ClicYear 22
No 01
September 1998
The April meeting marked the end of the season and nobody could have asked for more with the Robin Brock Trio as guest artistes and the line up of supporting players rounding off the season in grand style.
Duncan Black on second accordion and Gordon Young on drums completed Robin’s trio for the evening. Playing all the favourites and throwing in some humour between each musical set, Robin provided entertainment to suit everyone.
Supporting players included on accordion – John Anderson, Charlie Thomson, Jim Paterson, Peter Jardine, Jim Brodie, Richard Smith, Charlie Todd, Nelson Callan, Alan Gardiner, Jason Dove, Tom Porteous and Keith Dickson.
On keyboard – George Walker, Dorothy Lawson and Jim Nichol.
On drums – Ian Riddet, Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Charlie Todd, Ally MacIntyre and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle Annie Robertson, Andy Kain, Emma Gardiner and Gilbert Logan.
On tin whistle Willie Little.
Special thanks must go to Robert Struthers for providing the bar throughout the season, to Tom Hope for sound and lighting, Ray Hope and Joy Anderson for door and kitchen duties and of course John Anderson for bringing the club to life each night. Without the effort of this dedicated team and several other helpers also receiving thanks but too many names to list, the club would not survive. Thanks also go to the players and listeners who come along to support the club each month.
Year 22 No 03 November 1998
The Alexander Brothers topped the bill to mark the start of the new season in September. Celebrating 40 years in showbiz this year, Tom and Jack turned out a performance second to none and proved they will not be hanging up their kilts for a long time yet. In fact they’re looking forward to the next 40 years!
They sang all the favourites that made then a household name and with the banter between the two creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere it’s easy to see why they reached 40 years of success. The Club congratulates the Boys’ on their achievement and wish them all the best for the future.
Supporting players included, on accordion, Jim Paterson, Charlie Thomson, Ian McCallum, Charlie Todd, Bob Fortune, Alan Gardiner, Davie Ross, Roy Hendrie, Ian Graham, Nelson Callan, John Anderson and Morag Robertson.
On keyboard – Ian McCallum, Alan Gardiner and Keith Dickson.
On drums – Eck Williamson, Bob Henderson and Charlie Todd.
On fiddle – Annie Robertson.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
On whistle – Willie Little.
On bodhran - Janette Salvenmoser.
Pipe – Davie Ketchin.
The Club played host, once again, to some rising stars with young Susan Graham, aged 7, Robert Allan and Richard Smith each taking an individual spot to show their talents on the box. This is only to be encouraged and everyone hopes this is the start of many more appearances.
A capacity crowd turned out at the October meeting to welcome Meoran Ciuil on their first visit to Biggar. With the talented teenagers, Graeme MacKay on his button box, brother Stephen on fiddle and dad Tom on drums, the family trio impressed the audience in two 45 minute stints with a sound reminiscent of the great Jimmy Shand. The Trio were well received and their have been requests to have them back before too long. Let’s hope this is the case as they certainly have much to offer.
So many supporting player arrived that some offered to stand down, namely Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, Danna Quinn, Emma Gardiner and Davie Ketchin.
Players who did take part included, on accordion, John Anderson, Peter Jardine, Charlie Thomson, Davie Miller, Charlie Todd, John Fairbairn, Jim Paterson, Gordon Walker, Jimmy Divers, Tom Orr, Nelson Callan and several young players from the Keith Dickson School of Music, namely Grant Dunwoodie, Nicky McMichan, Rebecca Stark and Kirsty Johnstone. Also from Keith’s School a group of students known as The Top Tapping Weasels – Alison Carswell, Fiona Johnston, Janice Orr, Alistair Dunnet and Graham Crichton. All a credit to Keith.
Playing keyboard during the evening werte George Walker, Keith Dickson, Alan Gardiner and Steven Johnstone.
On drums – Tom Hope, Eck Williamson and Jim Paterson.
