Box and Fiddle
Year 16 No 03
November 1992
Price 60p
12 pages
7 month subscription £7.00
Editor – Editor – Doug Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, Angus, DD8 1EQ
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
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
By the time you receive this issue, the Perth Festival will be over for another year. Unfortunately, with it falling on the last day of the month, it is too late to publish the winners in this issue. This month’s issue contains a very interesting batch of reader’s letters which I hope will make some of you reach for your pens! I dropped the ‘Point for Discussion’ this season due to the previous poor response. However, these letters are better than anything I could have suggested. Many thanks to the providers.
Finally, while at the North East Club earlier this month, I was saddened to hear of the death of Dod Wilson, a well-known and respected figure at clubs throughout Scotland. Our sympathies go to his wife Margaret and foster son, Danny.
Doug Adamson
Jim Halcrow
by Gussie Angus
“Excuse me gentlemen, are you from Scotland?”, asked the quietly spoken gentleman overhearing my wife and I chatting together whilst on holiday in Norway earlier this year. “Yes” I replied, somewhat surprised. “Do you know Jim Halcrow from Scalloway?” he further enquired. “As a matter of fact I do”, I answered in complete astonishment. This proved to be the rather bizarre prelude to a most interesting conversation with a distinguished Norwegian accordionist who extolled the fine playing qualities of this son of Scalloway.
He was not to know that Jim did not touch an accordion until he was 17½ when, in 1951 he had saved the necessary £22 to buy the second hand Alvari 80 bass from Forbes of Dundee – his first box. He then taught himself how to play it, transferring the self-taught techniques he had previously developed on his mother’s pedal driven American organ. How was it then, that a youngster, who never ever had a music lesson, who still can’t read music and who stayed in the relatively isolated Shetland village of Scalloway was to develop into the musician able to catch the imagination of the likes of the box player from Leirvik in Norway?
The teenager of 1951 already had a very keen ear which has not deserted him in the forty years since; rather it has become finer tuned and more discriminating as his eclectic musical taste discarded no tuneful option without a thorough testing.
Within a year of picking up the box, he was playing in what was to become Shetland’s top band for the next fifteen years- “The New Players”. The line up included Lollie Young on saxophone, Tammy Cogle on fiddle, Sonny Young on drums and Tom Georgeson on piano and vocals.
In later years, the band was supplemented by another young local hopeful on bass, Ron Mathewson, now resident in Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London.
The band was in constant demand for dances and functions throughout the islands as well as playing each weekend in the T.A. Hall, Lerwick where they regularly attracted crowds of 400 plus. The band eventually folded after Lollie Young’s health failed and Jim went on to for his own band after guesting with a local jazz group which included Peerie Willie, Drew Robertson and Frankie Sinclair, themselves refugees from Tammy Anderson’s Islesburgh Band.
By this time Jim had, after experiencing the vagaries of the construction and fishing industries, decided on a career move and, between 1972 and 1974, took himself off to college in Newark to train as a piano tuner. The box had, of course, accompanied him to England and he was not without offers at the end of his training, but thankfully returned home to live and work.
His new line-up had Ian Stewart on electric guitar, Ronnie Hunter on bass guitar and Jackie Sinclair on vocals, with Mitchell MacLeod on drums, and was soon the top band around, resident at the newly opened Lerwick Hotel. Jackie and Ian dropped out, eventually to be replaced by Jim’s pupil, Ian Nicolson on second box and daughter, Hazel on keyboard, as public taste began to demand a return to more traditional music.
Presently, son David plays lead box with Jim “filling in ahint” with Brian Morrison (former Senior Scottish Champion accordionist) on keyboard along with Mitchell and Ronnie.
Jim’s love affair with Scandinavian accordion music goes back to his earliest days and it has been said that nobody, including the Norwegians, plays a Norwegian Waltz like him, although Jim himself scoffs at the idea. He is, however, a leading exponent of this kind of music and can expect a chorus of requests for it whenever he plays in Shetland.
Jim, himself has visited Norway on several occasions, and he and the band had a most successful tour of West Norway in 1978. His guru over the past 40 years has been Norwegian virtuoso, Arnstein Johansen, whom he was eventually to meet in November, 1991 when Arnstein was a guest at the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Club. And what a meeting it was, over a weekend that took in the traditional breakfast tune in Gordon Jamieson’s Cullivoe home – suffice to say, the two became friends and now correspond.
Another hero Jim was to meet at the Club was Jack Emblow, but confesses to being so tongue-tied at the occasion that he didn’t make the best of it.
However, if you ask Jim, as I recently did, for his most treasured musical memories, he immediately refers to his tours with his pals in the Hamefarers Band of blessed memory – Willie Hunter, Ronnie Hunter, Jackie Robertson, Douglas Johnstone and, of course, the late, great Ronnie Cooper – we will never hear the like again I fear. How they all enjoyed their playing and the freshness and spontaneity and sheer fun of their performances will certainly live with those of us who remember them.
Other such memories include the visits, in the 1960’s of the original Ian Powrie Band and the mega sessions in Hayfield House Hotel in Lerwick (proprietor Frank Chadwick, first Chairman of the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Club) and the visit he, Willie Hunter and Ronnie Cooper made to the second Mull Festival and first met that other musical legend, Bobby MacLeod. He also fondly recalls the trip to the Lorient Festival in Brittany with Alistair Hunter and the Lorne Band.
Not surprisingly, Jim has many requests for tuition from local hopefuls, who would all probably be astonished to learn that Jim himself is still awaiting his first formal lesson. Over the years he has taught many players, the best known of whom include Colin Sutherland, Alan Nicolson, Ian Nicolson and Norma Tulloch, not to mention son, David.
Jim remains modest about his composing abilities, dismissing his dozen or so tunes as of little account, but, if pressed, will probably own up to a preference for the fine waltz he wrote to his wife of thirty years, Doreen.
