Box and Fiddle
Year 34 No 05
January 2011
Price £2.60
44 Page Magazine
12 month subscription £28.60 + p&p £10.45 (UK)
Editor – Karin Ingram, Hawick
B&F Treasurer – Charlie Todd, Thankerton
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
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Thank you for all the good wishes and cards that came into The B&F.
Apologies for not yet having the report on The Perth Festival. The snow that’s been causing disruption nationwide has also meant that we’ve not yet received the photographs of the event. Fingers crossed it will be in the next issue. However thanks to Keith Dickson we have an article about the Senior All Scotland Accordion champion himself, the young ‘Milnathort Maestro’ Craig Paton.
Please note that due to holiday times the February issue also has an earlier deadline than usual.
Karin Ingram
The Milnathort Maestro
by Keith Dickson
A visit to the Milnathort Folk Festival provided the catalyst for 9-year-old Craig Paton’s interest in accordion music. The young Kinross-shire boy, who had started attending piano lessons a year earlier, was so impressed with Alan Small’s performance at the Festival that he asked the Lomond Ceilidh Band leader if he could teach him to play the accordion. Nine years on – Craig is crowned ‘All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion’.
I caught up with the 18-year-old ‘Milnathort Maestro’ last month, when he had just returned from performing at a St Andrew’s Night Gala Ball in Uganda, to talk about his musical education, influences, recent success and future plans and ambitions.
Musical Education
Craig started accordion lessons, aged nine, with Alan Small and within a few weeks was performing at the nearby Glenfarg A&F Club. Within a few months, as Craig was now receiving piano lessons in Perth, it was decided that it was more practical to move Craig to Ian Anderson at Wilkie’s Music House for accordion tuition. Two years later Craig was awarded a place at the prestigious Aberdeen City Music School (attached to Dyce Academy) where he would study secondary education for the next six years.
Now playing a Fisitalia 96 bass accordion, it was agreed that he would receive two sixty-minute accordion lessons per week from the school’s specialist accordion tutor, John Bone, as well as a weekly thirty-minute piano lesson from Barbara Payne.
A brief attempt at learning to play the fiddle ended unsuccessfully, however Craig’s accordion technique continued to improve consistently – winning the All Scotland Junior Accordion Championship three times! With no recent musical family history, Craig’s parents were extremely proud when he performed as Guest Atriste (aged 14) at the local Glenfarg A&F Club. Tragically, in September 2009, Craig’s father died suddenly of a heart condition. He regularly encouraged and assisted Craig with many projects including the release and artwork of the CD ‘Moving Forward’.
In September 2008, Craig was invited by Claudio Beltrami (accordion manufacturer in Stradella, Italy) to perform at the European Accordion Festival in Milan. This was followed in January 2009, when Craig was one of seven finalists (chosen from 15,000 children in the World Burns Federation Schools Competition) selected to attend and perform at the official launch of the Royal Mint Burns Coin and the Royal Mail burns Stamp Collection. During his visit he was invited to No. 10 Downing Street where he met The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown and The Chancellor, Alistair Darling.
Influences
A concert in Aberdeen featuring accordionists Romano Viazzani and Mauro Carra encouraged Craig to work on some classical accordion repertoire. Pieces included Hungarian Rhapsody – F. Liszt and Flight of the Bumblebee – N. Rimsky-Korsakov, which sounded great on his new Bugari Gold 120 bass instrument.
It was during his time in Aberdeen that Craig discovered the jazz music of legends Kenny Drew Jnr, Jack Emblow, Oscar Peterson and Martin Taylor as well as the Scottish dance band music of Simon Howie, Alasdair MacCuish and Tom Orr.
All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion 2003, Liam Stewart, was a great source of inspiration to Craig, regularly offering valuable advice and encouragement, particularly regarding band tunes and arrangements.
