Box and Fiddle
Year 06 No 03
November 1982
Price 25p
12 pages
8 month subscription £2.88
Editor – Ian Smith, 50 Mount Vernon Road, Stranraer Tele 4098
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
Digesting the reports that are coming in, it would seem that the Club scene is on the up again this year. Last year seemed to be one of receding attendances and a general withdrawal of support, so it is good to see that once again there is a surge of support and interest in the Clubs. Much of this is due to the efforts of your Committees who plod on regardless.
Word has come from Bill Black of Stanley that his Ceilidh next year will be held on a new date, that is, the 4th November, 1983. The reason is that the Tayside Hotel, Stanley, will have all its rooms available for overnight accommodation. There just wasn’t enough this year.
As a follow-up to his successful Ceilidh, Bill is going to organise dances using young and up-and-coming SDBs. The first of these dances will be held in the Tayside Hotel, Stanley, on the 20th May, 1983, where the band will be the Graeme Mitchell SDB. Your Editor thinks that this is a first rate idea to give, in a practical way, a chance for the youngsters to get it together. What do you think?
By popular demand, Jimmy Clinkscale has been forced to change the format for the Bobby MacLeod Trophy. This was to have been for new tunes for the accordion for Musette/Continental. Such was the pressures that this has been changed to include Scottish Traditional. So hurry, hurry, hurry, you’ve only get to the end of the month to get your new tune considered. Send it to Stebelin Recording Music Co in Melrose.
Musselburgh Festival ‘83
by Norman Williams
As I write this the day after the 33rd Perth Accordion and Fiddle Festival and still fired with the excitement and pleasure of seeing a delightfully unassuming five-row player (only two years into the ‘senior ladies’ category) wipe the boards clean in all three major traditional sections, I say ‘Roll on 5th March, 1983’ and let it all happen again!
On that date all roads lead to the Brunton Halls, Musselburgh for the 9th Annual NAAFC Accordion and Fiddle Championships.
But before I go on, as I tend to do, on behalf of the Musselburgh Festival Committee may I offer warmest congratulations to Jacqueline Dick for a never-to-be-forgotten all-round performance. Her renderings of ‘Donald Cameron,’ ‘The First of Lorne’ and ‘The Sheepwife’ had us walking on air.
Now back to Musselburgh. No new classes have been introduced this year but in answer to feedback from competitors and teachers, alterations have been made in connection with the tunes to be played in two of the sections. Firstly, in the Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo, in place of march, strathspey and reel, the competitor will now be required to play a selection of three tunes comprising any three of the following rhythms : slow air, waltz, polka, slow hornpipe, jig, two-step. The ‘slow’ qualification for the hornpipe signifies that it should NOT be played as a reel.
The other change relates to the classical sections. Test pieces are being set for all classes, including the open. These are listed elsewhere in this issue of the ‘B&F.’
And whilst on the subject of the classical, there were those competitors and their supporters last March who felt they were being treated as second-class citizens having to compete in the Church Hall rather than the main Brunton complex. I can assure them that this was not the case. The allocation of halls was done advisedly, the ruling factor being the requirement for a good piano for some of the traditional sections. As things turned out, from the adjudicators’ standpoint at any rate, the Church Hall proved to be well suited for the purpose.
Following our normal practice for the Musselburgh Festival the panel of adjudicators for 1983 is completely different to that for the last event. The classical sections will be in the very capable hands of two personalities of the accordion world, Messrs Neary and Ainsworth, better known as Paddy and Mick.
For the traditional Scottish accordion classes we are very pleased to welcome for the first time on our panel Brian Griffin and David Cunningham, both players of great repute and highly individualistic styles. The former is best known for his unmistakable harmony contributions in the Iain MacPhail Band and the latter for his broadcasts with his own trio and band and as lead accordion in The Olympians for many years.
Those competitors in the pipe music heats will be playing off before a very experienced pair of ears belonging to none other than Association Chairman, Jimmy Blue.
And finally for the fiddle players, a real treat, the man in the hot seat this time, that personality of your art – Angus Fitchet. Incidentally, we tend to be a bit light on the string section entries, may I say to all you traditional fiddle players, do not be overawed by the accordion fraternity or feel that you are on the fringe of the Festival. After all, it is organised by the NAAFC, the two instruments have equal status, albeit the number of classes open to fiddlers is rather limited. With increased support this could soon be rectified. So come along and let us have the pleasure of your music and give Angus something to get his teeth into.
Following the competitions there will be the usual all-winners concert including the finals of one of the traditional sections. To round off what should be a perfect day, the Festival Dance, with another treat in store, our first West Coast Band, from Tarbert, Loch Fyne – Fraser McGlynn. As they say ‘follow that!’
On behalf of the Festival Committee may I extend a very warm invitation to all players and enthusiasts to join us on 5th March, 1983. You won’t be disappointed.
The Reel Radio
by Andy Ross
October saw the sudden demise of the ‘Folks Around Robin’ programme on Radio forth. I was very disappointed when the news filtered through to me that Angus Fitchet’s broadcast on 11th October was the last one for some time, but I am assured by Robin Brock that the programme is just taking a short rest and he is confident of once again gathering his ‘Folks’ around him early in 1983.
Radio Forth
I have listened to two excellent broadcasts from this station, the first featuring Callum McLean on 27th September in which he got through 16 cracking sets with a strong emphasis on Continental music. There were some really outstanding items in Cally’s programme when he was expertly backed by Jim Johnstone on second accordion, Stan Saunders on bass, Davie Flockhart, piano and Bobby Colgan, drums. I was particularly impressed by Bobby’s use of brushes on several of the sets, also Cally’s interpretation of ‘The High Level’ which will no doubt me attempted by other musicians, but whether or not it will be mastered is a different story!
A week later another superb contribution from Jack Delaney, including a feature on that great young button-box player Jacqueline Dick, when she took the lead for four sets with every one a cracker. Jack also recruited her to sit with his band for one or two dances and I was delighted that he gave her the opportunity to broadcast as it is absolutely essential that our young players be given every chance to exploit their talents if our music is to continue and flourish.
Take the Floor
On 2nd October we returned to Dunblane for a programme recorded at the NAAFC AGM. As usual, Jim MacLeod gave a good broadcast and I thought Alec Doig’s use of the drums in the ‘Heading for Home’ set came over very well. However, I did feel we ought to have heard a little more of Jim Clelland on second box as he seemed to be pushed too far into the background.
We had two first appearances, starting on 9th October, when the Eddie Edmond Quartet played a very good first broadcast with excellent tempos throughout and my only real criticism being that the programme was too short.
