Box and Fiddle
Year 16 No 05
February 1993
Price 60p
12 pages
7 month subscription £7.00
Editor – Editor – Doug Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, Angus, DD8 1EQ
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
Over the past two years whilst attending Clubs I have tried to find out why some of our Clubs are poorly attended both by players and audience. This I have done by speaking to officials, audience and players and in some instances by my own observations.
In the remaining three issues I mean to let you know the conclusions of these observations in the hope that it may help Clubs to fill their venues.
My first point concerns players.
Many players are reluctant to go to a Club where they are not sure of receiving backing, mainly piano and drums. Although not afraid to play solo, they realise the sound is thin unless, of course, they are equipped with power bass or midi.
On the other hand, we have Clubs who have resident backing and although these Clubs are generally better supported by lead musicians, backing musicians are often upset because they do not get a turn and consequently don’t return. If these musicians were to be given a chance to gain experience,
Doug Adamson
Thoughts for 1993
by Various
Instead of the normal lead article this month, I have asked a few players and officials of Clubs throughout the Association what their musical wish is for 1993. Here is what they came up with.
Jimmy Blue – Association Chairman
After all the ‘jazzing-it-up’ that happened in 1992, it is nice to get back to basics with a melodeon player, Jim Crawford, who has just released a tape at the ripe old age of 77.
Andrew Dunbar – Chairman, Dunblane Accordion & Fiddle Club
The obvious reflection on the past year must be the effect the recession had on each person, and their individual monetary problems, which had to be seen in the dropping attendances at Clubs.
However, the faithful followers did not let us down, and it is my hope that 1993 will see an upturn in our fortunes.
I would also like to see the emergence of more bands, more young players, and perhaps bands who can form regular playing partnerships and establish an identity of their own. All too often we get the lead player and a permutation of the sames faces and I do not think this is fair on the paying public.
Nice for the players who can pick up a steady buck or two, but not for the one element who keep the Clubs going – the regular supporters.
I must include the success of my club at the Association A.G.M. in appointing the position of Vice-Chairman in the Committee. This completes the numbers and is the outcome of several years’ efforts. Just a democratic move, and no insidious or reasons behind it.
I would, however, like to see more delegates express views at the A.G.M. I comes across that some are rather nervous at stating their case. It is the only opportunity. They should take it.
Finally, while appreciating that the Committee do a good job, I again say that it would be nice to get a visit from some of them in a non-playing capacity just now and again. In my 20 odd year involvement with his Club I am unaware of any such visit. They are always welcome. May I suggest this could be a New Year’s Resolution to those concerned. The players would appreciate it, and it would give the public awareness that we do in fact belong to a National Association.
Eddie Harding – Chairman of the Tynedale A&F Club
I spoke to Eddie on the telephone. He would like to see more variety in he programme of guest artistes, polkas, two-steps, sing-along numbers, more catchy, easy to listen to tunes and fewer weird pipe tunes. Eddie reckons these should be left to the pipers.
He would like to see more use of harmony both by soloists and bands.
“Perhaps we could have more accordion orchestras – not necessarily full orcheatras. I feel this would encourage the younger players.”
Eddie would also like to see bandleaders and other guest artistes communicating better with their audience. In fact, he would like to see all players having a word with the audience. “People do like to know the names of the tunes musicians are playing” he added.
Fraser McGlynn
Although the opposite will probably be the case, what I hope for in 1993 is a realization by more Scots that ours is a music and culture worth preserving and promoting without always having to apologise for it, or, for that matter, being ashamed of it.
Ian Holmes
What I’d wish for 1993 would be an end to the monopoly on T.V. by a minority of folk musicians and the screening of shows along the lines of the ‘White Heather club’ featuring the best of our traditional music, song and dance.
At present we are being bombarded by so-called ‘Folk Music’ (which even many folkies dislike) and Gaelic songs performed A La ‘Top of the Pops’ complete with distorted electric guitars, flashing lights and scruffy clothes and featuring the world’s greatest fiddler.(Really! And silly me thinks it must be someone like Rudy Meeks, Graham Townsend or even Stefan Grapelli – we’re always learning).
I further wish that there would be an appraisal of our Scottish Dance Music and the direction in which it appears to be going, with hopefully a return to the standards and values of the 50’s and 60’s which for many is still the Golden Era.
Scottish Dance Music, by its very title, is music to dance to and therefore it should be played at the appropriate danceable tempos and in the acceptable traditional idiom.
Metronome readings for the various dances are given by the R.S.C.D.S., but to the experienced and skilled bandleader they come naturally. However, he or she should observe the tempo is comfortable to the dancers and thus enable them to execute the steps properly, Pas-de-Bas etc as described by Bobby MacLeod in his short book of that title.