Recent Success
It was fitting that it was one of these major influences – Alasdair MacCuish, along with Gordon Shand, who awarded the young Milnthort accordionist the ‘All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion’ at Perth in October 2010. This was without doubt Craig’s finest moment of many years spent competing at Music Festivals around Scotland.
Future Plans and Ambitions
Craig is looking forward to performing at this year’s Shetland A&F Club Festival in October and on a Baltic Cruise with fiddler Andy Kain during the next few months. As well as continuing to teach privately Craig hopes to enter a university education to study Business and Finance later this year.
Angus Lyon – 3G
by
Lamington / Quothquan accordionist and composer angus Lyon is performing his new instrumental triptych 3G later this month as part of the Celtic Connections New Voices series. These Sunday lunchtime concerts, which run throughout the Festival, promote the composition of new works in Scotland with the aim of helping to keep traditional music alive and flourishing. Many of the musicians who are awarded the projects relish the opportunity to experiment with new styles and new influences. Some simply appreciate being given the chance to showcase their own work to a larger audience, often working with their musical colleagues to produce some of the greatest highlights of the Festival. Previous commissions include pianist James Ross’s ‘An Cuan’ (The Ocean) and accordionist Mairearad Green’s ‘Passing Places’, which received a standing ovation and earned a five-star review from The Scotsman.
3G evokes the experiences of three generations, from grandfather to grandson, of a family involved in a rural agricultural lifestyle, and explores the overlapping connections of each era. Angus, who currently manages Gran’s House recording studio in Lamington, is joined for this project by six other fine instrumentalists including Anna Massie, Innes Watson and Chaz Stewart.
3G is being performed in The Strathclyde Suite, Glasgow Royal Concert Hall at 1pm on Sunday January 30th, 2011.
Hobgoblin Music
by
The folk and traditional musical instrument specialists………
Lauder Autumn Festval
by Paul Capaldi
Diary of a Shetland Virgin
by Joan Blue
Actually, there were two Shetland Virgins – Richard Hughes and me. ………
NAAFC Festival News
by
With plans for the 2011 NAAFC Festival well underway………
Inspired by Mairearad Green
by Elspeth PorterThe Scots Music Group Intermediate Accordion Class…………
Royal College of Music London
by
Angus Strathspey & Reel Society
by
A very successful and enjoyable ………….
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
Bouncin’ Off the Keys – Amanda Robinson – Independent
Crossing the Spey – Raemond Jappy & Maureen Rutherford – RLJCD01
Letters to the Editor
Just a note to say how sad and shocked I was when I received a phone call from a good friend of mine, Graham Jamieson, to inform me of the sad news that Billy Thom had passed away suddenly. It was Graham who introduced me to Billy at Perth Festival in 1991 when John Carmichael’s Band was playing at the dance. Like others, Billy was a massive influence and inspiration to my own drumming and Billy and I became good friends. Billy was always only a phone call away for advice and his hospitality was second to none, both at his Dunblane home and at Dunblane Golf Club where he was not only a popular member but played there regularly with his own jazz quartet. I attended numerous musical events with Billyand his enthusiasm was unbelievable. He had a love for music and playing drums that was exceptional. Having had the honour and the pleasure of playing with Jim Johnstone’s Band, Jim and Billy Craib told me many a classic story about Billy, whilst he was a member of Jim’s Band!
Billy was a true innovator, in many ways an idol, with his approach to the drums; his style was instantly recognizable and he revolutionised traditional Scottish dance band drumming to the point his style became an impossible target to aim for. His many classic recordings with Bobby MacLeod, Andrew Rankine, John Carmichael, Jim Johnstone and Gordon Pattullo (to name but a few) were outstanding.
Billy set a standard way back in the 60s which, in my opinion, will be around for many years to come. Myself amongst other fellow drummers will constantly ‘try’ to get near the standard he set but I know myself, I’ll not get anywhere near it, but have a lot of fun and hard work trying!
