Box and Fiddle
Year 11 No 05
January 1988
Price 40p
8 pages
8 month subscription £4.60
Joint Editors – Tom Clark, 55 Sutherland Crescent, Dundee, DD2 2HP or Douglas Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, DD8 1EQ
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Cathy Andrew, 22 Lochinver Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley Tele 2824
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
1987
The last sounds of accordions and fiddles of 1987 will all have faded by the time you read this issue. I hope that all of you will be able to look back over the year and recall some fine playing in the Clubs. For my part, I feel that 1987 may well prove to be a turning point in the long awaited change in music interpretation. Apart from guest artiste players, many of our younger players are beginning to move away from the over technical approach to a more relaxed interpretation.
This may not be too evident in the general standards of entries in the competition field, but I am sure that even the diehards would agree that Willie McGuire’s success at Perth was a very popular choice and seems to indicate that perhaps adjudicators are beginning to let their hearts rule. Well done Mr Lindsay!
Ian’s ‘Massie Harris’
My thanks are due to the Edinburgh Evening News for permission to reproduce the article on Matthew Hardie. So Ian Powrie’s fiddle may well have been made from a baking board?
No wonder it always sounds so good when he plays ‘The Flour o’ the Quern’ (Thanks also to Joan Blue).
Correspondence
Club scribes please note that reports should be sent direct to me. Some correspondence has been arriving via other routes. This causes delay and risks material going astray. Keep the reports coming.
Tom Clark
Sound of a Craftsman
Matthew Hardie
In the paupers’ section of the ancient kirkyard of Greyfriars lie the remains of a Scotsman of talent. In his day he was acclaimed as the Stradivari of Scotland but his poverty led to an ignominious death in St Cuthbert’s Poorhouse.
Matthew Hardie was born in Edinburgh in 1755, and he became an outstanding violin maker, sought out by students who appreciated not only his fine craftsmanship, but also his company as an educated man.
It seems possible that he trained as a cabinet-maker or pattern-maker, as he was an expert in the use of tools. There is no record of his having been trained in violin making by anyone, but it is highly probable that his teacher was John Blair who later worked for him. In the workshop in Low Calton, many pleasant hours were spent in his company by a group of cultured men, including Peter Hardie of Dunkeld (his cousin), David Stirrat, John Blair, George McGeorge and Alexander Yoole, a solicitor.
The violins made by Matthew Hardie in that little workshop were said to rival those of the great Antonio Stradivari, and in fact, Blair and Hardie may well have had the opportunity of seeing and handling a real “Strad”, from which they took careful measurements and the patterns which served Hardie and his pupils for life.
The Amati model, which provided Hardie’s earlier pattern, appears to have been abandoned after 1810 – and rightly so – according to authorities who claim that, despite the large tone of the Amati copies, they never attained the quality of his Stradivari copies. Although Hardie never attempted to achieve originality in his violin making, still his genius broke through, particularly in the sound-holes of the Amati models and the scrolls of the Stradivarius copies.
He was not always able to buy new wood. Evidence of the fact that much of his material came from demolished buildings, some of it already hundreds of years old, can be seen in the scars which he was unable to work out.
Such blemishes would not have been found on a block taken directly from a tree. His maple wood was often of plain figure, but not inferior for all that. Some Italian fiddles with grand tone have backs that are virtually figureless.
The story goes that while out walking near Cramond Brig in the year 1821, he found an old slab of wood, tested it for balance and tone and remarked to his companion on its quality as a breast for a violin. Later they stopped at a farmhouse for a glass of milk, possibly laced with a drop of mountain dew, for they were convivial friends. On being invited into the kitchen Hardie noticed a very old baking board, made of maple, which he eagerly examined.
“I see, Mistress, ye have a fine fiddle here,” he remarked. “A fiddle?” she replied. “There never was sic a thing in this hoose. If ye can find a fiddle here, ye’re welcome to it for nothing.”
“Thank you, Ma’am. It’s inside this baking board and wearying to get out.” The next day he sent out a new baking board to the lady.
Hardie seems to have fallen on hard times due to the import of factory made fiddles from Germany, and was even imprisoned for debt in Calton Jail. Indeed some of his finest fiddles were said to have been made there.
Matthew’s son, Thomas Hardie (1800-1858), followed in his father’s footsteps, but never attained the same degree of excellence. Though beautifully made, his instruments are poor in tone.
