Box and Fiddle
Year 17 No 07
April 1994
Price 60p
12 pages
7 month subscription £7.00
Editor – Editor – Doug Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, Angus, DD8 1EQ
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
When I took over as Editor three years ago, my first lead article was a tribute to one of our best loved and respected accordionists, Bobby MacLeod. Sadly, as I hand over to my successor, I have to lead with a series of tributes to one of our most prominent fiddlers who died last month, Ron Gonella.
The last three years have seen many changes in our scene. New Clubs have emerged and many of these have been very successful. Others have found things a bit difficult but as yet, fortunately, none have had to close the doors.
Unfortunately, as has been said many times before, our type of music receives little help from the media. On television it is almost non-existent and radio programmes have been cut to an absolute minimum. There also appears to be a movement, even on our favourite programmes, to the more ‘folky’ type of music. Nothing wrong with this type of music, but can it not be kept to the folk programmes of which there are plenty?
I would like to conclude by thanking all of you who have contributed to the success of this paper in any way – reporters, scribes, advertisers and all of you who have sent in regular articles. Also, Margaret who has looked after the financial affairs, Jeanette who has been responsible for type-setting and make-up, and all at the printers, Oliver McPOherson Ltd, who over the years have been a joy to work with.
All items for the September issue should be sent to Ron Ramsay, 48 Hospitalfield Road, Arbroath, DD11 2LS.
I wish Ron every success for the future.
Doug Adamson
Ron Gonella
On Thursday, 17th February 1994, we lost not only a good friend but a gifted musician – who was proud of his Scots / Italian ancestry and who was a fine ambassador for Scotland.
He was well read and well travelled and continually researched the history of Scottish fiddle music and composers. He travelled frequently to Canada and the United States to play, record and adjudicate at a variety of venues.
Ron was gifted intellectually and pursued a wide range of interests which enabled him to meet people from all walks of life.
His eloquence and microgenic speaking voice meant that he received acclaim on radio and television and was an obvious asset in his teaching career at Morrison’s Academy.
He enjoyed a variety of sports and music of many kinds – Scottish, classical, operatic etc and was interested in the beauty of old Scottish psalm tunes which he frequently recorded.
Ron was knowledgeable about Scottish music, in particular “The Gows” and therefore instrumental in replacing the old Neil Gow Memorial Stone in Little Dunkeld Churchyard which had been eroded by time and weather. This heritage has also been kept alive by founding the Neil Gow Memorial Trust and the Glenfiddich Fiddle Championship at Blair Castle.
The sound of Ron’s voice was quite unique and acknowledged by musicians and fans at home and abroad.
Many people will mourn the passing of this fine man and his unique contribution to the world of Scottish music.
We regret that space does not permit us to publish the many wonderful tributes paid to Ron, but we wish to thank all who have contributed in this way.
His Grace, the Duke of Atholl, during our telephone conversation expressed his admiration for Ron as a gifted player and knowledgeable and enthusiastic historian, who was steeped in the history of the Gows and composers of that era and their involvement with Blair Castle.
His Grace, the Duke of Atholl
“Ron played often at Blair Castle. I always admired him as a violinist and the way in which he always cheered up anything in which he took part. He was instrumental in restoring Niel Gow’s violin and providing a proper case for it in the Banqueting Hall at Blair Castle. He will be sadly missed.”
Ian Powrie
“I am deeply saddened by the death of Ron Gonnella. It is such a great loss to Scotland’s heritage of fiddle music and for my own part, feel that we are unlikely to hear the sound he made emulated. The quality of his tone and attention to technique gave his a special place amongst us.
In the late forties, I was invited to his uncle and aunt’s house in Dundee and met this slip of a lad. We played together, and quite clearly, I remember his solo rendition of “Coilsfield House.” At that time I knew we had another unique sound about to burst forth.
To the research of Scottish music, his passing marks an irreparable loss. His place on the scroll of musical fame is assured.”
Jimmie MacGregor
“My earliest recollection of Ron was hearing his music in Canada in the ‘70s. I was privileged to meet him in Morrison Academy when I first came to Scotland with my brother John Allan Cameron and even more thrilled to be offered hospitality for two weeks during which time he took me to meet people whose names I had only read and through his knowledge I learned more about Niel Gow, Scott Skinner and many others and visited their homes, graves and musical connections.
He was such a delight to play with and he understood the Cape Breton style. His radio broadcasts were well presented and full of interesting information and good humour. He will be sadly missed by all. We have list a musical giant”. – John Donald Cameron (Cape Breton)
“Ron Gonnella was a Scots Italian who was blessed with the innate musicality of both countries. I had the good fortune to work with him on several occasions over the years and was greatly impressed, not only by his playing, but by his profound knowledge of the Scottish fiddle tradition and the lives and repertoires of the great players.
While the folk music revival gave us a host of clever young fiddlers obsessed with speed and flashy tricks, Ron, with a technique long established, concentrated on quality of tone and accuracy of tempi, with no loss of excitement. In Ron Gonnella we have lost not only a consummate musician b but a thoroughly likeable man, a true gentleman who will be much missed”.
Roger Crook (Dunfermline)
“As the type of work I was involved in with Ron Gonnella was different from most others, I would like to express my appreciation of the man and the musician.
My pianist wife Nancy, Ron and myself with voice and accordion decided in 1985 to form the Doric Trio. Our aim was to take Scottish music into the sometimes rarefied atmosphere of Arts Council clubs and provide an informal evening of Scots Songs, Airs and Dances.
These evenings proved to be very successful due, of course, in no small measure to Ron’s ability as a player but also to him skills as a communicator which seemed to draw the audience in to him sharing his love and knowledge of his subject.
The standard of his innate musicianship was very high, always producing a lovely tone and it seemed so effortless. Having one’s arrangements played by him was always very satisfying.
As musicians have to, we three travelled many miles together during our association. Nancy and I have many special memories of the man and we have so many fine memories of the performances that we shared with one of the finest exponents of his art and ambassadors that Scotland has produced.”