On fiddle – Annie Robertson, Andy Kain, Don McLellan and David Corner.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
Everyone enjoyed the night which was finished off in style with a fine stramash.
GL
Year 22 No 04 December 1998 / January 1999
Marie Fielding drew a full crowd when she appeared as the guest at the November meeting in the Municipal Hall. Accompanied by her brother Owen on keyboard, Marie demonstrated to perfection her ability on the fiddle. Throughout the night she played a great variety of music from composers as far back in time as Niel Gow, then on through the ages with selections from James Scott Skinner and right up to the present day with some of her own compositions. Marie’s playing is both accurate and strong, making her the envy of many a fiddler.
The annual Perth Accordion Festival took place recently and three of the bands who picked up prizes made it along to the Club to let everyone hear what made them worthy of the top awards. The Junior Scottish Dance Band champions were Nicky McMichan on lead accordion, Blair Gardiner second accordion, Steven Wallace on keyboard and Andrew Barrie on drums. Winning the Senior Scottish Dance Band award were Alison Carswell on lead accordion, Fiona Johnston on fiddle, Alistair Dunnet on second accordion and Graham Crichton on drums. This band are otherwise well known as the Toe Tapping Weasels. The winners of the Trio Section at Perth were Jennifer Taylor on accordion, Emma Gardiner on fiddle and Keith Dickson on piano. Congratulations to everyone on your achievements.
Supporting players included on accordion John Anderson, Peter Jardine, Jim Paterson, Morgan Leslie, Kirsty Johnston, Tom Orr, Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, John Weaks, Gordon Walker, Alan Gardiner, Grant Dunwoodie, Charlie Todd and Gillies Crichton.
On keyboard George Walker and Ian Wilson.
On fiddle Gilbert Logan.
On drums Tom Hope, George Shiels, Jim Paterson Eck Williamson and Bob Henderson.
On tin whistle Willie Little.
John Caskie was in fine form on his vocal chords.
The Club will meet again on 13th December when Sandy Legget will be the guest artiste.
GL
Year 22 No 05 February 1999
The Sandy Legget Trio appeared as guest artistes for the December meeting of the Club. Accompanied by Shauna Flockhart on keyboard and Andrew Murray on drums, Sandy put his nimble fingers to work as soon as he was on stage finding his way round some very tricky reels, showing how they should be played. More of the same anytime please! Highly recommended to other Clubs filling up their diary.
Supporting players included - on accordion John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Morgan Leslie, Davie Miller, Julie Hamilton, Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, Nelson Callan, Charlie Todd, Jason Dove, Jimmy Divers, Blair Gardiner, Ian Graham, Allan Smith and Alan Gardiner.
On keyboard – George Walker, Keith Dickson and Jason Dove.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson, George Shiels, Ian Graham and Charlie Todd.
On fiddle Gilbert Logan and David Corner.
On tin whistle Willie Little and on concertina David Corner.
Just before half time George Walker played a selection of Christmas favourites on the keyboard – very appropriate, especially with the hallin its Festive décor. Piper Davie Ketchin offered to stepo down as time moved on towards the guests second spot.
The Club will meet again in the new year on 10th January when Kenny Johnstone will be playing as the guest artiste. In the meantime the Club would like to wish all its supporters, players and listeners a Happy Christmas and a Guid New Year when it comes. The venue remains the same, the Municipal Hall at 7.30pm. Musicians entry is free, concessions for O.A.P.s and children.
Gilbert Logan
Year 22 No 06 March 1999
The January meeting took place on Sunday, 10th and four young local lads appeared on stage for their first time as guest artistes. They call themselves ‘The Big Squeeze’ and are all familiar faces at the Club having attended since they were barely old enough to stand up. Kenny Johnstone played lead accordion, Kevin Gardiner was on second box (Kevin also cracked the jokes and introduced the tunes), Steven Johnstone played keyboards and Andrew Barrie was the drummer. Each player an individual in their own right but put these four together and you have a magical blend of talents that are sure to go far. Their selection of music was the icing on the cake ranging from traditional Scottish to Dire Straits. The Club would like to wish The Big Squeeze all the best for the future.
