Box and Fiddle
Year 08 No 07
March 1985
Price 25p
12 pages
8 month subscription £3.20
Editor – Ian Smith, 50 Mount Vernon Road, Stranraer Tele 4098
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
Whilst every care is taken to be as accurate as possible there are occasions when one slips through the net. Our apologies to Paddy Neary for him being quoted as being as being at Kelso Club when he was in fact elsewhere (and it was Walter Perrie who if fact guested).
The AGM this year has been changed. The Dunblane Hydro was not available, so it’s back to the Salutation Hotel, Perth on Sunday 7th July followed by a luncheon. Details next month.
It is essential that guest artistes and potential guest artistes contact Andrew Nairn, Association Secretary. He is busy making up the new list and if your name, address and telephone number is not in his hand very soon, you won’t be on it for the next four years. It’s up to you and no-one else. Even if you are on the current list, ring him to make sure you are on the new list.
Have you seen the Association’s new car stickers. Great for car windows, music cases etc. Would Club Secretaries please order in bulk from Mr Willie Wilson, Todmill Farm, Beith Tele 0294-832709. They retail at 50p.
Pipes and Drums for 8th Mull Festival
The 8th Mull Music Festival takes place on 26th – 28th April, 1985 with many talented musicians coming to play in Tobermory, Dervaig and Bunessan. We are also very pleased to welcome the Pipes and Drums of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders to Mull once again – last year visitors to the Festival will remember their brilliant musical and marching displays.
This year they are to perform at a concert in the Isle of Mull hotel on the Friday evening and they will give a dancing display in the Aros Hall at the dance on the Friday evening.
On Saturday the Pipes and Drums will go to Bunessan in the morning and then give a concert in the Main Street, Tobermory in the late afternoon and on Sunday they will give a marching display in Salen at the Old People’s home in the morning, go to Dervaig at mid-day and then give a final performance in Tobermory in the afternoon before the ferry leaves for Oban.
Once again the Music Festival Society have engaged a distinguished top-ranking Continental musician, following in the tradition of the last few Festivals.
This year we are fortunate to have the brilliant young German accordion player Monika Klein-Travnicek from Trossingen to come and play at the concerts at Glengorm Castle near Tobermory on the Friday night, and at the Aros Hall concerts on the Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Monika, who plays a piano key accordion, has won many competitions, has made records, teaches, and has performed in the concert hall and on German TV.
At home in Germany, Monika performs a wide repertoire of classical and traditional music, but in Mull, as our Festival is one of traditional music, she will perform traditional Continental music. We look forward to hearing this talented musician in Mull.
We are also pleased to welcome to the 1985 Festival Ian Powrie, David Flockhart, Capercaillie from Taynault, Bill Torrance from Edinburgh, The Tommy Kettles Trio, Jim Johnstone and his Band and The Mayfield Players.
And from the considerable musical talent on the island of Mull itself, we are fortunate to have Duncan McGilp, Janet Macdonald, The Mull Gaelic Choir, The Torosay Singers, The Mull Fiddlers and the Isle of Mull Pipe Band, to perform at the concerts.
An important part of the Festival are the competitions for musicians of 16 years and under to be held as usual in the morning in the Aros Hall, Tobermory, with prize money of £25 for first place, £15 for second and £10 for third. The Open Competition to be held in the afternoon in the Aros Hall with money prizes of £50, £30 and £20.
There are also a number of Trophies to be won.
Once again there will be a piping competition in the Masonic Hall in tobermory on the Saturday afternoon with money prizes of £20, £10 and £5 for the adult prizes and £10, £5 and £2.50 for those of 16 years and under.
The prizewinners also get the chance to perform at the concert on the Saturday night in the Aros Hall.
Caledonian – Macbrayne have once more arranged for a special Sunday ferry which will leave Oban at 9.30am , call at Lochaline and arrive in Tobermory at 11.30am . Cal-Mac would like to point out that this year the car ferry will leave Tobermory at 17.30, call at Lochaline at 18.30 and arrive in Oban at 19.30
Patrons of the Festival should note that the ferry will NOT call at Craignure on the return journey to Oban, so passengers and their cars will have to catch the ferry at Tobermory if they wish to leave Mull on the Sunday evening.
The 1985 Festival promises to be a great weekend and if the sun shines as it did last year we will all be truly delighted.
For further details of the Mull Music Festival please contact Secretary Mrs Gillian King tele 0688 2422.
Livingston A&F Club 10th Anniversary
Derek MacLeod
by Murdo McLeod
In appreciation of the service given to Livingston A&F Club over the past 10 or 11 years of its existence, we have been featuring musicians who have helped to make the Club one of the most successful in the country.
It is difficult to gauge sometimes what makes for a healthy Club, but no doubt a feeling of identity with it is important.
This month, therefore, we are glad to feature another musician who has sustained our Club almost from its inception.
This is Derek MacLeod, well-known fiddler in his own right, and a long-standing member of the Strathalmond SDB.
Derek, originally from Dundee, graduated with a Degree in English and Medieval History from St Andrew’s University eons ago.
