Box and Fiddle
Year 03 No 02
October 1979
Price 15p
8 pages
8 month subscription £1.75 (? Because this was the amount of the previous 7 month sub)
Editor - Ian Smith, 50 Mount Vernon Road, Stranraer
Editorial
It was with great pleasure that we announced in the paper that the accordion had come of age. The Education Authorities had recognised the worth of the accordion. Now the youngsters had something to aim for – the ‘O’ Level followed by the Highers. This was great, just the lift that the accordion needed. We are only ten years behind the Continent now.
We realised even then that this was the first step and that time would be gained so the next step could be planned. But time has run out. Already one young lad has done all this and is knocking on the door for the opportunity to proceed further. This young lad who wants to make a career with the accordion has had the door firmly shut in his face.
His parents, like us, took it for granted that there would be a next step, and in good faith spent a lot of money in helping their son all they could and the son responded by studying, practising and spending valuable time to get this far only to find a closed door.
Did the Education Authorities think that no accordionist had the ability to surmount their hurdles? Were they being patronizing when granting the ‘O’ level and the Higher? If it’s the lack on money, then some of those crazy grants that one sees from time to time should be withdrawn and given to something worthwhile.
It is true that the first into jungles blazes the trail, therefore it is up to everyone who is concerned that this new and brilliant breed of accordionists get their chance. Write to the Education Authorities, your MPs and to anyone else who can influence others to get this door opened.
The Caley’s Canadian Capers (or Drink Canada Dry)
by Jimmy Yeaman
On Saturday, 2nd June, 1979 at 8.15am, 50 musicians plus 5 singers – all members of the Glasgow Caledonian Strathspey & Reel Society – congregated outside their favourite hostelry, Kelly’s Bar in the Candleriggs. With wives, husbands, sweethearts and instruments the bus was boarded for Prestwick Airport en route to their second tour of Canada.
The musicians consisted of one conductor, 40 fiddlers, three double bassists, three accordionists and three pianists. The singers were soprano Margaret Church, baritone Bill Robertson and vocal trio The Tall Tones – Fay McDougall, Irene Hopkirk and Rena Pentland. The orchestra was augmented by players from the Elgin, Angus, Borders, Kilmarnock and Bearsden Strathspey & Reel Societies. For the record, both the Balloch and Milngavie Accordion & Fiddle Clubs were strongly represented.
The DC10 was boarded and took off on schedule at 11am. The recent scare and apprehensions regarding the undercarriage mounting bolts was soon dispelled (so I gave them something to think about for the rest of the flight by saying that surely there was more likelihood of them failing when we landed) and the excellent cabin staff supplied the passengers with free refreshments. Some of the hard core members of the band displayed a remarkable talent for convincing the air hostesses that their travel nerves could only be soothed by a regular and frequent supply of ‘medicine’ – a state of affairs that existed for a fortnight, even with feet firmly planted on terra firma. Approximately six hours after take off the plane landed at Toronto Airport and members disembarked, some with a degree of conviviality and joie de vivre that was to set the pattern for a momentous if somewhat hazy fortnight.
First Performance
The first performance of the orchestra took place on Tuesday evening at an open-air Scottish Country Dance in Sunnybrook Park, Toronto, run by the Toronto Scottish Country Dance Society. This is probably the largest Country Dance Society in the world and there was an attendance of a few hundred people there to listen and dance to the orchestra’s selections, which included playing for the demonstration Country Dance Team. The music for the rest of the evening was provided by the brilliant Bobby Brown Dance Band, and more about this excellent group can be read in a future edition of the ‘Box and Fiddle’.
On Friday, 8th June, the players and singers performed once more in the open-air – this time it was a lunchtime concert downtown at the Toronto dominion Centre in the heart of the commercial part of the city. Encircled by giant skyscrapers some 60 to 70 storeys high, concentration was difficult due to high winds playing havoc with the sheets of music (Editors note – polypockets had yet to be invented in 1979). It was the orchestras first performance in a Force 10 gale and more than one manuscript of Gow and Scott Skinner music were last seen flying over the tall buildings hell-bent for the Rocky Mountains. It is therefore within the realms of possibility that in some distant Indian Reservation some of the conductor Jimmy Moir’s many fine compositions could be the foundation of a camp fire that could send up smoke signals – and it’s the start of the Battle of the Little Big Horn all over again. This concert was recorded for Canadian television and was seen by millions of viewers two nights later.
The first major concert was held the next evening in Hamilton Place, Hamilton, Ontario. This incredibly beautiful and modern suite of halls impressed the players no end. Seating capacity is nearly 2,500 and the acoustics are rated fifth best in North America due to the fact that there are speakers placed under every second seat in the auditorium. The kilted members of the audience probably had the most pleasure out of this concert, and there was a permanent smile on their lips when Margaret Church and the Tall Tones were singing.
The next day, Sunday 10th June, afternoon and evening shows were held in the famous Massey Hall, Toronto. The setting here was in complete contrast to the previous evening and sadly this older fashioned building is due for demolition in the near future. There is no air conditioning in the Massey Hall and the afternoon concert was performed under near impossible conditions due to the intense humidity that day. Fortunately, the orchestra’s home, the King Edward Hotel, was within ten minutes walk and there was a beeline of players in between shows to rush back, have a cold shower and a change of shirt.
Refreshed in more ways than one, the orchestra and singers went on to give possibly their most memorable performance. Inspired by a fantastic 3,000 capacity audience, the atmosphere was electric. Conductor Jimmy Moir, in his inimitable way, had the Scots exiles dancing in the aisles and some of them were more on their feet than in their seats. The finale was charged with emotion as the musicians, singers and country dancers were given a standing ovation. In the end, the reel ‘Caddam Woods’ was ‘belted oot’ seven times in encore after encore and it seems for a while the night would never end.
