Box and Fiddle
Year 04 No 05
January 1981
Price 15p
8 pages
8 month subscription £2.25
Editor – Ian Smith, 50 Mount Vernon Road, Stranraer Tele 4098
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
This is the time of the year when the clubs are firing on all cylinders and swinging along merrily. Almost every night of the week, somewhere there are clubs starting the New Year, ladling out the melodies and medleys we love to hear. Regardless of the weather, players and audiences alike forsake the oft repeated canned music for the real living notes and patter. I, for one, have no fear for the future of traditional music no matter what instrument it is played on.
Moves are afoot to start a Club at Montrose.
At the Albert Hall, Stirling, on 20th March there is to be ‘Kirsty’s Ceilidh’ in aid of Stoke Mandeville Hospital. There will be accordions, fiddles, dancers and dancing. The resident band that night will be Iain MacPhail’s SDB. Tickets £2 from Kirsty Bissett, 48 Port Street, Stirling. Tel 63152. More info next month.
The Reel Radio
by Derek Hamilton
“A Guid New Year Tae Yin an’ a’!” I’ve now had the chance to hear some of the programmes going out to Radio Forth listeners on a Monday night between 7 and 8pm in a show called ‘Folks Around Robin’.
It’s introduced by Robin Brock and features a different band each week. The sessions are recorded in Forth’s studios and include an interview throughout the show with the bandleaders.
The band’s featured so far read like a who’s-who of the best in the land – John Ellis, David Cunningham, John Huband, Fraser McGlynn, Kenny Thomson, Andrew Rankine, the Cameron-Kerr Band, with the very young Ronnie Kerr having everyone rolling around on the floor with his sense of humour. Iain MacPhail too has been in and lined up for a special Burns Night programme is Max Houliston.
I must admit than when I heard of the format I felt it would come over a bit stodgy, but this is far from true. The links between each item are always interesting even if it’s only to hear the bandleader speak. There’s a casual chat-a-long approach which brings out the personality of the bandleader. This helps to create a human being out of what has been so long just a name in the credits list.
The recordings are of a very high standard but a little ‘dry’. For my pallet they could do with more reverb just to make the sound a little livelier. I’m not too convinced either that the placing of the instruments is the best it could be. The fiddle on each of the one’s I’ve heard has been hard over to the left and the lead box to the right. The second box in normally in the centre as is the rest of the back line and any reverb that’s added. I would have much preferred the conventional fiddle in the middle with boxes either side and the rhythm section spread out around the stereo image with reverb applied to the front line and panned across the whole picture. But all of that is purely a matter of taste.
I have said before that it’s a pity that this sort of programme doesn’t get national or at least wider coverage. I wonder why Radio Clyde doesn’t tap into shows like this. I’m sure it would be a simple matter to take this show. After all, Clyde are not competing with Forth when it comes to this sort of music.
I am pleased to see that Robin’s programme goes out at a different time from ‘Take the Floor’. I just hope it continues that way. At least it gives Forth area listeners additional listening and not merely a choice.
The BBC gave is a real feast of Scottish flavoured music on Hogmanay. Starting at 6.45 the Tartan Terror (Gerry MacKenzie) had a 45-minute show and between the patter there was some good music. At 8 o’clock a more sophisticated show got under way with Jimmy Mack introducing some fine music and song from the Scottish Radio Orchestra with Duncan Robertson, Josephine MacQueen, Robin Hall and Jimmy MacGregor and piper (for the night) George MacIlwham.
On the folk scene The MacCalmans had their Hogmanay Fling and Billy Connelly teamed up with Ralph McTell (what’s Scottish about him you may ask!!) in a concert recorded in Inverness.
At 11.15 the fiddlers of the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra did their bit and the New Year finally came in with a party hosted by Gerry Davis and featuring the Jack Sinclair Showband from Aderdeen.
Added to that we had an extra helping of ‘Take the Floor’ on Christmas Eve.
On the Saturday between Christmas and the New Year ‘Take the Floor’ featured John Ellis and the Highland Country Band as well as some of the winning competitors from the Perth Festival.
The first Saturday of the New Year saw a welcome return for Andrew Rankine and his Band. Andrew’s Radio Forth broadcast went out in Monday, 5th January. Andrew had surrounded himself with a bunch of musicians who all (except the drummer) played with him regularly many years ago. Jack Delaney on second box, Ron Gonella on fiddle, Bill Hendry from Falkirk on piano, Stan Saunders on bass and the newcomer to Andrew’s outfit was Gus Millar on drums.
The band certainly played with the swing of the old Rankine band.