Supporting players on the night were
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Ian Gracie, Bob Fortune, John Reid, Gordon Walker, Rachel Kerr, Nelson Callan, Davie Miller, Agnes Hope, Charlie Todd, Alan Gardiner and Keith Dickson.
On keyboard George Walker, Keith Dickson and AlannGardiner.
On drums Tom Hope, George Shiels, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson and Billy Goodfellow.
On fiddle David Corner.
On tin whistle Willie Little and on trumpet Donald McGregor.
The next meeting on 14th February will be a club night where there is no Guest Artiste as such. Instead, all the attending musicians can have their 15 minutes of fame by taking the stage and playing their hearts out. So if you can sing or play, know someone else who plays (any instrument) come along and take part to help make it a great night.
Year 22 No 07 April 1999
The February meeting, on Valentine’s night, took the form of a Club Night with a feast of players from near and far. Indeed there were so many players it was difficult to fit everyone in. Our apologies to anyone who may have been missed out in all the activity. Let us know and you’ll be guaranteed a chance next time round! The Club is usually steeped in talent but being a night for the players encouraged musicians of all ages. Many thanks to all who took part.
The players included :-
On accordion – Peter Jardine, John Anderson, Charlie Thomson, Jim Paterson, Calum Wilson, Morven Leslie, Neil Hardie, David Scott, Kirsty Johnston, Tom Orr, Nelson Callan, Alan Gardiner, Julie Hamilton, David Miller, Gordon Walker, Keith Dickson and Tom Porteous.
On keyboard George Walker, Ena Wilson, Keith Dickson and Ian Wilson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson, George Shiels, Alistair McBeth, Billy Goodfellow and Geoffrey Goodfellow.
On fiddle – Fiona Greer, David Corner, Emma Gardiner and Andy Kain.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
On moothie – Huge McKenzie
On concertina – David Corner.
On March 14th the Club played host to the Gary Donaldson Trio, with Gary on lead accordion, Ian Adamson on drums and Russell Hunter on keyboard. Gary last appeared at the Biggar Club several years (okay decades) ago when the Clydesdale Hotel was the venue. Over the years Gary has kept his style consistent (and according to Keith Dickson, who was there, his sets as well!) A master of jigs and reels his fingers almost gave out smoke as they ran up and down the keyboard. Haste ye back Gary but don’t wait another 18 years in between.
After attempting to play second box for one of the local players M.C. John Anderson emphasised that the second box players, keyboard players, drummers and fiddlers often go unnoticed and offered the Club’s thanks and appreciation to all those who take up these positions, often at short notice. Well done to all those players.
Local players taking part throughout the evening included on accordion Linda Riddet, Charlie Thomson, John Anderson, Morgan Leslie, Melissa Brown, Jim Paterson, bob Fortune, Gordon Walker, Charlie Todd, Alistair Dunnett, Kirsty Johnston, Alan Gardiner, Amy Johnston, William Marshall and Tom Porteous.
On fiddle were Annie Robertson, David Corner, Gilbert Logan, Andy Kain, Fiona Johnston and Emma Gardiner.
On keyboard were George Walker, Dorothy Lawson, Ian Wilson, Mairi Johnston and Keith Dickson.
On drums were Ian Riddet, Bob Henderson, Tom Hope, George Shiels, Andrew Barrie and Charlie Todd.
On tin whistle was Willie Little.
On 11th April Colin Dewar will be the guest artiste. This will conclude the current session so make sure you don’t miss out.
The Club celebrates its 25th Anniversary in October and to mark the occasion we are having a dance with the proceeds going to charity. Put the date in your diary, Friday, 22nd October on the Municipal Hall with music provided by Alan Gardiner’s SDB
GL k here to edit.