Besides being a seat of learning of long patronage, St Andrew’s is closely associated with the best in Scottish Country Dancing and the redoubtable Miss Jean Milligan, who instituted the successful and internationally known Summer Schools for the activity.
Indeed, Derek’s own love of music was clearly influenced by the strict tempo of the Country Dancing and the tutelage received from his late mother and aunt, Mrs Mary Whyte.
Few experiences as a bandsman give him more pleasure than playing at venues such as Ross Gardens on a balmy summer evening to a multitude of fleet-footed dancers responding to the lively beat of a good band!
Having spent a number of years south of the border, in Derby and Slough, and playing in his spare time in a small band known as the Cairngorm SDB, led by a three-row box player John McKenzie from Inverness, Derek moved north and soon entered the Scottish music scene here.
Early contact with Sandy Coghill led him to the Club at Livingston and eventually to the longstanding and fruitful relationship with Graham Ross and the Strathalmond Band.
In between times he gets paid for his services as a management consultant in the NHS.
In preparation for this, he lived and studied in the USA at the prestigious Cornell University for a degree in management. It was whilst in the New York area that he met and often discussed Irish music and indeed the finer points of a wide range of popular music with the famous Clancy Brothers.
Incidentally, it was whilst he was at St Andrew’s that he had as a fellow student one Douglas Muir, the basis of a life-long friendship.
From this period stems his very deep interest in the history of music as listeners to Robbie Shepherd’s programme will no doubt know.
All this points to a most interesting and varied background, both academically and musically, but not one incident, he assures us, gave him greater pleasure than the unique moment when on the gun court at Dunvegan Castle. At the time when he was attending the MacLeod Parliament there, Bobby MacLeod and Jim Johnstone, on official duties, invited him to make music with them. A unique setting – a unique experience indeed.
On being asked who he enjoys listening to himself there was no hesitation in his reply – Judith Davidson, for whom he has great respect and one of his favourite bands is John Ellis.
Derek has a high regard for the services the accordion clubs perform for the continuation of our music and the way they encourage the younger players to reach maturity.
Derek MacLeod, a man of impeccable manners and with a great love and knowledge of our Scottish music and dancing, is indeed an asset to any Club and we at Livingston are privileged to have him playing for us whenever his busy public life allows him to do that.
Moran Taing Dhuit A Ruaridh!
The 11th Musselburgh Accordion & Fiddle Championships
As I jot down this scribble the draw has just been completed for the playing order at this year’s Festival and as always at this point the excitement and anticipation build up as one recognizes so many familiar names among the competitors, together with a fair sprinkling of new ones.
Overall entries are up on last year, the most significant increase being in two of the duet sections. The Under 16 Classical in particular has had a great boost from 5 in 1984 to no less than 14 this year. This is a most encouraging sign with more players taking the time and trouble to team up and practice with one another.
There has also been a gratifying strengthing of the senior fiddle classes, albeit still relatively small, but the afternoon’s proceedings are set to go out on a high note with a record entry of no less than 12 bands.
We have players coming from all over Scotland and once again a competitor from Ballynahinch in Northern Ireland. Last year severe storms prevented him getting across – we all wish him luck this time.
An innovation at this year’s event in both the senior fiddle and senior traditional accordion classes. These overall championship awards will be presented to the players aggregating the highest total in the Slow Air and MSR (in the case of the fiddle) and for the two MRS sets (traditional and pipe) in the accordion competitions. We hope these new trophies will add to the interest, enjoyment and satisfaction of both players and audience.
On behalf of the Musselburgh Festival Committee may I wish you a very happy day and thank you for your support. Hope to see you again in 1986.
N.Y.W.
Ps Excellent refreshments will be available all day in the room adjacent to the main hall.
Musselburgh, as per usual, came up with it’s quota of drama, excitement and disappointments, yet who would be anywhere else on competition day?
We had the Colin Dewar Band winning both the Iain MacPhail Cup and the Arthur Easson Memorial Trophy. There was yet another 11-year-old slipping into the reckoning, young Scott Sneddon winning two firsts. Lorna Leitch with two firsts on the fiddle, with sister Karin winning the Senior Accordion Traditional. Neil Copland’s Trio winning the Trio for the third time.
Elizabeth Steven from Dunnet won her second Senior Accordion Pipe Solo and the, by now old-stager, yet still only 12, Dianne Armstrong walked off with yet two more trophies and so it goes on. The youngest competitor was Glenda Taylor of Beith.
After months of practice and dedication, our 250 competitors arrived to make this day a success and it is to them we owe a debt of gratitude. We in the Association are more than happy to arrange this competition and the response we’ve had over the past 11 years is most heartening.
The organisation this year was plagues with illness, yet such is the depth of resources and resourcefulness of Norrie Williams that the whole day went as planned and bang up to time.
The concert was a sell out and the audience were given a first-class show, compered by the Association Secretary Andrew Nairn who played his part well. The dance afterwards was packed to the door and everyone enjoyed the music of Jim Johnstone and his SDB.