A dedicated family man, he was proud to hand over his daughter Hazel’s right hand in marriage to bandleader Craig McCallum in July of this year and looks forward to spending Christmas with them in their new home in Aberdeen.
Meanwhile, with his thirty year old Morino IV, acquired from old friend Ian Holmes, he remains as much in demand locally as ever, and his duet playing with David is something else.
Dod Wilson (Obituary)
by John Sorrie
North East folk were saddened to hear of the sudden death of George Wilson, Bogenlea, Cumminestown, Aberdeenshire, on the 1st October, 1992. Better known to his friends as Dod, he was a well known figure at Accordion and Fiddle Clubs and T.S.M.A. Festivals throughout Scotland as well as locally.
A founder member of Turriff A&F Club, along with his wife Margaret, he was always playing his melodeons, mouth organs or tin whistle, either solo or sitting in with the rest of the group. There was hardly a club or Festival throughout the country that Dod and Margaret hadn’t attended and their friends span the length and breadth of the country.
A farming man, Dod always found time to go and entertain, and after he took early retirement in April last year, he and Margaret spent most of their time entertaining at concerts or Day Care Centres for the Elderly. There, he shared his love of music with the audiences and always had time to chat to them afterwards.
Dod is survived by his wife Margaret and foster son Danny, and will be sadly missed by his many friends locally and throughout Scotland.
Introducing the Clubs
No 11 Blairgowrie
by Irene Sutherland
The present Blairgowrie A&F Club, under the Chairmanship of Dave Sutherland, started in 1986. However, the actual Club goes back a number of years, even as far back as the late 1960’s, when it was managed by the well-known dance band leader George Bell. The Club itself has never stopped, despite many setbacks financially, particularly when our Treasurer, Betty Tasker, recalls she had the fantastic sum of 89 pence in total in our account. In the present healthy financial state of the Club, it is hard for Betty, and her husband Jack, to even think back to the ‘struggling years’.
Before I go into more details about our Club, perhaps I should introduce the readers to the Committee of the Blairgowrie Club. They are a rather motley crew to be running a successful A&F Club. The Chairman, at this time of year, can be found pottering amongst his dahlias (Dahlia Dave as he is known), being a successful dahlia grower, the Secretary (Irene Sutherland) is usually preparing for art exhibitions, Janet Nicol is one of Scotland’s top dog handlers, Betty and Jack Tasker are the true backbone of our Club as was previously stated, they kept it going through bad times.
The other members of the Committee are 3 farmers – Jim Thom, Chick Boath and Peter Ramsay. Peter was brought in when his wife, the former Joyce Reid, resigned as Secretary. Joyce must be mentioned as she was another one who kept the Club going in the bad times until she managed to persuade Dave Sutherland to ‘have a go’.
The last member is David Oswald, who represents the younger generation, and keeps all ‘the oldies’ up-to-date on what’s what in the music scene. David will soon be leaving for University, but hopefully will still be taking an interest in the Club.
The Blairgowrie Club has a membership of around 40, but on most Club nights throughout the year we have an excellent turnout, despite Blairgowrie Tourist Board running a Highland Night on the same evening throughout the summer. In summer we do well with the tourists, and in winter we rely on the enthusiasts who come along despite the weather. All players are welcomed and enjoyed at our Club, and the ages range from the very young to the senior citizen.
Each year we award a ‘Player of the Year’ Shield, and it keeps the interest going to see a player improving month by month. It is encouraging for the young players (although age is no limit for the trophy).
Recently, Dave spoke to a parent of one of the youngsters, who said it was great to see his two girls hurrying home from school and getting down to practicing their tunes for our next Club. It has always been Dave Sutherland’s policy to encourage the youngsters (as well as young bands as guests too). When Dave took over, and of course, much further back, some of the youngsters who came to our Club, are now well known bandleaders.
It would be foolish to name particular players in this article, as it would fill a few pages to name those who have popped in at Moorfield to have a tune, and at times Dave himself has felt embarrassed knowing that an excellent musician has appeared too late to be included on stage that evening. Dave’s aim is to give everyone a tune, but time is limited, and he has often to disappoint many players. However, he knows everyone understands, and will come along again.
The beginning of the evening is the time when players are scarce, and we can always rely on Chic Boath or Jim Thom (Committee members) to start the proceedings, and of course, Dave Oswald, is always our reliable 2nd box (much to Dave’s disgust!)
A mention should be made re the venue of our Club, as there are possibly very few Clubs in Scotland with such a lovely setting, and when stranger enter the door, they immediately feel they are going to enjoy their evening in such lovely surroundings. It is most satisfying for the writer of this article to see the happy looks on people’s faces when they leave the Club after each meeting, and to know that we have had another successful night. Of course, like all Clubs we cannot satisfy everyone, but the Chairman tries to book artistes whom he thinks go down well with the majority of the audience, but each year they are asked to make suggestions re guest artistes.
Our A.G.M. is November each year, but to get people interested in this meeting is almost impossible, and the Committee keep hoping when November comes, people will come along to air their views.
The standard of playing at out club is tremendous, and value for money – there is not a better evening’s entertainment to be had. If you are a S.D.B. enthusiast, sitting at Moorfield some Tuesday evening, it is overwhelming to see and hear the talent on stage. Long may it continue. I hope all readers of the ‘B&F’ come along to see us a Moorfield, and if you are a player, give us a ‘tune’.
The enthusiasm is so great for our Club, the 3 lads from the West Coast came along just for the evening and back home again throughout last summer. I think they have split up due to College and jobs, but if you are reading this lads “we miss you” – you know who you are!!! And to all other players – young and old – Blairgowrie’s success is due to you taking the stage at Moorfield.
Thanks everyone from the Secretary of the Blair Club (Dave’s better half).