Incidentally, Club Secretaries may wish to note that Andrew has been re-bitten by the Scottish bug again. I spoke to him after Christmas and he tells me that he is very interested in doing the Accordion Club scene next season. Andrew still lives in Leicester, but would be willing to travel up if he could get 2 or 3 nights in a week.
I was delighted to hear the feature that Robbie Shepherd did on the Currie Brothers. It’s long overdue that this brilliant and very popular act get a spot on ‘Take the Floor’.
During 1980 we had our fair share of Scottish Dance music, none of it, I’m sure you’ll agree, was bad – just some better than others. The stations have put out a wide and varied selection of bands over the year. Some old favourites, some new to broadcasting. However, one thing comes out loud and clear when I’ve been speaking to either Chris Worrall, Robbie Shepherd or Robin Brock – it’s you the listeners who really determine what the programme content is. Your letters are read with great interest and the more you write the more chance you have of getting what you want. Programmes are only broadcast if people want to listen. The main way of determining their popularity is by the amount of mail received. So get your pens out and start writing! Happy New Year!
Record Review
by Derek Hamilton
The Wee Laddie Fae Fife – Colin Dewar – Ayrespin AYRC104
A Breath of the Highlands – The Tain Band – BBRLP130
The Bluebell Accordion Festival Vol 2 – Various Artists – BBR LP 135
Ian Henderson and his Cordovox Sound – BBR LP 127
The Golden Fiddle Awards 1980 Vol 2 Bluebell BBR LP 134
John Ellis and his Highland Country Band – Lismore LILP 5107
Loss to the Association
by Ian Smith (Editor)
Fiddle Master Angus Fitchet has intimated that he has been forced to retire from active playing because of ill health. This unhappy news comes at the beginning of 1981 and we trust that this will be that last this year. We had enough ill luck last year losing so many fine artistes.
Angus, dear friend, we will miss you very much. Your craftsmanship, your humour and your total commitment to our traditional music. Here is Angus’s letter in his own words.
Dear Ian
May I crave a little space in you publication as I would like to clear the air as to my illness. I have been forced to give up playing, much to my regret, owing to arthritis. It’s a terrible blow to me. As well as being my whole life it was also my source of income. However, I’m not complaining. I’ve had a great life and if I got another choice it would be the same all over again.
I would like to thank all the bandleaders, such as Jimmy Blue, Jimmy Shand, Bobby MacLeod, Ian Holmes, Bobby Crowe and all rest for giving me work over the years. Also, all the Secretaries of the Clubs, and the people who attended, without whom we would have been sunk.
I would also like to thank the BBC Radio and TV, STV and Grampian TV and all the recording managers I have worked for.
I almost forgot about the lads in the bands - what a bunch of great people, it was a treat to play with them all.
Last but by no means least, I would like to thank Andy Stewart whom I have known for over 25 years. Andy has been a tremendous asset to me and I only hope he keeps strong and healthy in the future. He is a hard worker, a terrific composer of words and song, and his stagecraft second to none. I am glad I crossed his path as it is something I shall remember for the rest of my life.
Not forgetting you yourself, Ian, and the ‘B&F’ which I wish every success in the future. If I have done some little thing towards fostering Scottish music I shall rest very pleased.
Meantime here’s wishing you all the best for the future.
Angus Fitchet
Angus, we can only hope that the men of learning will come up with a cure for arthritis, not only for you but for all who suffer from this very painful disease.
We cannot afford to be without your kind. Tobermory won’t be the same this coming season.
From everyone ion the Association and the ‘B&F’ we send you our kindest regards and hope we will still see you around at Festivals or wherever musicians get together.
(Ian’s wishes were answered in that a new type of treatment for arthritis i.e. ‘gold’ injections’ put Angus back on the circuit for quite a number of years before his death on 15th May 1998)
Will Starr Contest
by Peter Paterson
The 1981 Will Starr Memorial Shield contest is now open to amateur players of all ages. Over the past two years we have had the dream of Scotland’s young talents and we have been grateful for that and we want to keep it that way as long as they are still amateurs.
We are sure the Clubs throughout have some outstanding local players and everyone who straps on a box has something to offer. So, come on all you clubs, send us your best adult players and we’ll have an inter-club competition. If enough clubs enter, we will be happy to run it off in conjunction with the Shield contest.
Perfect Venue for Accordion Bonanza
By Ian Smith
The Tait Hall, Kelso on 7th December, was the perfect venue for Jimmy Clinkscale’s production of No 2 Accordion Bonanza.
We have a lot to be grateful for to Jimmy Clinkscale and all those others who make tapes for us. Each tape is a piece of history. Bonanza No 1 had some great names and this concert, which was also taped, has a further group of star names.