Before we mention the winners there must be someone to judge each one, a long and onerous duty, but each adjudicator was a volunteer, therefore they must be commended, especially Bobby MacLeod who stepped in at the last minute.
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
2) Wayne Robertson (Arbroath)
3) Colin Brown (Balerno)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Dianne Armstrong (Armadale)
2) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
3) Bruce Lindsay (Kennoway)
Junior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Dale Galley (Forfar)
2) Alan Gardiner (Lamington)
3) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
Senior Accordion Traditional Solo
1) Karin Leitch (Ayr)
2) Roy Hendrie (Glasgow)
3) James Grant (Eyemouth)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Elizabeth Steven (Dunnet)
2) Alan Morrison (Forfar)
3) Alan Anderson (Aberdeen)
Accordion – Overall Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Alan Morrison (Forfar)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Dianne Armstrong (Armadale) & Lynette Wood (Whitburn)
2) Emma Rayworth (North Connel) & Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig)
3) Tracey Aitken (Bathgate) & Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
Trio
1) Neil Copland (Dundee)
2) Neil Caul (Kirriemuir)
Band
1) Colin Dewar (Kingskettle)
Own Composition
1) Donald Shaw (Taynault)
2) Raymond Laidlaw (Pencaitland)
3) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
2) Kirsty Benton (Carluke)
3) Graeme Forsyth (Foulden)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Stuart Law (Newmains)
2) John Simpson (Allanton)
3) Tracey Aitken (Bathgate)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) Ian Lowthian (Selkirk)
2) Elaine Hastie (Carluke)
3) Graham Jeffrey (Earlston)
Open Classical Solo
1) Alan Preston (Shotts)
2) Roy Hendrie (Glasgow)
3) James Grant (Eyemouth)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Alan Morrison (Carluke) & John Simpson (Allanton)
2) Ian Lowthian (Selkirk) & Wendy Davidson (Selkirk)
3) Graham & Lorna Jeffrey (Earlston)
Open Classical Duet
1) Scott Leslie (Dunbar) & James Grant (Eyemouth)
2) Alan & David Preston (Shotts)
3) Morag Cunningham (Dunbar) & Julie Forsyth (Foulden)
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Mark MacDougall (Muir of Ord)
3) Alison Smith (Edinburgh)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Alison Smith (Edinburgh)2) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
3) Kit Howcroft (Moniaive)
Senior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Bob Edward (Dundee)
2) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
3) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
2) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
3) Margaret Ellis
Fiddle – Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Stella Wilkie - Freuchie
It is particularly pleasing that no less than 12 bands took part, so much so that they must be named.
Karin Leitch (Ayr)
Neil Caul (Kirriemuir)
Ian Hutson (Dunbar)
Karen Higgins (Armadale)
Tommy Pringle (Selkirk)
Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
West Telferton (Edinburgh)
Mark Kenneth (Broughty Ferry)
Craig McCallum (Penicuik)
Donald Shaw (Taynault)
David Brown (Edinburgh)
Colin Dewar (Kingkettle)
The winning band was Colin Dewar (lead accordion), Colin Johnstone (second accordion), bobby Crease (fiddle), Dave Walters (double bass) and Gus Millar (drums).Alistair MacIntyre filled in on drums at the concert.
Overheard from the bar – where else in Scottish dance music would you see so many brilliant young players? Outside the competition the star of the day was seven-month-old Duncan. Never in his life will he have so many baby-sitters, even your Editor was one for a wee while.
So we come to the end of the 11th Festival. May we hope to see you all again next year.
P.S. Downstairs there were musical displays by Clinkscales, Bells and Gordon Simpsons of Edinburgh, a valuable addition to the Festival and there was also a stand selling music.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – I have had many encouraging letters from many unexpected sources, apropos my last article in the ‘B&F’ extolling the virtuosity or our young orchestras, bands and individual talented youngsters. Most encouraging were the comments.
I would welcome your views in particular with regard to funding, sponsorship, etc, or the lack of it. Perhaps in this prestigious European Year of Music 1985, which no doubt hopes to cultivate exchange views with regards to the different cultural, musical aspect particularly in the youth field could throw up a few surprises.
I would welcome some tangible assistance towards our talented youngsters from the Musicians Union, or indeed perhaps some of the nig Music Organisations could do some sponsorship on a practical basis.
Having been on the music scene for quite some time now I fully appreciate the immense sacrifices that parents and young folk make to ensure the continuance of our beautiful music. As you are all no doubt aware the cost of instruments has gone through the roof to the extent that quite a lot of talent has to lie dormant purely because of lack of finance to purchase instruments.
Some sort of sponsorship / grants are needed to assist our young talent in orchestras, bands, etc to remain together. But have you ever tried getting it? It amazes me the apathy that exists, particularly from City Fathers, Quangos, etc. They all blame the Iron Lady – turning their hands to Heaven and proclaiming “It’s the Cutbacks”. My attitude to that can be summers up in one word – Knickers! The cutbacks do not apply to everyone.