Duncan MacDonald
“The first time Ron Gonnella visited me was in 1974 to see the fiddles I make. I was at Millholm, Tullibardine, Auchterarder at that time and we became good friends.
I made a fiddle for him in 1980, calling it “The Ron Gonnella” and the following year made one for his mother, Lizzie Duncan, who was also an avid fiddle connoisseur.
Ron treated my house as his second home, so much so, that he did a lot of the practice for the various functions, recordings, broadcasts etc there and my late wife helped him with the publicity and design of his record covers.
When we moved to Muthill, he was a more frequent visitor for his practice sessions and indeed was in my home in Muthill, practicing for 3 hours for another recording, not many weeks before his passing.
It is true to say that he has played every fiddle I have made since the ‘70s and I will miss his sweet tone and character of playing, as also I will miss his company. He was so well read and a lucid talker.
I feel that not only have I lost a friend, but a son”.
James Hunter
“I first met Ron Gonnella in the mid-sixties when I was producer of the Scottish Dance Music programmes for the B.B.C. Ron was a very popular fiddler and jovial personality.
Many of the bandleaders of the time tried to persuade him to play in their band. Why? Simply because of his true intonation, his lively sense of rhythm and his keen tradition. He founded the Niel Gow Memorial Trust which was instrumental in replacing the stone on the master’s grave.
He was always eager to share his knowledge and his enthusiasm for traditional music. As an adjudicator he was always constructive in his comments, and constantly stressed the good points in everybody’s playing.
Ron’s name is carved with pride in the roll of honour of those who have gone before – that elite band, who by their skill, knowledge and enthusiasm, have enhanced our knowledge and understanding of Scotland’s musical heritage.”
Jimmy Shand
“It was with great sadness and shock when I heard that Ron Gonnella had passed away after a very short illness.
I first met Ron while he was a pupil at the Harris Academy and at that time he was keen on Scottish Country Dancing and the music. In fact, he was at that time being taught the violin by Mr Routledge Bell, one of the best known tutors in Dundee.
I had just started playing Scottish Country Dancing in St. Patrick’s Hall, Maitland Street, Dundee and Ron used to sit in and play with my band some of the tunes he knew, that must have been his first introduction to Scottish traditional music.During that period there was a great surge in Scottish music, gramophone records, wireless sets, mouth organs, fiddles and accordions and bagpipes were all in great demand for entertainment. In fact, it was an era that brought out many brilliant musicians, with their own style and choice of music.
Ron teamed up with Marcel Crow, one of his school pals, who had just formed the Tayside Band and made 3 records of Scottish Country Dance music for Beltona Records which were first class and sold well.
Still gaining experience, he later joiner Jimmy Scott’s (from Wellbank) Blue Bonnets Scottish country Dance Band and did many of their early broadcasts for B.B.C. Throughout the years he has played with many of the top broadcasting bands, T.V., radio and special programmes such as his latest appearance in Crieff Hydro with his quintettte playing light music.
He was a great composer and has had 3 volume of fiddle music published of his own compositions, also the new Atholl Collection. He has made many cassettes and L.P. records with tributes to the great fiddle masters – Niel Gow, William Marshall, James Scott Skinner and Rabbie Burns ‘The Bard’, all of whose music will aye be remembered.
Now to the man himself. Ron always kept in touch with me throughout the years, in fact he visited me at Auchtermuchty on a Sunday forenoon three weeks before he died and he was his own cheery self and not a sign of any discomfort. He was on his was to visit his friend, David Cunningham, at Cupar to discuss some music he was arranging for recording – little did I know it would be the last time I would see him.
John M. Mason M.B.E.
To me, as a youngish fiddle player in Wigtown, Ron was always a source of inspiration. Meticulously, I recorded his many radio programmes and played them incessantly. He commanded a unique style and ability which singled him out as a master of the Scottish fiddle art.
When I came to Ayrshire in the late 1960s, our paths were to frequently cross and I found him to be a most amiable academic possessed of charm and good humour.
Ron invited me to become a founder member of the Niel Gow Memorial Trust and it was in this capacity that our friendship developed. The Trust was created generally to promote the knowledge of the immense contribution made by the Gows to our National music, but particularly to address the work required to suitably restore the family gravestone in Little Dunkeld Cemetery. Ron acted as Secretary, Treasurer and enthusiastic guiding light. He organised appeal letters, meetings and his crowing glory was the Rally in Perth Town Gall in which I had the privilege of sharing the podium with the masterly Sandy Cook of Bankfoot. Mary Sandeman, Ron and Ian Powrie gave of their services for the benefit and James Hunter, Head of B.B.C. Television Scotland at the time , arranged that the show be televised. Ron even had the huge enlargement of the Niel Gow painting auctioned after the show and I think Ian bought it.
Following completion of all the work and the official ceremony in Little Dunkeld, Ron with James and I, pursued the possibility of an annual Glenfiddich Fiddle competition at Blair Castle, wherein the Gow works would for part of the repertoires. Here again success was achieved and there could be no greater honour to his memory than the securing of this most prestigious event which so effectively dominates the solo Scottish fiddle scene both for quality of performance and the scenic beauty of Blair.
Ron had a romance with the Gows and the Gow countryside, it is fitting that we remember these achievements with his so many other attributes.
Musselburgh Festival 1994
by Neil Copland
It was with some considerable trepidation and anxiety that Margaret Quirie and myself set off heading for Musselburgh and our first attempt at presenting this major event. The task ahead of us became even more daunting as we arrived at the Brunton Hall Complex just after 7.30 am on Saturday, March 5th 1994. However, the sight of our Committee members and other very loyal supporters of the Festival all ‘geared up’ and ready to go meant that our fears were unfounded.
I feel that it is only right to acknowledge the sterling work of our adjudicators for the day (and in one case the evening). They came from as far afield as Carlisle, and Wick and did a tremendous job. This year’s panel consisted of Stella Wilkie, Julie Best, Ian Powrie, Ian Muir, Bobby Coghill and Graeme Mitchell.