The advice he gave to me and countless others will live on and become no doubt extremely valuable assets during the building of many musical careers. It’s still hard to take in that Billy, like a lot of traditional Scottish musical legends, is no longer among us but he remains with us through his enthusiastic spirit and character. I spoke to Billy two days before his untimely death and he was his usual self, telling me off for missing his last two jazz afternoons at the gold Club and discussing the musical interests we shared, mainly music and drumming!
The tribute and eulogy given at Dunblane Cathedral by Duncan Black was excellent and summed up Billy perfectly. The tributes on the Take the Floor tribute given by Gordon Smith, John Carmichael and Duncan were excellent also.
Billy, rest in peace my friend, colleague and fellow drummer. If I can do my bit to keep your memory and your music going I’ll be a happy man.
George R. Gray
I was deeply saddened when I heard of the death of Andrew Nairn, as I had a lot of respect for him, and his contribution and points of view were always welcome at the discussions we had at the NAAFC Committee meetings.
Occasionally when a decision had to be finalized Andrew would readily accept other opinions and agree to stand by the outcome.
It was a pleasure to visit his farm at Dunfermine when attending a meeting, and I know that view was shared by everyone concerned.
He was a man’s man and his sense of humour and strength of convictions could only be respected.
He was one of the stalwarts, whose service as Association Secretary no doubt provided a basis which could be built on for the NAAFC to be what it is today.
Our thoughts are with Mrs Margaret Nairn and family.
David Ross
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Robbie Shepherd (repeated on Sunday’s)
1st Jan 2011 – Nicol McLaren SDB (Repeat of Tribute to Kenneth McKellar)
8th Jan 11 – Selection of Band Leaders’ Choices
15th Jan 11 – Alan Gardiner SDB (Nicol McLaren on the 40th Anniversary of the NAAFC)
22nd Jan 11 – Tribute (Duncan Black, Marie & Own Fielding)
29th Jan 11 – Reel Thing Ceilidh Band - Live at Celtic Connections
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) – 25th Jan 11 – Neil Angus McNeil C.B.
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms – Shilbottle)
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 16th Jan 11 – Border Reivers
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 9th Jan 11 – Michael Philip SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – 16th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 26th Jan 11 – Iain MacDonald SDB
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) – 17th Jan 11 – Neil Caul SDB
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 9th Jan 11 – Craig Paton SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 11th Jan 11 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Britannia (Arden House Hotel) -
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) -
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 13th Jan 11 – Dochie McCallum & Friends 23rd Jan 11 – Shand Morino Gathering
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 4th Jan 11 – Liam Stewart SDB
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) -
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Country House Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Susan MacFadyen Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 20th Jan 11 – Alan Gardiner Trio
Coldingham (Village Hall) -
Crieff & District (Crieff Hotel)
Cults (Culter Sports & Social Club)
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 5th Jan 11 – Colin Donaldson SDB
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 19th Jan 11 – Players Night
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 11th Jan 11 – Club Night
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
Duns (Royal British Legion Club, Langtongate) 17th Jan 11 – Andy Kain SDB
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Nicol McLaren SDB
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 24th Jan 11 – Mhairi Coutts Trio
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 30th Jan 11 – Dave Husband Sound
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 12th Jan 11 – Jock Fraser SDB
Fort William (Railway Club, Inverlochy) - 11th Jan 11 – Ian Cameron (Glenelg)
Galashiels (Abbotsford Arms Hotel) –
Glendale (The Glendale Hall) - 27th Jan 11 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) -
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) -
Gretna (Athlitic & Social Club) - 9th Jan 11 – Gordon Pattullo
Haddington (Railway Inn) - 23rd Jan 11 – Gold Brothers
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 17th Jan 11 – Lynn Gould Trio
Inveraray (Argyll Hotel) - 12th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson Trio
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 6th Jan 11 – Ross MacPherson SDB
Islesteps (The Embassy Hotel) – 4th Jan 11 – Willie McRobert SDB
Kelso (Cross Keys Hotel) – 26th Jan 11 – Bon Accords
Kintore (Torryburn Arms Hotel) –
Ladybank (Ladybank Tavern) -
Lanark (Ravenstruther Hall) - 24th Jan 11 – David Oswald SDB
Langholm (Eskdale Hotel) – 12th Jan 11 – Club Night
Lauder (Black Bull Hotel) -
Lewis & Harris (Stornoway Legion) -
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 18th Jan 11 – Pentlands Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 25th Jan 11 – Alan Roy
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 18th Jan 11 – Kenny Thomson SDB
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 5th Jan 11 – Andy Kain Trio
Newburgh (The Ship Inn) - 27th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson SDB
Newmill-on-Teviot / Teviotdale (Thorterdykes Roadhouse) 30th Jan 11 – Open Day 2pm
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 31st Jan 11 – John Crawford Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (The Argyllshire Gathering) – 14th Jan 11 – Dance to Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Wayne Robertson Trio
Premier NI (Chimney Corner Hotel) -
Reading Scottish Fiddlers (Willowbank Infant School, Woodley) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 11th Jan 11 – Gary Blair Orchestra
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - 6th Jan 11 – Club Night – Supper Buffet
Scottish Accordion Music (Banchory) -
Selkirk (Angus O’Malley’s) - 13th Jan 11 – Lyn Kemp
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) -
Stonehouse (Stonehouse Violet Football Social Club) - 5th Jan 11 – Club Night
Sutherland (Rogart Hall) -
Thornhill (Bowling Club Hall) - 11th Jan 11 – Jamie Young SDB
