Year 26 No 03 November 2002
For the first night of the 02/03 season on 13th October, Nicol McLaren and the Glencraig SDB were invited as guest artistes and gave a performance which was enjoyed by everyone. Nicol, being a nephew of the late Alex MacArthur who founded Biggar Club some 28 year ago with current MC John Anderson,, felt it fitting to play many of his uncle’s favourite sets creating an air of nostalgia. Not only did Nicol play the sets but also he was playing on Alex’s straight tuned accordion. The band included Isobelle Hodgson on keyboard, Dave Bell on drums, James Leask on second box and Gordon Howe on fiddle. A great line-up of talented players.
The local players included :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Mel McLaren, Andrew Gibb, Tom Orr, Charlie Todd, Agnes Hope, Brian McMillan and Marian Anderson.
On keyboard – George Walker and Mel McLaren.
On drums – Tom Hope, Eck Williamson, Bob Henderson and George Shiels.
On fiddle - Gilbert Logan and David Corner (who also played his concertina) and
On bodhran – Janet Ingham.
Thanks to everyone for taking part.
The next meeting is at 7.30 p.m. on Sunday, 10th November in the Municipal Hall when The Bon Accords will appear as the guest artistes.
GL
Year 26 No 04 December 2002
Sunday, November 10th, and the Biggar Club met once again, this time playing host to guest artistes Robin and Deryn Waitt, otherwise known as The Bon Accords who normally play as a duo but for this appearance they had the help of drummer Derek Hamilton. This band has a distinctive sound with Robin’s button-box and Deryn’s electronic bass and they brought together all the popular pieces of traditional music in two half-hour spots to delight the large audience. All in all, everyone had a great night and would welcome the band back anytime.
There was an encouraging attendance of local and supporting players, but in particular young players, five of whom play together regularly as the Robert Menzies Band, with Robert on lead box, Duncan Hutchison on second box, Scott Nicol on keyboard, Alison Menzies on drums and Natalina Gibson on fiddle (who also played a solo). This young group produced harmonies that any band would be proud of, and a sound worthy of a guest spot at any club. Other young players included, on accordion, Jane Turner, Gemma Coupland, Jim Gold and Scott Nicol and, on fiddle, Tom gold from Douglas. Good luck for the future to all young players, we hope to see more of you all over forthcoming months.
Players of the grey haired (or nae haired) variety included :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Alan Gardiner and Charlie Todd.
On drums – Tom Hope, George Shiels and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – Gilbert Logan
On concertina – David Corner
Well done everybody, and many thanks for your continued support.
The next club night is on the 8th December in the Municipal Hall at 7.30 p.m. when the guest artiste will be the Neil Hardie SDB.
GL
Year 26 No 06 February 2003
The Biggar Club met on Sunday, December 8th with guest artiste Neil Hardie SDB. The band consisted of Brian Forrest on second accordion, Jim Nicol on piano, Andrew Morton on drums and Caroline Hardie on fiddle. The band gave a refreshing sound to their musical selections including many favourites, all thoroughly enjoyed by the full capacity audience. Many thanks to Neil and the rest of the band members for a tremendous night and a great way to finish off 2002.
There was a huge turnout of supporting players and the list includes :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, John Fairbairn, Tom Orr, Gemma Copland, Jane Turner, Robert Menzies, Agnes Hope, Scott Nicol, Jim Gold, Claire Noble, Blair Gardiner, Willie McFarlane, Stuart Lochie, Alan Gardiner and Charlie Todd.
On keyboard – George Walker, Alison Menzies and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Andrew Barrie, Tom Hope, George Shiels, Bob Henderson and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – Ronnie Gibson, Gilbert Logan and David Corner and
On moothie – Hugh McKenzie. Thanks go to all the players.
The next Club night is on Sunday 12th January 2003 when the Club will welcome The West Telferton Caledonian SDB. We look forward to seeing everyone back again in 2003.
Year 26 No 07 March 2003
On Sunday 12th January 2003, the Biggar Club began the New Year with the West Telferton SDB led by fiddle favourite Andrew Knight. Playing along with Andrew were Richard Ross on accordion, Russell Hunter on keyboard and George McLeod on drums, altogether producing an exciting sound during each of the two 45 minute spots. The music was mainly traditional apart from a French composition, which was led by Richard on accordion. Thanks to the band for coming along to let us hear their talents.