Perhaps the reason that we, in the ‘B&F’ scene are the Cinderellas of music is that we don’t have the ‘clout’ that the Big Professional Organisations have. I don’t think we are controversial enough, nor do parents of talented youngsters make enough waves to know where their taxes go – particularly in massive handouts from the Culture Buffs to artistes with ‘Snob Appeal Arts’.
Why should the dedicated (and sometimes more talented amateur young folk) be denied a wee slice of the cake.
Over the years I have never ceased to wonder at the willingness, in particular of our talented young orchestras, bands and individual performers to give their talents freely to perform for charitable and worthy causes. I am sure that vast sums are raised by their efforts. However, when it comes to getting some recognition or assistance for these same young folk it is amazing some of the excuses out forward.
Great strides forward have been made in the last few years by our own ‘B&F’ newspaper, some radio programmes and of course the fantastic work done by the many A&F Clubs, but our music is paraded purely in a parochial sense. I know in particular of a great many English devotees who would like to see the TV cameras visit and record an Accordion and Fiddle Club night (as would many of our Scots fans).
They would then be able to see, hear and appreciate PROPER Scottish talent instead of the ‘plastic rubbish’ which is purveyed once a year. I refer, of course, to the Hogmanay programmes on TV. Why not have a Spot for Scotland on TV, in the European Year of Music 1985.
What place is Scotland taking in the European Year of Music? None I suspect. I am willing to wager, however, that we will be inundated, via the media, with fully subsidized musical imports from countries abroad.
Although this article is in a pessimistic vein I must confess to being a Super Optimist as I am considerably heartened by the dedicated attitude of our up-and-coming youngsters who continue to delight us with their musical ability.
I think future prospects on the ‘B&F’ scene are good and that the Faithful are alive and kicking – but I don’t think they are kicking HARD ENOUGH….Why not send your ideas to the ‘B&F’? Let’s have a ‘Musical Explosion’ in 1985 and show the rest that music ‘reely’ lives here n Scotland.
John McIntee
Dunbeg, Oban, Argyll
Sir – It is in many ways gratifying for the consumers to see such a proliferation of new records appearing for us to buy, but might not the market be reaching saturation point?
In days gone by, the award of a recording contract was usually only attained after an artiste or band had proved their ability and popularity, whereas now recording seems to come first, and learning the craft comes later.
The results of such a policy not only results in some mediocre performances, but some disappointed performers whose recording careers crash before they have even taken off.
Whether the blame for this situation lies with the recording companies over supplying what seems to be a good market or whether it lies with players whose ambition exceeds their ability is something we may never discover.
At a meeting of my own Club the guest artiste played some selections from his latest LP which I enjoyed very much and bought the record, only to find when I played it that it bore little resemblance to the performance at the Club.
The accurate and sympathetic playing had been lost in a morass of double tracking and over-powerful accompaniment.
Of course, we must have recording to preserve our musical tradition and enjoy music in our homes, but over production and sub-standard performances will do more harm than good.
Eric J. M. Pert
Elgin
Moray
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 27th March 85 Lynn Shanks Trio
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 7th Apr 85 Rob Gordon SDB
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 21st April 85 Allan Smith SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 28th Mar 85 Ian Muir
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) – 11th April 85 Robert Black SDB
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 23rd March 85 Colin Finlayson SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 2nd April 85 Wallochmor
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) – 5th April 85 Dinner Dance Ian Duncan SDB
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 28th March 85 Alan Roy
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 3rd April 85 Wallochmor
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 25th March 85 Jimmy Mair Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 10th April 85 Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Fort William (Caol Community Club) – 22nd March 85 Buffet Dance Graeme Mitchell SDB
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only – 21st March 85 Craigowl
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th March 85 Jimmy Cassidy
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 27th March 85 Mark Winchester SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th April 85 Joe Vettraino Quartet (Wee Joe)
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 21st March 85 David Ross 18th April 85 Islesteps Club visit
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) – Feb 85 Oakbank Sound
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) – 17th April 85 Shannon Bros 22nd May Currie Bros
North East (Royal Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) –
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 1st April 85 Club and Dance Derek Hamilton SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 4th April 85 Jim Kennedy (Fort William)
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) – 6th April 85 Jim Johnstone Road show
Walmer (Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Balloch
5. Banff
6. Callander
7. Cleland
8. Dingwall
9. Dunblane
10. Dundee
11. Dunfermline & District
12. East Kilbride
13. Forres
14. Fort William
15. Highland
16. Kelso
17. Kintore
18. Lesmahagow
19. Lockerbie
20. Newtongrange
21. North Cumbria
22. North East
23. Perth & District
24. Renfrew
25. Shetland
26. Thurso
27. Tynedale
28. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1984 (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. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District (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. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
29. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
30. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
31. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
32. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
39. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
40. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
41. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
42. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
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. 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?)
63. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
64. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
65. Club Accord
66. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
67. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
68. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
69. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
70. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
71. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
72. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
73. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
74. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
75. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
76. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
77. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
78. Newcastleton Accordion Club
79. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
80. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
81. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
82. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
83. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
84. 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
Whilst every care is taken to be as accurate as possible there are occasions when one slips through the net. Our apologies to Paddy Neary for him being quoted as being as being at Kelso Club when he was in fact elsewhere (and it was Walter Perrie who if fact guested).