Tuesday evening, 12th June, took the form of a cruise on Lake Ontario. On the outward trip the view of the lake and Toronto itself was magnificent and on the return journey as the sun set in a golden ball of fire, the sailors adjourned to the shelter of the cabin lounge to warm their innards with the Uisge Beatha. In no time at all a dozen or so fiddles, accordions and double basses were produced and the modern luxury cruiser returned to port to the sound od a very old-fashioned ceilidh.
Although the geographical setting was in marked contrast, for some strange reason the strains of ‘Over the Sea to Skye’ didn’t sound out of place as Lake Ontario ‘carried the lads’ into the metropolis of Toronto – a city of nearly three million souls. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that in this romantic setting two of the younger members of the party announced their engagement. Caroline Pirie and fiddler Rob Fowler, both from Elgin, received our best wishes and the promise of a 50-piece band to play at their wedding.
During the stay in Canada, one of the ‘finds’ of the fortnight was an Irish Pub called The Windsor Bar. Situated within five minutes’ staggering distance from the King ‘Eddie’ Hotel, it was renamed Kelly’s Bar and it was the scene of many a happy and riotous night. On Wednesday, 13th, the resident group stepped down from the stage and a dozen or so of the Caley players took over for two half-hour spots. From then on we were as welcome as the flowers in May and the Irish hospitality was overwhelming. To Jimmy the manager, who refused to let us pay for a drink, “thanks for your kindness and tolerance. You helped to make our holiday the success that it was.”
Anxious moment
By now, the orchestra, the singers and the demonstration country dancers were knotting together in a very efficient manner and the standard was improving with every performance. There was one anxious moment, however, when things nearly went wrong and this occurred on Thursday evening during the concert held in East Dale Collegiate Auditorium, Oshawa. It was during the second half of the show when conductor Jimmy Moir called for set No 18A from the music folio. Leader of the orchestra, the previously unflappable Ken McLean, flicked over the pages of his music, but instead of set 18A, in its place was a pin-up picture of a large, voluptuous and scantily-dressed lady, obviously extracted from the pages of a well-known men’s magazine.
Consternation set in, and as Ken’s glasses steamed up he was heard to utter something like ‘Gee Whizz’. Somehow the music commenced and Jimmy Moir, curious to see why his leader was furtively trying a cover-up operation, peered over the top on Ken’s music stand. Seconds later the baton flew out of his hand, glanced off fiddle player Cyril Robb and ended up clattering all over Walter Wright and hi8s drum-kit. It says a lot for the sheer professionalism of the instrumentalists that during this near-crisis neither was a grace note missed out nor a beat lost, when so easily a disaster could have occurred. Whoever was responsible for this dastardly plot is a mystery but for only a bottle of whisky the writer will reveal all.
The final concert was held in Scarborough Civic Centre on Saturday, 16th June at mid-day. The design and construction of this magnificent complex has to be seen to be believed and it was difficult to concentrate on the music when all around was modern architecture so way-out that it took the breath away. There was a tremendous Scottish atmosphere at this show due to the fact that the band spot was slotted into a festival and competition for Highland dancing and piping.
This then was the end of the official part of the tour but there were many unofficial ‘happenings’ during the fortnight. On the last night, Saturday, a cheese and wine reception party was provided for all the performers and this went on until the wee sma’ hours. A night to remember for some and a night a few would perhaps like to forget, as the wine was superseded by many drops of the ‘cratur’.
Tours of this dimension do not happen themselves and the success of the whole operation is due to the organizing ability of Scots/Canadian John McCuaig and Ken McLean from Glasgow. John’s generosity, kindness and consideration for all our whims and needs was above more than the spoken or written word can tell. Together with Ken their hours of work, frustration and anxiety resulted in a lot of pleasure for a lot of people. And also what of conductor Jimmy Moir M.B.E.! The genial giant who, on stage, held together in musical harmony and teamwork a motley band of minstrels, some of whose off-stage idiosyncrasies went beyond credulity. Jimmy’s personality and ability to communicate with his audience makes him quite irreplaceable.
The tour then had come and gone and during the two weeks the esprit de corps within the party was great. New friendships were made and old ones renewed and strengthened, and all in all a happy and unforgettable time was had by everyone.
Annual General Meeting
The Association’s AGM was held this year in the beautiful surroundings of the Dunblane Hydro on Sunday, 24th June. The reason for the change being that the Presentation Dinner for Jimmy Shand was to be that night. Mr Jimmy Blue, Chairman, welcomed the large turnout of delegates and hoped they would enjoy the whole day’s programme.
Secretary, Mr Andrew Nairn, started the meeting with the reading of the Minutes and told everyone of his first year as Secretary and how much he enjoyed being involved and writing to and meeting so many people. He reported that one new club had joined, Newtongrange, Dalkeith, and that Coupar angus Club may be joining forces with Kirriemuir Club. Banff Club sent their apologies for not being able to attend.
The Financial Report was given by Mr David Ross who complimented Miss Christine Hunter for her assistance. He reported that not withstanding the setbacks of the hard winter, the Association funds had remained fairly level. The ‘Box and Fiddle’ financial affairs had also broken even.
Festival Chairman’s Report
This was followed by the report of Mr Alex Little, Chairman of the Festival committee. He first of all complimented his committee for their hard work, effort and enthusiasm to help make Musselburgh Festival a success.