Among his friends, John Blair produced fiddles closely resembling Matthew’s in quality, made of good wood, but using poor varnish. He wrote his name inside his fiddles. David Stirrat (circa 1800-1820) was taught by Hardie and might well have outshone his master had he lived beyond the age of about twenty. He used an excellent spirit varnish in dark reddish brown, and the tone of his instruments was very powerful, yet wonderfully clear, bright and mellow. Little remains of the work of George McGeorge, but what he made was excellent and he used better varnish than Hardie.
Matthew Hardie died in St Cuthbert’s Poorhouse in 1826, and was buried in an unmarked grave. Spare a thought then, for this talented Scotsman whose monument lies not in stone, but in the living quality and beauty of his craft.
Reproduced by kind permission of the Edinburgh Evening News.
Accordions Galore ‘87
by Peter Paterson
Halowe’en, 31st of October, was the night chosen to present the Ninth Annual Concert in memory of Will Starr. Maybe chosen is the wrong word, but the 31st was picked before I remembered.
This set me worrying if people would come along on that particular night. My concern was unfounded. People rose to the occasion as they have in the eight previous concerts and turned out in force.
The show was as usual in Motherwell’s Civic Centre Concert Hall. Curtain up was prompt at 7.30, with solo piper Ian Duncan in the spotlight. Ian played a short selection then I welcomed the audience to the show, and introduced Ian and three young Highland dancers for the first spot.
Ian struck up a lively reel and the dancers went through their routine to the delight of the audience.
Next on stage was Willie McGuire. Willie on the Saturday previous had captured the Scottish Senior Traditional Championship at Perth. He went right into his spot playing the music made famous by Will Starr. As his renditions echoes around the hall anyone who may have closed their eyes could have imagined that Will Starr was on that stage. Willie McGuire, in my estimation, is the closest button key player to the maestro accordionist at the present time.
And a credit to Willie for learning Will Starr’s selections note for note, showing the influence Will Starr had and has on him. As long as Willie plays the music of Will Starr in his performance in years to come, Will will always be remembered, and that can’t be bad.
With the applause ringing in his ears, Willie McGuire left the stage to the John McKenna Irish dancers.
John and his pupils have made a number of appearances over the years in the previous concerts, and their standard has never diminished.
They were accompanied by the brilliant young accordionist Gerry Conlon.
Contest
Next spot was the 1987 Will Starr Memorial Shield Contest. We had such a good response that five contestants were chosen to compete in the final.
David Martin was the first contestant to sit in the hot spot. David was making his third try for the title. This year David decided to sit and play. In the previous two years he had walked around and played up to the audience. Many people said later that they preferred him doing that, and he was doing something new in walking around. Nevertheless his performance was very good and it set the pace for the contest.
After David we had a young lass, Fiona Cousins. Fiona had been in the contest a couple of years earlier as a duo. She has certainly progressed since that time and it showed in her selections.
Another young lady showed her talents after Fiona. She was Karen Crawford. Karen, with her pleasing appearance and fine interpretation of the music, gave a good account of herself. The audience showed their appreciation as she left the stage.
Then it was on to a gentlemen from Shotts, Willie McKeating. Willie was the eldest of the contestants, but with his age and experience and his own self-taught style, he offered a new sound in accordion playing.
The instrument he played was a sixty-year-old five-row button-box in pristine condition. Willie delighted the audience with his own self taught arrangements in the Scottish medley.
Last, but certainly not least, was a young lad from Fife, Bruce Lindsay Jnr. Bruce, playing a three row Shand Morino, gave us the Martelette Polka. He played this difficult composition with great expertise. The third part of this selection is the part that many players improvise. Bruce played it as Will Starr used to play it.
Bruce has a style very close to Jimmy Shand playing. It’s a pity he did not play the march, strathspey and reel he played at the auditions, then the Jimmy Shand touch would have come to the fore.
Modern Idiom
On to the next item on the programme. This time we had a song from Mrs Rose MacPherson, accompanied by Gerry McGuinness on the piano. Rose, with her fine soprano voice, had the audience sitting up and taking notice. They called for an encore but owing to time we had to go on.
Then it was boom, right into the modern idiom as the tape ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ echoed out. My daughter, Nicola Paterson, and her pal Nicol Hannah, suitably attired, danced through their interpretation of the song. The energy and feeling for the music as they made use of the large stage, had us less fit people feeling exhausted watching them. Oh for the stamina of youth!
