn’t likely to find time in the immediate future. So, I was very pleased when, a couple of days later, he appeared on my doorstep, armed with a file packed with all sorts of scraps of information, newspaper clippings, whole editions, photographs and details of his activities over the years.
THE EARLY DAYS
It all seems to have started with drumming in the B.B. Pipe Band at St. Andrew’s Church, Dundee, and later with the McLeod Pipe Band. It wasn’t long before Jack had adapted his style and technique to suit the growing interest in Scottish Dance Bands at the time and he soon found himself freelancing with many bands.
His first experience of a studio was as a drummer with the Betty Anderson Quartet, broadcasting on B.B.C.’s Scottish Dance Music programme from Coldside Studios in Dundee. This was to prove to be the first of many such sessions, both for broadcasting and recording with different outfits spanning his career up to the present day.
THE LOVE OF DANCING
Jack says it was watching dancers doing their stuff, whilst he was drumming, that probably gave him the desire to get involved. “I used to watch the dancers, and I decided that I would like to start a team of my own.” The repetition of the established and well known dances led Jack to think about writing and composing new dances, an activity that was to prove of great value to him in later years when he found himself Dance Director in the White Heather Club T.V. programmes. The “Gie Gordons Dancers” were formed, and led by Jack, danced their way throughout the country and over to the Continent.
One unforgettable experience about this time was when Jack and his team were privileged to take part in the Royal Command Variety Show in the Alhambra Theatre, Glasgow, in July 1958, dancing to the Jimmy Shand SDB. ”It was a marvellous experience” says Jack “and one I shall always remember”.
Jack tells me that he will always remember with gratitude the help and assistance given to him by Jimmy Shand in dancing with the band. “Jimmy was always prepared to help in any way he could, and it was through him that I was given the opportunity to appear in the Command Performance”. From an old clipping Jack lent me, I note that the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh seemed to take a special interest in the dancers, Her Majesty being a dancer.
Jack says that one of his treasurer memories is of the time he was involved in the Thames Television presentation of “This is Your Life” by Eammon Andrews when the subject was Jimmy Shand. “It was such an experience to see Jimmy being honoured in this very special way”.
THE WHITE HEATHER CLUB
Those of us who were around in those days of the late 50’s and the 60’s can probably recall a whole list of memories of the “White Heather Club” shows. For Jack, it was the highlight of his career. “It’s hard remembering all the details because there were just so many Shows, but it really was a great chapter in my life”. In the first few years of the show, Jack used his own team, the “Gie Gordons Dancers”. Later on, when rehearsals and filming became very time consuming, Jack was forced to give up the Show and return to work in the family business in Buchanan Street, Dundee, which he now runs.
Some time later however, in 1960/61, a phone call from Iain McFadyen, the programme Producer, offering Jack the position of Dance Director, lured him back. “I just couldn’t resist the challenge” says Jack “working with some of the finest dancers in the country, it was one of the best experiences of my life. The wonderful atmosphere of the show, the association with Jimmy Shand, Bobby MacLeod, Ian Powrie and Andy Stewart and a host of others, was something I wouldn’t have missed for the world”.
It was now that Jack’s earlier experience in writing and composing dance routines came to his aid as he needed to come up with attractive sets for the camera. “With so many Shows, it wasn’t long before we ran out of routines” says Jack “so it meant a lot of hard work keeping ahead”.
NOSTAGLIA
In March 1983, Dougie Donnelly hosted a wonderful night of nostalgia for many who had been involved in the “White Heather Club” days.
All the stars were there. Jack was in the audience that night, at the recording. “It was marvellous to meet up with old friends I hadn’t seen for years. The old clips from some of the shows were just great to see again”. Scottish viewers loved it, and there were a few who were hopeful that the programme might have been the ‘kick start’ to the revival of such a show on T.V. (I suspect there were a few moist eyes as well).
THE ACCORDION CLUB SCENE
Around about the start of the 70’s, Scottish music saw the development of the phenomenon which was to bring about a complete transformation for listeners and musicians – Accordion and Fiddle Clubs.
As the number of Clubs increased, a co-ordinating body was formed to try and regulate their activities as far as possible. Jack was very much involved at the beginning and was a founder member of the N.A.A.F.C. along with other members of the Executive Committee.
At the same time, the formation of the Dundee Club took place, instigated by Jack together with Arthur Spink. “The opening night was in the Queen’s Hotel, Dundee, on Monday 1st February 1971. Guest artiste was Will Starr and inevitably it was a great night. We had 250 members joined up and we normally had about 120 attending each meeting. There was always a big turnout of players from all over Angus, Fife and many other areas”.
As a direct result of the Club scene, Scottish Dance Bands have become much more numerous again, with many fine young players taking the opportunity afforded by being able to play before large audiences. Many of these have gone on to become established in bands throughout the country.
Jack has been involved with many other bands, notably with John Huband and the Tayside Sound, a fine blend of experienced players, all from the Tayside area. With this group and many others, Jack has appeared regularly at Clubs all over Scotland.
“The Scottish music and dancing world has been very kind to me” says Jack “I have made so many friends over the years and have done many things which otherwise would have passed me by. There’s a great spirit of friendship amongst all those involved and let’s hope that this continues to grow over the years ahead. The band’s I’ve been involved with include –
Broadcasting
Betty Anderson Quartet
The Cameron Kerr S.D.B.