On behalf of Margaret and myself, I would like to thank everyone who helped make our first Musselburgh Festival problem free. They are too numerous to mention and I would likely forget someone anyway – but to all a very big THANK YOU and I look forward to seeing everyone again on the first Saturday in March, 1995 when Musselburgh Festival celebrates its 21st Birthday.
Junior Accordion
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
2) Paul Woods (Corbridge)
3) Alastair Dunnet (Tranent)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Iain Anderson (Gartocharn)
2) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
3) Gordon Middler (Aberdeen)
Junior Accordion Solo Pipe Music
1) Iain Anderson (Gartocharn)
2) Pauline Bradley (Balloch)
3) Janette Morrison (Glenlivet)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill) & Natalina Wood (Sanquhar)
2) Gordon Shaw (Airdrie) & William Paterson (Coatbridge)
3)
Youngest Competitors
Girl – Kirsty Findlater (Hamilton)
Boy – Ritchie Craig (Haddington)
Senior Accordion
Senior Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Scott Gordon (Galston)
2) Alex Morrison (Glenlivet)
3) Ian Shepherd (Dalkeith)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Colin Brown (Portobello)
2) Lynne Christie (Huntly)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Senior Overall Accordion Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Scott Gordon (Galston)
Open Buttonkey
1) Bill McHardy (Froickheim)
2) Alexander Lindsay (Amulree)
3) Alan Tasker (Kincardine)
Trio
1) David Oswald (Blairgowrie)
2) Scott Gordon (Galston)
Band (Iain MacPhail Cup)
Alasdair MacCuish (Paisley)
Band – Rhythm Section (Arthur Easson Memorial Trophy)
A
Own Composition
1) John Burns (Cumbernauld)
2) Maureen Rutherford (Dundee)
3) Ian Crichton (Isle of Lewis)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Ritchie Craig (Haddington)
2) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
3) Paul Woods (Corbridge)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham)
2) David Nisbet (Earlston)
3) Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) Sarah Armstrong (Newcastle-upon-Tyne)
2) Kirsty MacDonald (Hexham)
3)
Open Classical Solo
1) Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
2) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells)
3) Ian Shepherd (Dalkeith)
Under 13 Classical Duet
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham) & David Nisbet (Earlston)
2) Julie Hamilton (Carstairs) & Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
3) Alison Carswell (Symington) & Blair Gardiner (Libberton)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Katie Donald (Lauder) & Lynn Young (Lauder)
2) Vicki Craig (Haddington) & Jill Craig (Haddington)
3) Dana Quinn (Dumfries) & Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill)
Open Classical Duet
1) Elizabeth Flanagan (Galashiels) & Lynne Bradshaw (Selkirk)
2) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells) & Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
3=) Niall Skinner (Currei) & Donald McKay (Edinburgh)
3=) Lindsay McIndewar (Airdrie) & George Agnew (Airdrie)
Classical Polka
Under 10 Classical Polka
1) Craig Ritchie (Haddington)
2) Kirsty Findlater (Hamilton)
Under 14 Classical Polka
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham)
2) Gordon Shaw (Edinburgh)
3) David Nisbet (Earlsron)
Open Classical Polka
1) Barry Howieson (High Valleyfield)
2) Elizabeth Flanagan (Galashiels)
3=) Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
3=) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells)
Fiddle Sections
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Laura McGhee (Dundee)
2) Siobhan O’Rourke (Oban)
3) Mary Peggie (Dundee)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Mary Peggie (Dundee)
2) Laura McGhee (Dundee)
3) Susan Gowans (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Strathspey, MSR
1) Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
2) Susan McIntosh (Aberdeen)
3) Gillian Risi (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
2) Susan McIntosh (Aberdeen)
3) Gillian Risi (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
Open Fiddle Group
Bob Edwards Tayside Players (Dundee)
Introducing the Clubs
No 21 East Kilbride
by Alex Stupart
At a public meeting in the Murray Hall, East Kilbride, in the autumn of 1978, the foundations were laid for the foundation of the East Kilbride A&F Club.
In order that funds were available for the venture, a dance was held in the Murray Hall, with the Doublet SDB providing the music, early in 1979. A few months later, the Club’s first guests were Malcolm McLean and Frank Henery in the Function Room of the Murray Bar. A permanent home was found when the Stuart Hotel management agreed to let the Club have use of its premises, and in September 1979, the Club started off the new season with the Wallochmor Ceilidh Band as the guest astistes.
Throughout the formative years Iain Henderson, Paul Johnstone, Hugh Gebbie and latterly Grant Crawford formed a group known as the Maxwelltown Trio and played at weddings and various functions and all fees received were donated to the Club to help strengthen Club funds.
In 1983, the Club’s home venue had to be changed due to the management of the Stusrt Hotel requesting an increased fee for the use of their premises. Fortunately, Hugh Gebbie was friendly with the management of the King’s Park Hotel in Rutherglen and an amicable agreement was reached with them. Also at that time Marion Gebbie, Hugh’s wife, took over as M.C.
In 1985, East Kilbride had a twinning visitation from Ballerup, Denmark and the Club, through East Kilbride Arts Council, played at an open air party in the town centre.
The Club were able to obtain the services of the top bands of the day, but did not overlook the up-and-coming players and the likes of Jennifer Forrest and the Oakbank Sound were givenm their chance to establish themselves.
In May, 1989, under the auspices of East Kilbride District Council, the Club held an open air concert at Torrance House to open a fortnight of events to celebrate the East Kilbride Arts Festival and on a beautiful afternoon a most enjoyable time was had by all, with the Kelvin Ceilidh Band and Karen Higgins and Friends adding to the entertainment that afternoon. In all £150 was raised for charity and it was decided to donate this sum to Carnbooth House for Deaf/Blind Children.
Due to a management buy-out at the King’s Park Hotel finance, once again, reared its ugly head and in November 1990 we found we had to change venue once again. Fortunately there was no meeting in December giving us more time to find a new home. Hugh and Margy Fraser were friendly with the proprietors of Sweeper’ Function Suite in Cambuslang, Tom and Fran Brown, and in January 1991 ‘Sweepers’ became our new home, where we have had many happy evenings with top artistes as our guests and with Iain Henderson at the helm we hope to be there for some time to come.