The AGM this year has been changed. The Dunblane Hydro was not available, so it’s back to the Salutation Hotel, Perth on Sunday 7th July followed by a luncheon. Details next month.
It is essential that guest artistes and potential guest artistes contact Andrew Nairn, Association Secretary. He is busy making up the new list and if your name, address and telephone number is not in his hand very soon, you won’t be on it for the next four years. It’s up to you and no-one else. Even if you are on the current list, ring him to make sure you are on the new list.
Have you seen the Association’s new car stickers. Great for car windows, music cases etc. Would Club Secretaries please order in bulk from Mr Willie Wilson, Todmill Farm, Beith Tele 0294-832709. They retail at 50p.
Pipes and Drums for 8th Mull Festival
The 8th Mull Music Festival takes place on 26th – 28th April, 1985 with many talented musicians coming to play in Tobermory, Dervaig and Bunessan. We are also very pleased to welcome the Pipes and Drums of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders to Mull once again – last year visitors to the Festival will remember their brilliant musical and marching displays.
This year they are to perform at a concert in the Isle of Mull hotel on the Friday evening and they will give a dancing display in the Aros Hall at the dance on the Friday evening.
On Saturday the Pipes and Drums will go to Bunessan in the morning and then give a concert in the Main Street, Tobermory in the late afternoon and on Sunday they will give a marching display in Salen at the Old People’s home in the morning, go to Dervaig at mid-day and then give a final performance in Tobermory in the afternoon before the ferry leaves for Oban.
Once again the Music Festival Society have engaged a distinguished top-ranking Continental musician, following in the tradition of the last few Festivals.
This year we are fortunate to have the brilliant young German accordion player Monika Klein-Travnicek from Trossingen to come and play at the concerts at Glengorm Castle near Tobermory on the Friday night, and at the Aros Hall concerts on the Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Monika, who plays a piano key accordion, has won many competitions, has made records, teaches, and has performed in the concert hall and on German TV.
At home in Germany, Monika performs a wide repertoire of classical and traditional music, but in Mull, as our Festival is one of traditional music, she will perform traditional Continental music. We look forward to hearing this talented musician in Mull.
We are also pleased to welcome to the 1985 Festival Ian Powrie, David Flockhart, Capercaillie from Taynault, Bill Torrance from Edinburgh, The Tommy Kettles Trio, Jim Johnstone and his Band and The Mayfield Players.
And from the considerable musical talent on the island of Mull itself, we are fortunate to have Duncan McGilp, Janet Macdonald, The Mull Gaelic Choir, The Torosay Singers, The Mull Fiddlers and the Isle of Mull Pipe Band, to perform at the concerts.
An important part of the Festival are the competitions for musicians of 16 years and under to be held as usual in the morning in the Aros Hall, Tobermory, with prize money of £25 for first place, £15 for second and £10 for third. The Open Competition to be held in the afternoon in the Aros Hall with money prizes of £50, £30 and £20.
There are also a number of Trophies to be won.
Once again there will be a piping competition in the Masonic Hall in tobermory on the Saturday afternoon with money prizes of £20, £10 and £5 for the adult prizes and £10, £5 and £2.50 for those of 16 years and under.
The prizewinners also get the chance to perform at the concert on the Saturday night in the Aros Hall.
Caledonian – Macbrayne have once more arranged for a special Sunday ferry which will leave Oban at 9.30am , call at Lochaline and arrive in Tobermory at 11.30am . Cal-Mac would like to point out that this year the car ferry will leave Tobermory at 17.30, call at Lochaline at 18.30 and arrive in Oban at 19.30
Patrons of the Festival should note that the ferry will NOT call at Craignure on the return journey to Oban, so passengers and their cars will have to catch the ferry at Tobermory if they wish to leave Mull on the Sunday evening.
The 1985 Festival promises to be a great weekend and if the sun shines as it did last year we will all be truly delighted.
For further details of the Mull Music Festival please contact Secretary Mrs Gillian King tele 0688 2422.
Livingston A&F Club 10th Anniversary
Derek MacLeod
by Murdo McLeod
In appreciation of the service given to Livingston A&F Club over the past 10 or 11 years of its existence, we have been featuring musicians who have helped to make the Club one of the most successful in the country.
It is difficult to gauge sometimes what makes for a healthy Club, but no doubt a feeling of identity with it is important.
This month, therefore, we are glad to feature another musician who has sustained our Club almost from its inception.
This is Derek MacLeod, well-known fiddler in his own right, and a long-standing member of the Strathalmond SDB.
Derek, originally from Dundee, graduated with a Degree in English and Medieval History from St Andrew’s University eons ago.
Besides being a seat of learning of long patronage, St Andrew’s is closely associated with the best in Scottish Country Dancing and the redoubtable Miss Jean Milligan, who instituted the successful and internationally known Summer Schools for the activity.