Once again it was nice to see young players being brought on and given a chance to broadcast, and I look forward to Eddie’s next appearance, when perhaps he ought to consider the idea of having a drummer in the line-up.
Two weeks later it was the turn of the Roger Dobson Band from Newcastleton when there were some excellent sets marred only by some very ragged chords. Perhaps the boys were over-awed by their first visit to a broadcasting studio, as I think nerves were to blame for some of their problems, but here again it was nice to see a new band on the scene from an area where our type of music is played and appreciated.
Sandwiched between these two first-time experiences was an excellent broadcast by that seasoned campaigner John Ellis. It amazes me how John manages to cram so many sets, with well over 40 tunes, into his allotted time and every one a topper.
In my book Douglas Muir is one of the top accordion players around and on several sets showed us how the skillful use of couplers can give the final sound just that little bit extra.
TV
By the time this edition appears BBCs Sunday evening ‘On The Fiddle’ series will be nearly at and end – I hope ‘Auntie Beeb’ can find time to repeat this series in the not-too-distant future to give us another chance to hear the fiddle magic of the maestros featured, namely Angus Fitchet, Tom Anderson, Douglas Lawrence, Willie Hunter, Ron Gonella and Jimmy Moir.
On 20th November the band will be that of Ian Holmes with a feature on the well-known globe-trotting accordionist Gordon Pattullo. One week later we will have the Ian Anderson Band from Forres, while the feature will be on the late Adam Rennie. For the first Saturday in December it will be a band led by Tommy Newcomen and the feature will be on guitarist Duncan Finlay.
Accordion ‘83
The Radio Forth event in The Playhouse, Edinburgh, on 11th December has all the appearances of being a great evening. Among those on the programme will be :-
Jim Johnstone and his Band
Woolmet & Danderhall Pipe Band
Gordon Pattullo
Paddy Neary
Robert Black and his Band
Alex MacArthur
Fraser McGlynn
Ron Kerr
Judith Davidson
Singers Peter Mallon, Anne Lorne Gillies and many more.
I hear that Jimmy Shand is going along to present the prizes in the ‘New Tune’ competitions, so perhaps he might be persuaded to play a tune or two – who knows!
Jacqueline’s Hat-trick at Perth Festival
by Ian Smith
On a bright winter’s day the streets of Perth sounded out the reeds of the accordions and the soothing, sometimes wild notes of the fiddles, for this was the competition day at Bill Wilkie’s 33rd All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival, incorporating the NAO North and North-East Scotland Area championships.
Each year seems to be more successful than the previous as the youngsters keep raising standards ever higher and as the standards rise the ages of these great competitors gets ever younger.
This year was the turn of demure Jacqueline Dick (19) from Freuchie, Cupar. She stormed through to win the Senior Scottish Pipe Music, Senior Scottish Traditional and Senior Ladies’ Scottish Traditional. Congratulations, Jackie. We are proud of you. Didn’t she do well?
It is also a ‘well done’ to Colin Dewar. He won the Junior Scottish Traditional and to Edward Galley for his win in the Junior Scottish Pipe Music.
Nor forgetting Mark Winchester, Senior Fiddle, and Alison Smith for her fine win in the Junior Fiddle Section.
Of course, this doesn’t detract from the ability of all the other competitors. They tried their best and we are sure they will be back next year. All their hard work has not been in vein as is proved by the rising standards all round.
In keeping with the rising talent there must be some very good teachers on the go. Their names are not mentioned, maybe they should be.
All day the foyer in the City Hall resounded to the greetings and laughs as people met. The demonstrators at Bill Wilkie’s accordion display were kept busy. There were folk from Ireland, England and the Hebrides, all of them here to hear the best in the land and that is exactly what they heard.
Here is a list of the winners :-
Senior Scottish Traditional
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) John Bone
3) James Bell
Senior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) Stuart McKeown
3) Graham Edwardson
Senior Ladies Scottish Traditional
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) Shona Leitch
3) Karen Higgins
Junior Scottish Traditional
1) Colin Dewar
2) Ian Skinner
3) Edward Galley
Junior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Edward Galley
2) Mark Anderson
3) Ian Skinner
Junior Girls’ Scottish Traditional
1) Diane Armstrong
2) Lynne Mathieson
3) Jennifer Forrest
Trios
1) Maureen Rutherford
2) Dale Winchester
3) Donald Shaw
Bands
1) Dundee A&F Club Junior Band
2) Ian McCallum SDB
3) Colin Dewar SCDB
Own Composition
1) John Leslie
2) Norman Williams
3) Alan Kindness
Bell Trophy
1) Mark Kenneth
2) Caroline Couser
Area Junior Championships
1) Donald Shaw
2) Gordon Stewart
3) Nicola Reid
Under 12 Years Accordion Solo
1) Alan Morrison
2) John M. Simpson
3) Leslie Fair
Under 14 Years Accordion Solo
1) Una Bryson
2) James Malloy
3) Michael Craig
Intermediate Solo
1) Morag McFarlane
2) Sandy Legget
3) Donna Lothian
Higher Intermediate Solo
1) May Taylor
2) Ewan Donald
3) Norma Brodie
Open Solo
1) Shona Maitland
2) James Grant
3) Roy Hendrie
Advanced Duet
1) Roy Hendrie & Richard Ross
2) Neil & Allan Copeland
3) Scott Leslie & James Grant
Senior Fiddle
1) Mark Winchester
2) Jane Rayworth
3) Jane Smith
Junior Fiddle
1) Alison Smith
2) David R. Hall
3) Alison Smith?
Entertainer
1) Una Bryson
2) Scott Sneddon
The evening concert was, as usual, a complete sell-out. This couldn’t be otherwise, as the name Bill Wilkie is synonymous with great shows. Shows that wouldn’t disgrace the London Palladium.
There was the Accordion Orchestra, singers, Currie Brothers, comedians, dancers and there was that brilliant female accordionist Pearl Fawcett, finalizing with the General and the Scottish Dance Band.
After the concert there was a late dance in the Salutation Hotel, run by the Perth Club and the band there was Fraser McGlynn with the button box, David Scott (fiddle), Duncan McKay (keyboard) and Kevin McGlynn (drums).
Fair Maid of the North
Lived up to its name
Traditional music
The name of the game
The two together
Nothing brings but fame
For players, spectators
Twas great, Fair dame.
Bill Black’s Ceilidh
by Tom Handy
All roads led to Stanley on Friday, 15th October. To be exact to the Tayside Hotel, where musicians from all the airts were meeting for Bill Black’s Ceilidh.