Bobby was a stickler for the correct tempo, as were the other pioneers, Messrs. Shand, Powrie, Fitchet, Blue, Rennie etc. He and I often discussed such matters and we agreed that, as with a youngster taking his first faltering step or the erratic young driver the urge to speed, is pure and simply a sign of immaturity and not to be commended and certainly not by the late Miss Jean Milligan of the R.S.C.D.S. Once, after a dance at Kirkcudbright, she asked to have a word with the bandleader. So, there I was expecting a rollicking, but instead she was very pleasant and complimented me on my band’s excellent timing – a lucky escape. I’d heard of her giving some bands a rough time in the middle of a dance.
As an example of a bandleader who knows the business from A to Z, we have Bobby Crowe and having heard his Quartet at a dance fairly recently, their tempos and overall playing were exemplary and with no ostentatious display. In fact, his timing for that most difficult of dances, the ‘St. Bernard’s Waltz’ suited me just fine and I was able to cope with the intricate steps.
More and more frequently we are hearing performances cluttered with flowery embellishments, jazz influences (is that jazz?) and with new ‘compositions’ which in many instances are littler more than strings of Czerny Exercises and all played at breakneck speed which must result in the dancers going like the proverbial ‘Whirling Dervishes’. It is hoped that this ‘Great’ New Wave Scottish Dance Music does not become the accepted ‘Norm’. The same applies to the Round the Room dances. Moderato is the keyword.
For me a further disappointing aspect of all this is that several of our most experienced, capable and respected musicians having spoken out privately and publically against the trend, instead of giving a steadying influence, have decided to join in the ‘Race’. Hardly an example to the up and coming.
Not for nothing did Jimmy Shand utter those immortal words of advice “Keep it simple, son”.
A Guid New Year to all.
Quite a cross section of opinions.
My own wishes for the coming year are, firstly, more letters from you readers to help stimulate a bit more interest. I tried by introducing the ‘Point for Discussion’ but, although it did get you talking around the Clubs, not many of you were prepared to put pen to paper.
Finally, I would like to see a more careful use of superlatives. All Clubs have their own good players, young and old, and these players have to be encouraged and rewarded with praise. However, the over-use of superlatives in the media and in Club reports, although meant for the best, can in many cases be damaging, leading in the short term to conceit and in the long term to a lowering of standards. Comparisons have to be made on a national level, otherwise we would have a queue of mega-stars stretching from Lands End to John O’Groats!
All the best to you all for 1993.
Jimmy Urquhart – An Appreciation
by Ian Powrie
We were all very saddened at the passing of Jimmy Urquhart. I had the good fortune to work with Jimmy over a period of 15 years in a variety of shows, the most notable being ‘The White Heather Club’ television shows.
He was a most reliable and couthy artiste and one of nature’s finest gentlemen. For me, the hairs stood out on my neck when he sang ‘The Bonnie Lass o’ Ballochmyle!’
Whilst working as a session singer in the early days, he shared the stage with Tony Hancock, Ingrid Bergman, Gene Kelly and Dickie Valentine, and I with my band shared the stage with him many years in the Andy Stewart Shows.
He was a founder member of the management of Radio Tay and was a Director during the station’s early days. He was also a presenter with the station specialising in Scottish music and dance.
Jimmy became Regional Councillor for Cupar, Fife, in 1976 until 1982 when he decided to stand down. He was also the County Organiser for the Arts from 1969-1974.
In the early days of their marriage, he and his wife Margaret went down to London where they appeared with the George Mitchell Singers. They returned and established a very well known fashion business in the town of Cupar.
In my book, Jimmy Urquhart was a ‘kenspeckle’ figure who was great company and a wonderful entertainer. He will be sadly missed and our very best wishes go out to his wife Margaret, his two sons Andy and Iain and wives and three grandchildren.
Douglas C. McDonald – An Appreciation
by Jim Flaherty
I was greatly saddened by the sudden death of Douglas, who died at the home of his death Alison, in Perth. He will be missed greatly by his many friends and fellow musicians in the Aberfeldy area.
A staunch supporter of the Accordion and fiddle Clubs, he will be long remembered as the instigator of the Aberfeldy Club and the summer ceilidhs in aid of various charities. Douglas was ably supported by his daughter, Alison, who also acted as his ‘roadie’ and assisted him in his many visits to other clubs and his musical engagements.
A native of Kinloch Rannoch, he worked for many years as a traveling grocer with the S.C.W.S. and Taylors of Strathtay.
I knew Douglas for over 40 years. He was a great character with a wonderful sense of humour and a very dear friend.
Introducing the Clubs
No 13 Shetland
by Gussie Angus
It was on the 4th October, 1978, that a small group of traditional music enthusiasts met in the Freefield Centre in Lerwick to consider the establishment of a local Accordion and Fiddle Club to provide a focus to encourage the playing of traditional music in the islands.
Oddly enough, it was an Orcadian, David Robertson, a box player and daytime banker, who was the principal driving force behind the inaugural meeting and who was to become the Club’s first Secretary/Treasurer.
Frank Chadwick was the obvious choice for Chairman, and he was duly proposed and seconded by Jeemie Burgess and Willie Hunter – a threesome whose contribution was to be so significant in the Club’s subsequent success.
