Box and Fiddle
Year 09 No 06
March 1986
Price 30p
12 pages
8 month subscription £3.75
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
It is a good thing that the voice of the public can be heard in the right places sometimes. So many of you have written to BBC radio giving your views with regard to ‘TTF’ I do believe there could be a favourable announcement shortly. The professionals behind the scenes at the BBC do an excellent job, but occasionally they do slip up and I think that they are big enough to change their minds when they see what the public wants.
At Musselburgh last week of all the people I met there was only one complaint, a gentlemen complained about the technical ability of the accordionists. He didn’t doubt their skill, but in the process they had lost the feel for the traditional music. The lilt, the lift, the excitement, call it what you will, but our friend was disappointed, that is, until he went and listened to the accordion pipe section which restored some of his faith again.
It was fine to see so many young people getting themselves into groups and bands. This means they have an outlet for their talents and all the time spent is not wasted, the support and expenses of their parents. It’s all to the good of our musical culture.
Ladies’ Day at Musselburgh
By Ian Smith
The Musselburgh Festival has come and gone once again, and again it was a day of fun and drama. The top honours going to the ladies – Karen Leitch of Ayr winning the Senior Accordion, sister Lorna taking the Senior Fiddle and Jennifer Forrest, the Overall Championship.
Considering the wintery conditions, there was a great turnout of competitors and public and the Brunton Halls were lovely and warm and clean with a good selection of refreshments all day.
As usual, the younger competitors started early and as the day wore on one could sense the underlying excitement as the time drew on for the Trios section and finally the most popular, as the full hall testified to, the Band competition. This was fiercely contested and every band was handsomely applauded.
At 6.30pm the Winners’ Concert started and once again the Main Hall was filled to capacity and the audience went home thoroughly satisfied.
The dance band for the night was the young Craigowl SDB. This was a great opportunity for this young band. They acquitted themselves in a truly professional manner.
With more than 260 competitors, this was the last of the big three Festivals. The week before was the Glasgow Festival, of which more.
The Association wishes to thank every contestant who took part. There would be no Festival without them, their parents for their support, the public, the stewards and organisers. Such was the organisation that everything fell into place on time.
Finally to the trade stands in the front lobby, we hope you had a good day too and we would like to see you all next year.
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Craig Skinner (Blackridge)
2) Wayne Robertson (Arnroath)
3) Colin Brown (Balerno)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Lynn Gould (Huntly)
2) David Lowthian (Selkirk)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Junior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) James Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
2) Lynn Gould (Huntly)
3) Lynette Wood (Whitburn)
Senior Accordion Traditional Solo
1) Karin Leitch (Ayr)
2) Raymond Laidlaw (Pencaitland)
3) Sandy Watson (Armadale)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
2) Michael Philip (Cardenden)
3) Jennifer Forrest (Airdrie)
Accordion – Overall Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Jennifer Forrest (Airdrie)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig) & Emma Rayworth (Kirkfieldbank)
2) James & Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
3) Scott Higginson (Edinburgh) & Ian Brown (Edinburgh)
Trio
1) West Telferton Caledonian
2) Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
Band
1) West Telferton Caledonian (leader Andrew Knight)
Own composition
1) Alan Morrison (Forfar)
2) John Burns (Cumbernauld)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Lindsay Torrie (Armadale)
2) Craig Skinner (Blsckridge)
3) Derek Tolmie (Airdrie)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Angeline McCloy (Wishaw)
2) Garry McEwan (Gifford)
3) Wayne Robertson (Arbroath)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) David Preston (Shotts)
2) Stewart Law (Newmains)
3) Malcolm Rae (Mauchline)
Open Classical Solo
1) Alan Preston (Shotts)
2) Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
3) Una Bryson (Strathaven)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Stewart Law (Newmains) & Angeline McCloy (Wishaw)
2) Keith Robertson (Crossford) & Linda Barrie (Elsrickle)
3) Grant Leslie (Dunbar) & Alistair McEwan (Gifford)
Open Classical Duet
1) Scott Leslie (Dunbar) & James Grant (Eyemouth)
2) Morag Cunningham (Dunbar) & Julie Forsyth (Foulden)
3) Irene Grohler (Carluke) & Sandra Strachan (Wishaw)
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Mark MacDougall (Muir of Ord)
2) Eilidh Shaw (Taynault)
3) Inga Scott (Kintore)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig)
2) Allison Dewar (Kingskettle)
3) Emma Rayworth (Kirkfieldbank)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Strathspey, MSR
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
3) Gillian Simpson (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
3) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
Fiddle – Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
Dennis Morrison
by Jimmy Clinkscale
One of the busiest figures on the North-East Scotland music scene is 22-year-old Dennis Morrison, from Newmacher, Aberdeenshire. Dennis has been steeped in music since he was a toddler, and now passes on his expertise to a growing number of private pupils.