Chapman Lawrie
By Graham Wilson
I was saddened to hear of the recent death of another old friend, Chapman Lawrie.
Chapman was a well kent accordionist and over the years held many residential positions. He always liked to try new tunes and liked nothing better than a good session with the boys.
I’d a crack with Chapman last year and one of the things he said was that when his time came up he wanted to go with his box on. We’’, he took ill shortly after a long gig and died the same night. So he almost got his wish.
Our sympathies go out to his wife Elizabeth and their family.
Ally Wilkie – An Appreciation
by John Ellis
It is with deep regret I report the death of Ally Wilkie, Bridgend, Perth. A friend of all who had the pleasure of his company in music, I was fortunate to have Ally as band drummer for a good number of years. Along with Pam, they played an important part of any good band sound in the 1980s. Ally will always be remembered for his canny nature and his fine drumming. He was also an accomplished bass player and composer.
We all extend our deepest sympathy to Pam and family at this sad time.
Livingston A&F Club
21st Anniversary Year 1973 – 94
by Murdo MacLeod
The Club celebrates its 21st Anniversary this year, having been founded in September, 1973 in Rab’s Bar, Livingston. It is hoped to have appropriate celebratory events throughout the coming season from September. Meantime, we would like to hear from musicians who were with us all those years back and who helped to set us going. It is hoped, if all goes well, to acknowledge some of these people at a celebratory function. If you have played at the Club, particularly in the formative years, it would be nice to hear from you. There are many fine, young and bugging musicians who cut their musical teeth with us and not a few of those achieved distinction later themselves.
Record Review
Let’s Dance Again Vol 2 – Alastair Hunter and the Lorne Scottish Dance Band – DACS 9411
Ian Powrie with Paul Clancy Vol 2 DRCSIP2002 Cassette only
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 3rd April 94 – Ian Thomson SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 7th Apr 94 – Billy McGuire
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 3rd Apr 94 – Dick Black Band
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 17th Apr 94 – Kelvin Ceilidh Band
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 27th Apr 94 – Daniel McPhee & Isobel Harper
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 18th Apr 94 – Gordon Shand SDB
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 10th Apr 94 – Jim & Jean McConnachie
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 12th Apr 94 – Strathmore Sound
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Carlisle (Border Regiment Club, Carlisle Castle) - 8th Apr 94 – Currie Brothers
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – James Coutts SDB
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 21st Apr 94 – Fraser McGlynn Duo
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) 7th Apr 94 – Simon Howie Trio
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 19th Apr 94 – McAllister Brothers
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Wick Club 23rd Apr Dance to Gordon shand SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – Andy Greig Band
Dundee (Park Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Roadhouse) – 12th Apr 94 – James Coutts SDB
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 28th Apr 94 – Dick Black Band
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 20th Apr 94 – The Bon Accords
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 26th Apr 94 – Donald Black (moothie)
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Apr 94 – Michael Philip SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 26th Apr 94 – Pentlands Ceilidh Band
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 20th Apr 94 – George Stirrat
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th Apr 94 – Elgin S&R Society
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 5th Apr 94 – Michael Philip SDB
Islay (White Hart Hotel) - 16th Apr 94 – Local Musicians
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Waterhole, Lochfoot) – 5th Apr 94 – Iain Cathcart SDB
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Donal Ring Ceili Band 27th Apr Mhairi Coutts SDB
Kinlochshiel (Islander Function Room) -
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Craig McCallum SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Apr 94 – David Cunningham Jnr SDB
Livingston (Livingston Station Community Centre) 19th Apr 94 – Ian Muir Trio
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 26th Apr 94 – Alastair McPhail Duo
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (Harbour Lights Restaurant) – 7th Apr 94 – Lindsay Weir Trio
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 28th Apr 94 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – Dermot O’Brien
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 12th Apr 94 – Morag Robertson & Frank Henery
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 7th Apr 94 – John Laidlaw Trio
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Tranent (East Lothian Labour Club)
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Apr 94 – Davie Stewart & Rab Smillie
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 12th Apr 94 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Arbroath
2. Banchory
3. Banff
4. Belford
5. Biggar
6. Blairgowrie
7. Carlisle
8. Castle Douglas
9. Crieff
10. Dalriada
11. Dunblane
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Etterick & Yarrow
16. Fintry
17. Glendale
18. Glenrothes
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islay
23. Islesteps
24. Kinlochshiel
25. Kintore
26. Livingston
27. Newtongrange
28. North East
29. Peebles
30. Renfrew
31. Rothbury
32. Stirling
33. Turriff
34. Tynedale
35. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campbeltown A&F Club (
16. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
17. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
18. Coalburn A&F Club (
19. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
20. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
21. Derwentside A&F Club
22. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
23. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
24. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
25. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
26. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
27. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
28. Ellon A&F Club (
29. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
30. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
31. Forfar A&F Club (
32. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
33. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
34. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
35. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
36. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
37. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
38. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Grena when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
39. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
40. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
41. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
42. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
43. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
44. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
45. Kintore A&F Club (
46. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
47. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
48. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
49. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
50. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 - )
51. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
52. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
53. Mull A&F Club
54. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
55. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
56. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
57. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
58. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
59. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
60. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
61. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
62. Renfrew A&F Club (
63. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
64. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
65. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
66. Sutherland A&F Club (
67. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
68. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
69. Tranent A&F Club
70. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
71. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
72. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
73. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
74. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
75. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
76. Buchan A&F Club
77. Callander A&F Club (
78. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
79. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
80. Club Accord
81. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
82. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
83. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
84. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
85. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
86. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
87. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
88. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
89. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
90. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
91. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
92. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
93. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
94. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
95. Newcastleton Accordion Club
96. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
97. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
98. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
99. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
100. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
101. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
102. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
103. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £94
Half Page - £47
Quarter Page - £24
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
When I took over as Editor three years ago, my first lead article was a tribute to one of our best loved and respected accordionists, Bobby MacLeod. Sadly, as I hand over to my successor, I have to lead with a series of tributes to one of our most prominent fiddlers who died last month, Ron Gonella.