New Dundee Club Chairman - Bruce Quirie
by Sandy Tulloch
Almost twenty-two years after its creation, Dundee A&F Club is to have a new Chairman. The ‘human dynamo’ Jack Cooper has retired but, of course, will remain ‘ex officio’ and available for advice from his vast experience.
Being Chairman of any Committee is a demanding undertaking and we are lucky indeed to have the vacancy filled by one of our younger members, banker and respected musician, Bruce Quirie. Bruce has been on the Committee for some time as Treasurer and looks forward to the challenge of being chairman, knowing he has a loyal and hard working Committee behind him.
The Quirie family have been and remain keen members of the Club for many years. Bruce and his sister Margaret were taken to the meetings in the early days and both developed a liking for and a skill in playing Scottish music. Bruce on accordion like his friend Gary Mair, and Margaret on fiddle.
His first accordion was a 48 bass Hohner and he was taught for four or five years by fellow member Jim Grogan, mainly on classical and Continental music. His obvious love of Scottish music came later and this was guided and encouraged by Jim. He studied and practiced hard for Festival and competitive playing and enjoyed this greatly at the time but admits it would not have the same appeal now, and that he is a nervous soloist.
I feel that however expert he is now on ‘second accordion’, he should do himself justice in future, overcome his shyness and show us his ability to lead more often. Reading music was taught at school and is no problem. But, like many of us these days he uses chord symbols rather than full music.
He graduated through a 96 bass instrument to a full size Bugari and started playing at the Dundee club meetings. At that time several teenagers were attending regularly – Kevin clark (piano accordion), David Scott (drums), Gillian Simpson (piano) and of course, sister Margaret (fiddle). Jack Cooper encouraged them to get together – which of course is the great advantage of Club playing – and from these days and the guidance of Tom Clark, the Craigown S.C.D.B. was formed. This combination has been immensely successful and incredibly managed to remain together despite the difficulties of developing careers. Much in demand for R.S.C.D.S. dancing, entertaining, broadcasting and recording, they have traveled widely.
Getting away from work is not too easy now and regretfully he had to decline the offer of a ten week American tour recently. He tells me he has had the pleasure of playing with other bandleaders and is always in demand at clubs in the area where his accompaniment skill is greatly appreciated. He obviously has the welfare of the N.A.A.F.C. at heart and gives the Clubs his full support.
I asked about other hobbies, but he shrugged his shoulders and said it was “masic, music, music all the way”.
A recent party in his flat must have been some event. He thinks there were about 40 musicians including 5 drummers. A neighbouring piper heard them from afar and asked if he could join the party in the wee sma’ hours.
We look forward to your chairmanship Bruce, and wish you and your hard working committee all success for the future – maybe not for 22 years like Jack – but who knows!
Your Letters
I wonder if a contributive cause of the decline of (or at the best static) audiences at many of our A&F Clubs is due to listening to repetitive ‘Scottish Dance Bands’?
I emphasise ‘listening’, because surely, by definition, their traditional and proper role is playing for dancing! It is a Band’s ‘drive’, ‘beat’, interpretation’, ‘skill’ that inspires and compliments the energy of the dancers. (No boredom threshold here!)
Now, obviously the laid-back friendliness of the Clubs is something to be preserved and built on. It is great to see, and yes, listen to local members doing their ‘spot’. There is often good banter, and above all an opportunity for young people to be welcomed and encouraged. It is the ‘guest spot’ – the so-called highlight of the evening that bothers me.
What I would really like to see, is an outstanding individual musician really entertaining us with a wide ranging programme of Scottish tunes, (new compositions as well as old) plus a certain amount of, dare I say ‘other music’. We could see and appreciate his or her skill on the instrument. How are pipe tunes handled? What tempo is given to jigs and reels? What feeling is put into, say, Gaelic Waltzes?
I suppose what I am really talking about is a quality individual ‘spot!’
In making these, I hope, constructive criticisms about the ‘listening monotony’ of S.D.B’s, I have a final one. Isn’t it time our poor friends on ‘second accordion’, was encouraged to make a greater contribution to the overall effect? Time and time again one sees the ‘glazed look’ on his or her face. (They often have time to have a ‘crack’ with folk nearby, during a number!) Chords are thumped out, occasionally a new one is found (oh!) and too many players appear to be on ‘auto-pilot’.
Where are the counter melodies, ornamentation, runs? Does the leader want to keep them out of it? Of course, I am speaking generalising, but I do feel that my point is valid in too many cases. It contributes to ‘ordinariness’.
Jim Cooper
Oban
One of my biggest grouches apart from not enough TV coverage of our music is, the so-called Rent-a-Band. Whilst it may be good for the bandleaders image, it is NOT good for Scottish music on the whole.
Gone are the days when one would switch on the radio and recognize the band instantly. I admit, there are a few that have their own distinctive sound left, and they are to be congratulated. However, to the circle of bands that use each others players, I say look at yourselves very carefully. There’s an awful lot of folk out there getting fed up of it. What will happen if John Smith retires from the drums, or Mary what’s-her-name on the piano emigrates, or Joe Blogg’s packs in the second box? About half a dozen bands would be left up the Zambeezee, that’s what!!
The point of my letter is, that there’s dozens of super players in Clubs up and down the country who could do the job, why not use them? Surely Robbie and his mates at the ‘Beeb’ could put a stop to this farce. How many times had a Club in any area booked a band, only to discover that there’s been three or four changes made since their broadcast? Not just once I bet.
Come on folks, let’s get some sparkle back into our music, let’s get these individual band sounds back. To me, Joe Bloggs and his SDB should be the same band you’d hear at the village hall, tourist gig or broadcast!!
Graham Wilson
Inverness
Not for the first time, the term ‘Rent-a-Band’ has appeared in your columns, and as I have already defended the so-called perpetrators of the crime, I will not do so at length here. Suffice to say it is virtually impossible to re-create a natural sound, although I have to admit modern technology is bringing the dreaded day closer. Therefore, unless we do away entirely with the six piece band, we are duty bound to preserve the natural sound. Enough said.
