Box and Fiddle
Year 43 No 02
October 2019
Price £3.00
52 Page Magazine
12 month subscription £33.60 + p&p £15.85 (UK)
Editor – Pia Walker, Cupar
B&F Treasurer –
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
Storms, deluges and nights drawing in – where did the summer go?………
Pia Walker
The Role of the MC at our Accordion & Fiddle Clubs
by Liam Stewart (NAAFC Executive Committee)
After some discussion at a recent NAAFC Executive Committee meeting, in relation to promoting the Box & Fiddle Magazine, and the general promotion of our association as a whole, it was suggested that we look at the influential role played by our MCs. I was happy to consider this topic, and produce a constructive article to highlight current practice, encourage Clubs to be aware of the overall presentation on a club night and to what extent a MC can contribute to future success.
First of all, consider the following synonyms for compere, presenter, host, anchorman, MC, ‘master of ceremonies’.
General Observations;
A similar approach can be used for visitors to the club, returning members, a performer celebrating a birthday, a guest band fresh from a successful broadcast/album/tour etc etc.
At this point, I would like to state that my observations (which are shared by a great number of players and enthusiasts alike, and could be challenged by others) may strike a chord with our readership. Indeed, it may help individual clubs to review their current practice, as they consider how best to generate growth and success in the coming years.
Hopefully, we are all agreed that the MC plays a vital role in securing continuity and a sense of occasion throughout the night. Presentation and professionalism are key attributes, as well as an appropriate injection of humour. I feel it is important to point out that a good MC needn’t be a musician, or comedian, or even knowledgeable about the technical aspects of musical performance; they simply need to be enthusiastic and able to give encouraging introductions and appreciative votes of thanks...and is very much a vital link between performer and audience.
Probably, some of the best and much-loved MCs of yesteryear may have been selected from amongst the club members, for their dynamic personality, eloquent use of language, sense of humour, musical knowledge, etc. Many of whom served their Club(s) admirably over lengthy periods of time. The overwhelming notion is that (even for the bargain entry fees) our audiences deserve to be entertained and motivated, whilst musicians are encouraged and appreciated. All of these things can be achieved during the circa. 4 hour stay at a Club.
How does the show look in your Club?;-
Much of the foregoing article is an accumulation of my own interpretation and observations, - having been part of the Accordion & Fiddle Clubs scene for approximately thirty years, as a performer and spectator – but I know these views are shared by many musicians and enthusiasts alike.
As we strive towards the future of our association, we must embrace change, with the view to improving our Association for the benefit of all. I have highlighted the role of MC at any given Club but we all know that there are many other elements to be explored in future discussions or articles. I hope it might generate some interest in the improvement of our overall presentation...our common goal must surely be an amalgamation of the following; strong Clubs – Strong Association, influx of new members, bigger and younger audiences, more local players, renewed enthusiasm for our music (within and outwith our relatively small scene) and, ultimately, the best possible promotion of our Accordion and Fiddle Clubs product for future generations.
Musical Memories – Part 8
by Denis Shepherd
After the demise of the Aberdeen Alternative Festival, the TMSA continued to hold concerts in country venues in conjunction with the annual Aberdeenshire Council Doric Festival. Nowadays there is no Doric Festival but the TMSA Branch still hold two Doric concerts.
Over the years, we have visited quite a variety of halls in the North-East, including Methlick – one venue which I can’t forget because it gave its name to a tune! I had, some years previously, written a 2/4 pipe march, and this nameless tune was first played by Denis and the Menace at a Methlick concert. By the end of the evening, it had a title – The Methlick Barn Dance.
Over the years the Branch has taken part in many events, from Aberdeen to its twin city Clermont Ferrand. The venue closest to home was the historic building, Provost Rust’s House opposite Marischal College, where Aberdeen City Council had asked us to provide traditional music for visiting tourists. In their wisdom the Council did not advertise our event and refused us permission to put up a sign outside, with the result that most visitors saw no reason to proceed beyond the café to the first floor. On one occasion, the only listeners were four people who knew about the event only because I had told them. On another, the audience was even smaller – two female German students who had found us by chance. I think they were outnumbered 4 to 1 by the performers!