The Grand Hotel in Lerwick was the venue chosen for the Club, where it took its first faltering steps during November and December of 1978.
It took the visit of the Club’s first guest artistes, the Alisdair Hunter Band from Aberdeen on 18th January, 1979, to really establish the Club’s popularity amongst local musicians and enthusiasts – Alisdair and the Band were to pay a return visit for the Club’s 10th Birthday celebrations.
Alisdair was closely followed by Bill Black and his two teenage sons and this served to demonstrate the new heights to which traditional music was aspiring in terms of musicianship and technical expertise.
Over the years since, the visiting artiste list reads like a ‘who’s who’ of the accordion and fiddle world, including the likes of Jack Emblow and Martin Taylor from the jazz scene, as well as Arnstein Johannsen and Cornelius Lund from Norway, not forgetting the Cape Breton Symphony.
Of course, our local musicians are the backbone of the Club and the likes of Willie Hunter, Jim Halcrow, Jeemie Burgess, Violet Tulloch, May Gair, Alan Bruce, Henry Henderson, Cecil Hughson and so on, continue to support the Club with the same dedication and enthusiasm as they did fourteen years ago.
Alongside these stalwarts troop a large number of younger musicians who are now established artistes in their own right – the likes of Colin Sutherland, Alan Nicolson, David Halcrow, Iain Nicolson, Margaret Couper, Debbie Scott, Bryan Gear and Ivor Scollay spring immediately to mind, but there are many others and we like to think that the Club played some part in their development as performers. Certainly, it has provided for the fellowship which has prospered between musicians and enthusiasts both at home and away.
No history of the Club would be complete without acknowledging the contribution of Ronnie Cooper in the early days. His sudden death in 1982 was acutely felt in the Shetland community at large and traditional music lovers felt a special grief at the passing of a friend. Ronnie never missed a Club night and it must be a rare night yet that some of his compositions are not played. The fact that his music continues to be played as it is, pays a more eloquent tribute to him than any words of mine.
1985 was a crisis year for the Club with the news that we would have to move from the central Lerwick location at the Grand Hotel. As a temporary measure, the Club repaired to the Shetland Hotel on the outskirts of the town where, in fact, it has remained despite the protests of some members as to its suitability as a venue - a guaranteed agenda item at each A.G.M.
After some years of notice, the membership in 1989 finally accepted with reluctance that Frank Chadwick wished to step down as Chairman of the Club. Robert Henderson, who assumed the mantle, certainly spoke for the entire membership when he paid tribute to this unassuming Englishman who adopted Shetland as his home and traditional music as his passion (after his wife, Lillian, that is).
As our Festival drew to a resounding close last October, it was time to reflect that it was, in fact, the fifth such and seems to be as popular as ever with both locals and visiting musicians and enthusiasts alike.
The formula of concert/supper/dances at venues throughout the isles with a mixture of local and visiting artistes and a central Festival Club in Lerwick, seems to work well judging by the public response, no to mention Hornpipe dancing on the decks of the inter-island ferries.
The Festival Dance at Lerwick’s Clickimin Centre regularly attracts 800 people and this year they danced to 13 different bands.
Accommodation for visiting musicians is provided by members on a hospitality basis and this has spawned many friendships over the years which have endured. It all takes a great deal of organisation but it is a burden eagerly undertaken by the Committee and special mention is certainly due to a fiercely dedicated Secretary Eileen Hunter (nee Nicolson), indefatigable, indomitable and now married.
Elsewhere, the Club has sponsored two tune competitions ; the first in 1985 was judged by old friend, Bill Black, and won by Willie Hunter with the reel entitled, ‘Peerie Willie’ ; more recently, in 1992, Sandy Nixon was the judge and Gordon Jamieson, the winner, with the two-step ‘Alan and Fiona’s Wedding’ – the Alan being our very own, Alan Nicolson. The Club is currently investigating the possibilities of publishing the tunes.
We don’t have a resident compere, but Jeemie Burgess tends to get lumbered when he shows up. His irreverent demeanour and outrageous familiarity is generally hilarious, often scandalous, occasionally libellous and personal, but never mean-spirited and, this far at least, has not resulted in litigation.
1993 seems set fair for the Club with Shetland’s Young Heritage along with Seamus O’Sullivan appearing on the opening night of the new year, to be followed two weeks later, by our mini Festival the night before Lerwick’s Up-Helly
-Aa when we anticipate an influx of talent from the mainland, all limbering up for the ‘big one’ the following night. Plans are already in hand for the Festival – dates are 14th – 18th October.
So, if any strolling minstrels find their way here between now and April, look us up at the Shetland Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month.
Somebody asked me recently to single out memorable Club nights and I found this an impossible task, as each night beings something fresh and unexpected – we even had Chas and Dave, the Cockney entertainers turn up one night and give us a song. However, I never cease to be impressed by the quality of some of our younger musicians and the night we invite the winners from The Shetland Folk Society’s Young fiddler of the Year competition to play at the Club is always a highlight for me.