Now, to the main reason for writing. The word ‘Rent-a-band’ has triggered a fascinating idea which I hope will appeal to your readers.
Over the years, I have enjoyed the many diverse sounds of the different bands and it has been my pleasure to have played with one or two of them. I have often fanaticized as to my ideal six piece band, I mean the permutations of personnel are endless. To try and come up with the best mix is very difficult but how about –
1st accordion – Duncan Black
2nd accordion – David Hume
Fiddle – Willie Hunter
Piano – Graeme Mitchell
Drums – Max Ketchin
Bass – Neil McMillan
I would have to hope that Neil’s fingers blister after about 10 minutes so that I could at least get a wee tune with that line-up.
By naming these six players, I am not saying that they are the best in their respective fields, but I would certainly like to hear the noise they make.
I mentioned the idea to my brother Robert, and he came up with another one. Wouldn’t it be fantastic to try and get the ‘Dream Team’ together. To this end, if anyone has a line-up they would very much like to hear playing together, put it down on a postcard along with your favourite S.D.B. of all time and send it to me at the above address.
If it is at all possible, the Mull Festival Committee will arrange to have the dream band perform at the coming year’s Festival. Should it prove impossible to arrange, I will make sure all the findings are published in the ‘B&F’.
I look forward to a good response and thank you in anticipation.
Alasdair MacLeod
Tobermory
Book Review
The Ashbrooke Collection by Paul Capaldi – Review says “Although several inaccuracies occur throughout the collection, and some tunes are presented in a rather confusing manner, the pieces selected are very good tunes and are all very usable.”
Take the Floor
7th Nov 92 – Colin Dewar SDB
14th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
21st Nov 92 – Neil McEachern SDB
28th Nov 92 – Neil Barron SDB
Married in Scalloway Church of Scotland were Hazel Halcrow, 13 Meadowfield Road, Scalloway and Craig McCallum, 27 Charles Street Penicuik. Their reception was in the Shetland Hotel.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 24th Nov 92 – Bruce Lindsay Trio
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 1st Nov 92 - Lynn Gould SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 5th Nov 92 – Willie McFarlane Band
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 1st Nov 92 – Karen Higgins SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 15th Nov 92 – Alan Roy
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) – 25th Nov 92 – Deirdre Adamson
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 16th Nov 92 – Laurie School of Music
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 8th Nov 92 – Lindsay Weir SDB 21st Nov Dance to Jim Johnstone
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 10th Nov 92 – David Cunningham Jnr Quartet
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 17th Nov 92 – Ian Powrie
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 19th Nov 92 – Paddy Neary
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 17th Nov 92 – Donaldson Brothers
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 27th Nov 92 – Supper Dance to the Avon Accordion Band
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Iain Cathcart SDB 28th Nov Dance to Ian Hutson SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 17th Nov 92 – Bill Black SDB
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) – 5th Nov 92 – Blairgowrie Club
Dunfermline (Jubilee House) – 10th Nov 92 – Dick Black Band
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 26th Nov 92 – Ayr Club
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 18th Nov 92 – Children in Need Concert with Paddy Neary
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 23rd Nov 92 – Peter Bruce & Jim Muir
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 11th Nov 92 – Ian Cruickshank SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 19th Nov 92 – Glencraig SDB
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 18th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 16th Nov 92 – Neil MacEachern SDB
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 3rd Nov 92 – Oleg Sharov
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 25th Nov 92 – Lothian SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 9th Nov 92 – Jock Fraser Band
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Dennis Morrison Band
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 12th Nov 92 – Burns Brothers
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 17th Nov 92 – Raymond Carse
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 24th Nov 92 – Glencraig SDB 13th Nov Supper Dance in Balcastle
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite) 17th Nov 92 – John Laidlaw SDB
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Bill Black SDB
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 30th Nov 92 – James Coutts
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (Highlands Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 26th Nov 92 – Craig McVie SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 10th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 5th Nov 92 – David Vernon
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 8th Nov 92 – Simon howie SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 2nd Nov 92 – Michael Garvin Band 20th Nov Dance to Alan MacIntosh SDB 21st Nov Ceilidh
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Armadale
4. Banff
5. Belford
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Castle Douglas
9. Coalburn
10. Dalriada
11. Dingwall
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. Dunoon & Cowal
15. East Kilbride
16. Fintry
17. Forres
18. Glendale
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islesteps
23 Kinlochshiel
24. Kintore
25. Lesmahagow
26. Livingston
27. Lockerbie
28. Mauchline
29. Montrose
30. Newtongrange
31. North East
32. Peebles
33. Perth
34. Renfrew
35. Rothbury
36. Shetland
37. Stirling
38. Sutherland
39. Thurso
40. Tynedale
41. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Coalburn A&F Club (
17. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
18. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
19. Derwentside A&F Club
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
23. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
24. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
25. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
26. Ellon A&F Club (
27. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
28. Fintry A&F Club (
29. Forfar A&F Club (
30. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
31. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
32. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
33. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
34. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
35. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
36. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
37. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
38. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
39. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
40. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
41. Kintore A&F Club (
42. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
43. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
44. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
45. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
46. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
47. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
48. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
49. Mull A&F Club
50. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
51. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
52. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
53. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
54. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981 - present)
64. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
65. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
66. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
67. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
68. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
69. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
70. Buchan A&F Club
71. Callander A&F Club (
72. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
73. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Club Accord
75. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
76. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
77. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
78. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
79. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
80. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
81. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
82. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
83. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
84. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
85. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
86. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
87. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
88. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
89. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
90. Newcastleton Accordion Club
91. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
92. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
93. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
94. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
95. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
96. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
97. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
98. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £92
Half Page - £46
Quarter Page - £23
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
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
By the time you receive this issue, the Perth Festival will be over for another year. Unfortunately, with it falling on the last day of the month, it is too late to publish the winners in this issue. This month’s issue contains a very interesting batch of reader’s letters which I hope will make some of you reach for your pens! I dropped the ‘Point for Discussion’ this season due to the previous poor response. However, these letters are better than anything I could have suggested. Many thanks to the providers.