Players from all over Scotland and some parts of England were gathering to play for the annual get-together which Bill organises for a charity of his choice.
Bill opened the show with his band, in the persons of Robert Black (keyboard), Duncan Black (second box), Judith Davidson (fiddle) and George Borthwick (drums).
They were followed by Andy Bilsland from Crieff on box, Aly Paterson on drums and Robert Black on keyboard.
Young starts of the night followed i.e. the Dundee A&F Club Junior Band, with an average age of 15.
To mention all the players and give them the justice they so rightly deserve would, apart from filling the ‘B&F’ be very difficult indeed. However, among those entertaining were accordionists:-
Graeme Mitchell
Alan Kindness
Colin Dewar
Colin Johnstone
Dougie Davidson
John Crawford and Jim Berry and not to forget the ‘first lady of the box’
Jacqueline Dick.
Judith Davidson (Golden Fiddle Award Winner)
Brian Cruickshanks and
Drew Hawick on fiddle.
At the keyboard were Maureen Rutherford and Graham Berry.
It was particularly nice to see John Crawford playing, he has lost none of his luster over the years.
Over 200 people in attendance showed their appreciation by contributing £220 to the Stanley Senior Citizens’ Fund.
The other two gentlemen who deserve a special mention were the comperes for the evening. They were Robbie Shepherd and Andy Ross. These two lads kept the evening moving along without a hitch and indeed added to a great night’s entertainment at Stanley.
Fab Concert
by Ian Smith
On 26th September in the Pavilion Theatre, Ayr, Mr John Leitch and company produced one of these fabulous concerts that go with a swing right from the beginning.
Of course, when you have a compere of the calibre of John Carmichael it definitely keeps everything flowing.
Starting with Kenny Thomson and the six-piece Wardlaw SDB, they performed in top C and the following acts reached the same heights. There was Bob McKenzie, baritone singer of Scots songs, interspersed with wry, witty comments.
Bobby Stewart on accordion, backed by Derek Hamilton on keyboard and dad Billy on drums.
Bobby broke with tradition and purveyed some brilliant swing and syncopation. There was Bobby Torrance on mouth organ. This humble instrument in his hands is quite something. So simple, so smooth, so easy to listen to. Then it was a delight to listen to another young Miss who will assuredly hit the top, local lass Shona Maitland. Her classic rendering was in the highest bracket.
Not forgetting the fiddlers in the company ‘3 + 3’ is the name and tradition was the game. The fiddlers being Bob Christie, Gavin McIntyre and Hector McLeod, abetted by accordionist Lex Keith and pianist Bill Hendry.
Still more variety with soprano Mairi MacArthur of both Gaelic and Scots songs ; another local lad, although known nationally, accordion teacher Jim Hutcheon, with over 100 pupils. Jim showed us how jazz should be played. Finished yet, not on your life. This was just half-time.
On to the stage came the Covenanters Dance Team. Scottish Country Dancing at its best. More accordions to come in the shape of The Tartan Lassies – two accordionists Shona and Karen Leitch and Lynda Harkness on fiddle.
Before the star line we had the inimitable Charlie Cowie of fiddle fame and Charlie was also in top form. He was the perfect run-up to John Huband and the Tayside Sound from Dundee. Here was a band of musicians who enjoyed their music. They attacked it with gusto, vigour and style, yet not one bit of music was lost.
The front men were Davie Stewart (accordion), Angus Cameron (fiddle) and John Huband (accordion). The back three were Jack Cooper (drums), Rab Smillie (bass) and Bill Hendry (piano).
Each instrument had its own solo spot and acquitted itself to perfection. Davie Stewart with his Continental, Angus with his great interpretation of traditional reels, jigs, strathspeys and slow airs and John Huband really went to town. Who else could play a jig on the bass end only? Who else could compose a tune like the ‘Box and Fiddle Rag.’ His dexterity was quite unbelievable. In one tune he played more runs than Seb Coe in all his races.
This audience, already out of their minds, went delirious with the Tayside Sound and rose to them at the end.
A much-respected gentlemen, Alf Silk, later said ‘John Huband is the finest player of the box that I can remember.’ This was echoed as the audience began to disperse into a wild autumn night.
When’s the next concert, John Leitch?
Livingston Accordion & Fiddle Club
Graham Edwardson
by Murdo McLeod
To mark the forthcoming 10th anniversary of the Club we intend writing a monthly account of personalities/musicians from the Club. We start with Graham Edwardson, who was the first youngster to play with us at the first night away back in September 1973.
From being a lad, who, at that time, could hardly be seen behind a big ‘box,’ he has progressed to being one of the stalwarts of the Club. It appears that Graham has played at virtually every Club night – a truly remarkable feat. And one for which we, at the Club, are very grateful.
In the meantime, Graham has developed a very distinctive, forceful style, standing his in good stead whether as a lead or harmony player. His roots are in the old shale mining village of Oakbank, where his father, our long-serving Treasurer, was born.
Graham is a member of the quartet Oakbank Sound, comprising, Graham on lead, sometimes!, David Wilson on second accordion, Kathryn Wilson, keyboard, and Graham Jamieson, drums, who all have close Oakbank connections. This band is now making a name locally and we feel that one day it will be well-known much further afield.
Graham got his early training from Mary Brown, Broxburn, now a well-known cabaret artiste, and now he is one of Chrissie Leatham’s advanced pupils, to such effect that at Perth Festival recently he was placed third in the pipe section.
His idol is, of course, the great Irish accordionist Dermot O’Brien and a highlight in Graham’s life was the recent visit of Dermot to the Livingston club. According to Graham, Dermot O’Brien “is the epitome of accordion music.”
Graham, still in his teens, obviously has a great musical future ahead of him and we at this Club wish him good playing in the future.
This then is our first report on one of our musicians and who will be the next?
Make sure you read the next instalment of this saga in next month’s ‘B&F’.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – After listening with much pleasure to Addie Harper’s most informative interview on ‘TTF’ on Saturday, 16th October, I feel I must write to comment on his views.
Firstly, I fully endorse what he says regarding made up bands.’ There are quite a number of them broadcasting and as Addie quite rightly pointed out it is quite difficult to distinguish one from another. The reason, of course, being that the same musicians are playing in several bands, in many instances only the bandleader changes.
Three exceptions to this are, of course, The Wick Band, Jim MacLeod and Fraser McGlynn and for this reason, in my opinion, they stand apart from the rest.