Supporting players included – on accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Gemma Copland, Peter Jardine, Agnes Hope, Scott Nicol, Brian McMillan, Blair Gardiner, Tom Orr and Dorothy Lawson (who played second box with Tom Orr).
On keyboard – George Walker, Jim Nicol and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Robin McLean, George Shiels, and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – David Corner (who also played the concertina) and Arthur Ramage was in fine voice for some songs, well done Arthur. Thanks to all the artistes taking part. Slightly down on the usual number but still a healthy sound and much appreciated by the crowd.
The February meeting of the B&F Club was slightly different in the fact there was no guest artiste. Instead, everyone who wanted to play was given the chance and support in the way of other players alongside them. The first part of the night was dominated by many younger players whop showed a wealth of talent and were filled with confidence. Some of them had played together before but others only got together on the night and found new sounds and harmonies with each other – new bands in the making.
After some refreshments, things got underway for the second half when the ‘auld yins’ took to the stage. Again, everyone mixed together to make their own wee groups but although they hid it well, I’m sure it was a struggle to maintain the standard set by the first half!
The musicians included – on accordion – John Anderson, Gemma Copland, Claire Noble, Mel McLaren, Scott Nicol, Alison Hope, Morgan Leslie, Tom Orr, Brian McMillan, Willie McFarlane and Stewart Lochie.
On keyboard – George Walker, Keith Dickson, Jim Nicol and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, George Shiels, Duncan Riley and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – David Corner (who also played his concertina).
On guitar – Duncan Riley and on moothie Jim Gibb.
Thanks to everyone for taking part and making the night possible.
Our venue remains the Municipal Hall at 7.30pm. Entry is £2.50 per person or, if you play, you get in free. Everybody is welcome, there’s tea and biscuits served and a raffle at half time. Let’s hope to see you all there.
Year 26 No 08 April 2003
The guest artiste on Sunday night, 9th March, for the penultimate meeting of the 2002-03 season at Biggar A&F Club was the well respected Roger Dobson and his SDB. The accordion wizard, playing a 3-row button key box was on top form and was ably supported on second box by Carluke’s Alec Graham, Mark MacDougall was on keyboard, Billy Goodfellow from Elvanfoot kept the rhythm on drums whilst Roger’s daughter, Carol Dobson, played fiddle and also treated the appreciative audience to a couple of fiddle solos. The traditional programme of well-known tunes was a delight to hear both sides of the interval. Thank you to the band.
The small but extremely talented band of local musicians who gathered to play a variety of instruments included David Corner with concertina and Aidan Broadbridge on fiddle. John Caskie sang a couple of songs and on accordion John Anderson, Agnes Hope, William Paterson and Charlie Todd entertained, assisted on drums by Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson and George Shiels. On keyboard were Dorothy Lawson and Tom Orr. The latter also played accordion and proved how worthy a winner he was of the Open Accordion Championship at Musselburgh where he also won the Scottish Dance Band section and the Trios and he’s only 16 years old. Well done Tom.
Year 26 No 10 June 2003
The Club rounded off the 2002-03 season on Sunday April 13th with The Big Squeeze showing off their talents. Consisting of Kenny Johnstone on lead accordion with Kevin Gardiner on second box, brother Steven Johnstone on keyboard and Duncan Riley on drums, the four made their way through a well balanced selection of tunes during two half hour spots. There was a fair sized crowd gathered to watch this local band and they enjoyed every minute. A great sound, and what a way to finish the season.
The Club musicians included – on accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Brian McMillan, Alan Gardiner, Andrew Stoddart and Andrew Gibb (who won a second place for junior accordion at Newtongrange earlier that day). Congratulations Andrew.
On keyboard – George Walker and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Bob Henderson, George Shiels and Abdrew Barrie.
On fiddle – Emma Gardiner and Gilbert Logan and on bodhran Janet Ingram. Jim Gibb had problems with his moothie and had to stand down from playing, it should be okay for the start of the next season though. Thanks go to all the players who, throughout the year, give their time and support sharing the stage with other musicians to make each night possible.
Finally each month there are continued effort from certain people in the background who bring the night together. Thanks to Robert and the bar staff, Tom Hope for setting up the sound and lighting equipment, Ray Hope and Joy Anderson for catering and MC John Anderson who keeps everybody in line. But, a big thankyou to all who come along and cheer on the musicians during the year. Let’s hope to see everyone again in October.