Finally, while at the North East Club earlier this month, I was saddened to hear of the death of Dod Wilson, a well-known and respected figure at clubs throughout Scotland. Our sympathies go to his wife Margaret and foster son, Danny.
Doug Adamson
Jim Halcrow
by Gussie Angus
“Excuse me gentlemen, are you from Scotland?”, asked the quietly spoken gentleman overhearing my wife and I chatting together whilst on holiday in Norway earlier this year. “Yes” I replied, somewhat surprised. “Do you know Jim Halcrow from Scalloway?” he further enquired. “As a matter of fact I do”, I answered in complete astonishment. This proved to be the rather bizarre prelude to a most interesting conversation with a distinguished Norwegian accordionist who extolled the fine playing qualities of this son of Scalloway.
He was not to know that Jim did not touch an accordion until he was 17½ when, in 1951 he had saved the necessary £22 to buy the second hand Alvari 80 bass from Forbes of Dundee – his first box. He then taught himself how to play it, transferring the self-taught techniques he had previously developed on his mother’s pedal driven American organ. How was it then, that a youngster, who never ever had a music lesson, who still can’t read music and who stayed in the relatively isolated Shetland village of Scalloway was to develop into the musician able to catch the imagination of the likes of the box player from Leirvik in Norway?
The teenager of 1951 already had a very keen ear which has not deserted him in the forty years since; rather it has become finer tuned and more discriminating as his eclectic musical taste discarded no tuneful option without a thorough testing.
Within a year of picking up the box, he was playing in what was to become Shetland’s top band for the next fifteen years- “The New Players”. The line up included Lollie Young on saxophone, Tammy Cogle on fiddle, Sonny Young on drums and Tom Georgeson on piano and vocals.
In later years, the band was supplemented by another young local hopeful on bass, Ron Mathewson, now resident in Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London.
The band was in constant demand for dances and functions throughout the islands as well as playing each weekend in the T.A. Hall, Lerwick where they regularly attracted crowds of 400 plus. The band eventually folded after Lollie Young’s health failed and Jim went on to for his own band after guesting with a local jazz group which included Peerie Willie, Drew Robertson and Frankie Sinclair, themselves refugees from Tammy Anderson’s Islesburgh Band.
By this time Jim had, after experiencing the vagaries of the construction and fishing industries, decided on a career move and, between 1972 and 1974, took himself off to college in Newark to train as a piano tuner. The box had, of course, accompanied him to England and he was not without offers at the end of his training, but thankfully returned home to live and work.
His new line-up had Ian Stewart on electric guitar, Ronnie Hunter on bass guitar and Jackie Sinclair on vocals, with Mitchell MacLeod on drums, and was soon the top band around, resident at the newly opened Lerwick Hotel. Jackie and Ian dropped out, eventually to be replaced by Jim’s pupil, Ian Nicolson on second box and daughter, Hazel on keyboard, as public taste began to demand a return to more traditional music.
Presently, son David plays lead box with Jim “filling in ahint” with Brian Morrison (former Senior Scottish Champion accordionist) on keyboard along with Mitchell and Ronnie.
Jim’s love affair with Scandinavian accordion music goes back to his earliest days and it has been said that nobody, including the Norwegians, plays a Norwegian Waltz like him, although Jim himself scoffs at the idea. He is, however, a leading exponent of this kind of music and can expect a chorus of requests for it whenever he plays in Shetland.
Jim, himself has visited Norway on several occasions, and he and the band had a most successful tour of West Norway in 1978. His guru over the past 40 years has been Norwegian virtuoso, Arnstein Johansen, whom he was eventually to meet in November, 1991 when Arnstein was a guest at the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Club. And what a meeting it was, over a weekend that took in the traditional breakfast tune in Gordon Jamieson’s Cullivoe home – suffice to say, the two became friends and now correspond.
Another hero Jim was to meet at the Club was Jack Emblow, but confesses to being so tongue-tied at the occasion that he didn’t make the best of it.
However, if you ask Jim, as I recently did, for his most treasured musical memories, he immediately refers to his tours with his pals in the Hamefarers Band of blessed memory – Willie Hunter, Ronnie Hunter, Jackie Robertson, Douglas Johnstone and, of course, the late, great Ronnie Cooper – we will never hear the like again I fear. How they all enjoyed their playing and the freshness and spontaneity and sheer fun of their performances will certainly live with those of us who remember them.
Other such memories include the visits, in the 1960’s of the original Ian Powrie Band and the mega sessions in Hayfield House Hotel in Lerwick (proprietor Frank Chadwick, first Chairman of the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Club) and the visit he, Willie Hunter and Ronnie Cooper made to the second Mull Festival and first met that other musical legend, Bobby MacLeod. He also fondly recalls the trip to the Lorient Festival in Brittany with Alistair Hunter and the Lorne Band.
Not surprisingly, Jim has many requests for tuition from local hopefuls, who would all probably be astonished to learn that Jim himself is still awaiting his first formal lesson. Over the years he has taught many players, the best known of whom include Colin Sutherland, Alan Nicolson, Ian Nicolson and Norma Tulloch, not to mention son, David.
Jim remains modest about his composing abilities, dismissing his dozen or so tunes as of little account, but, if pressed, will probably own up to a preference for the fine waltz he wrote to his wife of thirty years, Doreen.
A dedicated family man, he was proud to hand over his daughter Hazel’s right hand in marriage to bandleader Craig McCallum in July of this year and looks forward to spending Christmas with them in their new home in Aberdeen.