As the black curtains parted, to us a pun, it was the turn of Bill black. Bill and his Scottish Dance Band grouped together in tight formation in centre stage. Using the word tight again, I would say Bill and his ensemble has the tightest knit Scottish sound on the accordion circuit today.
They all work together to achieve their very special arrangements, producing a tone that is all their own.
The audience showed their appreciation as Bill and the Band went through their spot in great style.
After the curtains closed on the Band we had the interval. One good thing about the Motherwell complex during the interval period, the facilities are very good. One can partake of a cup of tea, a shandy, or maybe something stronger from the bar. Also during this spell the Wishaw Press, who sponsored the Accordions Galore Concert for the second year, were busy selling raffle tickets under the guidance of Ian Cark, their publicity officer.
On the sponsorship side, the Wishaw Press affords us publicity leading up to the concert in their various newspapers i.e. Coatbridge and Airdrie Advertiser, Hamilton Advertiser etc. The publicity is invaluable and went a very long way to make the concert a success.
Second Half
The second half of the show started off with the Tom Veldon Accordion Orchestra.
Tom, a music teacher from Airdrie, with his accordion pupils have evolved a most pleasing accordion sound.
The arrangements and the harmonies are outstanding. A lot of hard work and practice had gone into the programme they played for us, and I am sure, by the response they had from the audience, Tom and the players would have thought it was very worthwhile.
Tom, you and your talented musicians have a unique sound. Many thanks for letting us hear it.
Willie McGuire then made his second appearance. This time he player music in his own style, proving his versatility as an ace button box player.
At the end of the spot he took an encore and played the Cuckoo Waltz.
All the other artistes had a second spot in the concert and they all gave of their best to a very appreciative audience.
I would like to mention a few highlights though from the second half. Gerry Conlon, the young accordionist, who accompanied the John McKenna Dancers. He did a solo spot, and what a tremendous player he is.
Keith Robertson, the 1986 Will Starr Memorial Shield Winner, did a spot in the second half. It was only a short item owning to time, but his playing has progressed by leaps and bounds, proving him a very worthy winner of last year’s contest.
The judges had, as usual, a hard task judging the 1987 Will Starr Memorial shiels contest. Bill Black and Margaret Starrs gave me the result of their judgement. I would like to stress this contest is on entertainment value. They chose Bruce Lindsay Jnr as the 1987 winner, Fiona Cousins 2nd and the veteran accordionist Willie McKeating as third.
Bruce Lindsay Jnr will hold the Shield for one year and I am sure, as a worthy winner, he will go on to better things.
The show, of course, closed with the Bill Black sound, and what more can you say about Bill and the Band except maybe excellent and glad of having your company to hear and see you again.
Many thanks to all the accordion fans who have consistently attended the Accordions Galore concert since its inception in 1979. It is only with your interest and dedication the future of the Scottish accordion scene will keep on flourishing.
Next year is the 10th year of the Accordions Galore concert. It will be a special Gala night. I would like to put out a call to all the Will Starr Shield winners from 1979 onwards to get in touch with me in the hope that they may be interested in doing a spot in next year’s show. Phone Bellshill 747469.
One last thing, many thanks to the B&F newspaper for its coverage of the Concerts since 1979. Your help has, and is, much appreciated, and a special thanks to all the artistes who have appeared in the past.
P.S. - proceeds, as usual, to charity. This year’s charity is the St Andrew’s Hospice, Airdrie, for the terminally ill and aged in Airdrie.
Readers Letters
Sir – I feel I must write to tell you how much I look forward to receiving my copy of the ‘B&F’ newspaper every month. Congratulations for producing such interesting news! Keep up the good work!
Accordion activities in our neck of the woods are virtually non-existent I am sorry to say. In pre-war days the music shops in Bolton used to be full of beautiful accordions like Scandalli, Ranco, Hohner etc. Now the same shops are full of guitars, keyboards, organs etc.
I am 72 years of age and when I was young in the 1920’s I used to love to listen to the wonderful accordion bands that used to perform in our local music halls. I remember listening to Primo Scala, Macari and his Dutch Serenaders, also the wonderful music of the great Toralf Tollafsen. He was in the South of England early this summer appearing at a Festival. I could not go unfortunately. There used to be a lot of accordion teachers in Bolton in those days, but I can’t find one now!