He also announced that there would be a new Section next year. This would be a Junior Scottish Section for Under 12. The next Festival would be held as usual on the first Saturday in February, that is the 2nd. He also said that the trophies were insured and the number of cups and trophies was in excess of what was required for the moment, but Mr Little added, he was grateful to the presenters for their interest and generosity with their donation of cups and trophies. It was a nice situation to be in.
Another change next year would be a change of band for the Dance after the Concert. This is to give an up-and-coming SDB a chance. Mr Little ended his report by announcing that a record of the Festival had been made and it would be coming out in the near future. Alex was immediately voted back as Chairman of the Festival Committee.
In reply, Mr Jimmy Blue, who was one of the adjudicators, said he judged 50 juniors and 40 seniors and this was fantastic. He added “This is a new breed and thank God I’m 50”.
Before a short break for refreshments two resolutions were taken. Subscriptions rate from the Clubs would remain at £10 and the Rule 8 of the Aims was to be deleted as the Association now had its own newspaper.
After the break there was a report from the Editor of the ‘Box and Fiddle’. He apologised for some delays and missing deliveries of papers, the blame being apportioned to severe weather conditions and industrial trouble causing transport upsets. He thanked all those who contributed in any way in keeping the paper on the go. He also pled the case for changing the publication date. This was eventually done for one year – that is the deadline date is now the last day of the month and the publication date the 15th of the month.
Executive Committee
The next proposal, put by Mr Andrew Nairn, was also adopted ; namely, that a small Executive Committee be selected by Mr Jimmy Blue and under his Chairmanship would meet when required to help him in making the Association more efficient and more representative. The first job thrown at this Committee was to produce an up-to-date Guest Artiste List.
Mr Norman Williams, MAFIA, impressed on all present of the desirability of Robbie Shepherd’s ‘Strap on the Box’ on BBC Radio and it was unanimously agreed that as many people as possible would write to the BBC, Beechgrove Terrace, Aberdeen, with their suggestions for more of Robbie’s type of programme.
The new Committee for the next year will be the same as they were re-elected en-bloc.
The final problem led to the Rules and Constitution being read out and found to be deficient on various points. After much discussion it was finally remitted to the new Executive Committee to bring this and other changes to the constitution to the next AGM if it was felt they needed changed. The problem that brought this discussion was raised by Mr E. Rutherford, North East Club, “What is the position regarding Club members gaining admittance to another Club in the Association?”
This was a peaceful AGM, but it was also a thorough one and this is also due to the delegates being understanding and not quibbling over minor points. As most delegates were going on to the dinner that night they were glad of a couple of hours break to relax and ca’ the crack.
Since then the new Executive Committee has been formed –
Chairman – Jimmy Blue (Perth Committee)
Andrew Nairn – Dunfermline
David Ross – Galston
Alex Little – Torthorwald, Dumfries
Willie Wilson – Beith
Norman Williams – MAFIA, Milngavie
Jack Cooper – Dundee
Ian Smith - Stranraer
Letters to the Editor
Jimmy Shand thanks clubs
Sir – I would like the privilege to say a sincere thanks through the columns of the ‘Box and Fiddle’ to the NAAFC, members and friends in appreciation of their kind gesture and presentation, honouring me on that splendid occasion at Dunblane Hydro on Sunday, 24th June, 1979.
It will always be a memorable night to me and my family and I may say that this portrait has been greatly admired and it is a credit to Mr Frank Martin who produced it.
It was a great get-together of musicians, box players, fiddlers, mouth organ players and nae doot some singers of ballads and folk music and having been out of circulation for a few years it was nice to meet and say hello to many old friends and meet new ones. I know it took a lot of hard work and serious thinking to organize such a function and putting me in the hot seat.
On entering the dining-room I was amazed, but pleased, to see how many friends and musicians had traveled many miles from all over the country to honour me on this occasion, but worse was still to come, I still had my speech to make.
At the top table Mrs Shand and I were surrounded by many well-known personalities, Mr and Mrs Andy Stewart, Mr and Mrs Jimmy Blue, Mr and Mrs Angus Fitchet, Mr and Mrs Bobby MacLeod, Mr and Mrs David Ross, Mr and Mrs Andrew Naird, Dr and Mrs A. K. Tulloch, Jack Cooper and Mary Scott.
Jimmy Blue, NAAFC Chairman, was an able compere and after his opening remarks he unveiled the portrait of yours truly and when I say it was magnificent, I don’t mean the subject, it was the first class work produced by Mr Frank Martin.
Andy Stewart, just returned from Australia two days before, made a great job as guest speaker. His speech, his humour and his songs and recitation were really first-class entertainment and enjoyed by all.
I would like to thank Jimmy Blue who, having received a bottle of whisky from one of his friends, a hotel owner, said he would raffle it and would donate the proceeds to any charity I would nominate. I chose the St Andrew’s Branch of the Mentally Handicapped and thanks to the generosity of our friends, it made a grand total of £126. This sum was duly passed on to the above branch for their funds.
I would like to congratulate the management and staff of Dunblane Hydro for their catering and service of a lovely meal.
I enjoyed the short ceilidh and thank all the artistes who played a few tunes. I would like to thank the MAFIA Accordion and Fiddle Club and its members for their little private presentation to me and Mrs Shand.
Well, I hope everybody enjoyed their evening as much as I did. I didna’ thing a broken doon melodeon player could cause such a fuss.
Thanking You
Yours Aye
Jimmy Shand
Lindsay Ross
by Ian Smith
Lindsay Ross and son Malcolm went to Stranraer Club and was voted one of the finest exponents of the Cordovox who had been heard locally, but who is Lindsay Ross?
Lindsay was born 47 years ago in Froickheim, Angus, a part of Scotland that has consistently bred fine musicians. At the tender age of eight, this wee laddie started on the accordion, his teacher being Norman Guild who also turned out some other star players – Dave Stewart, Syd Chalmers and Angus Cameron.