Willie Hunter, Margaret Couper, Bryan Gear and Jim and David Halcrow, as well as Colin and Alan, have all done local guest spots and these were all highlights ; but on further reflection, I would have to hark back to the night when the Hamefarers Band came to the Club to play the programme they were to take on the last tour they did before Ronnie died – there were no critics that night, just fans.
Jim Doig – Obituary
by Sandy Tulloch
Jim Doig, fellow member and old friend died in Ninewells Hospital on 19th January, after a short illness. Monday nights at my house will never be the same. Fine musician on fiddle and sax, always accurate, always cheerful, always helpful, he will be greatly missed at local clubs.
A wartime submariner, engineer, senior councilor, Justice of the Peace, local secretary of the Musicians Union – the list is impressive. Our last tune together was at a residential home in Broughty Ferry. Typical of Jim to give his help whenever needed.
Our deepest sympathy goes to his wife and family.
Record Review
At The Riverside - the Michael Philip Ceilidh Band – SPRC/CD 1035
On The Melodeon – Jim Crawford – SPRC 1034
In Top Gear – Gordon Shand SDB – GSCS 9201
Book Review
Let’s Have a Ceilidh – Robbie Shephers – Cannongate Press
Take the Floor
6th Feb 93 – Iain Cathcart SDB
13th Feb 93 – Wayne Robertson SDB
20th Feb 93 – George Stirrat SDB
27th Feb 93 – Rob Gordon SDB
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 23rd Feb 93 – Gordon Shand SDB
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only 10th Feb 93 – Roger Donson SDB
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) -
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Dec 93 – Roberto Enzo
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 7th Feb 93 – Coila Scottish Sound
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 21st Feb 93 – Lindsay Weir
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) – 24th Feb 93 – The Huntly Loons
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 15th Feb 93 – 15th James Coutts 6th Feb Dinner Dance
Belford (Community Club) – 25th Feb 93 – Marian Anderson
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 14th Feb 93 – Wattie Beattie SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) -
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Alex Stewart 19th Fen Dance to Dick Black in Town Hall
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 18th Feb 93 – Allan McIntosh
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) 4th Feb 93 – Lomond SDB
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 16th Feb 93 – Neil Sinclair
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 3rd Feb 93 – Joan MacLaughlin 20th Feb Dance to Ian McCallum SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Billy Anderson & Albany
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Jubilee House) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 25th Feb 93 – John Renton SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) -
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) –
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 21st Feb 93 – Ian Muir Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 10th Feb 93 – Elgin S&R Society
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 18th Feb 93 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 17th Feb 93 – Alistair McCulloch
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 15th Feb 93 – Julie McRitchie
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 2nd Feb 93 – Michael Garvin SDB
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) – 2nd Feb 93 – Deirdre Adamson
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 24th Feb 93 – Glencraig SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 8th Feb 93 – Archie MacKillop & Friends
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 3rd Feb 93 – John Walker & Friends
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th Feb 93 – Andrew Knight SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 16th Feb 93 – Paddy Neary
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 23rd Feb 93 – Pauline Laverie Trio 12th Feb Dance to Jim Johnstone SDB
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 22nd Feb 93 – Marie Fielding Trio
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 2nd Feb 93 – Craig McCallum SDB
Oban (Harbour Lights Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 25th Feb 93 – Willie Simpson Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Colin Dewar Trio
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) –
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 14th Feb 93 – Dochie McCallum Trio
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Tranent (East Lothian Labour Club) 9th Feb 93 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Banchory
4. Banff
5. Biggar
6. Blairgowrie
7. Castle Douglas
8. Coalburn
9. Crieff
10. Dalriada
11. Dingwall
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Etterick & Yarrow
16. Forfar
17. Forres
18. Glendale
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islesteps
23. Kelso
24. Kinlochshiel
25. Kintore
26. Lesmahagow
27. Livingston
28. Lockerbie
29. Montrose
30. North East
31. Orkney
32. Peebles
33. Perth
34. Renfrew
35. Rothbury
36. Stirling
37. Thurso
38. Tynedale
39. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (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. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Coalburn A&F Club (
17. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
18. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
19. Derwentside A&F Club
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
23. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
24. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
25. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
26. Ellon A&F Club (
27. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
28. Fintry A&F Club (
29. Forfar A&F Club (
30. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
31. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
32. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
33. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
34. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
35. 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)
36. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
37. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
38. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
39. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
40. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
41. Kintore A&F Club (
42. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
43. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
44. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
45. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
46. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
47. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
48. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
49. Mull A&F Club
50. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
51. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
52. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
53. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
54. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981 - present)
64. Tranent A&F Club
65. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
66. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
67. 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?)
68. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
69. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
70. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
71. Buchan A&F Club
72. Callander A&F Club (
73. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
74. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
75. Club Accord
76. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
77. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
78. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
79. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
80. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
81. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
82. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
83. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
84. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
85. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
86. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
87. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
88. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
89. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
90. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
91. Newcastleton Accordion Club
92. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
93. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
94. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
95. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
96. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
97. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
98. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
99. 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
Over the past two years whilst attending Clubs I have tried to find out why some of our Clubs are poorly attended both by players and audience. This I have done by speaking to officials, audience and players and in some instances by my own observations.