I became interested in accordion music when I was three years old. My late father brought back from France a beautiful melodeon when he was demobbed from the Army after the 14-18 war. He used to entertain all the family by playing for us. From then on I was well and truly ‘hooked’ on the beautiful sound he produced. He bought me a melodeon when I was six years old. It was an ‘Alvari’ and cost £3/10s, a lot of money in those days of mass unemployment.
I was brought up in very hard times because my dad was out of work for six years. No D.H.S.S. or the like in those days! But still I never remember any vandalism or house breaking. There was no TV, radio, hi-fi, etc so people used to make their own music and people were more closely knot as families. I suppose we were all happy that the terrible war was over.
I served in the Army for six years in the last war, 4½ in the Far East, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. When I was finally demobbed I bought a Hohner Verdi VN piano accordion and I taught myself to ‘knock out’ a few tunes. I still love to play (after a fashion). I would love to play better but I cannot find anyone to teach me. I have tried to find a teacher in Bolton, but no joy, so I will have to do the best I can. I also love to play the harmonica when I am too lazy to strap on the box.
I have found a pen friend by the name of Mr Alfie Eunson, who lives in Holm, in the Orkneys, all due to reading the B&F.
I wrote to the B.B.C. in London a few months ago telling them how much I enjoyed listening to the series of the ‘Scottish Fiddle Orchestra’. I have never enjoyed a programme as much as that. I wish they would come on again soon. Such beautiful music.
I had the pleasure of meeting George Hamilton the Fourth recently when he appeared in Bolton, singing Gosprl music and playing his guitar. He was interested in the B&F lapel badge that I was wearing and he asked me about all the activities in Scotland. He told me that his ancestor came from Scotland, hence his surname. He shook hands with me and gave me his autograph, which I cherish. He is a lovely personality and I will always remember him.
I have ordered a tie from B&F which I will be proud to wear during our coming visit to New Zealand to see our son and his wife and family who have three young daughters whom we have never seen. We are getting no younger, as they say, so we may as well go to see them while we are able. I will send you word when we get there. Maybe before the end of the year.
I served with the 3rd Battalion London Scottish during my service in Sicily and Italy after we got back from the Far East in 1942. Previous to that I was in the Royal Artillery. I had a lot of pals in the London Scottish who have from your part of the world, but alas I have no contact now. I would love to hear from some of them. If you could help, please!
Mr Harold Hampton
16 Callis Road, Deane, Bolton, Lancs
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Fleece Inn) – members only –
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) –
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) –
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 17th Jan 88 Craigallion
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) –
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Jock Loch and the Blackthorne Dance Band
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Tommy Ford
Dundee (The Marquee) – 4th Feb 88 Bill Black SDB
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel) 8th Jan 88 Fraser McGlynn Trio
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 28th Jan 88 Fiddlers 3 + 2
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) –
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Jan 88 Graeme Mitchell SDB
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Driveway Inn) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) -
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) – 19th Jan 88 David Ross SDB
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) – 18th Jan 88 David Wood
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) – 20th Jan 88 Glendale SDB
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 12th Jan 88 Graham Mitchell SDB
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 21st Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Peebles (Countryside Inn) – 28th Jan 88 Alan Gardiner SDB
Perth (Station Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Premier NI (Camlin function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) – 12th Jan 88 Jimmy Yeaman & George Stirrat
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Jan 88 Open Night
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Balloch
5. Banchory
6. Castle Douglas
7. Crieff
8. Derwentside
9. Dingwall & District
10. Dunblane & District
11. Dundee
12. Dunoon & Cowal
13. Forres
14. Fort William
15. Glendale
16. Highland
17. Kinlochsheil
18. Lesmahagow
19. Livingston
20. M.A.F.I.A.
21. Mauchline
22. Newtongrange
23. North Cumbria
24. North East
25. Peebles
26. Perth
27. Renfrew
28. Shetland
29. Tynedale
30. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1987 (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 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Buchan A&F Club
12. Button Key A&F Club (
13. Callander A&F Club (
14. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
24. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
45. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
46. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
47. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
48. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
49. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
50. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
51. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
52. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
53. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
54. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
55. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
56. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
57. Sutherland A&F Club (
58. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
62. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
67. Club Accord
68. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
71. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
72. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
73. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
74. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
75. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
76. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
77. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
78. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
79. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
80. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
81. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
82. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
83. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
84. Newcastleton Accordion Club
85. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
86. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
87. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
88. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
89. Wellbank A&F Club
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B&F Treasurer – Mrs Cathy Andrew, 22 Lochinver Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley Tele 2824
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
1987
The last sounds of accordions and fiddles of 1987 will all have faded by the time you read this issue. I hope that all of you will be able to look back over the year and recall some fine playing in the Clubs. For my part, I feel that 1987 may well prove to be a turning point in the long awaited change in music interpretation. Apart from guest artiste players, many of our younger players are beginning to move away from the over technical approach to a more relaxed interpretation.