Indeed, Derek’s own love of music was clearly influenced by the strict tempo of the Country Dancing and the tutelage received from his late mother and aunt, Mrs Mary Whyte.
Few experiences as a bandsman give him more pleasure than playing at venues such as Ross Gardens on a balmy summer evening to a multitude of fleet-footed dancers responding to the lively beat of a good band!
Having spent a number of years south of the border, in Derby and Slough, and playing in his spare time in a small band known as the Cairngorm SDB, led by a three-row box player John McKenzie from Inverness, Derek moved north and soon entered the Scottish music scene here.
Early contact with Sandy Coghill led him to the Club at Livingston and eventually to the longstanding and fruitful relationship with Graham Ross and the Strathalmond Band.
In between times he gets paid for his services as a management consultant in the NHS.
In preparation for this, he lived and studied in the USA at the prestigious Cornell University for a degree in management. It was whilst in the New York area that he met and often discussed Irish music and indeed the finer points of a wide range of popular music with the famous Clancy Brothers.
Incidentally, it was whilst he was at St Andrew’s that he had as a fellow student one Douglas Muir, the basis of a life-long friendship.
From this period stems his very deep interest in the history of music as listeners to Robbie Shepherd’s programme will no doubt know.
All this points to a most interesting and varied background, both academically and musically, but not one incident, he assures us, gave him greater pleasure than the unique moment when on the gun court at Dunvegan Castle. At the time when he was attending the MacLeod Parliament there, Bobby MacLeod and Jim Johnstone, on official duties, invited him to make music with them. A unique setting – a unique experience indeed.
On being asked who he enjoys listening to himself there was no hesitation in his reply – Judith Davidson, for whom he has great respect and one of his favourite bands is John Ellis.
Derek has a high regard for the services the accordion clubs perform for the continuation of our music and the way they encourage the younger players to reach maturity.
Derek MacLeod, a man of impeccable manners and with a great love and knowledge of our Scottish music and dancing, is indeed an asset to any Club and we at Livingston are privileged to have him playing for us whenever his busy public life allows him to do that.
Moran Taing Dhuit A Ruaridh!
The 11th Musselburgh Accordion & Fiddle Championships
As I jot down this scribble the draw has just been completed for the playing order at this year’s Festival and as always at this point the excitement and anticipation build up as one recognizes so many familiar names among the competitors, together with a fair sprinkling of new ones.
Overall entries are up on last year, the most significant increase being in two of the duet sections. The Under 16 Classical in particular has had a great boost from 5 in 1984 to no less than 14 this year. This is a most encouraging sign with more players taking the time and trouble to team up and practice with one another.
There has also been a gratifying strengthing of the senior fiddle classes, albeit still relatively small, but the afternoon’s proceedings are set to go out on a high note with a record entry of no less than 12 bands.
We have players coming from all over Scotland and once again a competitor from Ballynahinch in Northern Ireland. Last year severe storms prevented him getting across – we all wish him luck this time.
An innovation at this year’s event in both the senior fiddle and senior traditional accordion classes. These overall championship awards will be presented to the players aggregating the highest total in the Slow Air and MSR (in the case of the fiddle) and for the two MRS sets (traditional and pipe) in the accordion competitions. We hope these new trophies will add to the interest, enjoyment and satisfaction of both players and audience.
On behalf of the Musselburgh Festival Committee may I wish you a very happy day and thank you for your support. Hope to see you again in 1986.
N.Y.W.
Ps Excellent refreshments will be available all day in the room adjacent to the main hall.
Musselburgh, as per usual, came up with it’s quota of drama, excitement and disappointments, yet who would be anywhere else on competition day?
We had the Colin Dewar Band winning both the Iain MacPhail Cup and the Arthur Easson Memorial Trophy. There was yet another 11-year-old slipping into the reckoning, young Scott Sneddon winning two firsts. Lorna Leitch with two firsts on the fiddle, with sister Karin winning the Senior Accordion Traditional. Neil Copland’s Trio winning the Trio for the third time.
Elizabeth Steven from Dunnet won her second Senior Accordion Pipe Solo and the, by now old-stager, yet still only 12, Dianne Armstrong walked off with yet two more trophies and so it goes on. The youngest competitor was Glenda Taylor of Beith.
After months of practice and dedication, our 250 competitors arrived to make this day a success and it is to them we owe a debt of gratitude. We in the Association are more than happy to arrange this competition and the response we’ve had over the past 11 years is most heartening.
The organisation this year was plagues with illness, yet such is the depth of resources and resourcefulness of Norrie Williams that the whole day went as planned and bang up to time.
The concert was a sell out and the audience were given a first-class show, compered by the Association Secretary Andrew Nairn who played his part well. The dance afterwards was packed to the door and everyone enjoyed the music of Jim Johnstone and his SDB.
Before we mention the winners there must be someone to judge each one, a long and onerous duty, but each adjudicator was a volunteer, therefore they must be commended, especially Bobby MacLeod who stepped in at the last minute.