In the remaining three issues I mean to let you know the conclusions of these observations in the hope that it may help Clubs to fill their venues.
My first point concerns players.
Many players are reluctant to go to a Club where they are not sure of receiving backing, mainly piano and drums. Although not afraid to play solo, they realise the sound is thin unless, of course, they are equipped with power bass or midi.
On the other hand, we have Clubs who have resident backing and although these Clubs are generally better supported by lead musicians, backing musicians are often upset because they do not get a turn and consequently don’t return. If these musicians were to be given a chance to gain experience,
Doug Adamson
Thoughts for 1993
by Various
Instead of the normal lead article this month, I have asked a few players and officials of Clubs throughout the Association what their musical wish is for 1993. Here is what they came up with.
Jimmy Blue – Association Chairman
After all the ‘jazzing-it-up’ that happened in 1992, it is nice to get back to basics with a melodeon player, Jim Crawford, who has just released a tape at the ripe old age of 77.
Andrew Dunbar – Chairman, Dunblane Accordion & Fiddle Club
The obvious reflection on the past year must be the effect the recession had on each person, and their individual monetary problems, which had to be seen in the dropping attendances at Clubs.
However, the faithful followers did not let us down, and it is my hope that 1993 will see an upturn in our fortunes.
I would also like to see the emergence of more bands, more young players, and perhaps bands who can form regular playing partnerships and establish an identity of their own. All too often we get the lead player and a permutation of the sames faces and I do not think this is fair on the paying public.
Nice for the players who can pick up a steady buck or two, but not for the one element who keep the Clubs going – the regular supporters.
I must include the success of my club at the Association A.G.M. in appointing the position of Vice-Chairman in the Committee. This completes the numbers and is the outcome of several years’ efforts. Just a democratic move, and no insidious or reasons behind it.
I would, however, like to see more delegates express views at the A.G.M. I comes across that some are rather nervous at stating their case. It is the only opportunity. They should take it.
Finally, while appreciating that the Committee do a good job, I again say that it would be nice to get a visit from some of them in a non-playing capacity just now and again. In my 20 odd year involvement with his Club I am unaware of any such visit. They are always welcome. May I suggest this could be a New Year’s Resolution to those concerned. The players would appreciate it, and it would give the public awareness that we do in fact belong to a National Association.
Eddie Harding – Chairman of the Tynedale A&F Club
I spoke to Eddie on the telephone. He would like to see more variety in he programme of guest artistes, polkas, two-steps, sing-along numbers, more catchy, easy to listen to tunes and fewer weird pipe tunes. Eddie reckons these should be left to the pipers.
He would like to see more use of harmony both by soloists and bands.
“Perhaps we could have more accordion orchestras – not necessarily full orcheatras. I feel this would encourage the younger players.”
Eddie would also like to see bandleaders and other guest artistes communicating better with their audience. In fact, he would like to see all players having a word with the audience. “People do like to know the names of the tunes musicians are playing” he added.
Fraser McGlynn
Although the opposite will probably be the case, what I hope for in 1993 is a realization by more Scots that ours is a music and culture worth preserving and promoting without always having to apologise for it, or, for that matter, being ashamed of it.
Ian Holmes
What I’d wish for 1993 would be an end to the monopoly on T.V. by a minority of folk musicians and the screening of shows along the lines of the ‘White Heather club’ featuring the best of our traditional music, song and dance.
At present we are being bombarded by so-called ‘Folk Music’ (which even many folkies dislike) and Gaelic songs performed A La ‘Top of the Pops’ complete with distorted electric guitars, flashing lights and scruffy clothes and featuring the world’s greatest fiddler.(Really! And silly me thinks it must be someone like Rudy Meeks, Graham Townsend or even Stefan Grapelli – we’re always learning).
I further wish that there would be an appraisal of our Scottish Dance Music and the direction in which it appears to be going, with hopefully a return to the standards and values of the 50’s and 60’s which for many is still the Golden Era.
Scottish Dance Music, by its very title, is music to dance to and therefore it should be played at the appropriate danceable tempos and in the acceptable traditional idiom.
Metronome readings for the various dances are given by the R.S.C.D.S., but to the experienced and skilled bandleader they come naturally. However, he or she should observe the tempo is comfortable to the dancers and thus enable them to execute the steps properly, Pas-de-Bas etc as described by Bobby MacLeod in his short book of that title.
Bobby was a stickler for the correct tempo, as were the other pioneers, Messrs. Shand, Powrie, Fitchet, Blue, Rennie etc. He and I often discussed such matters and we agreed that, as with a youngster taking his first faltering step or the erratic young driver the urge to speed, is pure and simply a sign of immaturity and not to be commended and certainly not by the late Miss Jean Milligan of the R.S.C.D.S. Once, after a dance at Kirkcudbright, she asked to have a word with the bandleader. So, there I was expecting a rollicking, but instead she was very pleasant and complimented me on my band’s excellent timing – a lucky escape. I’d heard of her giving some bands a rough time in the middle of a dance.