The last three years have seen many changes in our scene. New Clubs have emerged and many of these have been very successful. Others have found things a bit difficult but as yet, fortunately, none have had to close the doors.
Unfortunately, as has been said many times before, our type of music receives little help from the media. On television it is almost non-existent and radio programmes have been cut to an absolute minimum. There also appears to be a movement, even on our favourite programmes, to the more ‘folky’ type of music. Nothing wrong with this type of music, but can it not be kept to the folk programmes of which there are plenty?
I would like to conclude by thanking all of you who have contributed to the success of this paper in any way – reporters, scribes, advertisers and all of you who have sent in regular articles. Also, Margaret who has looked after the financial affairs, Jeanette who has been responsible for type-setting and make-up, and all at the printers, Oliver McPOherson Ltd, who over the years have been a joy to work with.
All items for the September issue should be sent to Ron Ramsay, 48 Hospitalfield Road, Arbroath, DD11 2LS.
I wish Ron every success for the future.
Doug Adamson
Ron Gonella
On Thursday, 17th February 1994, we lost not only a good friend but a gifted musician – who was proud of his Scots / Italian ancestry and who was a fine ambassador for Scotland.
He was well read and well travelled and continually researched the history of Scottish fiddle music and composers. He travelled frequently to Canada and the United States to play, record and adjudicate at a variety of venues.
Ron was gifted intellectually and pursued a wide range of interests which enabled him to meet people from all walks of life.
His eloquence and microgenic speaking voice meant that he received acclaim on radio and television and was an obvious asset in his teaching career at Morrison’s Academy.
He enjoyed a variety of sports and music of many kinds – Scottish, classical, operatic etc and was interested in the beauty of old Scottish psalm tunes which he frequently recorded.
Ron was knowledgeable about Scottish music, in particular “The Gows” and therefore instrumental in replacing the old Neil Gow Memorial Stone in Little Dunkeld Churchyard which had been eroded by time and weather. This heritage has also been kept alive by founding the Neil Gow Memorial Trust and the Glenfiddich Fiddle Championship at Blair Castle.
The sound of Ron’s voice was quite unique and acknowledged by musicians and fans at home and abroad.
Many people will mourn the passing of this fine man and his unique contribution to the world of Scottish music.
We regret that space does not permit us to publish the many wonderful tributes paid to Ron, but we wish to thank all who have contributed in this way.
His Grace, the Duke of Atholl, during our telephone conversation expressed his admiration for Ron as a gifted player and knowledgeable and enthusiastic historian, who was steeped in the history of the Gows and composers of that era and their involvement with Blair Castle.
His Grace, the Duke of Atholl
“Ron played often at Blair Castle. I always admired him as a violinist and the way in which he always cheered up anything in which he took part. He was instrumental in restoring Niel Gow’s violin and providing a proper case for it in the Banqueting Hall at Blair Castle. He will be sadly missed.”
Ian Powrie
“I am deeply saddened by the death of Ron Gonnella. It is such a great loss to Scotland’s heritage of fiddle music and for my own part, feel that we are unlikely to hear the sound he made emulated. The quality of his tone and attention to technique gave his a special place amongst us.
In the late forties, I was invited to his uncle and aunt’s house in Dundee and met this slip of a lad. We played together, and quite clearly, I remember his solo rendition of “Coilsfield House.” At that time I knew we had another unique sound about to burst forth.
To the research of Scottish music, his passing marks an irreparable loss. His place on the scroll of musical fame is assured.”
Jimmie MacGregor
“My earliest recollection of Ron was hearing his music in Canada in the ‘70s. I was privileged to meet him in Morrison Academy when I first came to Scotland with my brother John Allan Cameron and even more thrilled to be offered hospitality for two weeks during which time he took me to meet people whose names I had only read and through his knowledge I learned more about Niel Gow, Scott Skinner and many others and visited their homes, graves and musical connections.
He was such a delight to play with and he understood the Cape Breton style. His radio broadcasts were well presented and full of interesting information and good humour. He will be sadly missed by all. We have list a musical giant”. – John Donald Cameron (Cape Breton)
“Ron Gonnella was a Scots Italian who was blessed with the innate musicality of both countries. I had the good fortune to work with him on several occasions over the years and was greatly impressed, not only by his playing, but by his profound knowledge of the Scottish fiddle tradition and the lives and repertoires of the great players.
While the folk music revival gave us a host of clever young fiddlers obsessed with speed and flashy tricks, Ron, with a technique long established, concentrated on quality of tone and accuracy of tempi, with no loss of excitement. In Ron Gonnella we have lost not only a consummate musician b but a thoroughly likeable man, a true gentleman who will be much missed”.
Roger Crook (Dunfermline)
“As the type of work I was involved in with Ron Gonnella was different from most others, I would like to express my appreciation of the man and the musician.
My pianist wife Nancy, Ron and myself with voice and accordion decided in 1985 to form the Doric Trio. Our aim was to take Scottish music into the sometimes rarefied atmosphere of Arts Council clubs and provide an informal evening of Scots Songs, Airs and Dances.
These evenings proved to be very successful due, of course, in no small measure to Ron’s ability as a player but also to him skills as a communicator which seemed to draw the audience in to him sharing his love and knowledge of his subject.
The standard of his innate musicianship was very high, always producing a lovely tone and it seemed so effortless. Having one’s arrangements played by him was always very satisfying.
As musicians have to, we three travelled many miles together during our association. Nancy and I have many special memories of the man and we have so many fine memories of the performances that we shared with one of the finest exponents of his art and ambassadors that Scotland has produced.”
Duncan MacDonald
“The first time Ron Gonnella visited me was in 1974 to see the fiddles I make. I was at Millholm, Tullibardine, Auchterarder at that time and we became good friends.
I made a fiddle for him in 1980, calling it “The Ron Gonnella” and the following year made one for his mother, Lizzie Duncan, who was also an avid fiddle connoisseur.