John Huband and the Tayside Sound
Guesting :-
Blue Bonnets S.D.B., Bill Black S.D.B., The Gie Gordons S.D.B., The Olympians, the Jack Forsyth S.D.B., Bobby Crowe, John Ellis, Jim Johnstone, Jimmy Shand, Dennis Morrison, the Craigowl SDB and the Simon Howie S.D.B.”
Jack has appeared on the Grampian T.V. series “Andy’s Party” with Andy Stewart and Jimmy Blue and his band (as drummer). Further appearances followed on S.T.V.’s “Thingummyjig” again as drummer with the Jimmy Blue Band.
“I’ve been privileged to make recording with some groups including Arthur Spink, Will Starr, John Ellis, John Huband and the Tayside Sound, John Huband’s Muirhead Orchestra, Stuart Anderson, Deirdre Adamson, Jimmy Blue and his Band and Ian Powrie and Friends”.
Phew! What a list. I don’t think there are many players on the scene who have been so involved in such a variety of ways as Jack has. How he managed to maintain such a pace, I just don’t know.
Jack is still very much involved in the playing side, as well as his other activities at Association and Club level, and always seems to retain his enthusiasm.
So, the next time you take part at the Station Hotel, spare a little thought for the guy who makes it all possible and pours himself into the task, year after year. Mind you, he enjoys every minute of it. Keep up the good work Jack!
Record Review
by Norrie Williams
Simon Howie and his SDB – Lapwing Records – LAP125C
Birlin Sporrans – John Ellis and his Highland Country Band – Lismor Recordings LILP5183
Tribute to the Blairgowrie Shepherd – The Glencraig SDB – Cassette only GCC100
Rob Gordon’s Old Time and Sequence Ball – Rob Gordon and his Band – Lismor LDDC8008
Encore – The Craigellachie Band – CB2
Dancing with the Ian Anderson SDB – Varis Records VRC1902
Jock Morgan
Obituary
It is with regret that we learned of the death of Jock Morgan on the 4th of January.
Jock was well known in Music Hall circles for his fine Scottish fiddle playing and had a good association with some of Scotland’s top Scottish Dance Bands and their leaders.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) –
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) –
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 18th Feb 90 Dave Stewart & Rab Smillie
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) –
Belford (Community Club) – 22nd Feb 90 John Leslie Youth Orchestra
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 11th Feb 90 Alex MacArthur SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 13th Feb 90 Tommy Ford
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 20th Feb 90 Bobby Crowe & Angus Fitchet
Coalburn (Miners Welfare) - 15th Feb 90 Iain MacPhail Trio
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 7th Feb 90 Willie Simpson & Gordon Pattullo
17th Feb 90 Dance to Alan McIntosh SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 20th Feb 90 Currie Brothers
Dundee (The Marquee) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 22nd Feb 90 Karen Higgins SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 26th Feb 90 Donnie McGregor & Friends
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 14th Feb 90 Melanie Christie SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 19th Feb 90 Gordon Young Trio
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Driveway Inn) – 6th Feb 90 Deirdre Adamson Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 28th Feb 90 Robert Whitehead SDB
Kinlochshiel (Tingle Creek Hotel) -
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 8th Feb 90 Stuart McKeown SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 27th Feb 90 Colin Forgrieve
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) 22nd Feb 90 Castle Douglas Club
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 26th Feb 90 Michael Philip SDB
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 6th Feb 90 Dingwall Club
Oban (Highlander Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 15th Feb 90 Jennifer Forrest SDB
Peebles (Greentree Hotel) – 22nd Feb 90 Jimmy Blue & Ian Powrie
Perth (Station Hotel) –
Premier NI (Camlin function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloom) – 13th Feb 90 Willie McFarlane Band
Rothbury (Jubilee Hall) - 1st Feb 90 Jimmy Lindsay
Shetland (venue?) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) - 15th Feb 90 Oakbank Sound
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Banchory
3. Belford
4. Button Key
5. Castle Douglas
6. Coalburn
7. Dingwall
8. Dunblane
9. Fintry
10. Forfar
11. Forres
12. Glendale
13. Highland
14. Islesteps
15. Kinlochshiel
16. Lesmahagow
17. Livingston
18. Mauchline
19. North East
20. Ormiston
21. Premier
22. Renfrew
23. Rothbury
24. Shetland
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1989 (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. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
3. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
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. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Button Key A&F Club (
13. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
14. Coalburn A&F Club
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
20. Dundee & District A&F Club
21. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
22. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Fintry A&F Club
26. Forfar 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. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Mull A&F Club
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
46. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
47. 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)
48. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
49. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
50. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
51. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
52. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
53. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
54. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
55. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
56. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
57. Sutherland A&F Club (
58. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. 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. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
65. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
66. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
67. Buchan A&F Club
68. Callander A&F Club (
69. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
70. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
71. Club Accord
72. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
73. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
74. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
75. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
76. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
77. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
78. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
79. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
80. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
81. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
82. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
83. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
84. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
85. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
86. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
87. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
88. Newcastleton Accordion Club
89. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
90. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
91. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
92. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
93. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
94. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
95. Wellbank A&F Club
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