In this profile, Jimmy Clinkscale, of Aberdeen Music Centre, Aberdeen, takes a look at a young man who has a hectic year ahead of him.
There was always every chance that youngster Dennis Morrison would be bitten by the music bug as father Bob and mother Frances played drums and piano respectively in the Thistle Dance Band which was prominent on the North-East entertainment circuit.
Dennis began playing a piano at eight, but it was several years before he took up the piano accordion. “Initially, I found it too big and heavy, and it really did nothing for me.”
However, when he moved from Newmacher Primary School to Bankhead Academy he was firmly into the accordion and by the time he was 13 he was playing regularly every weekend in his folk’s band.
“We did all kinds of engagements – dances, social clubs, etc – playing all types of music, but I was always very interested in the Scottish dance band scene.”
And by the time he was 16 he had created a Trio featuring himself, Lawrence Marr on accordion and father Bob on drums, appearing mainly at A&F Clubs, although he was also emerging as the driving force behind the Thistle Dance Band.
He formed the Glenmor SDB and made his debut on BBC Radio’s ‘TTF’ at 18 and was gaining valuable experience guesting with well-known bandleaders such as John Ellis, Jack Sinclair and Grace MacCleaver.
And the highlight of his still fledgling career came when he guested with Paddy McGarr and the Gallowglass Ceili Band on a tour of Eire.
“That was a tremendous experience,” recalls Dennis. “I had followed the band for years, and, indeed, they were the first band that I ever saw on stage.”
By this time he was broadcasting fairly regularly – both on BBC and Aberdeen’s ILR station – NorthSound, and appeared at Aberdeen’s Capitol Theatre and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, although even now he has still to appear on stage in England.
And he was teaching private pupils on an extensive basis – both piano and accordion. The Thistle Dance Band then underwent a metamorphosis and emerged as Shamrock – a Country and Western combine which also plays regular gigs on the North-East circuit.
Dennis readily admits he is a great devotee of Irish music and his favourite accordionist is Fintan Stanley – “he has a marvelous technique.” The Irish connection is further emphasized by the admiration for the Gallowglass Ceili Band. “They have a particularly individualistic sound and, of course, the featuring of the saxophone gives their music quite another dimension.”
His links with the Gallowglass will be dtrengthened later this year when he will join them in Dublin and feature on an album recording.
Meantime the most exciting development of his career is the first album for the Glenmor SDB – recorded for David Silver on the Bluebell Label at Inverness.
The album, which should be in the shops shortly, will feature 12 tracks. There will be a strong leavening of pipe music and some Irish material. And look out for material from the Niel Gow and William Marshall collections.
Explains Dennis “I have been researching both collections. There is a great wealth of music there – really quality material.”
The line-up of the album is : Dennis Morrison (accordion), Frank Thomson (accordion), Charlie McKerron (fiddle), Pam Brough (piano), Ally Wilkie (drums) and Ray Leonard (string bass). Ray stood in for Brian Middleton who was on a working trip to Germany when the album was recorded.
Unfortunately, although the Glenmor pop up every now and then on the A&F Club circuit, they don’t make as many appearances as Dennis would like.
“Regretfully, there is not a lot of work for a six-piece band in the North-East as the market for Scottish dances is somewhat limited. And, of course, there is always the problem of getting everyone together at the same time.”
However, Dennis much enjoys the variety of playing both in a Scottish band and a Country and Western outfit. “I really enjoy the flexibility it gives you, and I much enjoy being able to have the opportunity of doing both.”