The backing band was in the very capable hands of Iain MacPhail. The compere was Bill Torrance, one of Radio Forth’s greatest characters – comedian, singer, plays guitar, clarinet, penny whistle and moothie. A talented and jovial continuity expert who expertly kept the show cracking along at a good pace.
The show opened with rousing piping by Jimmy McRae and Stuart Robinson , members of Galashiels Pipe Band.
From then on it was a parade of accordion stars – Sandy MacArthur, Ian Wilkie, Robert Whitehead, Paddy Neary, Addie Harper Jnr, Ron Hodgson, Andrew Rankine, Bobby MacLeod with Jim Johnstone, the fabulous Jimmy Blair Quartet, John Carmichael, Gordon Pattullo, surprise guest Max Houliston and a local lad, 14-year-old Raymond Laidlaw, who played the Clinkscale Polka. Thus the first half ended.
The second half was much more relaxing, as the live taping had ended. Methinks the second half should have been taped secretly as the players went to town and thoroughly entertained a full house superbly.
The concert, well beyond its time, ended with a stramash. With such a gathering of famous personalities it was the stramash of a lifetime.
Come on Jimmy Clinkscale, how about Accordion Bonanza No3.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – in reply to the letter in November’s issue of the ‘B&F’ by the ‘Wandering Busman’ (whoever he may be), I would like to point out the following.
Iain Fraser, Max Houliston, Jimmy Shand Jnr, Bobby MacLeod, Robert MacLeod and Rob Gordon were all invited to the studio by myself.
Your correspondent infers that they were invited by my respected predecessor, but for your correspondent’s information, I began producing Scottish Dance Music for the BBC in November 1978.
Anyway, more importantly, how about having the courage of your convictions and writing to me at the BBC.
Chris Worrall
BBC, 5 Queen Street, Edinburgh
Sir – re the Record Review in the December issue of the ‘B&F’ Derek Hamilton is a very good writer and ideally suited for the job he does for the ‘B&F’ players who feature on the records he reviews.
His review of the Border Dance Band never mentioned the box player by name, Willie Duff, or the piano, played by young Jim Clark. I think if he mentions one player he should mention them all or don’t bother reviewing the record at all.
When players get a plug in the ‘B&F’ they get that wee bit of extra lift in their step which then comes out in their music.
One point I would like to make refers to the kind words you and other people have made in the ‘B&F’ regarding wee Albie Tedham. He was a great loss to our music circle.
Harrah for Douglas Muir and Sandy MacArthur for airing their views to Robbie Shepherd on ‘Take the Floor’ and talking about two different aspects of the playing and execution of traditional dance music.
Firstly I would like to stand by Douglas Muir saying “Why not use various wind and stringed instruments, of which there are many, to help put over our music which, after all is said and done, is part of our heritage”.
I would like to think that if more of the younger set went to one or two of the traditional music festivals they would come to see what Douglas Muir was talking about and trying to put over. More of the older set should go as well, especially Club committee members.
Secondly I wholeheartedly agree with Sandy MacArthur about the playing (and mistakes) of some of the bands on the scene at the moment. When one hears a lot of the bands it seems ans sounds to me as if the noise was coming out of a computer. I have the highest regard for Bill Black and hope that he is open to criticism regarding what I’m about to put to paper.
Sandy mentioned the Ian Powrie band. As luck or providence had it, they played the same set that Bill had played ten minutes previously. Man, what a sound the Powrie Band made (sorry Bill I’ll stand you a brace of feathers and chaser the next time we meet). You could almost reach out and pick the notes out of the air. Out of this world, great!
Summing up, I would say that the older musicians seem to have the knack, when playing a tune, to take the notes and wring their necks until the last breath of life is wrung out of them. When players and bands can stand up, do that, and get a sound like a well balanced threshing mill, that’s Our Music.
Take a long look back, musician, and listen and talk about the Masters, namely J. Shand, B. MacLeod, A. Rennie, I. Powrie and at present, J. Johnstone.
Teetotaller
Sir – I am writing to let you know of Mr Alex MacArthur’s successful tour of Northern Ireland. Wilkinson Musical Instruments, 101 Main Street, Cullybackey, Ballymena, were opening new showrooms and also launching a new range of accordions. I decided to ask Alex and his band to come over, open the new showroom and do four nights in different centres and what a success it turned out to be.
Alex and the boys had just arrivedwhen the BBC phoned to say to come to the studio at 4.30pm – what a rush to get back to Belfast. Time was limited, but I was interviewed regarding the new two and a half row button accordion and also the new Perle D’or piano key model. No time for rehersals. Duncan was accompanied by a great Irish player, Jim McVeigh. Both these lads gave a masterly display together. Let’s hope we can get them together again in the not too distant future.