As an example of a bandleader who knows the business from A to Z, we have Bobby Crowe and having heard his Quartet at a dance fairly recently, their tempos and overall playing were exemplary and with no ostentatious display. In fact, his timing for that most difficult of dances, the ‘St. Bernard’s Waltz’ suited me just fine and I was able to cope with the intricate steps.
More and more frequently we are hearing performances cluttered with flowery embellishments, jazz influences (is that jazz?) and with new ‘compositions’ which in many instances are littler more than strings of Czerny Exercises and all played at breakneck speed which must result in the dancers going like the proverbial ‘Whirling Dervishes’. It is hoped that this ‘Great’ New Wave Scottish Dance Music does not become the accepted ‘Norm’. The same applies to the Round the Room dances. Moderato is the keyword.
For me a further disappointing aspect of all this is that several of our most experienced, capable and respected musicians having spoken out privately and publically against the trend, instead of giving a steadying influence, have decided to join in the ‘Race’. Hardly an example to the up and coming.
Not for nothing did Jimmy Shand utter those immortal words of advice “Keep it simple, son”.
A Guid New Year to all.
Quite a cross section of opinions.
My own wishes for the coming year are, firstly, more letters from you readers to help stimulate a bit more interest. I tried by introducing the ‘Point for Discussion’ but, although it did get you talking around the Clubs, not many of you were prepared to put pen to paper.
Finally, I would like to see a more careful use of superlatives. All Clubs have their own good players, young and old, and these players have to be encouraged and rewarded with praise. However, the over-use of superlatives in the media and in Club reports, although meant for the best, can in many cases be damaging, leading in the short term to conceit and in the long term to a lowering of standards. Comparisons have to be made on a national level, otherwise we would have a queue of mega-stars stretching from Lands End to John O’Groats!
All the best to you all for 1993.
Jimmy Urquhart – An Appreciation
by Ian Powrie
We were all very saddened at the passing of Jimmy Urquhart. I had the good fortune to work with Jimmy over a period of 15 years in a variety of shows, the most notable being ‘The White Heather Club’ television shows.
He was a most reliable and couthy artiste and one of nature’s finest gentlemen. For me, the hairs stood out on my neck when he sang ‘The Bonnie Lass o’ Ballochmyle!’
Whilst working as a session singer in the early days, he shared the stage with Tony Hancock, Ingrid Bergman, Gene Kelly and Dickie Valentine, and I with my band shared the stage with him many years in the Andy Stewart Shows.
He was a founder member of the management of Radio Tay and was a Director during the station’s early days. He was also a presenter with the station specialising in Scottish music and dance.
Jimmy became Regional Councillor for Cupar, Fife, in 1976 until 1982 when he decided to stand down. He was also the County Organiser for the Arts from 1969-1974.
In the early days of their marriage, he and his wife Margaret went down to London where they appeared with the George Mitchell Singers. They returned and established a very well known fashion business in the town of Cupar.
In my book, Jimmy Urquhart was a ‘kenspeckle’ figure who was great company and a wonderful entertainer. He will be sadly missed and our very best wishes go out to his wife Margaret, his two sons Andy and Iain and wives and three grandchildren.
Douglas C. McDonald – An Appreciation
by Jim Flaherty
I was greatly saddened by the sudden death of Douglas, who died at the home of his death Alison, in Perth. He will be missed greatly by his many friends and fellow musicians in the Aberfeldy area.
A staunch supporter of the Accordion and fiddle Clubs, he will be long remembered as the instigator of the Aberfeldy Club and the summer ceilidhs in aid of various charities. Douglas was ably supported by his daughter, Alison, who also acted as his ‘roadie’ and assisted him in his many visits to other clubs and his musical engagements.
A native of Kinloch Rannoch, he worked for many years as a traveling grocer with the S.C.W.S. and Taylors of Strathtay.
I knew Douglas for over 40 years. He was a great character with a wonderful sense of humour and a very dear friend.
Introducing the Clubs
No 13 Shetland
by Gussie Angus
It was on the 4th October, 1978, that a small group of traditional music enthusiasts met in the Freefield Centre in Lerwick to consider the establishment of a local Accordion and Fiddle Club to provide a focus to encourage the playing of traditional music in the islands.
Oddly enough, it was an Orcadian, David Robertson, a box player and daytime banker, who was the principal driving force behind the inaugural meeting and who was to become the Club’s first Secretary/Treasurer.
Frank Chadwick was the obvious choice for Chairman, and he was duly proposed and seconded by Jeemie Burgess and Willie Hunter – a threesome whose contribution was to be so significant in the Club’s subsequent success.
The Grand Hotel in Lerwick was the venue chosen for the Club, where it took its first faltering steps during November and December of 1978.