He will be returning to the Inverness recording studios later this year to cut a tape with Shamrock.
As a full-time musician, he has precious little spare time on his hands.
“Well, I am teaching three days a week and playing at least four nights a week, so I am kept on the go.”
His teaching practice is flourishing. “There is a tremendous interest in piano and accordion – particularly adult beginners, and there is no lack of work in this sphere.”
And he tips one of his pupils – Bob Black from Aberdeen – as a lad to watch out for. “Bob is very talented and one of my best pupils,” says Dennis, who is currently studying for a diploma in piano playing.
His own choice of accordion is a Paolo Soprani which he has had for ten years. “I am pretty happy with it,” he explains. “It has its own very individual sound which a lot of players don’t really have.”
Dennis, who is single, has no definite plans for the future and is content to take each day as it comes.
And with two bands running concurrently and a flourishing teaching set-up, he is well satisfied with his lot.
Letters to the Editor
Being an accordion player now for ten years and by no means a professional, although I do and have played on radio and television, I strive further each year to try and bring the accordion into all kinds of music.
To me, the accordion is not getting justice here is Ireland. It’s a pity, as such real, lovely sounds can be created from the accordion in the right hands. In some places people scorn and laugh when seeing an accordion in a band. There is more to playing an accordion properly than meets the eye.
There seems to be no help for those people who like the accordion and want to play it so much. Most professionals don’t want to be bothered giving a little help that could mean so much.
I would like to say that I would love to help those forgotten people who would so dearly love to play the piano accordion in teaching them as much as I know if they would like to write to me.
John Logue
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only – 6th April 86 Bill Black
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 3rd April 86 Graeme Mitchell
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 6th April 86 Robert Whitehead and the Danelaw SDB
Balloch (Denny Social Club) – 16th March Alan Roy
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 27th Mar 86 Robert Black SDB
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Thistle Inn) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 27th Mar 86
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 1st April 86
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 27th Mar 86 Lesmahagow Club
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 2nd April 86 Graeme Mitchell
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 12th Mar 86 Iain MacPhail SDB 9th April 86 Willie Simpson
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) – 14th Apr 86 Ian Powrie
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only -
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 17th Mar 86 Ian Powrie & Jimmy Blue
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 13th Mar 86 Addie Harper Trio 10th Apr 86 Sandy Nixon SDB
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 20th Mar 86 Charlie Cowie
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 31st Mar 86 Fraser McGlynn Trio
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) –
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) – 11th Mar 86 Alistair McDonald (of the Wick Band) 8th Apr 86 Graeme Mitchell & Neil McMillan
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) – 31st Mar 86 Addie Harper Trio
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 3rd April 86 Buchan Club and Huntly Loons
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Walmer (Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Alnwick
3. Balloch
4. Callander
5. Dingwall & District
6. Dunblane & District
7. Dundee
8. East Kilbride
9. Forres
10. Fort William
11. Highland
12. Kelso
13. Livingston
14. M.A.F.I.A.
15. Newtongrange
16. North East
17. Perth & District
18. Renfrew
19. Shetland
20. Thurso
21. Tynedale
22. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1985 (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. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
20. Dundee & District A&F Club
21. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
22. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
23. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
43. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
44. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
45. 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)
46. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
47. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
48. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
49. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
50. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
51. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
52. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
53. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
54. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
55. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
56. Sutherland A&F Club (
57. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
58. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
59. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
60. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
61. 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?)
62. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
63. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
64. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
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. Dornoch
71. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
72. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
73. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
75. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
76. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
77. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
78. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
79. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
80. Newcastleton Accordion Club
81. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
82. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
83. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
84. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
85. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £92
Half Page - £46
Quarter Page - £23
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
It is a good thing that the voice of the public can be heard in the right places sometimes. So many of you have written to BBC radio giving your views with regard to ‘TTF’ I do believe there could be a favourable announcement shortly. The professionals behind the scenes at the BBC do an excellent job, but occasionally they do slip up and I think that they are big enough to change their minds when they see what the public wants.
At Musselburgh last week of all the people I met there was only one complaint, a gentlemen complained about the technical ability of the accordionists. He didn’t doubt their skill, but in the process they had lost the feel for the traditional music. The lilt, the lift, the excitement, call it what you will, but our friend was disappointed, that is, until he went and listened to the accordion pipe section which restored some of his faith again.