Meanwhile, with his thirty year old Morino IV, acquired from old friend Ian Holmes, he remains as much in demand locally as ever, and his duet playing with David is something else.
Dod Wilson (Obituary)
by John Sorrie
North East folk were saddened to hear of the sudden death of George Wilson, Bogenlea, Cumminestown, Aberdeenshire, on the 1st October, 1992. Better known to his friends as Dod, he was a well known figure at Accordion and Fiddle Clubs and T.S.M.A. Festivals throughout Scotland as well as locally.
A founder member of Turriff A&F Club, along with his wife Margaret, he was always playing his melodeons, mouth organs or tin whistle, either solo or sitting in with the rest of the group. There was hardly a club or Festival throughout the country that Dod and Margaret hadn’t attended and their friends span the length and breadth of the country.
A farming man, Dod always found time to go and entertain, and after he took early retirement in April last year, he and Margaret spent most of their time entertaining at concerts or Day Care Centres for the Elderly. There, he shared his love of music with the audiences and always had time to chat to them afterwards.
Dod is survived by his wife Margaret and foster son Danny, and will be sadly missed by his many friends locally and throughout Scotland.
Introducing the Clubs
No 11 Blairgowrie
by Irene Sutherland
The present Blairgowrie A&F Club, under the Chairmanship of Dave Sutherland, started in 1986. However, the actual Club goes back a number of years, even as far back as the late 1960’s, when it was managed by the well-known dance band leader George Bell. The Club itself has never stopped, despite many setbacks financially, particularly when our Treasurer, Betty Tasker, recalls she had the fantastic sum of 89 pence in total in our account. In the present healthy financial state of the Club, it is hard for Betty, and her husband Jack, to even think back to the ‘struggling years’.
Before I go into more details about our Club, perhaps I should introduce the readers to the Committee of the Blairgowrie Club. They are a rather motley crew to be running a successful A&F Club. The Chairman, at this time of year, can be found pottering amongst his dahlias (Dahlia Dave as he is known), being a successful dahlia grower, the Secretary (Irene Sutherland) is usually preparing for art exhibitions, Janet Nicol is one of Scotland’s top dog handlers, Betty and Jack Tasker are the true backbone of our Club as was previously stated, they kept it going through bad times.
The other members of the Committee are 3 farmers – Jim Thom, Chick Boath and Peter Ramsay. Peter was brought in when his wife, the former Joyce Reid, resigned as Secretary. Joyce must be mentioned as she was another one who kept the Club going in the bad times until she managed to persuade Dave Sutherland to ‘have a go’.
The last member is David Oswald, who represents the younger generation, and keeps all ‘the oldies’ up-to-date on what’s what in the music scene. David will soon be leaving for University, but hopefully will still be taking an interest in the Club.
The Blairgowrie Club has a membership of around 40, but on most Club nights throughout the year we have an excellent turnout, despite Blairgowrie Tourist Board running a Highland Night on the same evening throughout the summer. In summer we do well with the tourists, and in winter we rely on the enthusiasts who come along despite the weather. All players are welcomed and enjoyed at our Club, and the ages range from the very young to the senior citizen.
Each year we award a ‘Player of the Year’ Shield, and it keeps the interest going to see a player improving month by month. It is encouraging for the young players (although age is no limit for the trophy).
Recently, Dave spoke to a parent of one of the youngsters, who said it was great to see his two girls hurrying home from school and getting down to practicing their tunes for our next Club. It has always been Dave Sutherland’s policy to encourage the youngsters (as well as young bands as guests too). When Dave took over, and of course, much further back, some of the youngsters who came to our Club, are now well known bandleaders.
It would be foolish to name particular players in this article, as it would fill a few pages to name those who have popped in at Moorfield to have a tune, and at times Dave himself has felt embarrassed knowing that an excellent musician has appeared too late to be included on stage that evening. Dave’s aim is to give everyone a tune, but time is limited, and he has often to disappoint many players. However, he knows everyone understands, and will come along again.
The beginning of the evening is the time when players are scarce, and we can always rely on Chic Boath or Jim Thom (Committee members) to start the proceedings, and of course, Dave Oswald, is always our reliable 2nd box (much to Dave’s disgust!)
A mention should be made re the venue of our Club, as there are possibly very few Clubs in Scotland with such a lovely setting, and when stranger enter the door, they immediately feel they are going to enjoy their evening in such lovely surroundings. It is most satisfying for the writer of this article to see the happy looks on people’s faces when they leave the Club after each meeting, and to know that we have had another successful night. Of course, like all Clubs we cannot satisfy everyone, but the Chairman tries to book artistes whom he thinks go down well with the majority of the audience, but each year they are asked to make suggestions re guest artistes.
Our A.G.M. is November each year, but to get people interested in this meeting is almost impossible, and the Committee keep hoping when November comes, people will come along to air their views.
The standard of playing at out club is tremendous, and value for money – there is not a better evening’s entertainment to be had. If you are a S.D.B. enthusiast, sitting at Moorfield some Tuesday evening, it is overwhelming to see and hear the talent on stage. Long may it continue. I hope all readers of the ‘B&F’ come along to see us a Moorfield, and if you are a player, give us a ‘tune’.
The enthusiasm is so great for our Club, the 3 lads from the West Coast came along just for the evening and back home again throughout last summer. I think they have split up due to College and jobs, but if you are reading this lads “we miss you” – you know who you are!!! And to all other players – young and old – Blairgowrie’s success is due to you taking the stage at Moorfield.
Thanks everyone from the Secretary of the Blair Club (Dave’s better half).
New Dundee Club Chairman - Bruce Quirie
by Sandy Tulloch
Almost twenty-two years after its creation, Dundee A&F Club is to have a new Chairman. The ‘human dynamo’ Jack Cooper has retired but, of course, will remain ‘ex officio’ and available for advice from his vast experience.