He must have done a good job, because by the age of 12 Linsay had formed his first band. They raised money (if you remember) for the boys coming home from the war. This band consisted of – sister Madge (piano), drums, trumpet, two fiddles and self on accordion.
At 19 he had a successful audition for the BBC. This led the band to the microphone. He was then the youngest bandleader to broadcast, that was in 1951.
Over the years he has traveled the length and breadth of the country and has given lots of pleasure to the people of the Shetlands, Benbecula and all stations south. He and wife Mary have four of a family. Gary (25), Mairi (22), Catriona (14) and Malcolm who is 19 and also tours with him on drums. Catriona is currently getting on first-hand terms with the piano.
Polydor is the label that Lindsay is recording with. His LPs go out with titles like ‘Great Scottish Dance Bands’. The make-up of the band is usually Lindsay (accordion), sister Madge (piano), brother-in-law Dave Barclay (bass), Davy Stewart (second accordion), Ron Gonella (fiddle) and son Malcolm (drums). He is also a composer and some of his tunes are quite famous such as ‘The Wind that Shak’s the Piggery’ and his latest ‘Out at the Meadowmank Inn’ is quite a catchy tune. He has taken part in the series ‘The Kilt is my Delight’ and has played with such stars as Angus Fitchet, Tim Wright and Jimmy Shand.
A word of warning from Lindsay to all musicians “Get your equipment insured”. Recently in a fire at the Meadowbank Inn, Arbroath, all the band’s equipment was lost and it has cost £5,000 to replace.
Apart from his music Lindsay, a joiner to trade, has been restoring a historically-listed house in Kirkstyles St Vigeans, near Arbroath and is now living there. The house lies in the shade of Scotland’s oldest kirk which goes back to the year 700. With a view and an atmosphere like this how could Lindsay Ross be anything but one of the best in the business.
Record Review
by Derek Hamilton
John Carmichael and his Band play ‘Thingummyjigs’ – Shona SHLP 7010
Rose Amang the Heather – Robert MacLeod and his Band – Alba MAR 052
Cairnie’s Canter – Graeme Mitchell – Lapwing LAP 102
Scotland Calling – Bill Douglas SDB – Bluebell BBR/C 122
Black’s Magic – The Black Family – Shona SHCS 7008
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel)
Alnwick (Nag’s Head)
Balloch (Balloch Hotel) – 21st Oct ’79 Angus Fitchet (fiddle)
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel)
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel)
Beith (Anderson Hotel) – 15th Oct ‘79 Walter Perrie
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) – 9th Oct ’79 Walter Perrie
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) – 14th Nov ’79 Ken Slaven (fiddle) & Alan Clark (accordion)
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel)
Cumbria (Huntsman Inn - Penton) – 17th Oct ’79 Ian Holmes Duo 21sr Nov ’79 George Stirrat SDB
Cumnock (Tup Inn)
Derwentside (Royal British Legion, Consett)
Dumfries (Oughton’s)
Dunblane (Hydro) –
Dundee (Royal Central Hotel)
Dunfermline (Kinema Ballroom) – Douglas Lawrence (fiddle)
Falkirk (Park Hotel) 12th Nov ‘79Ronnie Easton SDB
Forres (Brig Motel) – 31st Oct ’79 Alan Roy (Cordovox) 14th Nov ’79 Special Night Bobby Crowe Trio
Galston (Parakeet, Hurlford)
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler)
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel)
Kelso (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Kintore (Crown Hotel)
Langholm (Crown Hotel)
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club)
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) – 30th Oct ’79 Willie Simpson (fiddle)
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull)
Monklands (Georgian Hotel, Coatbridge) – 5th Nov ’79 Tommy Kettles (accordion) & Frank Hennery (guitar)
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel)
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel)
North East (Seafield Arms) – 6th Nov ’79 Ronnie Easton & Kenny Thomson
Oban (Park Hotel)
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 20th Nov ’79 Shannon Brothers (accordion guitar)
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel)
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?)
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 5th Nov ’79 Bert Shorthouse
Torthorwald (Torr House Hotel)
Wick (McKay’s Hotel)
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Alnwick
2. Balloch
3. Banff
4. Beith
5. Biggar
6. Coquetdale
7. Cumnock
8. Dunblane
9. Falkirk
10. Forres
10. Highland
11. Lockerbie
12. M.A.F.I.A.
13. Newtongrange
14. North Cumbria
15. North East
16. Perth
17. Stranraer
17. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
4. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
5. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
6. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
7. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
8. Buchan A&F Club
9. Coquetdale
10. Coupar Angus A&F Club
11. Cumnock A&F Club
12. Derwentside A&F Club
13. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
14. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
15. Dundee & District A&F Club
16. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
17. Falkirk A&F Club
18. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
19. Galston A&F Club
20. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
21. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
22. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
23. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
24. Kintore A&F Club
25. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
26. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
27. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
28. M.A.F.I.A.
29. Monklands A&F Club
30. Newcastleton Accordion Club
31. New Cumnock A&F Club
32. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
33. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
34. North Cumbria
35. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
36. Oban A&F Club (1975)
37. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
38. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
39. Rothbury Accordion Club (1974)
40. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
41. Stranraer & District Accordion Club
42. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
43. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
44. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
45. Club Accord
46. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
47. Fintry A&F Club
48. Gretna (June 1966)
49. Renfrew A&F Club
50. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
51. Wellbank A&F Club
It was with great pleasure that we announced in the paper that the accordion had come of age. The Education Authorities had recognised the worth of the accordion. Now the youngsters had something to aim for – the ‘O’ Level followed by the Highers. This was great, just the lift that the accordion needed. We are only ten years behind the Continent now.