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Turriff (Commercial Hotel, Cuminestown) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) - 8th & 22nd Jan 11 – Local Players
West Barnes (West Barnes Inn) 13th Jan 11 – Johnny Duncan Duo
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Local Bands Night + Guest Artiste
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Annan
2. Button-key
3. Castle Douglas
4. Coalburn
5. Duns
6. Forres
7. Glendale
8. Gretna
9. Highland
10. Isle of Skye
11. Lewis & Harris
12. Livingston
13. Mauchline
14. Newburgh
15. Oban
16. Orkney
17. Perth
18. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 2010
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
11. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Britannia B&F Club ( joined 07-08 but much older
13. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
16. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
17. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
18. Coalburn A&F Club (
19. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 -
20. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
21. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
22. Cults A & F Club (
23. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
24. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
25. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – present)
29. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
30. Ellon A&F Club (
31. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
32. Forfar A&F Club (
33. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
34. Fort William A&F Club (2009 -
35. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
37. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
38. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
39. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
40. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
41. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 - )
42. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
43. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
44. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
45. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
46. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
47. Kintore A&F Club (
48. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier
49. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
50. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
51. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
52. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
53. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
54 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
55 Maine Valley A&F Club (
56 Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
57 Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
58 Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded
59 Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
60 Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
61. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
62. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
63. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
64. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
65. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
66. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
67. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
68. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
69. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
70. Selkirk A&F Club (
71. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
72 Stonehouse A&F Club (first report June 05 -
73 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 -
74 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
75 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
76 Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
77 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
78 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
79 West Barnes ( - present)
80 Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
81. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
82. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
83. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
84. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
85. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
86. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
87. Buchan A&F Club
88 Callander A&F Club (
89 Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
90 Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
91 Club Accord
92 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
93. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
94. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
95. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
96. Derwentside A&F Club
97. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
98. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
99. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
100. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
101. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
102. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
103. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
104. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
105. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
106. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
107. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
108. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
109. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
110. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
111. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
112. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
113. Mull A&F Club
114. Newcastleton Accordion Club
115. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
116. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
117. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
118. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
119. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
120. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
121. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
122. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
123. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
124. Tranent A&F Club
125. Vancouver
126. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
127. Wellbank A&F Club
128. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
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Eighth Page - £18
Small Boxed £12
B&F Treasurer – Charlie Todd, Thankerton
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
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Thank you for all the good wishes and cards that came into The B&F.