Being Chairman of any Committee is a demanding undertaking and we are lucky indeed to have the vacancy filled by one of our younger members, banker and respected musician, Bruce Quirie. Bruce has been on the Committee for some time as Treasurer and looks forward to the challenge of being chairman, knowing he has a loyal and hard working Committee behind him.
The Quirie family have been and remain keen members of the Club for many years. Bruce and his sister Margaret were taken to the meetings in the early days and both developed a liking for and a skill in playing Scottish music. Bruce on accordion like his friend Gary Mair, and Margaret on fiddle.
His first accordion was a 48 bass Hohner and he was taught for four or five years by fellow member Jim Grogan, mainly on classical and Continental music. His obvious love of Scottish music came later and this was guided and encouraged by Jim. He studied and practiced hard for Festival and competitive playing and enjoyed this greatly at the time but admits it would not have the same appeal now, and that he is a nervous soloist.
I feel that however expert he is now on ‘second accordion’, he should do himself justice in future, overcome his shyness and show us his ability to lead more often. Reading music was taught at school and is no problem. But, like many of us these days he uses chord symbols rather than full music.
He graduated through a 96 bass instrument to a full size Bugari and started playing at the Dundee club meetings. At that time several teenagers were attending regularly – Kevin clark (piano accordion), David Scott (drums), Gillian Simpson (piano) and of course, sister Margaret (fiddle). Jack Cooper encouraged them to get together – which of course is the great advantage of Club playing – and from these days and the guidance of Tom Clark, the Craigown S.C.D.B. was formed. This combination has been immensely successful and incredibly managed to remain together despite the difficulties of developing careers. Much in demand for R.S.C.D.S. dancing, entertaining, broadcasting and recording, they have traveled widely.
Getting away from work is not too easy now and regretfully he had to decline the offer of a ten week American tour recently. He tells me he has had the pleasure of playing with other bandleaders and is always in demand at clubs in the area where his accompaniment skill is greatly appreciated. He obviously has the welfare of the N.A.A.F.C. at heart and gives the Clubs his full support.
I asked about other hobbies, but he shrugged his shoulders and said it was “masic, music, music all the way”.
A recent party in his flat must have been some event. He thinks there were about 40 musicians including 5 drummers. A neighbouring piper heard them from afar and asked if he could join the party in the wee sma’ hours.
We look forward to your chairmanship Bruce, and wish you and your hard working committee all success for the future – maybe not for 22 years like Jack – but who knows!
Your Letters
I wonder if a contributive cause of the decline of (or at the best static) audiences at many of our A&F Clubs is due to listening to repetitive ‘Scottish Dance Bands’?
I emphasise ‘listening’, because surely, by definition, their traditional and proper role is playing for dancing! It is a Band’s ‘drive’, ‘beat’, interpretation’, ‘skill’ that inspires and compliments the energy of the dancers. (No boredom threshold here!)
Now, obviously the laid-back friendliness of the Clubs is something to be preserved and built on. It is great to see, and yes, listen to local members doing their ‘spot’. There is often good banter, and above all an opportunity for young people to be welcomed and encouraged. It is the ‘guest spot’ – the so-called highlight of the evening that bothers me.
What I would really like to see, is an outstanding individual musician really entertaining us with a wide ranging programme of Scottish tunes, (new compositions as well as old) plus a certain amount of, dare I say ‘other music’. We could see and appreciate his or her skill on the instrument. How are pipe tunes handled? What tempo is given to jigs and reels? What feeling is put into, say, Gaelic Waltzes?
I suppose what I am really talking about is a quality individual ‘spot!’
In making these, I hope, constructive criticisms about the ‘listening monotony’ of S.D.B’s, I have a final one. Isn’t it time our poor friends on ‘second accordion’, was encouraged to make a greater contribution to the overall effect? Time and time again one sees the ‘glazed look’ on his or her face. (They often have time to have a ‘crack’ with folk nearby, during a number!) Chords are thumped out, occasionally a new one is found (oh!) and too many players appear to be on ‘auto-pilot’.
Where are the counter melodies, ornamentation, runs? Does the leader want to keep them out of it? Of course, I am speaking generalising, but I do feel that my point is valid in too many cases. It contributes to ‘ordinariness’.
Jim Cooper
Oban
One of my biggest grouches apart from not enough TV coverage of our music is, the so-called Rent-a-Band. Whilst it may be good for the bandleaders image, it is NOT good for Scottish music on the whole.
Gone are the days when one would switch on the radio and recognize the band instantly. I admit, there are a few that have their own distinctive sound left, and they are to be congratulated. However, to the circle of bands that use each others players, I say look at yourselves very carefully. There’s an awful lot of folk out there getting fed up of it. What will happen if John Smith retires from the drums, or Mary what’s-her-name on the piano emigrates, or Joe Blogg’s packs in the second box? About half a dozen bands would be left up the Zambeezee, that’s what!!
The point of my letter is, that there’s dozens of super players in Clubs up and down the country who could do the job, why not use them? Surely Robbie and his mates at the ‘Beeb’ could put a stop to this farce. How many times had a Club in any area booked a band, only to discover that there’s been three or four changes made since their broadcast? Not just once I bet.
Come on folks, let’s get some sparkle back into our music, let’s get these individual band sounds back. To me, Joe Bloggs and his SDB should be the same band you’d hear at the village hall, tourist gig or broadcast!!
Graham Wilson
Inverness
Not for the first time, the term ‘Rent-a-Band’ has appeared in your columns, and as I have already defended the so-called perpetrators of the crime, I will not do so at length here. Suffice to say it is virtually impossible to re-create a natural sound, although I have to admit modern technology is bringing the dreaded day closer. Therefore, unless we do away entirely with the six piece band, we are duty bound to preserve the natural sound. Enough said.
Now, to the main reason for writing. The word ‘Rent-a-band’ has triggered a fascinating idea which I hope will appeal to your readers.