We realised even then that this was the first step and that time would be gained so the next step could be planned. But time has run out. Already one young lad has done all this and is knocking on the door for the opportunity to proceed further. This young lad who wants to make a career with the accordion has had the door firmly shut in his face.
His parents, like us, took it for granted that there would be a next step, and in good faith spent a lot of money in helping their son all they could and the son responded by studying, practising and spending valuable time to get this far only to find a closed door.
Did the Education Authorities think that no accordionist had the ability to surmount their hurdles? Were they being patronizing when granting the ‘O’ level and the Higher? If it’s the lack on money, then some of those crazy grants that one sees from time to time should be withdrawn and given to something worthwhile.
It is true that the first into jungles blazes the trail, therefore it is up to everyone who is concerned that this new and brilliant breed of accordionists get their chance. Write to the Education Authorities, your MPs and to anyone else who can influence others to get this door opened.
The Caley’s Canadian Capers (or Drink Canada Dry)
by Jimmy Yeaman
On Saturday, 2nd June, 1979 at 8.15am, 50 musicians plus 5 singers – all members of the Glasgow Caledonian Strathspey & Reel Society – congregated outside their favourite hostelry, Kelly’s Bar in the Candleriggs. With wives, husbands, sweethearts and instruments the bus was boarded for Prestwick Airport en route to their second tour of Canada.
The musicians consisted of one conductor, 40 fiddlers, three double bassists, three accordionists and three pianists. The singers were soprano Margaret Church, baritone Bill Robertson and vocal trio The Tall Tones – Fay McDougall, Irene Hopkirk and Rena Pentland. The orchestra was augmented by players from the Elgin, Angus, Borders, Kilmarnock and Bearsden Strathspey & Reel Societies. For the record, both the Balloch and Milngavie Accordion & Fiddle Clubs were strongly represented.
The DC10 was boarded and took off on schedule at 11am. The recent scare and apprehensions regarding the undercarriage mounting bolts was soon dispelled (so I gave them something to think about for the rest of the flight by saying that surely there was more likelihood of them failing when we landed) and the excellent cabin staff supplied the passengers with free refreshments. Some of the hard core members of the band displayed a remarkable talent for convincing the air hostesses that their travel nerves could only be soothed by a regular and frequent supply of ‘medicine’ – a state of affairs that existed for a fortnight, even with feet firmly planted on terra firma. Approximately six hours after take off the plane landed at Toronto Airport and members disembarked, some with a degree of conviviality and joie de vivre that was to set the pattern for a momentous if somewhat hazy fortnight.
First Performance
The first performance of the orchestra took place on Tuesday evening at an open-air Scottish Country Dance in Sunnybrook Park, Toronto, run by the Toronto Scottish Country Dance Society. This is probably the largest Country Dance Society in the world and there was an attendance of a few hundred people there to listen and dance to the orchestra’s selections, which included playing for the demonstration Country Dance Team. The music for the rest of the evening was provided by the brilliant Bobby Brown Dance Band, and more about this excellent group can be read in a future edition of the ‘Box and Fiddle’.
On Friday, 8th June, the players and singers performed once more in the open-air – this time it was a lunchtime concert downtown at the Toronto dominion Centre in the heart of the commercial part of the city. Encircled by giant skyscrapers some 60 to 70 storeys high, concentration was difficult due to high winds playing havoc with the sheets of music (Editors note – polypockets had yet to be invented in 1979). It was the orchestras first performance in a Force 10 gale and more than one manuscript of Gow and Scott Skinner music were last seen flying over the tall buildings hell-bent for the Rocky Mountains. It is therefore within the realms of possibility that in some distant Indian Reservation some of the conductor Jimmy Moir’s many fine compositions could be the foundation of a camp fire that could send up smoke signals – and it’s the start of the Battle of the Little Big Horn all over again. This concert was recorded for Canadian television and was seen by millions of viewers two nights later.
The first major concert was held the next evening in Hamilton Place, Hamilton, Ontario. This incredibly beautiful and modern suite of halls impressed the players no end. Seating capacity is nearly 2,500 and the acoustics are rated fifth best in North America due to the fact that there are speakers placed under every second seat in the auditorium. The kilted members of the audience probably had the most pleasure out of this concert, and there was a permanent smile on their lips when Margaret Church and the Tall Tones were singing.
The next day, Sunday 10th June, afternoon and evening shows were held in the famous Massey Hall, Toronto. The setting here was in complete contrast to the previous evening and sadly this older fashioned building is due for demolition in the near future. There is no air conditioning in the Massey Hall and the afternoon concert was performed under near impossible conditions due to the intense humidity that day. Fortunately, the orchestra’s home, the King Edward Hotel, was within ten minutes walk and there was a beeline of players in between shows to rush back, have a cold shower and a change of shirt.
Refreshed in more ways than one, the orchestra and singers went on to give possibly their most memorable performance. Inspired by a fantastic 3,000 capacity audience, the atmosphere was electric. Conductor Jimmy Moir, in his inimitable way, had the Scots exiles dancing in the aisles and some of them were more on their feet than in their seats. The finale was charged with emotion as the musicians, singers and country dancers were given a standing ovation. In the end, the reel ‘Caddam Woods’ was ‘belted oot’ seven times in encore after encore and it seems for a while the night would never end.