It was fine to see so many young people getting themselves into groups and bands. This means they have an outlet for their talents and all the time spent is not wasted, the support and expenses of their parents. It’s all to the good of our musical culture.
Ladies’ Day at Musselburgh
By Ian Smith
The Musselburgh Festival has come and gone once again, and again it was a day of fun and drama. The top honours going to the ladies – Karen Leitch of Ayr winning the Senior Accordion, sister Lorna taking the Senior Fiddle and Jennifer Forrest, the Overall Championship.
Considering the wintery conditions, there was a great turnout of competitors and public and the Brunton Halls were lovely and warm and clean with a good selection of refreshments all day.
As usual, the younger competitors started early and as the day wore on one could sense the underlying excitement as the time drew on for the Trios section and finally the most popular, as the full hall testified to, the Band competition. This was fiercely contested and every band was handsomely applauded.
At 6.30pm the Winners’ Concert started and once again the Main Hall was filled to capacity and the audience went home thoroughly satisfied.
The dance band for the night was the young Craigowl SDB. This was a great opportunity for this young band. They acquitted themselves in a truly professional manner.
With more than 260 competitors, this was the last of the big three Festivals. The week before was the Glasgow Festival, of which more.
The Association wishes to thank every contestant who took part. There would be no Festival without them, their parents for their support, the public, the stewards and organisers. Such was the organisation that everything fell into place on time.
Finally to the trade stands in the front lobby, we hope you had a good day too and we would like to see you all next year.
Under 12 Traditional Accordion Solo
1) Craig Skinner (Blackridge)
2) Wayne Robertson (Arnroath)
3) Colin Brown (Balerno)
12 and Under 16 Traditional Solo
1) Lynn Gould (Huntly)
2) David Lowthian (Selkirk)
3) Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
Junior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) James Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
2) Lynn Gould (Huntly)
3) Lynette Wood (Whitburn)
Senior Accordion Traditional Solo
1) Karin Leitch (Ayr)
2) Raymond Laidlaw (Pencaitland)
3) Sandy Watson (Armadale)
Senior Accordion Pipe Music Solo
1) Brian Morrison (Forfar)
2) Michael Philip (Cardenden)
3) Jennifer Forrest (Airdrie)
Accordion – Overall Champion (The Bobby MacLeod Trophy)
Jennifer Forrest (Airdrie)
Junior Traditional Duet
1) Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig) & Emma Rayworth (Kirkfieldbank)
2) James & Mhairi Coutts (Kirkcaldy)
3) Scott Higginson (Edinburgh) & Ian Brown (Edinburgh)
Trio
1) West Telferton Caledonian
2) Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
Band
1) West Telferton Caledonian (leader Andrew Knight)
Own composition
1) Alan Morrison (Forfar)
2) John Burns (Cumbernauld)
Under 12 Classical Solo
1) Lindsay Torrie (Armadale)
2) Craig Skinner (Blsckridge)
3) Derek Tolmie (Airdrie)
Under 14 Classical Solo
1) Angeline McCloy (Wishaw)
2) Garry McEwan (Gifford)
3) Wayne Robertson (Arbroath)
Under 16 Classical Solo
1) David Preston (Shotts)
2) Stewart Law (Newmains)
3) Malcolm Rae (Mauchline)
Open Classical Solo
1) Alan Preston (Shotts)
2) Keith Dickson (Dolphinton)
3) Una Bryson (Strathaven)
Under 16 Classical Duet
1) Stewart Law (Newmains) & Angeline McCloy (Wishaw)
2) Keith Robertson (Crossford) & Linda Barrie (Elsrickle)
3) Grant Leslie (Dunbar) & Alistair McEwan (Gifford)
Open Classical Duet
1) Scott Leslie (Dunbar) & James Grant (Eyemouth)
2) Morag Cunningham (Dunbar) & Julie Forsyth (Foulden)
3) Irene Grohler (Carluke) & Sandra Strachan (Wishaw)
Junior Fiddle Solo - MSR
1) Mark MacDougall (Muir of Ord)
2) Eilidh Shaw (Taynault)
3) Inga Scott (Kintore)
Junior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Jacqueline Gilkes (Ledaig)
2) Allison Dewar (Kingskettle)
3) Emma Rayworth (Kirkfieldbank)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Strathspey, MSR
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
3) Gillian Simpson (Dundee)
Senior Fiddle Solo – Slow Air
1) Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
2) Joan McLachlan (Oban)
3) Stella Wilkie (Freuchie)
Fiddle – Overall Champion (The Angus Fitchet Trophy)
Lorna Leitch (Ayr)
Dennis Morrison
by Jimmy Clinkscale
One of the busiest figures on the North-East Scotland music scene is 22-year-old Dennis Morrison, from Newmacher, Aberdeenshire. Dennis has been steeped in music since he was a toddler, and now passes on his expertise to a growing number of private pupils.