This may not be too evident in the general standards of entries in the competition field, but I am sure that even the diehards would agree that Willie McGuire’s success at Perth was a very popular choice and seems to indicate that perhaps adjudicators are beginning to let their hearts rule. Well done Mr Lindsay!
Ian’s ‘Massie Harris’
My thanks are due to the Edinburgh Evening News for permission to reproduce the article on Matthew Hardie. So Ian Powrie’s fiddle may well have been made from a baking board?
No wonder it always sounds so good when he plays ‘The Flour o’ the Quern’ (Thanks also to Joan Blue).
Correspondence
Club scribes please note that reports should be sent direct to me. Some correspondence has been arriving via other routes. This causes delay and risks material going astray. Keep the reports coming.
Tom Clark
Sound of a Craftsman
Matthew Hardie
In the paupers’ section of the ancient kirkyard of Greyfriars lie the remains of a Scotsman of talent. In his day he was acclaimed as the Stradivari of Scotland but his poverty led to an ignominious death in St Cuthbert’s Poorhouse.
Matthew Hardie was born in Edinburgh in 1755, and he became an outstanding violin maker, sought out by students who appreciated not only his fine craftsmanship, but also his company as an educated man.
It seems possible that he trained as a cabinet-maker or pattern-maker, as he was an expert in the use of tools. There is no record of his having been trained in violin making by anyone, but it is highly probable that his teacher was John Blair who later worked for him. In the workshop in Low Calton, many pleasant hours were spent in his company by a group of cultured men, including Peter Hardie of Dunkeld (his cousin), David Stirrat, John Blair, George McGeorge and Alexander Yoole, a solicitor.
The violins made by Matthew Hardie in that little workshop were said to rival those of the great Antonio Stradivari, and in fact, Blair and Hardie may well have had the opportunity of seeing and handling a real “Strad”, from which they took careful measurements and the patterns which served Hardie and his pupils for life.
The Amati model, which provided Hardie’s earlier pattern, appears to have been abandoned after 1810 – and rightly so – according to authorities who claim that, despite the large tone of the Amati copies, they never attained the quality of his Stradivari copies. Although Hardie never attempted to achieve originality in his violin making, still his genius broke through, particularly in the sound-holes of the Amati models and the scrolls of the Stradivarius copies.
He was not always able to buy new wood. Evidence of the fact that much of his material came from demolished buildings, some of it already hundreds of years old, can be seen in the scars which he was unable to work out.
Such blemishes would not have been found on a block taken directly from a tree. His maple wood was often of plain figure, but not inferior for all that. Some Italian fiddles with grand tone have backs that are virtually figureless.
The story goes that while out walking near Cramond Brig in the year 1821, he found an old slab of wood, tested it for balance and tone and remarked to his companion on its quality as a breast for a violin. Later they stopped at a farmhouse for a glass of milk, possibly laced with a drop of mountain dew, for they were convivial friends. On being invited into the kitchen Hardie noticed a very old baking board, made of maple, which he eagerly examined.
“I see, Mistress, ye have a fine fiddle here,” he remarked. “A fiddle?” she replied. “There never was sic a thing in this hoose. If ye can find a fiddle here, ye’re welcome to it for nothing.”
“Thank you, Ma’am. It’s inside this baking board and wearying to get out.” The next day he sent out a new baking board to the lady.
Hardie seems to have fallen on hard times due to the import of factory made fiddles from Germany, and was even imprisoned for debt in Calton Jail. Indeed some of his finest fiddles were said to have been made there.
Matthew’s son, Thomas Hardie (1800-1858), followed in his father’s footsteps, but never attained the same degree of excellence. Though beautifully made, his instruments are poor in tone.