For the first night of the 02/03 season on 13th October, Nicol McLaren and the Glencraig SDB were invited as guest artistes and gave a performance which was enjoyed by everyone. Nicol, being a nephew of the late Alex MacArthur who founded Biggar Club some 28 year ago with current MC John Anderson,, felt it fitting to play many of his uncle’s favourite sets creating an air of nostalgia. Not only did Nicol play the sets but also he was playing on Alex’s straight tuned accordion. The band included Isobelle Hodgson on keyboard, Dave Bell on drums, James Leask on second box and Gordon Howe on fiddle. A great line-up of talented players.
The local players included :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Mel McLaren, Andrew Gibb, Tom Orr, Charlie Todd, Agnes Hope, Brian McMillan and Marian Anderson.
On keyboard – George Walker and Mel McLaren.
On drums – Tom Hope, Eck Williamson, Bob Henderson and George Shiels.
On fiddle - Gilbert Logan and David Corner (who also played his concertina) and
On bodhran – Janet Ingham.
Thanks to everyone for taking part.
The next meeting is at 7.30 p.m. on Sunday, 10th November in the Municipal Hall when The Bon Accords will appear as the guest artistes.
GL
Year 26 No 04 December 2002
Sunday, November 10th, and the Biggar Club met once again, this time playing host to guest artistes Robin and Deryn Waitt, otherwise known as The Bon Accords who normally play as a duo but for this appearance they had the help of drummer Derek Hamilton. This band has a distinctive sound with Robin’s button-box and Deryn’s electronic bass and they brought together all the popular pieces of traditional music in two half-hour spots to delight the large audience. All in all, everyone had a great night and would welcome the band back anytime.
There was an encouraging attendance of local and supporting players, but in particular young players, five of whom play together regularly as the Robert Menzies Band, with Robert on lead box, Duncan Hutchison on second box, Scott Nicol on keyboard, Alison Menzies on drums and Natalina Gibson on fiddle (who also played a solo). This young group produced harmonies that any band would be proud of, and a sound worthy of a guest spot at any club. Other young players included, on accordion, Jane Turner, Gemma Coupland, Jim Gold and Scott Nicol and, on fiddle, Tom gold from Douglas. Good luck for the future to all young players, we hope to see more of you all over forthcoming months.
Players of the grey haired (or nae haired) variety included :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Alan Gardiner and Charlie Todd.
On drums – Tom Hope, George Shiels and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – Gilbert Logan
On concertina – David Corner
Well done everybody, and many thanks for your continued support.
The next club night is on the 8th December in the Municipal Hall at 7.30 p.m. when the guest artiste will be the Neil Hardie SDB.
GL
Year 26 No 06 February 2003
The Biggar Club met on Sunday, December 8th with guest artiste Neil Hardie SDB. The band consisted of Brian Forrest on second accordion, Jim Nicol on piano, Andrew Morton on drums and Caroline Hardie on fiddle. The band gave a refreshing sound to their musical selections including many favourites, all thoroughly enjoyed by the full capacity audience. Many thanks to Neil and the rest of the band members for a tremendous night and a great way to finish off 2002.
There was a huge turnout of supporting players and the list includes :-
On accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, John Fairbairn, Tom Orr, Gemma Copland, Jane Turner, Robert Menzies, Agnes Hope, Scott Nicol, Jim Gold, Claire Noble, Blair Gardiner, Willie McFarlane, Stuart Lochie, Alan Gardiner and Charlie Todd.
On keyboard – George Walker, Alison Menzies and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Andrew Barrie, Tom Hope, George Shiels, Bob Henderson and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – Ronnie Gibson, Gilbert Logan and David Corner and
On moothie – Hugh McKenzie. Thanks go to all the players.
The next Club night is on Sunday 12th January 2003 when the Club will welcome The West Telferton Caledonian SDB. We look forward to seeing everyone back again in 2003.
Year 26 No 07 March 2003
On Sunday 12th January 2003, the Biggar Club began the New Year with the West Telferton SDB led by fiddle favourite Andrew Knight. Playing along with Andrew were Richard Ross on accordion, Russell Hunter on keyboard and George McLeod on drums, altogether producing an exciting sound during each of the two 45 minute spots. The music was mainly traditional apart from a French composition, which was led by Richard on accordion. Thanks to the band for coming along to let us hear their talents.
Supporting players included – on accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Gemma Copland, Peter Jardine, Agnes Hope, Scott Nicol, Brian McMillan, Blair Gardiner, Tom Orr and Dorothy Lawson (who played second box with Tom Orr).