Apologies for not yet having the report on The Perth Festival. The snow that’s been causing disruption nationwide has also meant that we’ve not yet received the photographs of the event. Fingers crossed it will be in the next issue. However thanks to Keith Dickson we have an article about the Senior All Scotland Accordion champion himself, the young ‘Milnathort Maestro’ Craig Paton.
Please note that due to holiday times the February issue also has an earlier deadline than usual.
Karin Ingram
The Milnathort Maestro
by Keith Dickson
A visit to the Milnathort Folk Festival provided the catalyst for 9-year-old Craig Paton’s interest in accordion music. The young Kinross-shire boy, who had started attending piano lessons a year earlier, was so impressed with Alan Small’s performance at the Festival that he asked the Lomond Ceilidh Band leader if he could teach him to play the accordion. Nine years on – Craig is crowned ‘All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion’.
I caught up with the 18-year-old ‘Milnathort Maestro’ last month, when he had just returned from performing at a St Andrew’s Night Gala Ball in Uganda, to talk about his musical education, influences, recent success and future plans and ambitions.
Musical Education
Craig started accordion lessons, aged nine, with Alan Small and within a few weeks was performing at the nearby Glenfarg A&F Club. Within a few months, as Craig was now receiving piano lessons in Perth, it was decided that it was more practical to move Craig to Ian Anderson at Wilkie’s Music House for accordion tuition. Two years later Craig was awarded a place at the prestigious Aberdeen City Music School (attached to Dyce Academy) where he would study secondary education for the next six years.
Now playing a Fisitalia 96 bass accordion, it was agreed that he would receive two sixty-minute accordion lessons per week from the school’s specialist accordion tutor, John Bone, as well as a weekly thirty-minute piano lesson from Barbara Payne.
A brief attempt at learning to play the fiddle ended unsuccessfully, however Craig’s accordion technique continued to improve consistently – winning the All Scotland Junior Accordion Championship three times! With no recent musical family history, Craig’s parents were extremely proud when he performed as Guest Atriste (aged 14) at the local Glenfarg A&F Club. Tragically, in September 2009, Craig’s father died suddenly of a heart condition. He regularly encouraged and assisted Craig with many projects including the release and artwork of the CD ‘Moving Forward’.
In September 2008, Craig was invited by Claudio Beltrami (accordion manufacturer in Stradella, Italy) to perform at the European Accordion Festival in Milan. This was followed in January 2009, when Craig was one of seven finalists (chosen from 15,000 children in the World Burns Federation Schools Competition) selected to attend and perform at the official launch of the Royal Mint Burns Coin and the Royal Mail burns Stamp Collection. During his visit he was invited to No. 10 Downing Street where he met The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown and The Chancellor, Alistair Darling.
Influences
A concert in Aberdeen featuring accordionists Romano Viazzani and Mauro Carra encouraged Craig to work on some classical accordion repertoire. Pieces included Hungarian Rhapsody – F. Liszt and Flight of the Bumblebee – N. Rimsky-Korsakov, which sounded great on his new Bugari Gold 120 bass instrument.
It was during his time in Aberdeen that Craig discovered the jazz music of legends Kenny Drew Jnr, Jack Emblow, Oscar Peterson and Martin Taylor as well as the Scottish dance band music of Simon Howie, Alasdair MacCuish and Tom Orr.
All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion 2003, Liam Stewart, was a great source of inspiration to Craig, regularly offering valuable advice and encouragement, particularly regarding band tunes and arrangements.
Recent Success
It was fitting that it was one of these major influences – Alasdair MacCuish, along with Gordon Shand, who awarded the young Milnthort accordionist the ‘All Scotland Senior Accordion Champion’ at Perth in October 2010. This was without doubt Craig’s finest moment of many years spent competing at Music Festivals around Scotland.