After the television session, no tea, no? straight on to Armagh City where Alex and the boys gave a great performance to over 600 people, arriving back in Ballymena around 2am.
Thursday night again, away up to County Derry to Upperlands Recreation Hall, another full house. Friday evening was a special occasion. Alex and the boys were gathered for the opening of the new showrooms. Turning the key was left to Duncan Black who performed hius duty like an elder statesman. Then it was down to the large Cunningham Memorial Hall. Again Alex and the band put on a great display with Duncan giving a selection of solo playing. Saturday night saw the last performance in Cloughmills where Alex and his band completed a very successful tour.
Thanks, Alex, for coming over and I am sure your tour of Northern Ireland will help the B&F group formed recently in Crumlin, Co. Antrim, who I am sure will be arranging their own functions, and, who knows, a few more clubs could be on the way.
Hugh Wilkinson
Cullybackey
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel) – 28 Jan 81 Angus Cameron
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Rob Roy Inn) – 28 Jan 81 Graham Ross & the Strathalmond SDB
Balloch (Loch Lomond Hotel) – 15 Feb 81 George Stirrat Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) – 19 Jan 81 Donald Brothers (Ayr)
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 22 Jan 81 Kenny Thomson & Ian Muir
Chrissie Leatham Club (Hearts’ Supporters Club, Tynecastle) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) -
Cumbria (Huntsman Inn – Penton) –
Cumnock (Tup Inn) – 22 Jan 81 Dave Scott
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dumfries (Oughton’s)
Dunblane (Hydro) –
Dundee (Royal Central Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Unitas Hall) – 2 Feb 81 Paddy Neary
East Kilbride (Stuart Hotel) – 11 Feb 81 Jimmy Blair Accordion Orchestra 26 Feb 81 Ron Gonella
Falkirk (Plough Hotel, Stenhousemuir) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 11 Feb 81 Florence & Mackie Burns and Alex Green
Fort William (Highland Hotel) – 20 Jan 81 Donaldson Brothers
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel) – 3 Apr 81 Annual Dance Jim Johnstone SDB
Kelso (Cross Key’s Hotel) – 27 Jan 81 Lothian SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Craignethan Hotel) – 5 Feb 81 Black Family
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club) – 19 Feb 81 John McGregor SDB
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – 5 Feb 81 John Huband and the Tayside Sound
Monklands (Georgian Hotel, Coatbridge) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel)
North East (Seafield Arms, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( ) – 5 Feb 81 Donaldson Brothers
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 30 Apr 81 Jim Johnstone SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 20 Jan 81 Kenny Thomson & Ian Muir
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel)
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?)
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 2 Feb 81 George Stirrat & Jimmy Yeaman
Torthorwald (Torr House Hotel)
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Balloch
4. Banchory
5. Beith & district
6. Biggar
7. Castle Douglas
8. Coquetdale
9. Cumnock & District
10. Derwentside
11. Dunblane
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Falkirk
16. Fort William
17. Forres
18. Galston
19. Glendale
20. Highland
21. Kelso
22. Kintore
23. Langholm
24. Lesmahagow
25. Livingston
26. MAFIA
27. Monklands
28. Ormiston
29. North East
30. Shetland
31. Stranraer
32. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1980 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1980) originally called Bathgate Club
4. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
5. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
6. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
7. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
8. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
9. Buchan A&F Club
10. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
11. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
12. Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
13. Coupar Angus A&F Club
14. Cumnock A&F Club
15. Derwentside A&F Club
16. Dingwall & District (Aug 1979)
17. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
18. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
19. Dundee & District A&F Club
20. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
21. Dunipace A&F Club (c Nov 1980)
22. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
23. Falkirk A&F Club
24. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
25. Fort William A&F Club (Oct 1980)
26. Galston A&F Club (1969)
27. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
28. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
29. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
30. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
31. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
32 Kintore A&F Club
33. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
34. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Oct 1980)
35. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
36. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
37. M.A.F.I.A.
38. Monklands A&F Club
39. Newcastleton Accordion Club
40. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
41. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
42. New Cumnock A&F Club
43. North Cumbria A&F Club
44. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
45. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
46. Orkney A&F Club
47. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
48. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
49. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
50. Rothbury Accordion Club (Feb 1974)
51. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
52. Stranraer & District Accordion Club
53. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
54. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
55. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
56. Coquetdale
57. Club Accord
58. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
59. Fintry A&F Club
60. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
61. Renfrew A&F Club
62. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
63. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £70
Half Page - £35
Quarter Page - £17.50
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Mary Plunkett, 2 Dounan Road, Dunragit, Wigtownshire
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
This is the time of the year when the clubs are firing on all cylinders and swinging along merrily. Almost every night of the week, somewhere there are clubs starting the New Year, ladling out the melodies and medleys we love to hear. Regardless of the weather, players and audiences alike forsake the oft repeated canned music for the real living notes and patter. I, for one, have no fear for the future of traditional music no matter what instrument it is played on.