I often wonder what the result would be if, say, three of these ‘made up bands’ were booked to play on the same night.
The other point I wish to make is that I often feel that there is a certain bias in some circles against The Wick Band because they use so-called ‘non-traditional instruments.’ Surely one would think that music is played to be enjoyed no matter what it is played on.
As far as I and many others are concerned, there is no better sound than a Gaelic Air played so professionally on the Hawaiian guitar. Popularity and record sales prove it.
Cyril Scott
North Connel
Sir – Last month I spent a most enjoyable day at the annual Perth Festival, the day being rounded off by a great dance to Fraser McGlynn.
Although I play a bit myself, I prefer to dance, which brings me to my first point.
I have on many occasions been to functions where Alex MacArthur’s Band were playing for the dancing and very rarely did I see the band playing at these dances which was playing on stage in the City Hall last month.
Mr MacArthur seems to be joining the ranks, as Bill Black is. It appears Mr MacArthur thinks his every-day slaves are not good enough for such jobs as the Perth concert. In fact, the players I have heard at dances lately with him turned out as good a performance as we heard last month.
I am quite sure that the players felt very guilty about doing that gig when, in fact, they are never asked to play any other time.
To me this is a slap in the face to people who do the inferior work and are classed not good enough for the cream of engagements.
Perhaps we will find this bandleader without musicians some-day.
It will be interesting to hear Mr MacArthur’s reply to this. Don’t let the ‘General’ tell you he can’t get his star players as they play in other bands. The truth being they don’t even know what engagements are on.
Bill Summers
Scone
Sir – In the aftermath of another Perth Festival, once again the thought arises – should the format for the Senior Scottish Championship be changed?
Throughout the broad spectrum of people interested in our music – adjudicators, musicians, Accordion Club and Scottish dance music devotees, the same comments are made each year, i.e. the tunes are bordering on technical exercises, competitors use the same set at successive Festivals, the same tunes are repeatedly endlessly, etc.
Surely there must be a way to alter this situation? One suggestion is that competitors should (as in some piping competitions) submit five sets, with the one to be played made known the day of the Festival. This might reduce the technical standard relative to one set, but it will most positively make for a rise in the overall standard of playing and more pleasant listening.
It might also mean a return to the original spirit of the Festival which in recent years seems to have changed its character.
Surely the Association should act now?
Farquhar Matheson and Jack Delaney
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Rob Roy Inn) – 24 Nov 82 Richard Ross Trio
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 21 Nov 82 George Stirrat Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Grampian Sound
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 25 Nov 82 Max Houliston & Kenny Wilson
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Argyll Arms) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Ian Horsburgh
Cleland (Dalrymple House) – 20 Dec 82 Malcolm McLean & Frank Henery
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff (Arduthie Hotel) –
Cumnock (Tup Inn) – 22 Dec 82 Grace McCleaver & the Lochearn SDB
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Denny & Dunipace (Dunipace Junior Social Club) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 3 Dec 82 Tyne Valley Four
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dumfries (Oughton’s Restaurant) -
Dunblane (Hydro) – 14 Dec 82 Wallochmore Ceilidh Band
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) – 2 Dec 82 Bill Black SDB
Dunfermline (Unitas Hall) – 7 Dec 82 Bill Douglas SDB
East Kilbride (Stuart Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Dunblane club
Edinburgh (The Berry Suite, Abbey Hill) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 22 Nov 82 The Tartan Lassies
Forres (Brig Motel) – 24 Nov 82 Supper Dance Drumphail SDB 8 Dec 82 Robert Whitehead
Fort William (Highland Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club, Galston) – 13 Dec 82 Diane Armstrong
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel) – 14 Dec 82 Paddy Neary
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 7 Dec 82 George Stirrat & Jimmy Yeaman
Kelso (Cross Key’s Hotel) – 24 Nov 82 Bill Black & Family 22 Dec 82 Grace McCleaver SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 1 Dec 82 Alex Green (tin whistle) 29 Dec 82 Hogmanay Ceilidh & Dance
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Craignethan Hotel) – 2 Dec 82 Diane Armstrong
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club) – 16 Dec 82 Walter Perrie
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) – 30 Nov 82 Geoff Purvis (fiddle)
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – 2 Dec 82 Graham Ross & the Strathalmond SDB
Monkland (Eastercroft Hotel, Caldercruix, Airdrie) – Jennifer Forrest
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29 Nov 82 Diane Armstrong
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Huntsman Inn – Penton) –
North East (Seafield Arms, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) – 25 Nov 82 Jim Johnstone SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – Dec 82 Graeme Mitchell SDB Jan 83 Robert Black SDB
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel) -
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 6 Dec 82 Colin Finlayson Quartet
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 6 Dec 82 Alan Roy
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) -
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Walmer (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) – 23 Nov 82 Bobby Harvey 21 Dec 82 Wick Fiddlers
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Armadale
2. Balloch
3. Belford
4. Campbeltown
5. Castle Douglas
6. Cleland
7. Crieff & District
8. Cumnock & District
9. Dalriada
10. Derwentside
11. Dingwall
12. Dunblane & District
13. Dundee & District
14. Dunfermline & District
15. Edinburgh
16. Fintry
17. Forres
18. Fort William
19. Galashiels
20. Galston
21. Highland
22. Islesteps
23. Kelso
24. Kintore
25. Lesmahagow
26. Livingstone
27. Lockerbie
28. M.A.F.I.A.
29. Monklands
30. Morecambe
31. Newtongrange
32. North East
33. Ormiston
34. Peebles
35. Perth & District
36. Shetland
37. Stranraer
38. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1982 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1980) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
5. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
6. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
7. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
8. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
9. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
10. Buchan A&F Club
11. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
12. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
13. Cleland (cNov 1981) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
14. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
15. Cumnock A&F Club
16. Dalriada A&F Club (cMar 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District (Aug 1979)
19. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Falkirk A&F Club
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (Oct 1980)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (1969)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
33. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
34. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
35. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
39. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
40. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Oct 1980)
41. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
42. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
43. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
44. Monkland A&F Club
45. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
46. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
48. North Cumbria A&F Club (early)
49. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
50. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
51. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
52. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
53. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
54. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
55. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
56. Rothbury Accordion Club (Feb 1974)
57. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
58. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (early)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
62. Walmer A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire) (c March 1982)
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Club Accord
66. Coquetdale
67. Coupar Angus A&F Club
68. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (c Nov 1980)
69. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
70. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
71. Newcastleton Accordion Club
72. New Cumnock A&F Club
73. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
74. Renfrew A&F Club
75. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
76. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
77. Wellbank A&F Club
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B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
Digesting the reports that are coming in, it would seem that the Club scene is on the up again this year. Last year seemed to be one of receding attendances and a general withdrawal of support, so it is good to see that once again there is a surge of support and interest in the Clubs. Much of this is due to the efforts of your Committees who plod on regardless.