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
2) Wayne Robertson (Arbroath)
3) Colin Brown (Balerno)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Dianne Armstrong (Armadale)
2) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
3) Bruce Lindsay (Kennoway)
Junior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Dale Galley (Forfar)
2) Alan Gardiner (Lamington)
3) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
Senior Accordion Traditional Solo
1) Karin Leitch (Ayr)
2) Roy Hendrie (Glasgow)
3) James Grant (Eyemouth)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Elizabeth Steven (Dunnet)
2) Alan Morrison (Forfar)
3) Alan Anderson (Aberdeen)
Accordion – Overall Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Alan Morrison (Forfar)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Dianne Armstrong (Armadale) & Lynette Wood (Whitburn)
2) Emma Rayworth (North Connel) & Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig)
3) Tracey Aitken (Bathgate) & Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
Trio
1) Neil Copland (Dundee)
2) Neil Caul (Kirriemuir)
Band
1) Colin Dewar (Kingskettle)
Own Composition
1) Donald Shaw (Taynault)
2) Raymond Laidlaw (Pencaitland)
3) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Scott Sneddon (Whitburn)
2) Kirsty Benton (Carluke)
3) Graeme Forsyth (Foulden)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Stuart Law (Newmains)
2) John Simpson (Allanton)
3) Tracey Aitken (Bathgate)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) Ian Lowthian (Selkirk)
2) Elaine Hastie (Carluke)
3) Graham Jeffrey (Earlston)
Open Classical Solo
1) Alan Preston (Shotts)
2) Roy Hendrie (Glasgow)
3) James Grant (Eyemouth)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Alan Morrison (Carluke) & John Simpson (Allanton)
2) Ian Lowthian (Selkirk) & Wendy Davidson (Selkirk)
3) Graham & Lorna Jeffrey (Earlston)
Open Classical Duet
1) Scott Leslie (Dunbar) & James Grant (Eyemouth)
2) Alan & David Preston (Shotts)
3) Morag Cunningham (Dunbar) & Julie Forsyth (Foulden)
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Mark MacDougall (Muir of Ord)
3) Alison Smith (Edinburgh)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Alison Smith (Edinburgh)2) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
3) Kit Howcroft (Moniaive)
Senior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Bob Edward (Dundee)
2) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
3) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
2) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
3) Margaret Ellis
Fiddle – Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Stella Wilkie - Freuchie
It is particularly pleasing that no less than 12 bands took part, so much so that they must be named.
Karin Leitch (Ayr)
Neil Caul (Kirriemuir)
Ian Hutson (Dunbar)
Karen Higgins (Armadale)
Tommy Pringle (Selkirk)
Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
West Telferton (Edinburgh)
Mark Kenneth (Broughty Ferry)
Craig McCallum (Penicuik)
Donald Shaw (Taynault)
David Brown (Edinburgh)
Colin Dewar (Kingkettle)
The winning band was Colin Dewar (lead accordion), Colin Johnstone (second accordion), bobby Crease (fiddle), Dave Walters (double bass) and Gus Millar (drums).Alistair MacIntyre filled in on drums at the concert.
Overheard from the bar – where else in Scottish dance music would you see so many brilliant young players? Outside the competition the star of the day was seven-month-old Duncan. Never in his life will he have so many baby-sitters, even your Editor was one for a wee while.
So we come to the end of the 11th Festival. May we hope to see you all again next year.
P.S. Downstairs there were musical displays by Clinkscales, Bells and Gordon Simpsons of Edinburgh, a valuable addition to the Festival and there was also a stand selling music.
Letters to the Editor
Sir – I have had many encouraging letters from many unexpected sources, apropos my last article in the ‘B&F’ extolling the virtuosity or our young orchestras, bands and individual talented youngsters. Most encouraging were the comments.
I would welcome your views in particular with regard to funding, sponsorship, etc, or the lack of it. Perhaps in this prestigious European Year of Music 1985, which no doubt hopes to cultivate exchange views with regards to the different cultural, musical aspect particularly in the youth field could throw up a few surprises.
I would welcome some tangible assistance towards our talented youngsters from the Musicians Union, or indeed perhaps some of the nig Music Organisations could do some sponsorship on a practical basis.
Having been on the music scene for quite some time now I fully appreciate the immense sacrifices that parents and young folk make to ensure the continuance of our beautiful music. As you are all no doubt aware the cost of instruments has gone through the roof to the extent that quite a lot of talent has to lie dormant purely because of lack of finance to purchase instruments.
Some sort of sponsorship / grants are needed to assist our young talent in orchestras, bands, etc to remain together. But have you ever tried getting it? It amazes me the apathy that exists, particularly from City Fathers, Quangos, etc. They all blame the Iron Lady – turning their hands to Heaven and proclaiming “It’s the Cutbacks”. My attitude to that can be summers up in one word – Knickers! The cutbacks do not apply to everyone.
Perhaps the reason that we, in the ‘B&F’ scene are the Cinderellas of music is that we don’t have the ‘clout’ that the Big Professional Organisations have. I don’t think we are controversial enough, nor do parents of talented youngsters make enough waves to know where their taxes go – particularly in massive handouts from the Culture Buffs to artistes with ‘Snob Appeal Arts’.