Future Plans and Ambitions
Craig is looking forward to performing at this year’s Shetland A&F Club Festival in October and on a Baltic Cruise with fiddler Andy Kain during the next few months. As well as continuing to teach privately Craig hopes to enter a university education to study Business and Finance later this year.
Angus Lyon – 3G
by
Lamington / Quothquan accordionist and composer angus Lyon is performing his new instrumental triptych 3G later this month as part of the Celtic Connections New Voices series. These Sunday lunchtime concerts, which run throughout the Festival, promote the composition of new works in Scotland with the aim of helping to keep traditional music alive and flourishing. Many of the musicians who are awarded the projects relish the opportunity to experiment with new styles and new influences. Some simply appreciate being given the chance to showcase their own work to a larger audience, often working with their musical colleagues to produce some of the greatest highlights of the Festival. Previous commissions include pianist James Ross’s ‘An Cuan’ (The Ocean) and accordionist Mairearad Green’s ‘Passing Places’, which received a standing ovation and earned a five-star review from The Scotsman.
3G evokes the experiences of three generations, from grandfather to grandson, of a family involved in a rural agricultural lifestyle, and explores the overlapping connections of each era. Angus, who currently manages Gran’s House recording studio in Lamington, is joined for this project by six other fine instrumentalists including Anna Massie, Innes Watson and Chaz Stewart.
3G is being performed in The Strathclyde Suite, Glasgow Royal Concert Hall at 1pm on Sunday January 30th, 2011.
Hobgoblin Music
by
The folk and traditional musical instrument specialists………
Lauder Autumn Festval
by Paul Capaldi
Diary of a Shetland Virgin
by Joan Blue
Actually, there were two Shetland Virgins – Richard Hughes and me. ………
NAAFC Festival News
by
With plans for the 2011 NAAFC Festival well underway………
Inspired by Mairearad Green
by Elspeth PorterThe Scots Music Group Intermediate Accordion Class…………
Royal College of Music London
by
Angus Strathspey & Reel Society
by
A very successful and enjoyable ………….
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
Bouncin’ Off the Keys – Amanda Robinson – Independent
Crossing the Spey – Raemond Jappy & Maureen Rutherford – RLJCD01
Letters to the Editor
Just a note to say how sad and shocked I was when I received a phone call from a good friend of mine, Graham Jamieson, to inform me of the sad news that Billy Thom had passed away suddenly. It was Graham who introduced me to Billy at Perth Festival in 1991 when John Carmichael’s Band was playing at the dance. Like others, Billy was a massive influence and inspiration to my own drumming and Billy and I became good friends. Billy was always only a phone call away for advice and his hospitality was second to none, both at his Dunblane home and at Dunblane Golf Club where he was not only a popular member but played there regularly with his own jazz quartet. I attended numerous musical events with Billyand his enthusiasm was unbelievable. He had a love for music and playing drums that was exceptional. Having had the honour and the pleasure of playing with Jim Johnstone’s Band, Jim and Billy Craib told me many a classic story about Billy, whilst he was a member of Jim’s Band!
Billy was a true innovator, in many ways an idol, with his approach to the drums; his style was instantly recognizable and he revolutionised traditional Scottish dance band drumming to the point his style became an impossible target to aim for. His many classic recordings with Bobby MacLeod, Andrew Rankine, John Carmichael, Jim Johnstone and Gordon Pattullo (to name but a few) were outstanding.
Billy set a standard way back in the 60s which, in my opinion, will be around for many years to come. Myself amongst other fellow drummers will constantly ‘try’ to get near the standard he set but I know myself, I’ll not get anywhere near it, but have a lot of fun and hard work trying!