Word has come from Bill Black of Stanley that his Ceilidh next year will be held on a new date, that is, the 4th November, 1983. The reason is that the Tayside Hotel, Stanley, will have all its rooms available for overnight accommodation. There just wasn’t enough this year.
As a follow-up to his successful Ceilidh, Bill is going to organise dances using young and up-and-coming SDBs. The first of these dances will be held in the Tayside Hotel, Stanley, on the 20th May, 1983, where the band will be the Graeme Mitchell SDB. Your Editor thinks that this is a first rate idea to give, in a practical way, a chance for the youngsters to get it together. What do you think?
By popular demand, Jimmy Clinkscale has been forced to change the format for the Bobby MacLeod Trophy. This was to have been for new tunes for the accordion for Musette/Continental. Such was the pressures that this has been changed to include Scottish Traditional. So hurry, hurry, hurry, you’ve only get to the end of the month to get your new tune considered. Send it to Stebelin Recording Music Co in Melrose.
Musselburgh Festival ‘83
by Norman Williams
As I write this the day after the 33rd Perth Accordion and Fiddle Festival and still fired with the excitement and pleasure of seeing a delightfully unassuming five-row player (only two years into the ‘senior ladies’ category) wipe the boards clean in all three major traditional sections, I say ‘Roll on 5th March, 1983’ and let it all happen again!
On that date all roads lead to the Brunton Halls, Musselburgh for the 9th Annual NAAFC Accordion and Fiddle Championships.
But before I go on, as I tend to do, on behalf of the Musselburgh Festival Committee may I offer warmest congratulations to Jacqueline Dick for a never-to-be-forgotten all-round performance. Her renderings of ‘Donald Cameron,’ ‘The First of Lorne’ and ‘The Sheepwife’ had us walking on air.
Now back to Musselburgh. No new classes have been introduced this year but in answer to feedback from competitors and teachers, alterations have been made in connection with the tunes to be played in two of the sections. Firstly, in the Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo, in place of march, strathspey and reel, the competitor will now be required to play a selection of three tunes comprising any three of the following rhythms : slow air, waltz, polka, slow hornpipe, jig, two-step. The ‘slow’ qualification for the hornpipe signifies that it should NOT be played as a reel.
The other change relates to the classical sections. Test pieces are being set for all classes, including the open. These are listed elsewhere in this issue of the ‘B&F.’
And whilst on the subject of the classical, there were those competitors and their supporters last March who felt they were being treated as second-class citizens having to compete in the Church Hall rather than the main Brunton complex. I can assure them that this was not the case. The allocation of halls was done advisedly, the ruling factor being the requirement for a good piano for some of the traditional sections. As things turned out, from the adjudicators’ standpoint at any rate, the Church Hall proved to be well suited for the purpose.
Following our normal practice for the Musselburgh Festival the panel of adjudicators for 1983 is completely different to that for the last event. The classical sections will be in the very capable hands of two personalities of the accordion world, Messrs Neary and Ainsworth, better known as Paddy and Mick.
For the traditional Scottish accordion classes we are very pleased to welcome for the first time on our panel Brian Griffin and David Cunningham, both players of great repute and highly individualistic styles. The former is best known for his unmistakable harmony contributions in the Iain MacPhail Band and the latter for his broadcasts with his own trio and band and as lead accordion in The Olympians for many years.
Those competitors in the pipe music heats will be playing off before a very experienced pair of ears belonging to none other than Association Chairman, Jimmy Blue.
And finally for the fiddle players, a real treat, the man in the hot seat this time, that personality of your art – Angus Fitchet. Incidentally, we tend to be a bit light on the string section entries, may I say to all you traditional fiddle players, do not be overawed by the accordion fraternity or feel that you are on the fringe of the Festival. After all, it is organised by the NAAFC, the two instruments have equal status, albeit the number of classes open to fiddlers is rather limited. With increased support this could soon be rectified. So come along and let us have the pleasure of your music and give Angus something to get his teeth into.
Following the competitions there will be the usual all-winners concert including the finals of one of the traditional sections. To round off what should be a perfect day, the Festival Dance, with another treat in store, our first West Coast Band, from Tarbert, Loch Fyne – Fraser McGlynn. As they say ‘follow that!’
On behalf of the Festival Committee may I extend a very warm invitation to all players and enthusiasts to join us on 5th March, 1983. You won’t be disappointed.
The Reel Radio
by Andy Ross
October saw the sudden demise of the ‘Folks Around Robin’ programme on Radio forth. I was very disappointed when the news filtered through to me that Angus Fitchet’s broadcast on 11th October was the last one for some time, but I am assured by Robin Brock that the programme is just taking a short rest and he is confident of once again gathering his ‘Folks’ around him early in 1983.
Radio Forth
I have listened to two excellent broadcasts from this station, the first featuring Callum McLean on 27th September in which he got through 16 cracking sets with a strong emphasis on Continental music. There were some really outstanding items in Cally’s programme when he was expertly backed by Jim Johnstone on second accordion, Stan Saunders on bass, Davie Flockhart, piano and Bobby Colgan, drums. I was particularly impressed by Bobby’s use of brushes on several of the sets, also Cally’s interpretation of ‘The High Level’ which will no doubt me attempted by other musicians, but whether or not it will be mastered is a different story!
A week later another superb contribution from Jack Delaney, including a feature on that great young button-box player Jacqueline Dick, when she took the lead for four sets with every one a cracker. Jack also recruited her to sit with his band for one or two dances and I was delighted that he gave her the opportunity to broadcast as it is absolutely essential that our young players be given every chance to exploit their talents if our music is to continue and flourish.
Take the Floor
On 2nd October we returned to Dunblane for a programme recorded at the NAAFC AGM. As usual, Jim MacLeod gave a good broadcast and I thought Alec Doig’s use of the drums in the ‘Heading for Home’ set came over very well. However, I did feel we ought to have heard a little more of Jim Clelland on second box as he seemed to be pushed too far into the background.
We had two first appearances, starting on 9th October, when the Eddie Edmond Quartet played a very good first broadcast with excellent tempos throughout and my only real criticism being that the programme was too short.