It took the visit of the Club’s first guest artistes, the Alisdair Hunter Band from Aberdeen on 18th January, 1979, to really establish the Club’s popularity amongst local musicians and enthusiasts – Alisdair and the Band were to pay a return visit for the Club’s 10th Birthday celebrations.
Alisdair was closely followed by Bill Black and his two teenage sons and this served to demonstrate the new heights to which traditional music was aspiring in terms of musicianship and technical expertise.
Over the years since, the visiting artiste list reads like a ‘who’s who’ of the accordion and fiddle world, including the likes of Jack Emblow and Martin Taylor from the jazz scene, as well as Arnstein Johannsen and Cornelius Lund from Norway, not forgetting the Cape Breton Symphony.
Of course, our local musicians are the backbone of the Club and the likes of Willie Hunter, Jim Halcrow, Jeemie Burgess, Violet Tulloch, May Gair, Alan Bruce, Henry Henderson, Cecil Hughson and so on, continue to support the Club with the same dedication and enthusiasm as they did fourteen years ago.
Alongside these stalwarts troop a large number of younger musicians who are now established artistes in their own right – the likes of Colin Sutherland, Alan Nicolson, David Halcrow, Iain Nicolson, Margaret Couper, Debbie Scott, Bryan Gear and Ivor Scollay spring immediately to mind, but there are many others and we like to think that the Club played some part in their development as performers. Certainly, it has provided for the fellowship which has prospered between musicians and enthusiasts both at home and away.
No history of the Club would be complete without acknowledging the contribution of Ronnie Cooper in the early days. His sudden death in 1982 was acutely felt in the Shetland community at large and traditional music lovers felt a special grief at the passing of a friend. Ronnie never missed a Club night and it must be a rare night yet that some of his compositions are not played. The fact that his music continues to be played as it is, pays a more eloquent tribute to him than any words of mine.
1985 was a crisis year for the Club with the news that we would have to move from the central Lerwick location at the Grand Hotel. As a temporary measure, the Club repaired to the Shetland Hotel on the outskirts of the town where, in fact, it has remained despite the protests of some members as to its suitability as a venue - a guaranteed agenda item at each A.G.M.
After some years of notice, the membership in 1989 finally accepted with reluctance that Frank Chadwick wished to step down as Chairman of the Club. Robert Henderson, who assumed the mantle, certainly spoke for the entire membership when he paid tribute to this unassuming Englishman who adopted Shetland as his home and traditional music as his passion (after his wife, Lillian, that is).
As our Festival drew to a resounding close last October, it was time to reflect that it was, in fact, the fifth such and seems to be as popular as ever with both locals and visiting musicians and enthusiasts alike.
The formula of concert/supper/dances at venues throughout the isles with a mixture of local and visiting artistes and a central Festival Club in Lerwick, seems to work well judging by the public response, no to mention Hornpipe dancing on the decks of the inter-island ferries.
The Festival Dance at Lerwick’s Clickimin Centre regularly attracts 800 people and this year they danced to 13 different bands.
Accommodation for visiting musicians is provided by members on a hospitality basis and this has spawned many friendships over the years which have endured. It all takes a great deal of organisation but it is a burden eagerly undertaken by the Committee and special mention is certainly due to a fiercely dedicated Secretary Eileen Hunter (nee Nicolson), indefatigable, indomitable and now married.
Elsewhere, the Club has sponsored two tune competitions ; the first in 1985 was judged by old friend, Bill Black, and won by Willie Hunter with the reel entitled, ‘Peerie Willie’ ; more recently, in 1992, Sandy Nixon was the judge and Gordon Jamieson, the winner, with the two-step ‘Alan and Fiona’s Wedding’ – the Alan being our very own, Alan Nicolson. The Club is currently investigating the possibilities of publishing the tunes.
We don’t have a resident compere, but Jeemie Burgess tends to get lumbered when he shows up. His irreverent demeanour and outrageous familiarity is generally hilarious, often scandalous, occasionally libellous and personal, but never mean-spirited and, this far at least, has not resulted in litigation.
1993 seems set fair for the Club with Shetland’s Young Heritage along with Seamus O’Sullivan appearing on the opening night of the new year, to be followed two weeks later, by our mini Festival the night before Lerwick’s Up-Helly
-Aa when we anticipate an influx of talent from the mainland, all limbering up for the ‘big one’ the following night. Plans are already in hand for the Festival – dates are 14th – 18th October.
So, if any strolling minstrels find their way here between now and April, look us up at the Shetland Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month.
Somebody asked me recently to single out memorable Club nights and I found this an impossible task, as each night beings something fresh and unexpected – we even had Chas and Dave, the Cockney entertainers turn up one night and give us a song. However, I never cease to be impressed by the quality of some of our younger musicians and the night we invite the winners from The Shetland Folk Society’s Young fiddler of the Year competition to play at the Club is always a highlight for me.