The April meeting marked the end of the season and nobody could have asked for more with the Robin Brock Trio as guest artistes and the line up of supporting players rounding off the season in grand style.
Duncan Black on second accordion and Gordon Young on drums completed Robin’s trio for the evening. Playing all the favourites and throwing in some humour between each musical set, Robin provided entertainment to suit everyone.
Supporting players included on accordion – John Anderson, Charlie Thomson, Jim Paterson, Peter Jardine, Jim Brodie, Richard Smith, Charlie Todd, Nelson Callan, Alan Gardiner, Jason Dove, Tom Porteous and Keith Dickson.
On keyboard – George Walker, Dorothy Lawson and Jim Nichol.
On drums – Ian Riddet, Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Charlie Todd, Ally MacIntyre and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle Annie Robertson, Andy Kain, Emma Gardiner and Gilbert Logan.
On tin whistle Willie Little.
Special thanks must go to Robert Struthers for providing the bar throughout the season, to Tom Hope for sound and lighting, Ray Hope and Joy Anderson for door and kitchen duties and of course John Anderson for bringing the club to life each night. Without the effort of this dedicated team and several other helpers also receiving thanks but too many names to list, the club would not survive. Thanks also go to the players and listeners who come along to support the club each month.
Year 22 No 03 November 1998
The Alexander Brothers topped the bill to mark the start of the new season in September. Celebrating 40 years in showbiz this year, Tom and Jack turned out a performance second to none and proved they will not be hanging up their kilts for a long time yet. In fact they’re looking forward to the next 40 years!
They sang all the favourites that made then a household name and with the banter between the two creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere it’s easy to see why they reached 40 years of success. The Club congratulates the Boys’ on their achievement and wish them all the best for the future.
Supporting players included, on accordion, Jim Paterson, Charlie Thomson, Ian McCallum, Charlie Todd, Bob Fortune, Alan Gardiner, Davie Ross, Roy Hendrie, Ian Graham, Nelson Callan, John Anderson and Morag Robertson.
On keyboard – Ian McCallum, Alan Gardiner and Keith Dickson.
On drums – Eck Williamson, Bob Henderson and Charlie Todd.
On fiddle – Annie Robertson.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
On whistle – Willie Little.
On bodhran - Janette Salvenmoser.
Pipe – Davie Ketchin.
The Club played host, once again, to some rising stars with young Susan Graham, aged 7, Robert Allan and Richard Smith each taking an individual spot to show their talents on the box. This is only to be encouraged and everyone hopes this is the start of many more appearances.
A capacity crowd turned out at the October meeting to welcome Meoran Ciuil on their first visit to Biggar. With the talented teenagers, Graeme MacKay on his button box, brother Stephen on fiddle and dad Tom on drums, the family trio impressed the audience in two 45 minute stints with a sound reminiscent of the great Jimmy Shand. The Trio were well received and their have been requests to have them back before too long. Let’s hope this is the case as they certainly have much to offer.
So many supporting player arrived that some offered to stand down, namely Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, Danna Quinn, Emma Gardiner and Davie Ketchin.
Players who did take part included, on accordion, John Anderson, Peter Jardine, Charlie Thomson, Davie Miller, Charlie Todd, John Fairbairn, Jim Paterson, Gordon Walker, Jimmy Divers, Tom Orr, Nelson Callan and several young players from the Keith Dickson School of Music, namely Grant Dunwoodie, Nicky McMichan, Rebecca Stark and Kirsty Johnstone. Also from Keith’s School a group of students known as The Top Tapping Weasels – Alison Carswell, Fiona Johnston, Janice Orr, Alistair Dunnet and Graham Crichton. All a credit to Keith.
Playing keyboard during the evening werte George Walker, Keith Dickson, Alan Gardiner and Steven Johnstone.
On drums – Tom Hope, Eck Williamson and Jim Paterson.