In this profile, Jimmy Clinkscale, of Aberdeen Music Centre, Aberdeen, takes a look at a young man who has a hectic year ahead of him.
There was always every chance that youngster Dennis Morrison would be bitten by the music bug as father Bob and mother Frances played drums and piano respectively in the Thistle Dance Band which was prominent on the North-East entertainment circuit.
Dennis began playing a piano at eight, but it was several years before he took up the piano accordion. “Initially, I found it too big and heavy, and it really did nothing for me.”
However, when he moved from Newmacher Primary School to Bankhead Academy he was firmly into the accordion and by the time he was 13 he was playing regularly every weekend in his folk’s band.
“We did all kinds of engagements – dances, social clubs, etc – playing all types of music, but I was always very interested in the Scottish dance band scene.”
And by the time he was 16 he had created a Trio featuring himself, Lawrence Marr on accordion and father Bob on drums, appearing mainly at A&F Clubs, although he was also emerging as the driving force behind the Thistle Dance Band.
He formed the Glenmor SDB and made his debut on BBC Radio’s ‘TTF’ at 18 and was gaining valuable experience guesting with well-known bandleaders such as John Ellis, Jack Sinclair and Grace MacCleaver.
And the highlight of his still fledgling career came when he guested with Paddy McGarr and the Gallowglass Ceili Band on a tour of Eire.
“That was a tremendous experience,” recalls Dennis. “I had followed the band for years, and, indeed, they were the first band that I ever saw on stage.”
By this time he was broadcasting fairly regularly – both on BBC and Aberdeen’s ILR station – NorthSound, and appeared at Aberdeen’s Capitol Theatre and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, although even now he has still to appear on stage in England.
And he was teaching private pupils on an extensive basis – both piano and accordion. The Thistle Dance Band then underwent a metamorphosis and emerged as Shamrock – a Country and Western combine which also plays regular gigs on the North-East circuit.
Dennis readily admits he is a great devotee of Irish music and his favourite accordionist is Fintan Stanley – “he has a marvelous technique.” The Irish connection is further emphasized by the admiration for the Gallowglass Ceili Band. “They have a particularly individualistic sound and, of course, the featuring of the saxophone gives their music quite another dimension.”
His links with the Gallowglass will be dtrengthened later this year when he will join them in Dublin and feature on an album recording.
Meantime the most exciting development of his career is the first album for the Glenmor SDB – recorded for David Silver on the Bluebell Label at Inverness.
The album, which should be in the shops shortly, will feature 12 tracks. There will be a strong leavening of pipe music and some Irish material. And look out for material from the Niel Gow and William Marshall collections.
Explains Dennis “I have been researching both collections. There is a great wealth of music there – really quality material.”
The line-up of the album is : Dennis Morrison (accordion), Frank Thomson (accordion), Charlie McKerron (fiddle), Pam Brough (piano), Ally Wilkie (drums) and Ray Leonard (string bass). Ray stood in for Brian Middleton who was on a working trip to Germany when the album was recorded.
Unfortunately, although the Glenmor pop up every now and then on the A&F Club circuit, they don’t make as many appearances as Dennis would like.
“Regretfully, there is not a lot of work for a six-piece band in the North-East as the market for Scottish dances is somewhat limited. And, of course, there is always the problem of getting everyone together at the same time.”