The advice he gave to me and countless others will live on and become no doubt extremely valuable assets during the building of many musical careers. It’s still hard to take in that Billy, like a lot of traditional Scottish musical legends, is no longer among us but he remains with us through his enthusiastic spirit and character. I spoke to Billy two days before his untimely death and he was his usual self, telling me off for missing his last two jazz afternoons at the gold Club and discussing the musical interests we shared, mainly music and drumming!
The tribute and eulogy given at Dunblane Cathedral by Duncan Black was excellent and summed up Billy perfectly. The tributes on the Take the Floor tribute given by Gordon Smith, John Carmichael and Duncan were excellent also.
Billy, rest in peace my friend, colleague and fellow drummer. If I can do my bit to keep your memory and your music going I’ll be a happy man.
George R. Gray
I was deeply saddened when I heard of the death of Andrew Nairn, as I had a lot of respect for him, and his contribution and points of view were always welcome at the discussions we had at the NAAFC Committee meetings.
Occasionally when a decision had to be finalized Andrew would readily accept other opinions and agree to stand by the outcome.
It was a pleasure to visit his farm at Dunfermine when attending a meeting, and I know that view was shared by everyone concerned.
He was a man’s man and his sense of humour and strength of convictions could only be respected.
He was one of the stalwarts, whose service as Association Secretary no doubt provided a basis which could be built on for the NAAFC to be what it is today.
Our thoughts are with Mrs Margaret Nairn and family.
David Ross
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Robbie Shepherd (repeated on Sunday’s)
1st Jan 2011 – Nicol McLaren SDB (Repeat of Tribute to Kenneth McKellar)
8th Jan 11 – Selection of Band Leaders’ Choices
15th Jan 11 – Alan Gardiner SDB (Nicol McLaren on the 40th Anniversary of the NAAFC)
22nd Jan 11 – Tribute (Duncan Black, Marie & Own Fielding)
29th Jan 11 – Reel Thing Ceilidh Band - Live at Celtic Connections
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) – 25th Jan 11 – Neil Angus McNeil C.B.
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms – Shilbottle)
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 16th Jan 11 – Border Reivers
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 9th Jan 11 – Michael Philip SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – 16th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson Trio
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 26th Jan 11 – Iain MacDonald SDB
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) – 17th Jan 11 – Neil Caul SDB
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 9th Jan 11 – Craig Paton SDB
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 11th Jan 11 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Britannia (Arden House Hotel) -
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) -
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 13th Jan 11 – Dochie McCallum & Friends 23rd Jan 11 – Shand Morino Gathering
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 4th Jan 11 – Liam Stewart SDB
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) -
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Country House Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Susan MacFadyen Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 20th Jan 11 – Alan Gardiner Trio
Coldingham (Village Hall) -
Crieff & District (Crieff Hotel)
Cults (Culter Sports & Social Club)
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 5th Jan 11 – Colin Donaldson SDB
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 19th Jan 11 – Players Night
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 11th Jan 11 – Club Night
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
Duns (Royal British Legion Club, Langtongate) 17th Jan 11 – Andy Kain SDB
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Nicol McLaren SDB
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 24th Jan 11 – Mhairi Coutts Trio
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 30th Jan 11 – Dave Husband Sound
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 12th Jan 11 – Jock Fraser SDB
Fort William (Railway Club, Inverlochy) - 11th Jan 11 – Ian Cameron (Glenelg)
Galashiels (Abbotsford Arms Hotel) –
Glendale (The Glendale Hall) - 27th Jan 11 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) -
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) -
Gretna (Athlitic & Social Club) - 9th Jan 11 – Gordon Pattullo
Haddington (Railway Inn) - 23rd Jan 11 – Gold Brothers
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 17th Jan 11 – Lynn Gould Trio
Inveraray (Argyll Hotel) - 12th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson Trio
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 6th Jan 11 – Ross MacPherson SDB
Islesteps (The Embassy Hotel) – 4th Jan 11 – Willie McRobert SDB
Kelso (Cross Keys Hotel) – 26th Jan 11 – Bon Accords
Kintore (Torryburn Arms Hotel) –
Ladybank (Ladybank Tavern) -
Lanark (Ravenstruther Hall) - 24th Jan 11 – David Oswald SDB
Langholm (Eskdale Hotel) – 12th Jan 11 – Club Night
Lauder (Black Bull Hotel) -
Lewis & Harris (Stornoway Legion) -
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 18th Jan 11 – Pentlands Ceilidh Band
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 25th Jan 11 – Alan Roy
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 18th Jan 11 – Kenny Thomson SDB
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 5th Jan 11 – Andy Kain Trio
Newburgh (The Ship Inn) - 27th Jan 11 – Iain Anderson SDB
Newmill-on-Teviot / Teviotdale (Thorterdykes Roadhouse) 30th Jan 11 – Open Day 2pm
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 31st Jan 11 – John Crawford Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (The Argyllshire Gathering) – 14th Jan 11 – Dance to Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Wayne Robertson Trio
Premier NI (Chimney Corner Hotel) -
Reading Scottish Fiddlers (Willowbank Infant School, Woodley) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 11th Jan 11 – Gary Blair Orchestra
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - 6th Jan 11 – Club Night – Supper Buffet
Scottish Accordion Music (Banchory) -
Selkirk (Angus O’Malley’s) - 13th Jan 11 – Lyn Kemp
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) -
Stonehouse (Stonehouse Violet Football Social Club) - 5th Jan 11 – Club Night
Sutherland (Rogart Hall) -