On fiddle – Annie Robertson, Andy Kain, Don McLellan and David Corner.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
Everyone enjoyed the night which was finished off in style with a fine stramash.
GL
Year 22 No 04 December 1998 / January 1999
Marie Fielding drew a full crowd when she appeared as the guest at the November meeting in the Municipal Hall. Accompanied by her brother Owen on keyboard, Marie demonstrated to perfection her ability on the fiddle. Throughout the night she played a great variety of music from composers as far back in time as Niel Gow, then on through the ages with selections from James Scott Skinner and right up to the present day with some of her own compositions. Marie’s playing is both accurate and strong, making her the envy of many a fiddler.
The annual Perth Accordion Festival took place recently and three of the bands who picked up prizes made it along to the Club to let everyone hear what made them worthy of the top awards. The Junior Scottish Dance Band champions were Nicky McMichan on lead accordion, Blair Gardiner second accordion, Steven Wallace on keyboard and Andrew Barrie on drums. Winning the Senior Scottish Dance Band award were Alison Carswell on lead accordion, Fiona Johnston on fiddle, Alistair Dunnet on second accordion and Graham Crichton on drums. This band are otherwise well known as the Toe Tapping Weasels. The winners of the Trio Section at Perth were Jennifer Taylor on accordion, Emma Gardiner on fiddle and Keith Dickson on piano. Congratulations to everyone on your achievements.
Supporting players included on accordion John Anderson, Peter Jardine, Jim Paterson, Morgan Leslie, Kirsty Johnston, Tom Orr, Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, John Weaks, Gordon Walker, Alan Gardiner, Grant Dunwoodie, Charlie Todd and Gillies Crichton.
On keyboard George Walker and Ian Wilson.
On fiddle Gilbert Logan.
On drums Tom Hope, George Shiels, Jim Paterson Eck Williamson and Bob Henderson.
On tin whistle Willie Little.
John Caskie was in fine form on his vocal chords.
The Club will meet again on 13th December when Sandy Legget will be the guest artiste.
GL
Year 22 No 05 February 1999
The Sandy Legget Trio appeared as guest artistes for the December meeting of the Club. Accompanied by Shauna Flockhart on keyboard and Andrew Murray on drums, Sandy put his nimble fingers to work as soon as he was on stage finding his way round some very tricky reels, showing how they should be played. More of the same anytime please! Highly recommended to other Clubs filling up their diary.
Supporting players included - on accordion John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Morgan Leslie, Davie Miller, Julie Hamilton, Agnes Hope, Bob Fortune, Nelson Callan, Charlie Todd, Jason Dove, Jimmy Divers, Blair Gardiner, Ian Graham, Allan Smith and Alan Gardiner.
On keyboard – George Walker, Keith Dickson and Jason Dove.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson, George Shiels, Ian Graham and Charlie Todd.
On fiddle Gilbert Logan and David Corner.
On tin whistle Willie Little and on concertina David Corner.
Just before half time George Walker played a selection of Christmas favourites on the keyboard – very appropriate, especially with the hallin its Festive décor. Piper Davie Ketchin offered to stepo down as time moved on towards the guests second spot.
The Club will meet again in the new year on 10th January when Kenny Johnstone will be playing as the guest artiste. In the meantime the Club would like to wish all its supporters, players and listeners a Happy Christmas and a Guid New Year when it comes. The venue remains the same, the Municipal Hall at 7.30pm. Musicians entry is free, concessions for O.A.P.s and children.
Gilbert Logan
Year 22 No 06 March 1999
The January meeting took place on Sunday, 10th and four young local lads appeared on stage for their first time as guest artistes. They call themselves ‘The Big Squeeze’ and are all familiar faces at the Club having attended since they were barely old enough to stand up. Kenny Johnstone played lead accordion, Kevin Gardiner was on second box (Kevin also cracked the jokes and introduced the tunes), Steven Johnstone played keyboards and Andrew Barrie was the drummer. Each player an individual in their own right but put these four together and you have a magical blend of talents that are sure to go far. Their selection of music was the icing on the cake ranging from traditional Scottish to Dire Straits. The Club would like to wish The Big Squeeze all the best for the future.