Moves are afoot to start a Club at Montrose.
At the Albert Hall, Stirling, on 20th March there is to be ‘Kirsty’s Ceilidh’ in aid of Stoke Mandeville Hospital. There will be accordions, fiddles, dancers and dancing. The resident band that night will be Iain MacPhail’s SDB. Tickets £2 from Kirsty Bissett, 48 Port Street, Stirling. Tel 63152. More info next month.
The Reel Radio
by Derek Hamilton
“A Guid New Year Tae Yin an’ a’!” I’ve now had the chance to hear some of the programmes going out to Radio Forth listeners on a Monday night between 7 and 8pm in a show called ‘Folks Around Robin’.
It’s introduced by Robin Brock and features a different band each week. The sessions are recorded in Forth’s studios and include an interview throughout the show with the bandleaders.
The band’s featured so far read like a who’s-who of the best in the land – John Ellis, David Cunningham, John Huband, Fraser McGlynn, Kenny Thomson, Andrew Rankine, the Cameron-Kerr Band, with the very young Ronnie Kerr having everyone rolling around on the floor with his sense of humour. Iain MacPhail too has been in and lined up for a special Burns Night programme is Max Houliston.
I must admit than when I heard of the format I felt it would come over a bit stodgy, but this is far from true. The links between each item are always interesting even if it’s only to hear the bandleader speak. There’s a casual chat-a-long approach which brings out the personality of the bandleader. This helps to create a human being out of what has been so long just a name in the credits list.
The recordings are of a very high standard but a little ‘dry’. For my pallet they could do with more reverb just to make the sound a little livelier. I’m not too convinced either that the placing of the instruments is the best it could be. The fiddle on each of the one’s I’ve heard has been hard over to the left and the lead box to the right. The second box in normally in the centre as is the rest of the back line and any reverb that’s added. I would have much preferred the conventional fiddle in the middle with boxes either side and the rhythm section spread out around the stereo image with reverb applied to the front line and panned across the whole picture. But all of that is purely a matter of taste.
I have said before that it’s a pity that this sort of programme doesn’t get national or at least wider coverage. I wonder why Radio Clyde doesn’t tap into shows like this. I’m sure it would be a simple matter to take this show. After all, Clyde are not competing with Forth when it comes to this sort of music.
I am pleased to see that Robin’s programme goes out at a different time from ‘Take the Floor’. I just hope it continues that way. At least it gives Forth area listeners additional listening and not merely a choice.
The BBC gave is a real feast of Scottish flavoured music on Hogmanay. Starting at 6.45 the Tartan Terror (Gerry MacKenzie) had a 45-minute show and between the patter there was some good music. At 8 o’clock a more sophisticated show got under way with Jimmy Mack introducing some fine music and song from the Scottish Radio Orchestra with Duncan Robertson, Josephine MacQueen, Robin Hall and Jimmy MacGregor and piper (for the night) George MacIlwham.
On the folk scene The MacCalmans had their Hogmanay Fling and Billy Connelly teamed up with Ralph McTell (what’s Scottish about him you may ask!!) in a concert recorded in Inverness.
At 11.15 the fiddlers of the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra did their bit and the New Year finally came in with a party hosted by Gerry Davis and featuring the Jack Sinclair Showband from Aderdeen.
Added to that we had an extra helping of ‘Take the Floor’ on Christmas Eve.
On the Saturday between Christmas and the New Year ‘Take the Floor’ featured John Ellis and the Highland Country Band as well as some of the winning competitors from the Perth Festival.
The first Saturday of the New Year saw a welcome return for Andrew Rankine and his Band. Andrew’s Radio Forth broadcast went out in Monday, 5th January. Andrew had surrounded himself with a bunch of musicians who all (except the drummer) played with him regularly many years ago. Jack Delaney on second box, Ron Gonella on fiddle, Bill Hendry from Falkirk on piano, Stan Saunders on bass and the newcomer to Andrew’s outfit was Gus Millar on drums.
The band certainly played with the swing of the old Rankine band.