Among his friends, John Blair produced fiddles closely resembling Matthew’s in quality, made of good wood, but using poor varnish. He wrote his name inside his fiddles. David Stirrat (circa 1800-1820) was taught by Hardie and might well have outshone his master had he lived beyond the age of about twenty. He used an excellent spirit varnish in dark reddish brown, and the tone of his instruments was very powerful, yet wonderfully clear, bright and mellow. Little remains of the work of George McGeorge, but what he made was excellent and he used better varnish than Hardie.
Matthew Hardie died in St Cuthbert’s Poorhouse in 1826, and was buried in an unmarked grave. Spare a thought then, for this talented Scotsman whose monument lies not in stone, but in the living quality and beauty of his craft.
Reproduced by kind permission of the Edinburgh Evening News.
Accordions Galore ‘87
by Peter Paterson
Halowe’en, 31st of October, was the night chosen to present the Ninth Annual Concert in memory of Will Starr. Maybe chosen is the wrong word, but the 31st was picked before I remembered.
This set me worrying if people would come along on that particular night. My concern was unfounded. People rose to the occasion as they have in the eight previous concerts and turned out in force.
The show was as usual in Motherwell’s Civic Centre Concert Hall. Curtain up was prompt at 7.30, with solo piper Ian Duncan in the spotlight. Ian played a short selection then I welcomed the audience to the show, and introduced Ian and three young Highland dancers for the first spot.
Ian struck up a lively reel and the dancers went through their routine to the delight of the audience.
Next on stage was Willie McGuire. Willie on the Saturday previous had captured the Scottish Senior Traditional Championship at Perth. He went right into his spot playing the music made famous by Will Starr. As his renditions echoes around the hall anyone who may have closed their eyes could have imagined that Will Starr was on that stage. Willie McGuire, in my estimation, is the closest button key player to the maestro accordionist at the present time.
And a credit to Willie for learning Will Starr’s selections note for note, showing the influence Will Starr had and has on him. As long as Willie plays the music of Will Starr in his performance in years to come, Will will always be remembered, and that can’t be bad.
With the applause ringing in his ears, Willie McGuire left the stage to the John McKenna Irish dancers.
John and his pupils have made a number of appearances over the years in the previous concerts, and their standard has never diminished.
They were accompanied by the brilliant young accordionist Gerry Conlon.
Contest
Next spot was the 1987 Will Starr Memorial Shield Contest. We had such a good response that five contestants were chosen to compete in the final.
David Martin was the first contestant to sit in the hot spot. David was making his third try for the title. This year David decided to sit and play. In the previous two years he had walked around and played up to the audience. Many people said later that they preferred him doing that, and he was doing something new in walking around. Nevertheless his performance was very good and it set the pace for the contest.
After David we had a young lass, Fiona Cousins. Fiona had been in the contest a couple of years earlier as a duo. She has certainly progressed since that time and it showed in her selections.
Another young lady showed her talents after Fiona. She was Karen Crawford. Karen, with her pleasing appearance and fine interpretation of the music, gave a good account of herself. The audience showed their appreciation as she left the stage.
Then it was on to a gentlemen from Shotts, Willie McKeating. Willie was the eldest of the contestants, but with his age and experience and his own self-taught style, he offered a new sound in accordion playing.
The instrument he played was a sixty-year-old five-row button-box in pristine condition. Willie delighted the audience with his own self taught arrangements in the Scottish medley.
Last, but certainly not least, was a young lad from Fife, Bruce Lindsay Jnr. Bruce, playing a three row Shand Morino, gave us the Martelette Polka. He played this difficult composition with great expertise. The third part of this selection is the part that many players improvise. Bruce played it as Will Starr used to play it.
Bruce has a style very close to Jimmy Shand playing. It’s a pity he did not play the march, strathspey and reel he played at the auditions, then the Jimmy Shand touch would have come to the fore.
Modern Idiom
On to the next item on the programme. This time we had a song from Mrs Rose MacPherson, accompanied by Gerry McGuinness on the piano. Rose, with her fine soprano voice, had the audience sitting up and taking notice. They called for an encore but owing to time we had to go on.
Then it was boom, right into the modern idiom as the tape ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ echoed out. My daughter, Nicola Paterson, and her pal Nicol Hannah, suitably attired, danced through their interpretation of the song. The energy and feeling for the music as they made use of the large stage, had us less fit people feeling exhausted watching them. Oh for the stamina of youth!
As the black curtains parted, to us a pun, it was the turn of Bill black. Bill and his Scottish Dance Band grouped together in tight formation in centre stage. Using the word tight again, I would say Bill and his ensemble has the tightest knit Scottish sound on the accordion circuit today.