Once again it was nice to see young players being brought on and given a chance to broadcast, and I look forward to Eddie’s next appearance, when perhaps he ought to consider the idea of having a drummer in the line-up.
Two weeks later it was the turn of the Roger Dobson Band from Newcastleton when there were some excellent sets marred only by some very ragged chords. Perhaps the boys were over-awed by their first visit to a broadcasting studio, as I think nerves were to blame for some of their problems, but here again it was nice to see a new band on the scene from an area where our type of music is played and appreciated.
Sandwiched between these two first-time experiences was an excellent broadcast by that seasoned campaigner John Ellis. It amazes me how John manages to cram so many sets, with well over 40 tunes, into his allotted time and every one a topper.
In my book Douglas Muir is one of the top accordion players around and on several sets showed us how the skillful use of couplers can give the final sound just that little bit extra.
TV
By the time this edition appears BBCs Sunday evening ‘On The Fiddle’ series will be nearly at and end – I hope ‘Auntie Beeb’ can find time to repeat this series in the not-too-distant future to give us another chance to hear the fiddle magic of the maestros featured, namely Angus Fitchet, Tom Anderson, Douglas Lawrence, Willie Hunter, Ron Gonella and Jimmy Moir.
On 20th November the band will be that of Ian Holmes with a feature on the well-known globe-trotting accordionist Gordon Pattullo. One week later we will have the Ian Anderson Band from Forres, while the feature will be on the late Adam Rennie. For the first Saturday in December it will be a band led by Tommy Newcomen and the feature will be on guitarist Duncan Finlay.
Accordion ‘83
The Radio Forth event in The Playhouse, Edinburgh, on 11th December has all the appearances of being a great evening. Among those on the programme will be :-
Jim Johnstone and his Band
Woolmet & Danderhall Pipe Band
Gordon Pattullo
Paddy Neary
Robert Black and his Band
Alex MacArthur
Fraser McGlynn
Ron Kerr
Judith Davidson
Singers Peter Mallon, Anne Lorne Gillies and many more.
I hear that Jimmy Shand is going along to present the prizes in the ‘New Tune’ competitions, so perhaps he might be persuaded to play a tune or two – who knows!
Jacqueline’s Hat-trick at Perth Festival
by Ian Smith
On a bright winter’s day the streets of Perth sounded out the reeds of the accordions and the soothing, sometimes wild notes of the fiddles, for this was the competition day at Bill Wilkie’s 33rd All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival, incorporating the NAO North and North-East Scotland Area championships.
Each year seems to be more successful than the previous as the youngsters keep raising standards ever higher and as the standards rise the ages of these great competitors gets ever younger.
This year was the turn of demure Jacqueline Dick (19) from Freuchie, Cupar. She stormed through to win the Senior Scottish Pipe Music, Senior Scottish Traditional and Senior Ladies’ Scottish Traditional. Congratulations, Jackie. We are proud of you. Didn’t she do well?
It is also a ‘well done’ to Colin Dewar. He won the Junior Scottish Traditional and to Edward Galley for his win in the Junior Scottish Pipe Music.
Nor forgetting Mark Winchester, Senior Fiddle, and Alison Smith for her fine win in the Junior Fiddle Section.
Of course, this doesn’t detract from the ability of all the other competitors. They tried their best and we are sure they will be back next year. All their hard work has not been in vein as is proved by the rising standards all round.
In keeping with the rising talent there must be some very good teachers on the go. Their names are not mentioned, maybe they should be.
All day the foyer in the City Hall resounded to the greetings and laughs as people met. The demonstrators at Bill Wilkie’s accordion display were kept busy. There were folk from Ireland, England and the Hebrides, all of them here to hear the best in the land and that is exactly what they heard.
Here is a list of the winners :-
Senior Scottish Traditional
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) John Bone
3) James Bell
Senior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) Stuart McKeown
3) Graham Edwardson
Senior Ladies Scottish Traditional
1) Jacqueline Dick
2) Shona Leitch
3) Karen Higgins
Junior Scottish Traditional
1) Colin Dewar
2) Ian Skinner
3) Edward Galley
Junior Scottish Pipe Music
1) Edward Galley
2) Mark Anderson
3) Ian Skinner
Junior Girls’ Scottish Traditional
1) Diane Armstrong
2) Lynne Mathieson
3) Jennifer Forrest
Trios
1) Maureen Rutherford
2) Dale Winchester
3) Donald Shaw
Bands
1) Dundee A&F Club Junior Band
2) Ian McCallum SDB
3) Colin Dewar SCDB
Own Composition
1) John Leslie
2) Norman Williams
3) Alan Kindness
Bell Trophy
1) Mark Kenneth
2) Caroline Couser
Area Junior Championships
1) Donald Shaw
2) Gordon Stewart
3) Nicola Reid
Under 12 Years Accordion Solo
1) Alan Morrison
2) John M. Simpson
3) Leslie Fair
Under 14 Years Accordion Solo
1) Una Bryson
2) James Malloy
3) Michael Craig
Intermediate Solo
1) Morag McFarlane
2) Sandy Legget
3) Donna Lothian
Higher Intermediate Solo
1) May Taylor
2) Ewan Donald
3) Norma Brodie
Open Solo
1) Shona Maitland
2) James Grant
3) Roy Hendrie
Advanced Duet
1) Roy Hendrie & Richard Ross
2) Neil & Allan Copeland
3) Scott Leslie & James Grant
Senior Fiddle
1) Mark Winchester
2) Jane Rayworth
3) Jane Smith
Junior Fiddle
1) Alison Smith
2) David R. Hall
3) Alison Smith?
Entertainer
1) Una Bryson
2) Scott Sneddon
The evening concert was, as usual, a complete sell-out. This couldn’t be otherwise, as the name Bill Wilkie is synonymous with great shows. Shows that wouldn’t disgrace the London Palladium.
There was the Accordion Orchestra, singers, Currie Brothers, comedians, dancers and there was that brilliant female accordionist Pearl Fawcett, finalizing with the General and the Scottish Dance Band.
After the concert there was a late dance in the Salutation Hotel, run by the Perth Club and the band there was Fraser McGlynn with the button box, David Scott (fiddle), Duncan McKay (keyboard) and Kevin McGlynn (drums).
Fair Maid of the North
Lived up to its name
Traditional music
The name of the game
The two together
Nothing brings but fame
For players, spectators
Twas great, Fair dame.
Bill Black’s Ceilidh
by Tom Handy
All roads led to Stanley on Friday, 15th October. To be exact to the Tayside Hotel, where musicians from all the airts were meeting for Bill Black’s Ceilidh.