On keyboard – George Walker, Jim Nicol and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Robin McLean, George Shiels, and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – David Corner (who also played the concertina) and Arthur Ramage was in fine voice for some songs, well done Arthur. Thanks to all the artistes taking part. Slightly down on the usual number but still a healthy sound and much appreciated by the crowd.
The February meeting of the B&F Club was slightly different in the fact there was no guest artiste. Instead, everyone who wanted to play was given the chance and support in the way of other players alongside them. The first part of the night was dominated by many younger players whop showed a wealth of talent and were filled with confidence. Some of them had played together before but others only got together on the night and found new sounds and harmonies with each other – new bands in the making.
After some refreshments, things got underway for the second half when the ‘auld yins’ took to the stage. Again, everyone mixed together to make their own wee groups but although they hid it well, I’m sure it was a struggle to maintain the standard set by the first half!
The musicians included – on accordion – John Anderson, Gemma Copland, Claire Noble, Mel McLaren, Scott Nicol, Alison Hope, Morgan Leslie, Tom Orr, Brian McMillan, Willie McFarlane and Stewart Lochie.
On keyboard – George Walker, Keith Dickson, Jim Nicol and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, George Shiels, Duncan Riley and Eck Williamson.
On fiddle – David Corner (who also played his concertina).
On guitar – Duncan Riley and on moothie Jim Gibb.
Thanks to everyone for taking part and making the night possible.
Our venue remains the Municipal Hall at 7.30pm. Entry is £2.50 per person or, if you play, you get in free. Everybody is welcome, there’s tea and biscuits served and a raffle at half time. Let’s hope to see you all there.
Year 26 No 08 April 2003
The guest artiste on Sunday night, 9th March, for the penultimate meeting of the 2002-03 season at Biggar A&F Club was the well respected Roger Dobson and his SDB. The accordion wizard, playing a 3-row button key box was on top form and was ably supported on second box by Carluke’s Alec Graham, Mark MacDougall was on keyboard, Billy Goodfellow from Elvanfoot kept the rhythm on drums whilst Roger’s daughter, Carol Dobson, played fiddle and also treated the appreciative audience to a couple of fiddle solos. The traditional programme of well-known tunes was a delight to hear both sides of the interval. Thank you to the band.
The small but extremely talented band of local musicians who gathered to play a variety of instruments included David Corner with concertina and Aidan Broadbridge on fiddle. John Caskie sang a couple of songs and on accordion John Anderson, Agnes Hope, William Paterson and Charlie Todd entertained, assisted on drums by Tom Hope, Bob Henderson, Eck Williamson and George Shiels. On keyboard were Dorothy Lawson and Tom Orr. The latter also played accordion and proved how worthy a winner he was of the Open Accordion Championship at Musselburgh where he also won the Scottish Dance Band section and the Trios and he’s only 16 years old. Well done Tom.
Year 26 No 10 June 2003
The Club rounded off the 2002-03 season on Sunday April 13th with The Big Squeeze showing off their talents. Consisting of Kenny Johnstone on lead accordion with Kevin Gardiner on second box, brother Steven Johnstone on keyboard and Duncan Riley on drums, the four made their way through a well balanced selection of tunes during two half hour spots. There was a fair sized crowd gathered to watch this local band and they enjoyed every minute. A great sound, and what a way to finish the season.
The Club musicians included – on accordion – John Anderson, Jim Paterson, Brian McMillan, Alan Gardiner, Andrew Stoddart and Andrew Gibb (who won a second place for junior accordion at Newtongrange earlier that day). Congratulations Andrew.
On keyboard – George Walker and Dorothy Lawson.
On drums – Bob Henderson, George Shiels and Abdrew Barrie.
On fiddle – Emma Gardiner and Gilbert Logan and on bodhran Janet Ingram. Jim Gibb had problems with his moothie and had to stand down from playing, it should be okay for the start of the next season though. Thanks go to all the players who, throughout the year, give their time and support sharing the stage with other musicians to make each night possible.
Finally each month there are continued effort from certain people in the background who bring the night together. Thanks to Robert and the bar staff, Tom Hope for setting up the sound and lighting equipment, Ray Hope and Joy Anderson for catering and MC John Anderson who keeps everybody in line. But, a big thankyou to all who come along and cheer on the musicians during the year. Let’s hope to see everyone again in October.