Tuesday evening, 12th June, took the form of a cruise on Lake Ontario. On the outward trip the view of the lake and Toronto itself was magnificent and on the return journey as the sun set in a golden ball of fire, the sailors adjourned to the shelter of the cabin lounge to warm their innards with the Uisge Beatha. In no time at all a dozen or so fiddles, accordions and double basses were produced and the modern luxury cruiser returned to port to the sound od a very old-fashioned ceilidh.
Although the geographical setting was in marked contrast, for some strange reason the strains of ‘Over the Sea to Skye’ didn’t sound out of place as Lake Ontario ‘carried the lads’ into the metropolis of Toronto – a city of nearly three million souls. Perhaps it is not a coincidence that in this romantic setting two of the younger members of the party announced their engagement. Caroline Pirie and fiddler Rob Fowler, both from Elgin, received our best wishes and the promise of a 50-piece band to play at their wedding.
During the stay in Canada, one of the ‘finds’ of the fortnight was an Irish Pub called The Windsor Bar. Situated within five minutes’ staggering distance from the King ‘Eddie’ Hotel, it was renamed Kelly’s Bar and it was the scene of many a happy and riotous night. On Wednesday, 13th, the resident group stepped down from the stage and a dozen or so of the Caley players took over for two half-hour spots. From then on we were as welcome as the flowers in May and the Irish hospitality was overwhelming. To Jimmy the manager, who refused to let us pay for a drink, “thanks for your kindness and tolerance. You helped to make our holiday the success that it was.”
Anxious moment
By now, the orchestra, the singers and the demonstration country dancers were knotting together in a very efficient manner and the standard was improving with every performance. There was one anxious moment, however, when things nearly went wrong and this occurred on Thursday evening during the concert held in East Dale Collegiate Auditorium, Oshawa. It was during the second half of the show when conductor Jimmy Moir called for set No 18A from the music folio. Leader of the orchestra, the previously unflappable Ken McLean, flicked over the pages of his music, but instead of set 18A, in its place was a pin-up picture of a large, voluptuous and scantily-dressed lady, obviously extracted from the pages of a well-known men’s magazine.
Consternation set in, and as Ken’s glasses steamed up he was heard to utter something like ‘Gee Whizz’. Somehow the music commenced and Jimmy Moir, curious to see why his leader was furtively trying a cover-up operation, peered over the top on Ken’s music stand. Seconds later the baton flew out of his hand, glanced off fiddle player Cyril Robb and ended up clattering all over Walter Wright and hi8s drum-kit. It says a lot for the sheer professionalism of the instrumentalists that during this near-crisis neither was a grace note missed out nor a beat lost, when so easily a disaster could have occurred. Whoever was responsible for this dastardly plot is a mystery but for only a bottle of whisky the writer will reveal all.
The final concert was held in Scarborough Civic Centre on Saturday, 16th June at mid-day. The design and construction of this magnificent complex has to be seen to be believed and it was difficult to concentrate on the music when all around was modern architecture so way-out that it took the breath away. There was a tremendous Scottish atmosphere at this show due to the fact that the band spot was slotted into a festival and competition for Highland dancing and piping.
This then was the end of the official part of the tour but there were many unofficial ‘happenings’ during the fortnight. On the last night, Saturday, a cheese and wine reception party was provided for all the performers and this went on until the wee sma’ hours. A night to remember for some and a night a few would perhaps like to forget, as the wine was superseded by many drops of the ‘cratur’.
Tours of this dimension do not happen themselves and the success of the whole operation is due to the organizing ability of Scots/Canadian John McCuaig and Ken McLean from Glasgow. John’s generosity, kindness and consideration for all our whims and needs was above more than the spoken or written word can tell. Together with Ken their hours of work, frustration and anxiety resulted in a lot of pleasure for a lot of people. And also what of conductor Jimmy Moir M.B.E.! The genial giant who, on stage, held together in musical harmony and teamwork a motley band of minstrels, some of whose off-stage idiosyncrasies went beyond credulity. Jimmy’s personality and ability to communicate with his audience makes him quite irreplaceable.
The tour then had come and gone and during the two weeks the esprit de corps within the party was great. New friendships were made and old ones renewed and strengthened, and all in all a happy and unforgettable time was had by everyone.
Annual General Meeting
The Association’s AGM was held this year in the beautiful surroundings of the Dunblane Hydro on Sunday, 24th June. The reason for the change being that the Presentation Dinner for Jimmy Shand was to be that night. Mr Jimmy Blue, Chairman, welcomed the large turnout of delegates and hoped they would enjoy the whole day’s programme.
Secretary, Mr Andrew Nairn, started the meeting with the reading of the Minutes and told everyone of his first year as Secretary and how much he enjoyed being involved and writing to and meeting so many people. He reported that one new club had joined, Newtongrange, Dalkeith, and that Coupar angus Club may be joining forces with Kirriemuir Club. Banff Club sent their apologies for not being able to attend.
The Financial Report was given by Mr David Ross who complimented Miss Christine Hunter for her assistance. He reported that not withstanding the setbacks of the hard winter, the Association funds had remained fairly level. The ‘Box and Fiddle’ financial affairs had also broken even.
Festival Chairman’s Report
This was followed by the report of Mr Alex Little, Chairman of the Festival committee. He first of all complimented his committee for their hard work, effort and enthusiasm to help make Musselburgh Festival a success.
He also announced that there would be a new Section next year. This would be a Junior Scottish Section for Under 12. The next Festival would be held as usual on the first Saturday in February, that is the 2nd. He also said that the trophies were insured and the number of cups and trophies was in excess of what was required for the moment, but Mr Little added, he was grateful to the presenters for their interest and generosity with their donation of cups and trophies. It was a nice situation to be in.