Incidentally, Club Secretaries may wish to note that Andrew has been re-bitten by the Scottish bug again. I spoke to him after Christmas and he tells me that he is very interested in doing the Accordion Club scene next season. Andrew still lives in Leicester, but would be willing to travel up if he could get 2 or 3 nights in a week.
I was delighted to hear the feature that Robbie Shepherd did on the Currie Brothers. It’s long overdue that this brilliant and very popular act get a spot on ‘Take the Floor’.
During 1980 we had our fair share of Scottish Dance music, none of it, I’m sure you’ll agree, was bad – just some better than others. The stations have put out a wide and varied selection of bands over the year. Some old favourites, some new to broadcasting. However, one thing comes out loud and clear when I’ve been speaking to either Chris Worrall, Robbie Shepherd or Robin Brock – it’s you the listeners who really determine what the programme content is. Your letters are read with great interest and the more you write the more chance you have of getting what you want. Programmes are only broadcast if people want to listen. The main way of determining their popularity is by the amount of mail received. So get your pens out and start writing! Happy New Year!
Record Review
by Derek Hamilton
The Wee Laddie Fae Fife – Colin Dewar – Ayrespin AYRC104
A Breath of the Highlands – The Tain Band – BBRLP130
The Bluebell Accordion Festival Vol 2 – Various Artists – BBR LP 135
Ian Henderson and his Cordovox Sound – BBR LP 127
The Golden Fiddle Awards 1980 Vol 2 Bluebell BBR LP 134
John Ellis and his Highland Country Band – Lismore LILP 5107
Loss to the Association
by Ian Smith (Editor)
Fiddle Master Angus Fitchet has intimated that he has been forced to retire from active playing because of ill health. This unhappy news comes at the beginning of 1981 and we trust that this will be that last this year. We had enough ill luck last year losing so many fine artistes.
Angus, dear friend, we will miss you very much. Your craftsmanship, your humour and your total commitment to our traditional music. Here is Angus’s letter in his own words.
Dear Ian
May I crave a little space in you publication as I would like to clear the air as to my illness. I have been forced to give up playing, much to my regret, owing to arthritis. It’s a terrible blow to me. As well as being my whole life it was also my source of income. However, I’m not complaining. I’ve had a great life and if I got another choice it would be the same all over again.
I would like to thank all the bandleaders, such as Jimmy Blue, Jimmy Shand, Bobby MacLeod, Ian Holmes, Bobby Crowe and all rest for giving me work over the years. Also, all the Secretaries of the Clubs, and the people who attended, without whom we would have been sunk.
I would also like to thank the BBC Radio and TV, STV and Grampian TV and all the recording managers I have worked for.
I almost forgot about the lads in the bands - what a bunch of great people, it was a treat to play with them all.
Last but by no means least, I would like to thank Andy Stewart whom I have known for over 25 years. Andy has been a tremendous asset to me and I only hope he keeps strong and healthy in the future. He is a hard worker, a terrific composer of words and song, and his stagecraft second to none. I am glad I crossed his path as it is something I shall remember for the rest of my life.
Not forgetting you yourself, Ian, and the ‘B&F’ which I wish every success in the future. If I have done some little thing towards fostering Scottish music I shall rest very pleased.
Meantime here’s wishing you all the best for the future.
Angus Fitchet
Angus, we can only hope that the men of learning will come up with a cure for arthritis, not only for you but for all who suffer from this very painful disease.
We cannot afford to be without your kind. Tobermory won’t be the same this coming season.
From everyone ion the Association and the ‘B&F’ we send you our kindest regards and hope we will still see you around at Festivals or wherever musicians get together.
(Ian’s wishes were answered in that a new type of treatment for arthritis i.e. ‘gold’ injections’ put Angus back on the circuit for quite a number of years before his death on 15th May 1998)
Will Starr Contest
by Peter Paterson
The 1981 Will Starr Memorial Shield contest is now open to amateur players of all ages. Over the past two years we have had the dream of Scotland’s young talents and we have been grateful for that and we want to keep it that way as long as they are still amateurs.
We are sure the Clubs throughout have some outstanding local players and everyone who straps on a box has something to offer. So, come on all you clubs, send us your best adult players and we’ll have an inter-club competition. If enough clubs enter, we will be happy to run it off in conjunction with the Shield contest.
Perfect Venue for Accordion Bonanza
By Ian Smith
The Tait Hall, Kelso on 7th December, was the perfect venue for Jimmy Clinkscale’s production of No 2 Accordion Bonanza.
We have a lot to be grateful for to Jimmy Clinkscale and all those others who make tapes for us. Each tape is a piece of history. Bonanza No 1 had some great names and this concert, which was also taped, has a further group of star names.