They all work together to achieve their very special arrangements, producing a tone that is all their own.
The audience showed their appreciation as Bill and the Band went through their spot in great style.
After the curtains closed on the Band we had the interval. One good thing about the Motherwell complex during the interval period, the facilities are very good. One can partake of a cup of tea, a shandy, or maybe something stronger from the bar. Also during this spell the Wishaw Press, who sponsored the Accordions Galore Concert for the second year, were busy selling raffle tickets under the guidance of Ian Cark, their publicity officer.
On the sponsorship side, the Wishaw Press affords us publicity leading up to the concert in their various newspapers i.e. Coatbridge and Airdrie Advertiser, Hamilton Advertiser etc. The publicity is invaluable and went a very long way to make the concert a success.
Second Half
The second half of the show started off with the Tom Veldon Accordion Orchestra.
Tom, a music teacher from Airdrie, with his accordion pupils have evolved a most pleasing accordion sound.
The arrangements and the harmonies are outstanding. A lot of hard work and practice had gone into the programme they played for us, and I am sure, by the response they had from the audience, Tom and the players would have thought it was very worthwhile.
Tom, you and your talented musicians have a unique sound. Many thanks for letting us hear it.
Willie McGuire then made his second appearance. This time he player music in his own style, proving his versatility as an ace button box player.
At the end of the spot he took an encore and played the Cuckoo Waltz.
All the other artistes had a second spot in the concert and they all gave of their best to a very appreciative audience.
I would like to mention a few highlights though from the second half. Gerry Conlon, the young accordionist, who accompanied the John McKenna Dancers. He did a solo spot, and what a tremendous player he is.
Keith Robertson, the 1986 Will Starr Memorial Shield Winner, did a spot in the second half. It was only a short item owning to time, but his playing has progressed by leaps and bounds, proving him a very worthy winner of last year’s contest.
The judges had, as usual, a hard task judging the 1987 Will Starr Memorial shiels contest. Bill Black and Margaret Starrs gave me the result of their judgement. I would like to stress this contest is on entertainment value. They chose Bruce Lindsay Jnr as the 1987 winner, Fiona Cousins 2nd and the veteran accordionist Willie McKeating as third.
Bruce Lindsay Jnr will hold the Shield for one year and I am sure, as a worthy winner, he will go on to better things.
The show, of course, closed with the Bill Black sound, and what more can you say about Bill and the Band except maybe excellent and glad of having your company to hear and see you again.
Many thanks to all the accordion fans who have consistently attended the Accordions Galore concert since its inception in 1979. It is only with your interest and dedication the future of the Scottish accordion scene will keep on flourishing.
Next year is the 10th year of the Accordions Galore concert. It will be a special Gala night. I would like to put out a call to all the Will Starr Shield winners from 1979 onwards to get in touch with me in the hope that they may be interested in doing a spot in next year’s show. Phone Bellshill 747469.
One last thing, many thanks to the B&F newspaper for its coverage of the Concerts since 1979. Your help has, and is, much appreciated, and a special thanks to all the artistes who have appeared in the past.
P.S. - proceeds, as usual, to charity. This year’s charity is the St Andrew’s Hospice, Airdrie, for the terminally ill and aged in Airdrie.
Readers Letters
Sir – I feel I must write to tell you how much I look forward to receiving my copy of the ‘B&F’ newspaper every month. Congratulations for producing such interesting news! Keep up the good work!
Accordion activities in our neck of the woods are virtually non-existent I am sorry to say. In pre-war days the music shops in Bolton used to be full of beautiful accordions like Scandalli, Ranco, Hohner etc. Now the same shops are full of guitars, keyboards, organs etc.
I am 72 years of age and when I was young in the 1920’s I used to love to listen to the wonderful accordion bands that used to perform in our local music halls. I remember listening to Primo Scala, Macari and his Dutch Serenaders, also the wonderful music of the great Toralf Tollafsen. He was in the South of England early this summer appearing at a Festival. I could not go unfortunately. There used to be a lot of accordion teachers in Bolton in those days, but I can’t find one now!
I became interested in accordion music when I was three years old. My late father brought back from France a beautiful melodeon when he was demobbed from the Army after the 14-18 war. He used to entertain all the family by playing for us. From then on I was well and truly ‘hooked’ on the beautiful sound he produced. He bought me a melodeon when I was six years old. It was an ‘Alvari’ and cost £3/10s, a lot of money in those days of mass unemployment.