Thornhill (Bowling Club Hall) - 11th Jan 11 – Jamie Young SDB
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) –
Turriff (Commercial Hotel, Cuminestown) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) - 8th & 22nd Jan 11 – Local Players
West Barnes (West Barnes Inn) 13th Jan 11 – Johnny Duncan Duo
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 18th Jan 11 – Local Bands Night + Guest Artiste
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Annan
2. Button-key
3. Castle Douglas
4. Coalburn
5. Duns
6. Forres
7. Glendale
8. Gretna
9. Highland
10. Isle of Skye
11. Lewis & Harris
12. Livingston
13. Mauchline
14. Newburgh
15. Oban
16. Orkney
17. Perth
18. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 2010
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
11. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Britannia B&F Club ( joined 07-08 but much older
13. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
16. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
17. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
18. Coalburn A&F Club (
19. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 -
20. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
21. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
22. Cults A & F Club (
23. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
24. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
25. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – present)
29. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
30. Ellon A&F Club (
31. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
32. Forfar A&F Club (
33. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
34. Fort William A&F Club (2009 -
35. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
37. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
38. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
39. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
40. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
41. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 - )
42. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
43. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
44. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
45. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
46. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
47. Kintore A&F Club (
48. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier
49. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
50. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
51. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
52. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
53. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
54 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
55 Maine Valley A&F Club (
56 Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
57 Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
58 Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded
59 Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
60 Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
61. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
62. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
63. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
64. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
65. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
66. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
67. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
68. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
69. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
70. Selkirk A&F Club (
71. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
72 Stonehouse A&F Club (first report June 05 -
73 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 -
74 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
75 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
76 Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
77 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
78 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
79 West Barnes ( - present)
80 Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
81. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
82. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
83. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
84. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
85. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
86. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
87. Buchan A&F Club
88 Callander A&F Club (
89 Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
90 Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
91 Club Accord
92 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
93. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
94. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
95. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
96. Derwentside A&F Club
97. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
98. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
99. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
100. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
101. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
102. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
103. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
104. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
105. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
106. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
107. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
108. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
109. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
110. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
111. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
112. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
113. Mull A&F Club
114. Newcastleton Accordion Club
115. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
116. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
117. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
118. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
119. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
120. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
121. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
122. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
123. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
124. Tranent A&F Club
125. Vancouver
126. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
127. Wellbank A&F Club
128. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
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