Ron treated my house as his second home, so much so, that he did a lot of the practice for the various functions, recordings, broadcasts etc there and my late wife helped him with the publicity and design of his record covers.
When we moved to Muthill, he was a more frequent visitor for his practice sessions and indeed was in my home in Muthill, practicing for 3 hours for another recording, not many weeks before his passing.
It is true to say that he has played every fiddle I have made since the ‘70s and I will miss his sweet tone and character of playing, as also I will miss his company. He was so well read and a lucid talker.
I feel that not only have I lost a friend, but a son”.
James Hunter
“I first met Ron Gonnella in the mid-sixties when I was producer of the Scottish Dance Music programmes for the B.B.C. Ron was a very popular fiddler and jovial personality.
Many of the bandleaders of the time tried to persuade him to play in their band. Why? Simply because of his true intonation, his lively sense of rhythm and his keen tradition. He founded the Niel Gow Memorial Trust which was instrumental in replacing the stone on the master’s grave.
He was always eager to share his knowledge and his enthusiasm for traditional music. As an adjudicator he was always constructive in his comments, and constantly stressed the good points in everybody’s playing.
Ron’s name is carved with pride in the roll of honour of those who have gone before – that elite band, who by their skill, knowledge and enthusiasm, have enhanced our knowledge and understanding of Scotland’s musical heritage.”
Jimmy Shand
“It was with great sadness and shock when I heard that Ron Gonnella had passed away after a very short illness.
I first met Ron while he was a pupil at the Harris Academy and at that time he was keen on Scottish Country Dancing and the music. In fact, he was at that time being taught the violin by Mr Routledge Bell, one of the best known tutors in Dundee.
I had just started playing Scottish Country Dancing in St. Patrick’s Hall, Maitland Street, Dundee and Ron used to sit in and play with my band some of the tunes he knew, that must have been his first introduction to Scottish traditional music.During that period there was a great surge in Scottish music, gramophone records, wireless sets, mouth organs, fiddles and accordions and bagpipes were all in great demand for entertainment. In fact, it was an era that brought out many brilliant musicians, with their own style and choice of music.
Ron teamed up with Marcel Crow, one of his school pals, who had just formed the Tayside Band and made 3 records of Scottish Country Dance music for Beltona Records which were first class and sold well.
Still gaining experience, he later joiner Jimmy Scott’s (from Wellbank) Blue Bonnets Scottish country Dance Band and did many of their early broadcasts for B.B.C. Throughout the years he has played with many of the top broadcasting bands, T.V., radio and special programmes such as his latest appearance in Crieff Hydro with his quintettte playing light music.
He was a great composer and has had 3 volume of fiddle music published of his own compositions, also the new Atholl Collection. He has made many cassettes and L.P. records with tributes to the great fiddle masters – Niel Gow, William Marshall, James Scott Skinner and Rabbie Burns ‘The Bard’, all of whose music will aye be remembered.
Now to the man himself. Ron always kept in touch with me throughout the years, in fact he visited me at Auchtermuchty on a Sunday forenoon three weeks before he died and he was his own cheery self and not a sign of any discomfort. He was on his was to visit his friend, David Cunningham, at Cupar to discuss some music he was arranging for recording – little did I know it would be the last time I would see him.
John M. Mason M.B.E.
To me, as a youngish fiddle player in Wigtown, Ron was always a source of inspiration. Meticulously, I recorded his many radio programmes and played them incessantly. He commanded a unique style and ability which singled him out as a master of the Scottish fiddle art.
When I came to Ayrshire in the late 1960s, our paths were to frequently cross and I found him to be a most amiable academic possessed of charm and good humour.
Ron invited me to become a founder member of the Niel Gow Memorial Trust and it was in this capacity that our friendship developed. The Trust was created generally to promote the knowledge of the immense contribution made by the Gows to our National music, but particularly to address the work required to suitably restore the family gravestone in Little Dunkeld Cemetery. Ron acted as Secretary, Treasurer and enthusiastic guiding light. He organised appeal letters, meetings and his crowing glory was the Rally in Perth Town Gall in which I had the privilege of sharing the podium with the masterly Sandy Cook of Bankfoot. Mary Sandeman, Ron and Ian Powrie gave of their services for the benefit and James Hunter, Head of B.B.C. Television Scotland at the time , arranged that the show be televised. Ron even had the huge enlargement of the Niel Gow painting auctioned after the show and I think Ian bought it.
Following completion of all the work and the official ceremony in Little Dunkeld, Ron with James and I, pursued the possibility of an annual Glenfiddich Fiddle competition at Blair Castle, wherein the Gow works would for part of the repertoires. Here again success was achieved and there could be no greater honour to his memory than the securing of this most prestigious event which so effectively dominates the solo Scottish fiddle scene both for quality of performance and the scenic beauty of Blair.
Ron had a romance with the Gows and the Gow countryside, it is fitting that we remember these achievements with his so many other attributes.
Musselburgh Festival 1994
by Neil Copland
It was with some considerable trepidation and anxiety that Margaret Quirie and myself set off heading for Musselburgh and our first attempt at presenting this major event. The task ahead of us became even more daunting as we arrived at the Brunton Hall Complex just after 7.30 am on Saturday, March 5th 1994. However, the sight of our Committee members and other very loyal supporters of the Festival all ‘geared up’ and ready to go meant that our fears were unfounded.
I feel that it is only right to acknowledge the sterling work of our adjudicators for the day (and in one case the evening). They came from as far afield as Carlisle, and Wick and did a tremendous job. This year’s panel consisted of Stella Wilkie, Julie Best, Ian Powrie, Ian Muir, Bobby Coghill and Graeme Mitchell.
On behalf of Margaret and myself, I would like to thank everyone who helped make our first Musselburgh Festival problem free. They are too numerous to mention and I would likely forget someone anyway – but to all a very big THANK YOU and I look forward to seeing everyone again on the first Saturday in March, 1995 when Musselburgh Festival celebrates its 21st Birthday.