Willie Hunter, Margaret Couper, Bryan Gear and Jim and David Halcrow, as well as Colin and Alan, have all done local guest spots and these were all highlights ; but on further reflection, I would have to hark back to the night when the Hamefarers Band came to the Club to play the programme they were to take on the last tour they did before Ronnie died – there were no critics that night, just fans.
Jim Doig – Obituary
by Sandy Tulloch
Jim Doig, fellow member and old friend died in Ninewells Hospital on 19th January, after a short illness. Monday nights at my house will never be the same. Fine musician on fiddle and sax, always accurate, always cheerful, always helpful, he will be greatly missed at local clubs.
A wartime submariner, engineer, senior councilor, Justice of the Peace, local secretary of the Musicians Union – the list is impressive. Our last tune together was at a residential home in Broughty Ferry. Typical of Jim to give his help whenever needed.
Our deepest sympathy goes to his wife and family.
Record Review
At The Riverside - the Michael Philip Ceilidh Band – SPRC/CD 1035
On The Melodeon – Jim Crawford – SPRC 1034
In Top Gear – Gordon Shand SDB – GSCS 9201
Book Review
Let’s Have a Ceilidh – Robbie Shephers – Cannongate Press
Take the Floor
6th Feb 93 – Iain Cathcart SDB
13th Feb 93 – Wayne Robertson SDB
20th Feb 93 – George Stirrat SDB
27th Feb 93 – Rob Gordon SDB
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 23rd Feb 93 – Gordon Shand SDB
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only 10th Feb 93 – Roger Donson SDB
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) -
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Dec 93 – Roberto Enzo
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 7th Feb 93 – Coila Scottish Sound
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 21st Feb 93 – Lindsay Weir
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) – 24th Feb 93 – The Huntly Loons
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 15th Feb 93 – 15th James Coutts 6th Feb Dinner Dance
Belford (Community Club) – 25th Feb 93 – Marian Anderson
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 14th Feb 93 – Wattie Beattie SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) -
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Alex Stewart 19th Fen Dance to Dick Black in Town Hall
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 18th Feb 93 – Allan McIntosh
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) 4th Feb 93 – Lomond SDB
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 16th Feb 93 – Neil Sinclair
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 3rd Feb 93 – Joan MacLaughlin 20th Feb Dance to Ian McCallum SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Billy Anderson & Albany
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Jubilee House) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 25th Feb 93 – John Renton SDB
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) -
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) –
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 21st Feb 93 – Ian Muir Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 10th Feb 93 – Elgin S&R Society
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 18th Feb 93 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 17th Feb 93 – Alistair McCulloch
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 15th Feb 93 – Julie McRitchie
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 2nd Feb 93 – Michael Garvin SDB
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) – 2nd Feb 93 – Deirdre Adamson
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 24th Feb 93 – Glencraig SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 8th Feb 93 – Archie MacKillop & Friends
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 3rd Feb 93 – John Walker & Friends
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th Feb 93 – Andrew Knight SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 16th Feb 93 – Paddy Neary
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 23rd Feb 93 – Pauline Laverie Trio 12th Feb Dance to Jim Johnstone SDB
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 22nd Feb 93 – Marie Fielding Trio
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 2nd Feb 93 – Craig McCallum SDB
Oban (Harbour Lights Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 25th Feb 93 – Willie Simpson Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Feb 93 – Colin Dewar Trio
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) –
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 14th Feb 93 – Dochie McCallum Trio
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Tranent (East Lothian Labour Club) 9th Feb 93 – Jim Johnstone SDB
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Banchory
4. Banff
5. Biggar
6. Blairgowrie
7. Castle Douglas
8. Coalburn
9. Crieff
10. Dalriada
11. Dingwall
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Etterick & Yarrow
16. Forfar
17. Forres
18. Glendale
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islesteps
23. Kelso
24. Kinlochshiel
25. Kintore
26. Lesmahagow
27. Livingston
28. Lockerbie
29. Montrose
30. North East
31. Orkney
32. Peebles
33. Perth
34. Renfrew
35. Rothbury
36. Stirling
37. Thurso
38. Tynedale
39. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (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. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Coalburn A&F Club (
17. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
18. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
19. Derwentside A&F Club
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
23. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
24. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
25. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
26. Ellon A&F Club (
27. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
28. Fintry A&F Club (
29. Forfar A&F Club (
30. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
31. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
32. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
33. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
34. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
35. 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)
36. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
37. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
38. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
39. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
40. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
41. Kintore A&F Club (
42. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
43. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
44. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
45. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
46. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
47. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
48. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
49. Mull A&F Club
50. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
51. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
52. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
53. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
54. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981 - present)
64. Tranent A&F Club
65. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
66. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
67. 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?)
68. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
69. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
70. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
71. Buchan A&F Club
72. Callander A&F Club (
73. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
74. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
75. Club Accord
76. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
77. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
78. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
79. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
80. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
81. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
82. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
83. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
84. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
85. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
86. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
87. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
88. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
89. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
90. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
91. Newcastleton Accordion Club
92. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
93. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
94. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
95. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
96. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
97. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
98. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
99. Wellbank A&F Club
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