The backing band was in the very capable hands of Iain MacPhail. The compere was Bill Torrance, one of Radio Forth’s greatest characters – comedian, singer, plays guitar, clarinet, penny whistle and moothie. A talented and jovial continuity expert who expertly kept the show cracking along at a good pace.
The show opened with rousing piping by Jimmy McRae and Stuart Robinson , members of Galashiels Pipe Band.
From then on it was a parade of accordion stars – Sandy MacArthur, Ian Wilkie, Robert Whitehead, Paddy Neary, Addie Harper Jnr, Ron Hodgson, Andrew Rankine, Bobby MacLeod with Jim Johnstone, the fabulous Jimmy Blair Quartet, John Carmichael, Gordon Pattullo, surprise guest Max Houliston and a local lad, 14-year-old Raymond Laidlaw, who played the Clinkscale Polka. Thus the first half ended.
The second half was much more relaxing, as the live taping had ended. Methinks the second half should have been taped secretly as the players went to town and thoroughly entertained a full house superbly.
The concert, well beyond its time, ended with a stramash. With such a gathering of famous personalities it was the stramash of a lifetime.
Come on Jimmy Clinkscale, how about Accordion Bonanza No3.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – in reply to the letter in November’s issue of the ‘B&F’ by the ‘Wandering Busman’ (whoever he may be), I would like to point out the following.
Iain Fraser, Max Houliston, Jimmy Shand Jnr, Bobby MacLeod, Robert MacLeod and Rob Gordon were all invited to the studio by myself.
Your correspondent infers that they were invited by my respected predecessor, but for your correspondent’s information, I began producing Scottish Dance Music for the BBC in November 1978.
Anyway, more importantly, how about having the courage of your convictions and writing to me at the BBC.
Chris Worrall
BBC, 5 Queen Street, Edinburgh
Sir – re the Record Review in the December issue of the ‘B&F’ Derek Hamilton is a very good writer and ideally suited for the job he does for the ‘B&F’ players who feature on the records he reviews.
His review of the Border Dance Band never mentioned the box player by name, Willie Duff, or the piano, played by young Jim Clark. I think if he mentions one player he should mention them all or don’t bother reviewing the record at all.
When players get a plug in the ‘B&F’ they get that wee bit of extra lift in their step which then comes out in their music.
One point I would like to make refers to the kind words you and other people have made in the ‘B&F’ regarding wee Albie Tedham. He was a great loss to our music circle.
Harrah for Douglas Muir and Sandy MacArthur for airing their views to Robbie Shepherd on ‘Take the Floor’ and talking about two different aspects of the playing and execution of traditional dance music.
Firstly I would like to stand by Douglas Muir saying “Why not use various wind and stringed instruments, of which there are many, to help put over our music which, after all is said and done, is part of our heritage”.
I would like to think that if more of the younger set went to one or two of the traditional music festivals they would come to see what Douglas Muir was talking about and trying to put over. More of the older set should go as well, especially Club committee members.
Secondly I wholeheartedly agree with Sandy MacArthur about the playing (and mistakes) of some of the bands on the scene at the moment. When one hears a lot of the bands it seems ans sounds to me as if the noise was coming out of a computer. I have the highest regard for Bill Black and hope that he is open to criticism regarding what I’m about to put to paper.
Sandy mentioned the Ian Powrie band. As luck or providence had it, they played the same set that Bill had played ten minutes previously. Man, what a sound the Powrie Band made (sorry Bill I’ll stand you a brace of feathers and chaser the next time we meet). You could almost reach out and pick the notes out of the air. Out of this world, great!
Summing up, I would say that the older musicians seem to have the knack, when playing a tune, to take the notes and wring their necks until the last breath of life is wrung out of them. When players and bands can stand up, do that, and get a sound like a well balanced threshing mill, that’s Our Music.
Take a long look back, musician, and listen and talk about the Masters, namely J. Shand, B. MacLeod, A. Rennie, I. Powrie and at present, J. Johnstone.
Teetotaller
Sir – I am writing to let you know of Mr Alex MacArthur’s successful tour of Northern Ireland. Wilkinson Musical Instruments, 101 Main Street, Cullybackey, Ballymena, were opening new showrooms and also launching a new range of accordions. I decided to ask Alex and his band to come over, open the new showroom and do four nights in different centres and what a success it turned out to be.
Alex and the boys had just arrivedwhen the BBC phoned to say to come to the studio at 4.30pm – what a rush to get back to Belfast. Time was limited, but I was interviewed regarding the new two and a half row button accordion and also the new Perle D’or piano key model. No time for rehersals. Duncan was accompanied by a great Irish player, Jim McVeigh. Both these lads gave a masterly display together. Let’s hope we can get them together again in the not too distant future.