However, Dennis much enjoys the variety of playing both in a Scottish band and a Country and Western outfit. “I really enjoy the flexibility it gives you, and I much enjoy being able to have the opportunity of doing both.”
He will be returning to the Inverness recording studios later this year to cut a tape with Shamrock.
As a full-time musician, he has precious little spare time on his hands.
“Well, I am teaching three days a week and playing at least four nights a week, so I am kept on the go.”
His teaching practice is flourishing. “There is a tremendous interest in piano and accordion – particularly adult beginners, and there is no lack of work in this sphere.”
And he tips one of his pupils – Bob Black from Aberdeen – as a lad to watch out for. “Bob is very talented and one of my best pupils,” says Dennis, who is currently studying for a diploma in piano playing.
His own choice of accordion is a Paolo Soprani which he has had for ten years. “I am pretty happy with it,” he explains. “It has its own very individual sound which a lot of players don’t really have.”
Dennis, who is single, has no definite plans for the future and is content to take each day as it comes.
And with two bands running concurrently and a flourishing teaching set-up, he is well satisfied with his lot.
Letters to the Editor
Being an accordion player now for ten years and by no means a professional, although I do and have played on radio and television, I strive further each year to try and bring the accordion into all kinds of music.
To me, the accordion is not getting justice here is Ireland. It’s a pity, as such real, lovely sounds can be created from the accordion in the right hands. In some places people scorn and laugh when seeing an accordion in a band. There is more to playing an accordion properly than meets the eye.
There seems to be no help for those people who like the accordion and want to play it so much. Most professionals don’t want to be bothered giving a little help that could mean so much.
I would like to say that I would love to help those forgotten people who would so dearly love to play the piano accordion in teaching them as much as I know if they would like to write to me.
John Logue
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Nag’s Head) – members only – 6th April 86 Bill Black
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 3rd April 86 Graeme Mitchell
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 6th April 86 Robert Whitehead and the Danelaw SDB
Balloch (Denny Social Club) – 16th March Alan Roy
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 27th Mar 86 Robert Black SDB
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Thistle Inn) –
Cleland (Dalrymple House) –
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Arduthie Hotel) –
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 27th Mar 86
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Hydro) – 1st April 86
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) –
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 27th Mar 86 Lesmahagow Club
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) – 2nd April 86 Graeme Mitchell
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) – 12th Mar 86 Iain MacPhail SDB 9th April 86 Willie Simpson
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) – 14th Apr 86 Ian Powrie
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – members only -
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 17th Mar 86 Ian Powrie & Jimmy Blue
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 13th Mar 86 Addie Harper Trio 10th Apr 86 Sandy Nixon SDB
Livingston (Golden Hind, Blackburn) – 20th Mar 86 Charlie Cowie
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) –
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 31st Mar 86 Fraser McGlynn Trio
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) –
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) – 11th Mar 86 Alistair McDonald (of the Wick Band) 8th Apr 86 Graeme Mitchell & Neil McMillan
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) – 31st Mar 86 Addie Harper Trio
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) – 3rd April 86 Buchan Club and Huntly Loons
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Walmer (Bridge of Allan) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Alnwick
3. Balloch
4. Callander
5. Dingwall & District
6. Dunblane & District
7. Dundee
8. East Kilbride
9. Forres
10. Fort William
11. Highland
12. Kelso
13. Livingston
14. M.A.F.I.A.
15. Newtongrange
16. North East
17. Perth & District
18. Renfrew
19. Shetland
20. Thurso
21. Tynedale
22. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1985 (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. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
20. Dundee & District A&F Club
21. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
22. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
23. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
26. Fintry A&F Club
27. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
28. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
29. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
30. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
31. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
32. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
36. Kintore A&F Club
37. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
38. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
39. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
40. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
41. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
42. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
43. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
44. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
45. 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)
46. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
47. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
48. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
49. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
50. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
51. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
52. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
53. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
54. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
55. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
56. Sutherland A&F Club (
57. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
58. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
59. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
60. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
61. 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?)
62. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
63. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
64. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
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. Dornoch
71. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
72. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
73. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
75. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
76. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
77. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
78. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
79. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
80. Newcastleton Accordion Club
81. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
82. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
83. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
84. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
85. Wellbank A&F Club
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