Junior Accordion
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
2) Paul Woods (Corbridge)
3) Alastair Dunnet (Tranent)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Iain Anderson (Gartocharn)
2) Gordon Fraser (Munlochy)
3) Gordon Middler (Aberdeen)
Junior Accordion Solo Pipe Music
1) Iain Anderson (Gartocharn)
2) Pauline Bradley (Balloch)
3) Janette Morrison (Glenlivet)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill) & Natalina Wood (Sanquhar)
2) Gordon Shaw (Airdrie) & William Paterson (Coatbridge)
3)
Youngest Competitors
Girl – Kirsty Findlater (Hamilton)
Boy – Ritchie Craig (Haddington)
Senior Accordion
Senior Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Scott Gordon (Galston)
2) Alex Morrison (Glenlivet)
3) Ian Shepherd (Dalkeith)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Colin Brown (Portobello)
2) Lynne Christie (Huntly)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Senior Overall Accordion Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Scott Gordon (Galston)
Open Buttonkey
1) Bill McHardy (Froickheim)
2) Alexander Lindsay (Amulree)
3) Alan Tasker (Kincardine)
Trio
1) David Oswald (Blairgowrie)
2) Scott Gordon (Galston)
Band (Iain MacPhail Cup)
Alasdair MacCuish (Paisley)
Band – Rhythm Section (Arthur Easson Memorial Trophy)
A
Own Composition
1) John Burns (Cumbernauld)
2) Maureen Rutherford (Dundee)
3) Ian Crichton (Isle of Lewis)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Ritchie Craig (Haddington)
2) Fraser Burke (Dundee)
3) Paul Woods (Corbridge)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham)
2) David Nisbet (Earlston)
3) Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) Sarah Armstrong (Newcastle-upon-Tyne)
2) Kirsty MacDonald (Hexham)
3)
Open Classical Solo
1) Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
2) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells)
3) Ian Shepherd (Dalkeith)
Under 13 Classical Duet
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham) & David Nisbet (Earlston)
2) Julie Hamilton (Carstairs) & Jennifer Taylor (Thankerton)
3) Alison Carswell (Symington) & Blair Gardiner (Libberton)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Katie Donald (Lauder) & Lynn Young (Lauder)
2) Vicki Craig (Haddington) & Jill Craig (Haddington)
3) Dana Quinn (Dumfries) & Sandra Hutchison (Thornhill)
Open Classical Duet
1) Elizabeth Flanagan (Galashiels) & Lynne Bradshaw (Selkirk)
2) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells) & Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
3=) Niall Skinner (Currei) & Donald McKay (Edinburgh)
3=) Lindsay McIndewar (Airdrie) & George Agnew (Airdrie)
Classical Polka
Under 10 Classical Polka
1) Craig Ritchie (Haddington)
2) Kirsty Findlater (Hamilton)
Under 14 Classical Polka
1) Jill Blackburn (Hexham)
2) Gordon Shaw (Edinburgh)
3) David Nisbet (Earlsron)
Open Classical Polka
1) Barry Howieson (High Valleyfield)
2) Elizabeth Flanagan (Galashiels)
3=) Ross Lowthian (St Boswells)
3=) Kevin Swinton (St Boswells)
Fiddle Sections
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Laura McGhee (Dundee)
2) Siobhan O’Rourke (Oban)
3) Mary Peggie (Dundee)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Mary Peggie (Dundee)
2) Laura McGhee (Dundee)
3) Susan Gowans (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Strathspey, MSR
1) Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
2) Susan McIntosh (Aberdeen)
3) Gillian Risi (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
2) Susan McIntosh (Aberdeen)
3) Gillian Risi (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Maureen Turnbull (Dundee)
Open Fiddle Group
Bob Edwards Tayside Players (Dundee)
Introducing the Clubs
No 21 East Kilbride
by Alex Stupart
At a public meeting in the Murray Hall, East Kilbride, in the autumn of 1978, the foundations were laid for the foundation of the East Kilbride A&F Club.
In order that funds were available for the venture, a dance was held in the Murray Hall, with the Doublet SDB providing the music, early in 1979. A few months later, the Club’s first guests were Malcolm McLean and Frank Henery in the Function Room of the Murray Bar. A permanent home was found when the Stuart Hotel management agreed to let the Club have use of its premises, and in September 1979, the Club started off the new season with the Wallochmor Ceilidh Band as the guest astistes.
Throughout the formative years Iain Henderson, Paul Johnstone, Hugh Gebbie and latterly Grant Crawford formed a group known as the Maxwelltown Trio and played at weddings and various functions and all fees received were donated to the Club to help strengthen Club funds.
In 1983, the Club’s home venue had to be changed due to the management of the Stusrt Hotel requesting an increased fee for the use of their premises. Fortunately, Hugh Gebbie was friendly with the management of the King’s Park Hotel in Rutherglen and an amicable agreement was reached with them. Also at that time Marion Gebbie, Hugh’s wife, took over as M.C.
In 1985, East Kilbride had a twinning visitation from Ballerup, Denmark and the Club, through East Kilbride Arts Council, played at an open air party in the town centre.
The Club were able to obtain the services of the top bands of the day, but did not overlook the up-and-coming players and the likes of Jennifer Forrest and the Oakbank Sound were givenm their chance to establish themselves.
In May, 1989, under the auspices of East Kilbride District Council, the Club held an open air concert at Torrance House to open a fortnight of events to celebrate the East Kilbride Arts Festival and on a beautiful afternoon a most enjoyable time was had by all, with the Kelvin Ceilidh Band and Karen Higgins and Friends adding to the entertainment that afternoon. In all £150 was raised for charity and it was decided to donate this sum to Carnbooth House for Deaf/Blind Children.
Due to a management buy-out at the King’s Park Hotel finance, once again, reared its ugly head and in November 1990 we found we had to change venue once again. Fortunately there was no meeting in December giving us more time to find a new home. Hugh and Margy Fraser were friendly with the proprietors of Sweeper’ Function Suite in Cambuslang, Tom and Fran Brown, and in January 1991 ‘Sweepers’ became our new home, where we have had many happy evenings with top artistes as our guests and with Iain Henderson at the helm we hope to be there for some time to come.