Why should the dedicated (and sometimes more talented amateur young folk) be denied a wee slice of the cake.
Over the years I have never ceased to wonder at the willingness, in particular of our talented young orchestras, bands and individual performers to give their talents freely to perform for charitable and worthy causes. I am sure that vast sums are raised by their efforts. However, when it comes to getting some recognition or assistance for these same young folk it is amazing some of the excuses out forward.
Great strides forward have been made in the last few years by our own ‘B&F’ newspaper, some radio programmes and of course the fantastic work done by the many A&F Clubs, but our music is paraded purely in a parochial sense. I know in particular of a great many English devotees who would like to see the TV cameras visit and record an Accordion and Fiddle Club night (as would many of our Scots fans).
They would then be able to see, hear and appreciate PROPER Scottish talent instead of the ‘plastic rubbish’ which is purveyed once a year. I refer, of course, to the Hogmanay programmes on TV. Why not have a Spot for Scotland on TV, in the European Year of Music 1985.
What place is Scotland taking in the European Year of Music? None I suspect. I am willing to wager, however, that we will be inundated, via the media, with fully subsidized musical imports from countries abroad.
Although this article is in a pessimistic vein I must confess to being a Super Optimist as I am considerably heartened by the dedicated attitude of our up-and-coming youngsters who continue to delight us with their musical ability.
I think future prospects on the ‘B&F’ scene are good and that the Faithful are alive and kicking – but I don’t think they are kicking HARD ENOUGH….Why not send your ideas to the ‘B&F’? Let’s have a ‘Musical Explosion’ in 1985 and show the rest that music ‘reely’ lives here n Scotland.
John McIntee
Dunbeg, Oban, Argyll
Sir – It is in many ways gratifying for the consumers to see such a proliferation of new records appearing for us to buy, but might not the market be reaching saturation point?
In days gone by, the award of a recording contract was usually only attained after an artiste or band had proved their ability and popularity, whereas now recording seems to come first, and learning the craft comes later.
The results of such a policy not only results in some mediocre performances, but some disappointed performers whose recording careers crash before they have even taken off.
Whether the blame for this situation lies with the recording companies over supplying what seems to be a good market or whether it lies with players whose ambition exceeds their ability is something we may never discover.
At a meeting of my own Club the guest artiste played some selections from his latest LP which I enjoyed very much and bought the record, only to find when I played it that it bore little resemblance to the performance at the Club.
The accurate and sympathetic playing had been lost in a morass of double tracking and over-powerful accompaniment.
Of course, we must have recording to preserve our musical tradition and enjoy music in our homes, but over production and sub-standard performances will do more harm than good.
Eric J. M. Pert
Elgin
Moray
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 27th March 85 Lynn Shanks Trio
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 7th Apr 85 Rob Gordon SDB
Balloch (Griffin Hotel, Alexandria) – 21st April 85 Allan Smith SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 28th Mar 85 Ian Muir
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) – 11th April 85 Robert Black SDB
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 23rd March 85 Colin Finlayson SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 2nd April 85 Wallochmor
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) – 5th April 85 Dinner Dance Ian Duncan SDB
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 28th March 85 Alan Roy
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 3rd April 85 Wallochmor
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) – 25th March 85 Jimmy Mair Trio
Forres (Brig Motel) – 10th April 85 Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Fort William (Caol Community Club) – 22nd March 85 Buffet Dance Graeme Mitchell SDB
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only – 21st March 85 Craigowl
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 18th March 85 Jimmy Cassidy
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 27th March 85 Mark Winchester SDB
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th April 85 Joe Vettraino Quartet (Wee Joe)
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 21st March 85 David Ross 18th April 85 Islesteps Club visit
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) – Feb 85 Oakbank Sound
Morecambe (Yorkshire Hotel, Lancaster) -
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) –
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) – 17th April 85 Shannon Bros 22nd May Currie Bros
North East (Royal Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Ex-Servicemen’s Club) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) –
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 1st April 85 Club and Dance Derek Hamilton SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 4th April 85 Jim Kennedy (Fort William)
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) – 6th April 85 Jim Johnstone Road show
Walmer (Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Balloch
5. Banff
6. Callander
7. Cleland
8. Dingwall
9. Dunblane
10. Dundee
11. Dunfermline & District
12. East Kilbride
13. Forres
14. Fort William
15. Highland
16. Kelso
17. Kintore
18. Lesmahagow
19. Lockerbie
20. Newtongrange
21. North Cumbria
22. North East
23. Perth & District
24. Renfrew
25. Shetland
26. Thurso
27. Tynedale
28. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1984 (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. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District (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. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
29. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
30. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
31. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
32. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
39. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
40. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
41. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
42. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
43. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
44. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
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. 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?)
63. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
64. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
65. Club Accord
66. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
67. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
68. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
69. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
70. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
71. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
72. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
73. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
74. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
75. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
76. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
77. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
78. Newcastleton Accordion Club
79. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
80. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
81. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
82. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
83. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
84. Wellbank A&F Club
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