In the latter case, I managed to embarrass myself while attempting to show off my knowledge of German acquired at university many years previously. I managed to announce in German that I was going to sing the traditional song The Birken Tree, but had to apologise that I had forgotten the German for birch. The students laughed and said, “It’s birken!”
For the whole of the 1990s we leased the ground floor of the 17th century Wallace Tower – another Council building, which in the 60s had been moved from its city centre location and re-assembled brick by brick, in Tillydrone. By the end of the 90s it had become synonymous with the TMSA as it was the venue of our events ranging from committee meetings and Bothy Nichts rehearsals to open days and Christmas parties. In 1999 when the Branch released its first cassette, Fae Aiberdeen ‘n’ Roon Aboot, the automatic subject choice for the sleeve was the Wallace Tower! It was at one of these Christmas parties that the legendary singer Tam Reid made a speech to the effect that many other branches and festivals were defined by their own song and that it was time the Aberdeen Branch also had its own song. “So”, he concluded, “Denis is gau tae write it.”
This was the first I’d heard of it, but I promptly wrote a song called In the Wallace Tower referring to Wallace as the king (using my artistic licence!)The song has never been recorded but its original tune was included by Arthur Middleton on his second cassette, Mouth-Organ Maestro.
Shortly after the turn of the century we had to vacate The Tower, but by then we had established our monthly sessions. These started off in the Bucksburn British Legion – which closed soon afterwards. We simply relocated to the Westburn Park Lounge – which closed soon afterwards. We then moved to the Grampian Health Services Social Club – which closed soon afterwards. We do not think it is our music that has this devastating effect, but officials of The Sportsman’s Club must be counting their figures each month with bated breath……
We had one panic moment during our spell in the Westburn Lounge, where we also held our big competition day. A few days before the event, we were told we had not booked in, even though our Treasurer had seen the Manager write it in the book. It transpired he had left – taking the book with him.
Another event we used to organize was an afternoon ceilidh in the Douglas Arms during the Banchory Festival in May. I was doing my stint as MC when a group of young musicians came in from their competitions. I asked the fiddle winner, 15-year-old Paul Anderson, to do a spot; he proudly stood up at the microphone and played…… bum note! His automatic reaction (still at the microphone) was to say, “S***e!” So if I ever introduce Paul nowadays, I say I clearly remember the first note I heard him play and the first word I heard him speak on stage!
My other memory from that festival is of organiser Bill Smith objecting strongly to a certain song Sandy Mathers was singing in a bar session. However, he was quite happy when it was explained to him that the chorus consisted of the words, “If you see Kay.”
Angus S&R Society Festival
by
Festival time is approaching at speed! ………………….
Centre Stage
Ray Carse
In Memory – Jack Stalker (6th Nov 1928 – 11th Aug 2019)
by George Wilson & Liz Reid
Family, friends, dancers and musicians gathered at Warriston Crematorium on 21st August and later at Winchburgh Bowling Club to celebrate the life of Jack Stalker, well-known fiddler from Woodend, near Winchburgh.
Bandleader Jack, originally from Scone, the Largoward in fife, lived at Woodend from 1967 working as a joiner at Hopetoun House. He had several bands during his playing career, the highlights of which were a tour of Zambia in 1974 and playing solo before the Queen at Edinburgh Castle. His main band, formed in 1974, remained virtually unchanged until 2005, playing usually for Scottish Country Dancing and becoming very popular in the Lothians, Edinburgh and further afield. The band also played abroad between the years 1978 and 2002, mostly in the Mediterranean area, for country dancing holidays.
Jack was a prolific composer and many of his tunes have become originals for locally devised dances and are now in a book called ‘The Woodend Cottages Collection’.
After his band playing stopped, Jack continued to enjoy the musical nights at Letham, then Collessie, and was a regular visitor at Glenfarg Accordion & Fiddle Club. Unfortunately, a fall in 2018 put an end to his playing, and his health gradually deteriorated.
To honour Jack, all musicians attending the funeral were asked to bring their instruments, and, after refreshments, a great stramash was held in the Bowling Club leading to an amazing two hours of impromptu dancing and playing.
It was a memorable afternoon and Jack certainly got a great send-off.