Chapman Lawrie
By Graham Wilson
I was saddened to hear of the recent death of another old friend, Chapman Lawrie.
Chapman was a well kent accordionist and over the years held many residential positions. He always liked to try new tunes and liked nothing better than a good session with the boys.
I’d a crack with Chapman last year and one of the things he said was that when his time came up he wanted to go with his box on. We’’, he took ill shortly after a long gig and died the same night. So he almost got his wish.
Our sympathies go out to his wife Elizabeth and their family.
Ally Wilkie – An Appreciation
by John Ellis
It is with deep regret I report the death of Ally Wilkie, Bridgend, Perth. A friend of all who had the pleasure of his company in music, I was fortunate to have Ally as band drummer for a good number of years. Along with Pam, they played an important part of any good band sound in the 1980s. Ally will always be remembered for his canny nature and his fine drumming. He was also an accomplished bass player and composer.
We all extend our deepest sympathy to Pam and family at this sad time.
Livingston A&F Club
21st Anniversary Year 1973 – 94
by Murdo MacLeod
The Club celebrates its 21st Anniversary this year, having been founded in September, 1973 in Rab’s Bar, Livingston. It is hoped to have appropriate celebratory events throughout the coming season from September. Meantime, we would like to hear from musicians who were with us all those years back and who helped to set us going. It is hoped, if all goes well, to acknowledge some of these people at a celebratory function. If you have played at the Club, particularly in the formative years, it would be nice to hear from you. There are many fine, young and bugging musicians who cut their musical teeth with us and not a few of those achieved distinction later themselves.
Record Review
Let’s Dance Again Vol 2 – Alastair Hunter and the Lorne Scottish Dance Band – DACS 9411
Ian Powrie with Paul Clancy Vol 2 DRCSIP2002 Cassette only
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 3rd April 94 – Ian Thomson SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 7th Apr 94 – Billy McGuire
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 3rd Apr 94 – Dick Black Band
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 17th Apr 94 – Kelvin Ceilidh Band
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 27th Apr 94 – Daniel McPhee & Isobel Harper
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 18th Apr 94 – Gordon Shand SDB
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 10th Apr 94 – Jim & Jean McConnachie
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 12th Apr 94 – Strathmore Sound
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Carlisle (Border Regiment Club, Carlisle Castle) - 8th Apr 94 – Currie Brothers
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – James Coutts SDB
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 21st Apr 94 – Fraser McGlynn Duo
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) 7th Apr 94 – Simon Howie Trio
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 19th Apr 94 – McAllister Brothers
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Wick Club 23rd Apr Dance to Gordon shand SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – Andy Greig Band
Dundee (Park Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Roadhouse) – 12th Apr 94 – James Coutts SDB
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 28th Apr 94 – Dick Black Band
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 20th Apr 94 – The Bon Accords
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 26th Apr 94 – Donald Black (moothie)
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Apr 94 – Michael Philip SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 26th Apr 94 – Pentlands Ceilidh Band
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 20th Apr 94 – George Stirrat
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th Apr 94 – Elgin S&R Society
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 5th Apr 94 – Michael Philip SDB
Islay (White Hart Hotel) - 16th Apr 94 – Local Musicians
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Waterhole, Lochfoot) – 5th Apr 94 – Iain Cathcart SDB
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Donal Ring Ceili Band 27th Apr Mhairi Coutts SDB
Kinlochshiel (Islander Function Room) -
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 6th Apr 94 – Craig McCallum SDB
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Apr 94 – David Cunningham Jnr SDB
Livingston (Livingston Station Community Centre) 19th Apr 94 – Ian Muir Trio
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 26th Apr 94 – Alastair McPhail Duo
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (Harbour Lights Restaurant) – 7th Apr 94 – Lindsay Weir Trio
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 28th Apr 94 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 19th Apr 94 – Dermot O’Brien
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 12th Apr 94 – Morag Robertson & Frank Henery
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 7th Apr 94 – John Laidlaw Trio
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Tranent (East Lothian Labour Club)
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Apr 94 – Davie Stewart & Rab Smillie
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 12th Apr 94 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Arbroath
2. Banchory
3. Banff
4. Belford
5. Biggar
6. Blairgowrie
7. Carlisle
8. Castle Douglas
9. Crieff
10. Dalriada
11. Dunblane
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Etterick & Yarrow
16. Fintry
17. Glendale
18. Glenrothes
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islay
23. Islesteps
24. Kinlochshiel
25. Kintore
26. Livingston
27. Newtongrange
28. North East
29. Peebles
30. Renfrew
31. Rothbury
32. Stirling
33. Turriff
34. Tynedale
35. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campbeltown A&F Club (
16. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
17. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
18. Coalburn A&F Club (
19. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
20. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
21. Derwentside A&F Club
22. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
23. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
24. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
25. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
26. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
27. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
28. Ellon A&F Club (
29. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
30. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
31. Forfar A&F Club (
32. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
33. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
34. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
35. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
36. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
37. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
38. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Grena when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
39. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
40. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
41. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
42. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
43. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
44. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
45. Kintore A&F Club (
46. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
47. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
48. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
49. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
50. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 - )
51. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
52. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
53. Mull A&F Club
54. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
55. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
56. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
57. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
58. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
59. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
60. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
61. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
62. Renfrew A&F Club (
63. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
64. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
65. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
66. Sutherland A&F Club (
67. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
68. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
69. Tranent A&F Club
70. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
71. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
72. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
73. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
74. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
75. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
76. Buchan A&F Club
77. Callander A&F Club (
78. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
79. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
80. Club Accord
81. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
82. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
83. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
84. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
85. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
86. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
87. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
88. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
89. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
90. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
91. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
92. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
93. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
94. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
95. Newcastleton Accordion Club
96. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
97. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
98. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
99. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
100. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
101. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
102. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
103. Wellbank A&F Club
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