Players from all over Scotland and some parts of England were gathering to play for the annual get-together which Bill organises for a charity of his choice.
Bill opened the show with his band, in the persons of Robert Black (keyboard), Duncan Black (second box), Judith Davidson (fiddle) and George Borthwick (drums).
They were followed by Andy Bilsland from Crieff on box, Aly Paterson on drums and Robert Black on keyboard.
Young starts of the night followed i.e. the Dundee A&F Club Junior Band, with an average age of 15.
To mention all the players and give them the justice they so rightly deserve would, apart from filling the ‘B&F’ be very difficult indeed. However, among those entertaining were accordionists:-
Graeme Mitchell
Alan Kindness
Colin Dewar
Colin Johnstone
Dougie Davidson
John Crawford and Jim Berry and not to forget the ‘first lady of the box’
Jacqueline Dick.
Judith Davidson (Golden Fiddle Award Winner)
Brian Cruickshanks and
Drew Hawick on fiddle.
At the keyboard were Maureen Rutherford and Graham Berry.
It was particularly nice to see John Crawford playing, he has lost none of his luster over the years.
Over 200 people in attendance showed their appreciation by contributing £220 to the Stanley Senior Citizens’ Fund.
The other two gentlemen who deserve a special mention were the comperes for the evening. They were Robbie Shepherd and Andy Ross. These two lads kept the evening moving along without a hitch and indeed added to a great night’s entertainment at Stanley.
Fab Concert
by Ian Smith
On 26th September in the Pavilion Theatre, Ayr, Mr John Leitch and company produced one of these fabulous concerts that go with a swing right from the beginning.
Of course, when you have a compere of the calibre of John Carmichael it definitely keeps everything flowing.
Starting with Kenny Thomson and the six-piece Wardlaw SDB, they performed in top C and the following acts reached the same heights. There was Bob McKenzie, baritone singer of Scots songs, interspersed with wry, witty comments.
Bobby Stewart on accordion, backed by Derek Hamilton on keyboard and dad Billy on drums.
Bobby broke with tradition and purveyed some brilliant swing and syncopation. There was Bobby Torrance on mouth organ. This humble instrument in his hands is quite something. So simple, so smooth, so easy to listen to. Then it was a delight to listen to another young Miss who will assuredly hit the top, local lass Shona Maitland. Her classic rendering was in the highest bracket.
Not forgetting the fiddlers in the company ‘3 + 3’ is the name and tradition was the game. The fiddlers being Bob Christie, Gavin McIntyre and Hector McLeod, abetted by accordionist Lex Keith and pianist Bill Hendry.
Still more variety with soprano Mairi MacArthur of both Gaelic and Scots songs ; another local lad, although known nationally, accordion teacher Jim Hutcheon, with over 100 pupils. Jim showed us how jazz should be played. Finished yet, not on your life. This was just half-time.
On to the stage came the Covenanters Dance Team. Scottish Country Dancing at its best. More accordions to come in the shape of The Tartan Lassies – two accordionists Shona and Karen Leitch and Lynda Harkness on fiddle.
Before the star line we had the inimitable Charlie Cowie of fiddle fame and Charlie was also in top form. He was the perfect run-up to John Huband and the Tayside Sound from Dundee. Here was a band of musicians who enjoyed their music. They attacked it with gusto, vigour and style, yet not one bit of music was lost.
The front men were Davie Stewart (accordion), Angus Cameron (fiddle) and John Huband (accordion). The back three were Jack Cooper (drums), Rab Smillie (bass) and Bill Hendry (piano).
Each instrument had its own solo spot and acquitted itself to perfection. Davie Stewart with his Continental, Angus with his great interpretation of traditional reels, jigs, strathspeys and slow airs and John Huband really went to town. Who else could play a jig on the bass end only? Who else could compose a tune like the ‘Box and Fiddle Rag.’ His dexterity was quite unbelievable. In one tune he played more runs than Seb Coe in all his races.
This audience, already out of their minds, went delirious with the Tayside Sound and rose to them at the end.
A much-respected gentlemen, Alf Silk, later said ‘John Huband is the finest player of the box that I can remember.’ This was echoed as the audience began to disperse into a wild autumn night.
When’s the next concert, John Leitch?
Livingston Accordion & Fiddle Club
Graham Edwardson
by Murdo McLeod
To mark the forthcoming 10th anniversary of the Club we intend writing a monthly account of personalities/musicians from the Club. We start with Graham Edwardson, who was the first youngster to play with us at the first night away back in September 1973.
From being a lad, who, at that time, could hardly be seen behind a big ‘box,’ he has progressed to being one of the stalwarts of the Club. It appears that Graham has played at virtually every Club night – a truly remarkable feat. And one for which we, at the Club, are very grateful.
In the meantime, Graham has developed a very distinctive, forceful style, standing his in good stead whether as a lead or harmony player. His roots are in the old shale mining village of Oakbank, where his father, our long-serving Treasurer, was born.
Graham is a member of the quartet Oakbank Sound, comprising, Graham on lead, sometimes!, David Wilson on second accordion, Kathryn Wilson, keyboard, and Graham Jamieson, drums, who all have close Oakbank connections. This band is now making a name locally and we feel that one day it will be well-known much further afield.
Graham got his early training from Mary Brown, Broxburn, now a well-known cabaret artiste, and now he is one of Chrissie Leatham’s advanced pupils, to such effect that at Perth Festival recently he was placed third in the pipe section.
His idol is, of course, the great Irish accordionist Dermot O’Brien and a highlight in Graham’s life was the recent visit of Dermot to the Livingston club. According to Graham, Dermot O’Brien “is the epitome of accordion music.”
Graham, still in his teens, obviously has a great musical future ahead of him and we at this Club wish him good playing in the future.
This then is our first report on one of our musicians and who will be the next?
Make sure you read the next instalment of this saga in next month’s ‘B&F’.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – After listening with much pleasure to Addie Harper’s most informative interview on ‘TTF’ on Saturday, 16th October, I feel I must write to comment on his views.
Firstly, I fully endorse what he says regarding made up bands.’ There are quite a number of them broadcasting and as Addie quite rightly pointed out it is quite difficult to distinguish one from another. The reason, of course, being that the same musicians are playing in several bands, in many instances only the bandleader changes.
Three exceptions to this are, of course, The Wick Band, Jim MacLeod and Fraser McGlynn and for this reason, in my opinion, they stand apart from the rest.
I often wonder what the result would be if, say, three of these ‘made up bands’ were booked to play on the same night.