Another change next year would be a change of band for the Dance after the Concert. This is to give an up-and-coming SDB a chance. Mr Little ended his report by announcing that a record of the Festival had been made and it would be coming out in the near future. Alex was immediately voted back as Chairman of the Festival Committee.
In reply, Mr Jimmy Blue, who was one of the adjudicators, said he judged 50 juniors and 40 seniors and this was fantastic. He added “This is a new breed and thank God I’m 50”.
Before a short break for refreshments two resolutions were taken. Subscriptions rate from the Clubs would remain at £10 and the Rule 8 of the Aims was to be deleted as the Association now had its own newspaper.
After the break there was a report from the Editor of the ‘Box and Fiddle’. He apologised for some delays and missing deliveries of papers, the blame being apportioned to severe weather conditions and industrial trouble causing transport upsets. He thanked all those who contributed in any way in keeping the paper on the go. He also pled the case for changing the publication date. This was eventually done for one year – that is the deadline date is now the last day of the month and the publication date the 15th of the month.
Executive Committee
The next proposal, put by Mr Andrew Nairn, was also adopted ; namely, that a small Executive Committee be selected by Mr Jimmy Blue and under his Chairmanship would meet when required to help him in making the Association more efficient and more representative. The first job thrown at this Committee was to produce an up-to-date Guest Artiste List.
Mr Norman Williams, MAFIA, impressed on all present of the desirability of Robbie Shepherd’s ‘Strap on the Box’ on BBC Radio and it was unanimously agreed that as many people as possible would write to the BBC, Beechgrove Terrace, Aberdeen, with their suggestions for more of Robbie’s type of programme.
The new Committee for the next year will be the same as they were re-elected en-bloc.
The final problem led to the Rules and Constitution being read out and found to be deficient on various points. After much discussion it was finally remitted to the new Executive Committee to bring this and other changes to the constitution to the next AGM if it was felt they needed changed. The problem that brought this discussion was raised by Mr E. Rutherford, North East Club, “What is the position regarding Club members gaining admittance to another Club in the Association?”
This was a peaceful AGM, but it was also a thorough one and this is also due to the delegates being understanding and not quibbling over minor points. As most delegates were going on to the dinner that night they were glad of a couple of hours break to relax and ca’ the crack.
Since then the new Executive Committee has been formed –
Chairman – Jimmy Blue (Perth Committee)
Andrew Nairn – Dunfermline
David Ross – Galston
Alex Little – Torthorwald, Dumfries
Willie Wilson – Beith
Norman Williams – MAFIA, Milngavie
Jack Cooper – Dundee
Ian Smith - Stranraer
Letters to the Editor
Jimmy Shand thanks clubs
Sir – I would like the privilege to say a sincere thanks through the columns of the ‘Box and Fiddle’ to the NAAFC, members and friends in appreciation of their kind gesture and presentation, honouring me on that splendid occasion at Dunblane Hydro on Sunday, 24th June, 1979.
It will always be a memorable night to me and my family and I may say that this portrait has been greatly admired and it is a credit to Mr Frank Martin who produced it.
It was a great get-together of musicians, box players, fiddlers, mouth organ players and nae doot some singers of ballads and folk music and having been out of circulation for a few years it was nice to meet and say hello to many old friends and meet new ones. I know it took a lot of hard work and serious thinking to organize such a function and putting me in the hot seat.
On entering the dining-room I was amazed, but pleased, to see how many friends and musicians had traveled many miles from all over the country to honour me on this occasion, but worse was still to come, I still had my speech to make.
At the top table Mrs Shand and I were surrounded by many well-known personalities, Mr and Mrs Andy Stewart, Mr and Mrs Jimmy Blue, Mr and Mrs Angus Fitchet, Mr and Mrs Bobby MacLeod, Mr and Mrs David Ross, Mr and Mrs Andrew Naird, Dr and Mrs A. K. Tulloch, Jack Cooper and Mary Scott.
Jimmy Blue, NAAFC Chairman, was an able compere and after his opening remarks he unveiled the portrait of yours truly and when I say it was magnificent, I don’t mean the subject, it was the first class work produced by Mr Frank Martin.
Andy Stewart, just returned from Australia two days before, made a great job as guest speaker. His speech, his humour and his songs and recitation were really first-class entertainment and enjoyed by all.
I would like to thank Jimmy Blue who, having received a bottle of whisky from one of his friends, a hotel owner, said he would raffle it and would donate the proceeds to any charity I would nominate. I chose the St Andrew’s Branch of the Mentally Handicapped and thanks to the generosity of our friends, it made a grand total of £126. This sum was duly passed on to the above branch for their funds.
I would like to congratulate the management and staff of Dunblane Hydro for their catering and service of a lovely meal.
I enjoyed the short ceilidh and thank all the artistes who played a few tunes. I would like to thank the MAFIA Accordion and Fiddle Club and its members for their little private presentation to me and Mrs Shand.
Well, I hope everybody enjoyed their evening as much as I did. I didna’ thing a broken doon melodeon player could cause such a fuss.
Thanking You
Yours Aye
Jimmy Shand
Lindsay Ross
by Ian Smith
Lindsay Ross and son Malcolm went to Stranraer Club and was voted one of the finest exponents of the Cordovox who had been heard locally, but who is Lindsay Ross?
Lindsay was born 47 years ago in Froickheim, Angus, a part of Scotland that has consistently bred fine musicians. At the tender age of eight, this wee laddie started on the accordion, his teacher being Norman Guild who also turned out some other star players – Dave Stewart, Syd Chalmers and Angus Cameron.
He must have done a good job, because by the age of 12 Linsay had formed his first band. They raised money (if you remember) for the boys coming home from the war. This band consisted of – sister Madge (piano), drums, trumpet, two fiddles and self on accordion.