Over the years, I have enjoyed the many diverse sounds of the different bands and it has been my pleasure to have played with one or two of them. I have often fanaticized as to my ideal six piece band, I mean the permutations of personnel are endless. To try and come up with the best mix is very difficult but how about –
1st accordion – Duncan Black
2nd accordion – David Hume
Fiddle – Willie Hunter
Piano – Graeme Mitchell
Drums – Max Ketchin
Bass – Neil McMillan
I would have to hope that Neil’s fingers blister after about 10 minutes so that I could at least get a wee tune with that line-up.
By naming these six players, I am not saying that they are the best in their respective fields, but I would certainly like to hear the noise they make.
I mentioned the idea to my brother Robert, and he came up with another one. Wouldn’t it be fantastic to try and get the ‘Dream Team’ together. To this end, if anyone has a line-up they would very much like to hear playing together, put it down on a postcard along with your favourite S.D.B. of all time and send it to me at the above address.
If it is at all possible, the Mull Festival Committee will arrange to have the dream band perform at the coming year’s Festival. Should it prove impossible to arrange, I will make sure all the findings are published in the ‘B&F’.
I look forward to a good response and thank you in anticipation.
Alasdair MacLeod
Tobermory
Book Review
The Ashbrooke Collection by Paul Capaldi – Review says “Although several inaccuracies occur throughout the collection, and some tunes are presented in a rather confusing manner, the pieces selected are very good tunes and are all very usable.”
Take the Floor
7th Nov 92 – Colin Dewar SDB
14th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
21st Nov 92 – Neil McEachern SDB
28th Nov 92 – Neil Barron SDB
Married in Scalloway Church of Scotland were Hazel Halcrow, 13 Meadowfield Road, Scalloway and Craig McCallum, 27 Charles Street Penicuik. Their reception was in the Shetland Hotel.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 24th Nov 92 – Bruce Lindsay Trio
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 1st Nov 92 - Lynn Gould SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 5th Nov 92 – Willie McFarlane Band
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 1st Nov 92 – Karen Higgins SDB
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 15th Nov 92 – Alan Roy
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) – 25th Nov 92 – Deirdre Adamson
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 16th Nov 92 – Laurie School of Music
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 8th Nov 92 – Lindsay Weir SDB 21st Nov Dance to Jim Johnstone
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 10th Nov 92 – David Cunningham Jnr Quartet
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 17th Nov 92 – Ian Powrie
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 19th Nov 92 – Paddy Neary
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 17th Nov 92 – Donaldson Brothers
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) – 27th Nov 92 – Supper Dance to the Avon Accordion Band
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Iain Cathcart SDB 28th Nov Dance to Ian Hutson SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 17th Nov 92 – Bill Black SDB
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) – 5th Nov 92 – Blairgowrie Club
Dunfermline (Jubilee House) – 10th Nov 92 – Dick Black Band
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 26th Nov 92 – Ayr Club
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 18th Nov 92 – Children in Need Concert with Paddy Neary
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 23rd Nov 92 – Peter Bruce & Jim Muir
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Brig Motel) – 11th Nov 92 – Ian Cruickshank SDB
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) – 19th Nov 92 – Glencraig SDB
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 18th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 16th Nov 92 – Neil MacEachern SDB
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 3rd Nov 92 – Oleg Sharov
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) –
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 25th Nov 92 – Lothian SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 9th Nov 92 – Jock Fraser Band
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Dennis Morrison Band
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 12th Nov 92 – Burns Brothers
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 17th Nov 92 – Raymond Carse
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 24th Nov 92 – Glencraig SDB 13th Nov Supper Dance in Balcastle
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Function Suite) 17th Nov 92 – John Laidlaw SDB
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 4th Nov 92 – Bill Black SDB
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 30th Nov 92 – James Coutts
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) –
Oban (Highlands Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 26th Nov 92 – Craig McVie SDB
Perth (Salutation Hotel) –
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 10th Nov 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 5th Nov 92 – David Vernon
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) - 8th Nov 92 – Simon howie SDB
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 2nd Nov 92 – Michael Garvin Band 20th Nov Dance to Alan MacIntosh SDB 21st Nov Ceilidh
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Arbroath
3. Armadale
4. Banff
5. Belford
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Castle Douglas
9. Coalburn
10. Dalriada
11. Dingwall
12. Dundee
13. Dunfermline
14. Dunoon & Cowal
15. East Kilbride
16. Fintry
17. Forres
18. Glendale
19. Gretna
20. Highland
21. Inveraray
22. Islesteps
23 Kinlochshiel
24. Kintore
25. Lesmahagow
26. Livingston
27. Lockerbie
28. Mauchline
29. Montrose
30. Newtongrange
31. North East
32. Peebles
33. Perth
34. Renfrew
35. Rothbury
36. Shetland
37. Stirling
38. Sutherland
39. Thurso
40. Tynedale
41. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1991 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
5. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Coalburn A&F Club (
17. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
18. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
19. Derwentside A&F Club
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? -
23. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
24. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
25. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
26. Ellon A&F Club (
27. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
28. Fintry A&F Club (
29. Forfar A&F Club (
30. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
31. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
32. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
33. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
34. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
35. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
36. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
37. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
38. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
39. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
40. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
41. Kintore A&F Club (
42. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
43. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
44. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
45. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
46. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
47. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986? - present)
48. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
49. Mull A&F Club
50. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
51. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
52. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
53. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
54. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981 - present)
64. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
65. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
66. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
67. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
68. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
69. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
70. Buchan A&F Club
71. Callander A&F Club (
72. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
73. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Club Accord
75. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
76. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
77. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
78. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
79. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
80. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
81. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
82. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
83. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
84. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
85. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
86. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
87. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
88. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
89. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
90. Newcastleton Accordion Club
91. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
92. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
93. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
94. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
95. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
96. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
97. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
98. Wellbank A&F Club
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