I was brought up in very hard times because my dad was out of work for six years. No D.H.S.S. or the like in those days! But still I never remember any vandalism or house breaking. There was no TV, radio, hi-fi, etc so people used to make their own music and people were more closely knot as families. I suppose we were all happy that the terrible war was over.
I served in the Army for six years in the last war, 4½ in the Far East, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. When I was finally demobbed I bought a Hohner Verdi VN piano accordion and I taught myself to ‘knock out’ a few tunes. I still love to play (after a fashion). I would love to play better but I cannot find anyone to teach me. I have tried to find a teacher in Bolton, but no joy, so I will have to do the best I can. I also love to play the harmonica when I am too lazy to strap on the box.
I have found a pen friend by the name of Mr Alfie Eunson, who lives in Holm, in the Orkneys, all due to reading the B&F.
I wrote to the B.B.C. in London a few months ago telling them how much I enjoyed listening to the series of the ‘Scottish Fiddle Orchestra’. I have never enjoyed a programme as much as that. I wish they would come on again soon. Such beautiful music.
I had the pleasure of meeting George Hamilton the Fourth recently when he appeared in Bolton, singing Gosprl music and playing his guitar. He was interested in the B&F lapel badge that I was wearing and he asked me about all the activities in Scotland. He told me that his ancestor came from Scotland, hence his surname. He shook hands with me and gave me his autograph, which I cherish. He is a lovely personality and I will always remember him.
I have ordered a tie from B&F which I will be proud to wear during our coming visit to New Zealand to see our son and his wife and family who have three young daughters whom we have never seen. We are getting no younger, as they say, so we may as well go to see them while we are able. I will send you word when we get there. Maybe before the end of the year.
I served with the 3rd Battalion London Scottish during my service in Sicily and Italy after we got back from the Far East in 1942. Previous to that I was in the Royal Artillery. I had a lot of pals in the London Scottish who have from your part of the world, but alas I have no contact now. I would love to hear from some of them. If you could help, please!
Mr Harold Hampton
16 Callis Road, Deane, Bolton, Lancs
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Fleece Inn) – members only –
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) –
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) –
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 17th Jan 88 Craigallion
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) –
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Jock Loch and the Blackthorne Dance Band
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Tommy Ford
Dundee (The Marquee) – 4th Feb 88 Bill Black SDB
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel) 8th Jan 88 Fraser McGlynn Trio
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 28th Jan 88 Fiddlers 3 + 2
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) –
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 13th Jan 88 Graeme Mitchell SDB
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Driveway Inn) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 14th Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) -
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) – 19th Jan 88 David Ross SDB
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) – 18th Jan 88 David Wood
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) – 20th Jan 88 Glendale SDB
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 12th Jan 88 Graham Mitchell SDB
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 21st Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Peebles (Countryside Inn) – 28th Jan 88 Alan Gardiner SDB
Perth (Station Hotel) – 19th Jan 88 Jim Johnstone SDB
Premier NI (Camlin function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) – 12th Jan 88 Jimmy Yeaman & George Stirrat
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 7th Jan 88 Open Night
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Balloch
5. Banchory
6. Castle Douglas
7. Crieff
8. Derwentside
9. Dingwall & District
10. Dunblane & District
11. Dundee
12. Dunoon & Cowal
13. Forres
14. Fort William
15. Glendale
16. Highland
17. Kinlochsheil
18. Lesmahagow
19. Livingston
20. M.A.F.I.A.
21. Mauchline
22. Newtongrange
23. North Cumbria
24. North East
25. Peebles
26. Perth
27. Renfrew
28. Shetland
29. Tynedale
30. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1987 (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 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Buchan A&F Club
12. Button Key A&F Club (
13. Callander A&F Club (
14. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
24. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
45. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
46. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
47. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
48. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
49. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
50. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
51. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
52. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
53. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
54. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
55. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
56. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
57. Sutherland A&F Club (
58. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
59. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
60. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
61. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
62. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
63. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
67. Club Accord
68. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
71. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
72. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
73. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
74. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
75. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
76. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
77. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
78. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
79. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
80. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
81. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
82. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
83. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
84. Newcastleton Accordion Club
85. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
86. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
87. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
88. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
89. Wellbank A&F Club
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