After the television session, no tea, no? straight on to Armagh City where Alex and the boys gave a great performance to over 600 people, arriving back in Ballymena around 2am.
Thursday night again, away up to County Derry to Upperlands Recreation Hall, another full house. Friday evening was a special occasion. Alex and the boys were gathered for the opening of the new showrooms. Turning the key was left to Duncan Black who performed hius duty like an elder statesman. Then it was down to the large Cunningham Memorial Hall. Again Alex and the band put on a great display with Duncan giving a selection of solo playing. Saturday night saw the last performance in Cloughmills where Alex and his band completed a very successful tour.
Thanks, Alex, for coming over and I am sure your tour of Northern Ireland will help the B&F group formed recently in Crumlin, Co. Antrim, who I am sure will be arranging their own functions, and, who knows, a few more clubs could be on the way.
Hugh Wilkinson
Cullybackey
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel) – 28 Jan 81 Angus Cameron
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Rob Roy Inn) – 28 Jan 81 Graham Ross & the Strathalmond SDB
Balloch (Loch Lomond Hotel) – 15 Feb 81 George Stirrat Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) – 19 Jan 81 Donald Brothers (Ayr)
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 22 Jan 81 Kenny Thomson & Ian Muir
Chrissie Leatham Club (Hearts’ Supporters Club, Tynecastle) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) -
Cumbria (Huntsman Inn – Penton) –
Cumnock (Tup Inn) – 22 Jan 81 Dave Scott
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dumfries (Oughton’s)
Dunblane (Hydro) –
Dundee (Royal Central Hotel) –
Dunfermline (Unitas Hall) – 2 Feb 81 Paddy Neary
East Kilbride (Stuart Hotel) – 11 Feb 81 Jimmy Blair Accordion Orchestra 26 Feb 81 Ron Gonella
Falkirk (Plough Hotel, Stenhousemuir) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 11 Feb 81 Florence & Mackie Burns and Alex Green
Fort William (Highland Hotel) – 20 Jan 81 Donaldson Brothers
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel) – 3 Apr 81 Annual Dance Jim Johnstone SDB
Kelso (Cross Key’s Hotel) – 27 Jan 81 Lothian SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Craignethan Hotel) – 5 Feb 81 Black Family
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club) – 19 Feb 81 John McGregor SDB
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) – 5 Feb 81 John Huband and the Tayside Sound
Monklands (Georgian Hotel, Coatbridge) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel)
North East (Seafield Arms, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( ) – 5 Feb 81 Donaldson Brothers
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 30 Apr 81 Jim Johnstone SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 20 Jan 81 Kenny Thomson & Ian Muir
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel)
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?)
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 2 Feb 81 George Stirrat & Jimmy Yeaman
Torthorwald (Torr House Hotel)
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Balloch
4. Banchory
5. Beith & district
6. Biggar
7. Castle Douglas
8. Coquetdale
9. Cumnock & District
10. Derwentside
11. Dunblane
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. East Kilbride
15. Falkirk
16. Fort William
17. Forres
18. Galston
19. Glendale
20. Highland
21. Kelso
22. Kintore
23. Langholm
24. Lesmahagow
25. Livingston
26. MAFIA
27. Monklands
28. Ormiston
29. North East
30. Shetland
31. Stranraer
32. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1980 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1980) originally called Bathgate Club
4. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
5. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
6. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
7. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
8. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
9. Buchan A&F Club
10. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
11. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
12. Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
13. Coupar Angus A&F Club
14. Cumnock A&F Club
15. Derwentside A&F Club
16. Dingwall & District (Aug 1979)
17. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
18. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
19. Dundee & District A&F Club
20. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
21. Dunipace A&F Club (c Nov 1980)
22. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
23. Falkirk A&F Club
24. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
25. Fort William A&F Club (Oct 1980)
26. Galston A&F Club (1969)
27. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
28. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
29. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
30. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
31. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
32 Kintore A&F Club
33. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
34. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Oct 1980)
35. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
36. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
37. M.A.F.I.A.
38. Monklands A&F Club
39. Newcastleton Accordion Club
40. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
41. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
42. New Cumnock A&F Club
43. North Cumbria A&F Club
44. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
45. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
46. Orkney A&F Club
47. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
48. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
49. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
50. Rothbury Accordion Club (Feb 1974)
51. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
52. Stranraer & District Accordion Club
53. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
54. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
55. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
56. Coquetdale
57. Club Accord
58. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
59. Fintry A&F Club
60. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
61. Renfrew A&F Club
62. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
63. Wellbank A&F Club
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