Supporting players on the night were
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Ian Gracie, Bob Fortune, John Reid, Gordon Walker, Rachel Kerr, Nelson Callan, Davie Miller, Agnes Hope, Charlie Todd, Alan Gardiner and Keith Dickson.
On keyboard George Walker, Keith Dickson and AlannGardiner.
On drums Tom Hope, George Shiels, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson and Billy Goodfellow.
On fiddle David Corner.
On tin whistle Willie Little and on trumpet Donald McGregor.
The next meeting on 14th February will be a club night where there is no Guest Artiste as such. Instead, all the attending musicians can have their 15 minutes of fame by taking the stage and playing their hearts out. So if you can sing or play, know someone else who plays (any instrument) come along and take part to help make it a great night.
Year 22 No 07 April 1999
The February meeting, on Valentine’s night, took the form of a Club Night with a feast of players from near and far. Indeed there were so many players it was difficult to fit everyone in. Our apologies to anyone who may have been missed out in all the activity. Let us know and you’ll be guaranteed a chance next time round! The Club is usually steeped in talent but being a night for the players encouraged musicians of all ages. Many thanks to all who took part.
The players included :-
On accordion – Peter Jardine, John Anderson, Charlie Thomson, Jim Paterson, Calum Wilson, Morven Leslie, Neil Hardie, David Scott, Kirsty Johnston, Tom Orr, Nelson Callan, Alan Gardiner, Julie Hamilton, David Miller, Gordon Walker, Keith Dickson and Tom Porteous.
On keyboard George Walker, Ena Wilson, Keith Dickson and Ian Wilson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson, George Shiels, Alistair McBeth, Billy Goodfellow and Geoffrey Goodfellow.
On fiddle – Fiona Greer, David Corner, Emma Gardiner and Andy Kain.
On tin whistle – Willie Little.
On moothie – Huge McKenzie
On concertina – David Corner.
On March 14th the Club played host to the Gary Donaldson Trio, with Gary on lead accordion, Ian Adamson on drums and Russell Hunter on keyboard. Gary last appeared at the Biggar Club several years (okay decades) ago when the Clydesdale Hotel was the venue. Over the years Gary has kept his style consistent (and according to Keith Dickson, who was there, his sets as well!) A master of jigs and reels his fingers almost gave out smoke as they ran up and down the keyboard. Haste ye back Gary but don’t wait another 18 years in between.
After attempting to play second box for one of the local players M.C. John Anderson emphasised that the second box players, keyboard players, drummers and fiddlers often go unnoticed and offered the Club’s thanks and appreciation to all those who take up these positions, often at short notice. Well done to all those players.
Local players taking part throughout the evening included on accordion Linda Riddet, Charlie Thomson, John Anderson, Morgan Leslie, Melissa Brown, Jim Paterson, bob Fortune, Gordon Walker, Charlie Todd, Alistair Dunnett, Kirsty Johnston, Alan Gardiner, Amy Johnston, William Marshall and Tom Porteous.
On fiddle were Annie Robertson, David Corner, Gilbert Logan, Andy Kain, Fiona Johnston and Emma Gardiner.
On keyboard were George Walker, Dorothy Lawson, Ian Wilson, Mairi Johnston and Keith Dickson.
On drums were Ian Riddet, Bob Henderson, Tom Hope, George Shiels, Andrew Barrie and Charlie Todd.
On tin whistle was Willie Little.
On 11th April Colin Dewar will be the guest artiste. This will conclude the current session so make sure you don’t miss out.
The Club celebrates its 25th Anniversary in October and to mark the occasion we are having a dance with the proceeds going to charity. Put the date in your diary, Friday, 22nd October on the Municipal Hall with music provided by Alan Gardiner’s SDB
GL k here to edit.