At 19 he had a successful audition for the BBC. This led the band to the microphone. He was then the youngest bandleader to broadcast, that was in 1951.
Over the years he has traveled the length and breadth of the country and has given lots of pleasure to the people of the Shetlands, Benbecula and all stations south. He and wife Mary have four of a family. Gary (25), Mairi (22), Catriona (14) and Malcolm who is 19 and also tours with him on drums. Catriona is currently getting on first-hand terms with the piano.
Polydor is the label that Lindsay is recording with. His LPs go out with titles like ‘Great Scottish Dance Bands’. The make-up of the band is usually Lindsay (accordion), sister Madge (piano), brother-in-law Dave Barclay (bass), Davy Stewart (second accordion), Ron Gonella (fiddle) and son Malcolm (drums). He is also a composer and some of his tunes are quite famous such as ‘The Wind that Shak’s the Piggery’ and his latest ‘Out at the Meadowmank Inn’ is quite a catchy tune. He has taken part in the series ‘The Kilt is my Delight’ and has played with such stars as Angus Fitchet, Tim Wright and Jimmy Shand.
A word of warning from Lindsay to all musicians “Get your equipment insured”. Recently in a fire at the Meadowbank Inn, Arbroath, all the band’s equipment was lost and it has cost £5,000 to replace.
Apart from his music Lindsay, a joiner to trade, has been restoring a historically-listed house in Kirkstyles St Vigeans, near Arbroath and is now living there. The house lies in the shade of Scotland’s oldest kirk which goes back to the year 700. With a view and an atmosphere like this how could Lindsay Ross be anything but one of the best in the business.
Record Review
by Derek Hamilton
John Carmichael and his Band play ‘Thingummyjigs’ – Shona SHLP 7010
Rose Amang the Heather – Robert MacLeod and his Band – Alba MAR 052
Cairnie’s Canter – Graeme Mitchell – Lapwing LAP 102
Scotland Calling – Bill Douglas SDB – Bluebell BBR/C 122
Black’s Magic – The Black Family – Shona SHCS 7008
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Queen’s Hotel)
Alnwick (Nag’s Head)
Balloch (Balloch Hotel) – 21st Oct ’79 Angus Fitchet (fiddle)
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel)
Banff (Royal Oak Hotel)
Beith (Anderson Hotel) – 15th Oct ‘79 Walter Perrie
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) – 9th Oct ’79 Walter Perrie
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) – 14th Nov ’79 Ken Slaven (fiddle) & Alan Clark (accordion)
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel)
Cumbria (Huntsman Inn - Penton) – 17th Oct ’79 Ian Holmes Duo 21sr Nov ’79 George Stirrat SDB
Cumnock (Tup Inn)
Derwentside (Royal British Legion, Consett)
Dumfries (Oughton’s)
Dunblane (Hydro) –
Dundee (Royal Central Hotel)
Dunfermline (Kinema Ballroom) – Douglas Lawrence (fiddle)
Falkirk (Park Hotel) 12th Nov ‘79Ronnie Easton SDB
Forres (Brig Motel) – 31st Oct ’79 Alan Roy (Cordovox) 14th Nov ’79 Special Night Bobby Crowe Trio
Galston (Parakeet, Hurlford)
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler)
Highland/ Inverness (Drumossie Hotel)
Kelso (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Kintore (Crown Hotel)
Langholm (Crown Hotel)
Livingston (Cameron Ironworks Social Club)
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) – 30th Oct ’79 Willie Simpson (fiddle)
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull)
Monklands (Georgian Hotel, Coatbridge) – 5th Nov ’79 Tommy Kettles (accordion) & Frank Hennery (guitar)
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel)
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel)
North East (Seafield Arms) – 6th Nov ’79 Ronnie Easton & Kenny Thomson
Oban (Park Hotel)
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 20th Nov ’79 Shannon Brothers (accordion guitar)
Renfrew (Glynhill Hotel)
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel)
Shetland (venue?)
Stranraer (Buck’s Head Hotel) – 5th Nov ’79 Bert Shorthouse
Torthorwald (Torr House Hotel)
Wick (McKay’s Hotel)
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Alnwick
2. Balloch
3. Banff
4. Beith
5. Biggar
6. Coquetdale
7. Cumnock
8. Dunblane
9. Falkirk
10. Forres
10. Highland
11. Lockerbie
12. M.A.F.I.A.
13. Newtongrange
14. North Cumbria
15. North East
16. Perth
17. Stranraer
17. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1971)
4. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
5. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
6. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1971)
7. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
8. Buchan A&F Club
9. Coquetdale
10. Coupar Angus A&F Club
11. Cumnock A&F Club
12. Derwentside A&F Club
13. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965)
14. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
15. Dundee & District A&F Club
16. Dunfermline & District A&F Club
17. Falkirk A&F Club
18. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
19. Galston A&F Club
20. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
21. Greenhead Accordion Club (Hexham)
22. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
23. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
24. Kintore A&F Club
25. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
26. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973)
27. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
28. M.A.F.I.A.
29. Monklands A&F Club
30. Newcastleton Accordion Club
31. New Cumnock A&F Club
32. Newtongrange A&F Club (Oct 1977)
33. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club
34. North Cumbria
35. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
36. Oban A&F Club (1975)
37. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
38. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
39. Rothbury Accordion Club (1974)
40. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
41. Stranraer & District Accordion Club
42. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
43. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
44. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
45. Club Accord
46. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
47. Fintry A&F Club
48. Gretna (June 1966)
49. Renfrew A&F Club
50. Straiton Accordion Club (opened? 3rd club to open – closed March 1979)
51. Wellbank A&F Club