The other point I wish to make is that I often feel that there is a certain bias in some circles against The Wick Band because they use so-called ‘non-traditional instruments.’ Surely one would think that music is played to be enjoyed no matter what it is played on.
As far as I and many others are concerned, there is no better sound than a Gaelic Air played so professionally on the Hawaiian guitar. Popularity and record sales prove it.
Cyril Scott
North Connel
Sir – Last month I spent a most enjoyable day at the annual Perth Festival, the day being rounded off by a great dance to Fraser McGlynn.
Although I play a bit myself, I prefer to dance, which brings me to my first point.
I have on many occasions been to functions where Alex MacArthur’s Band were playing for the dancing and very rarely did I see the band playing at these dances which was playing on stage in the City Hall last month.
Mr MacArthur seems to be joining the ranks, as Bill Black is. It appears Mr MacArthur thinks his every-day slaves are not good enough for such jobs as the Perth concert. In fact, the players I have heard at dances lately with him turned out as good a performance as we heard last month.
I am quite sure that the players felt very guilty about doing that gig when, in fact, they are never asked to play any other time.
To me this is a slap in the face to people who do the inferior work and are classed not good enough for the cream of engagements.
Perhaps we will find this bandleader without musicians some-day.
It will be interesting to hear Mr MacArthur’s reply to this. Don’t let the ‘General’ tell you he can’t get his star players as they play in other bands. The truth being they don’t even know what engagements are on.
Bill Summers
Scone
Sir – In the aftermath of another Perth Festival, once again the thought arises – should the format for the Senior Scottish Championship be changed?
Throughout the broad spectrum of people interested in our music – adjudicators, musicians, Accordion Club and Scottish dance music devotees, the same comments are made each year, i.e. the tunes are bordering on technical exercises, competitors use the same set at successive Festivals, the same tunes are repeatedly endlessly, etc.
Surely there must be a way to alter this situation? One suggestion is that competitors should (as in some piping competitions) submit five sets, with the one to be played made known the day of the Festival. This might reduce the technical standard relative to one set, but it will most positively make for a rise in the overall standard of playing and more pleasant listening.
It might also mean a return to the original spirit of the Festival which in recent years seems to have changed its character.
Surely the Association should act now?
Farquhar Matheson and Jack Delaney
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Rob Roy Inn) – 24 Nov 82 Richard Ross Trio
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 21 Nov 82 George Stirrat Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Grampian Sound
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 25 Nov 82 Max Houliston & Kenny Wilson
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Argyll Arms) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Ian Horsburgh
Cleland (Dalrymple House) – 20 Dec 82 Malcolm McLean & Frank Henery
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff (Arduthie Hotel) –
Cumnock (Tup Inn) – 22 Dec 82 Grace McCleaver & the Lochearn SDB
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Denny & Dunipace (Dunipace Junior Social Club) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 3 Dec 82 Tyne Valley Four
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dumfries (Oughton’s Restaurant) -
Dunblane (Hydro) – 14 Dec 82 Wallochmore Ceilidh Band
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) – 2 Dec 82 Bill Black SDB
Dunfermline (Unitas Hall) – 7 Dec 82 Bill Douglas SDB
East Kilbride (Stuart Hotel) – 25 Nov 82 Dunblane club
Edinburgh (The Berry Suite, Abbey Hill) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 22 Nov 82 The Tartan Lassies
Forres (Brig Motel) – 24 Nov 82 Supper Dance Drumphail SDB 8 Dec 82 Robert Whitehead
Fort William (Highland Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club, Galston) – 13 Dec 82 Diane Armstrong
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel) – 14 Dec 82 Paddy Neary
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 7 Dec 82 George Stirrat & Jimmy Yeaman
Kelso (Cross Key’s Hotel) – 24 Nov 82 Bill Black & Family 22 Dec 82 Grace McCleaver SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 1 Dec 82 Alex Green (tin whistle) 29 Dec 82 Hogmanay Ceilidh & Dance
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Craignethan Hotel) – 2 Dec 82 Diane Armstrong
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club) – 16 Dec 82 Walter Perrie
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) – 30 Nov 82 Geoff Purvis (fiddle)
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – 2 Dec 82 Graham Ross & the Strathalmond SDB
Monkland (Eastercroft Hotel, Caldercruix, Airdrie) – Jennifer Forrest
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29 Nov 82 Diane Armstrong
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Huntsman Inn – Penton) –
North East (Seafield Arms, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) – 25 Nov 82 Jim Johnstone SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – Dec 82 Graeme Mitchell SDB Jan 83 Robert Black SDB
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel) -
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 6 Dec 82 Colin Finlayson Quartet
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 6 Dec 82 Alan Roy
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) -
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Walmer (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) – 23 Nov 82 Bobby Harvey 21 Dec 82 Wick Fiddlers
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Armadale
2. Balloch
3. Belford
4. Campbeltown
5. Castle Douglas
6. Cleland
7. Crieff & District
8. Cumnock & District
9. Dalriada
10. Derwentside
11. Dingwall
12. Dunblane & District
13. Dundee & District
14. Dunfermline & District
15. Edinburgh
16. Fintry
17. Forres
18. Fort William
19. Galashiels
20. Galston
21. Highland
22. Islesteps
23. Kelso
24. Kintore
25. Lesmahagow
26. Livingstone
27. Lockerbie
28. M.A.F.I.A.
29. Monklands
30. Morecambe
31. Newtongrange
32. North East
33. Ormiston
34. Peebles
35. Perth & District
36. Shetland
37. Stranraer
38. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1982 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1980) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
5. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
6. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
7. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
8. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
9. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
10. Buchan A&F Club
11. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
12. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
13. Cleland (cNov 1981) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
14. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
15. Cumnock A&F Club
16. Dalriada A&F Club (cMar 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District (Aug 1979)
19. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Falkirk A&F Club
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (Oct 1980)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (1969)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
33. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
34. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
35. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
39. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
40. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Oct 1980)
41. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
42. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
43. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
44. Monkland A&F Club
45. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
46. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
48. North Cumbria A&F Club (early)
49. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
50. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
51. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
52. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
53. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
54. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
55. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
56. Rothbury Accordion Club (Feb 1974)
57. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
58. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (early)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
62. Walmer A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire) (c March 1982)
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Club Accord
66. Coquetdale
67. Coupar Angus A&F Club
68. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (c Nov 1980)
69. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
70. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
71. Newcastleton Accordion Club
72. New Cumnock A&F Club
73. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
74. Renfrew A&F Club
75. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
76. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
77. Wellbank A&F Club
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