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
David Vernon – On the Level – Review by Rob Howard
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Gary Innes (repeated on Sunday’s 13.05 – 15.00)
5th Oct 2019 – Burns Brothers Ceilidh Band + The Govan Gaelic Choir
12th Oct 2019 – A Special Band pay tribute to a leading Shetland Composer + leading piper Calum McCrimmon
19th Oct 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB + 70 years of the Perth All Scotland Festival
26th Oct 2019 – Craig Paton SDB + Gary visits left-handed fiddler Angus Grant
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) –
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms) 9th October 2019 – George Rennie Duo
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 20th October 2019 – Roger Dobson SDB
Arbroath (Arbroath Artisan Golf Club) - 6th October 2019 – Player Afternoon (Club Charity Day) & Evening Charity Dance to Scott Band Band
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – October 2019 -
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) – 28th October 2019 – Gordon Pattullo Duo
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 23rd October 2019 – Callum McColl Trio
Beith & District (Beith Bowling Club) – 21st October 2019 – Luke Brady & Malcolm Ross
Biggar (Biggar Bowling Club) –
Blairgowrie (Red House Hotel) - 8th October 2019 – Lynne Christie SDB
Button Key (Greig Institute, Windygates) – 9th October 2019 – Roger Dobson SDB
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 1st October 2019 – Shirley Cathcart SDB
Canderside (Stonehouse Bowling Club) - 10th October 2019 – Seamus O’Sullivan & Friends
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) - 10th October 2019 – George Rennie
Castle Douglas (Threave Rovers Football Club) – 15th October 2019 – David Vernon
Clydesdale (St Mary’s Club Rooms, Lanark) - 6th October 2019 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 4th October 2019 – Dance to Willie McFarlane Band 17th Oct 2019 – Stuart Anderson Trio
Crieff & District (British Legion) 3rd October 2019 – Buttons & Bows
Dalriada (Argyll Inn, Lochgilphead) -
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 2nd October 2019 – Lindsay Weir Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 16th October 2019 – Cameron McLaren Trio
Dunfermline (Sportsman Bar, Rosyth) – 8th October 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB
Duns (Masonic Lodge) 21st October 2019 – Kyle Innes Trio
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 22nd October 2019 – Club Night
Forfar (Forfar RBL) - 27th October 2019 – Derek Edmond SDB
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 9th October 2019 – Ian Thomson SDB
Fort William (Railway Club, Inverlochy) - 1st October 2019 – Susie Simpson SDB
Galashiels (Gala YM RFC) - 3rd October 2019 – Derek Edmond Trio
Glasgow (Scotstounhill Bowling Club) - October 2019 -
Glendale (The Glendale Hall) - 24th October 2019 – Scott Band Quartet
Glenfarg (Glenfarg Village Hall) - 2nd October 2019 – Michael Philip SDB
Gretna (The Solway Lodge Hotel) - 6th October 2019 – Tay Ceilidh Band
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 21st October 2019 – Clyde Valley CB
Inveraray (Inveraray Inn) - 9th October 2019 – Gordon Pattullo & Malcolm Ross
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 3rd October 2019 – Adin Graham Trio
Islesteps (Locharbriggs Social Club) – 1st October 2019 – Neil MacEachern SDB
Kelso (Kelso Rugby Club) – 30th October 2019 – Martin Donaldson Trio
Langholm (Langholm Social Club) – 27th October 2019 – Alan Gardiner Trio
Lewis & Harris (Caladh Inn, Stornoway) - 3rd October 2019 – Club Night
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 15th October 2019 – Andrew Gibb SDB
Lockerbie (Mid Annandale Comrades Club) 29th October 2019 – Alan Small Duo
Macmerry (Miners Social Club) - 20th October 2019 – Seamus O’Sullivan Experience
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 15th October 2019 – Karyn McCulloch Duo
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 2nd October 2019 – Ian Cruickshanks Trio
Newburgh (Adbie Hall) -
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 8th October 2019 – Martainn Skene Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 1st October 2019 – Scott Band SDB
Oban (The Royal Hotel) – 4th October 2019 - tbc
Orkney (The Reel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) – 31st October 2019 – Neil Galloway SDB
Perth & District (Salutation Hotel) – 15th October 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB 26th Oct 2019 – Neil Hardie SDB After the Festival Dance
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 9th October 2019 – Clappy Doo Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - 3rd October 2019 – Gavin Piper supported by Joan Kirk & Friends
Seghill (Old Comrades Club) - 1st October 2019 – Julie Best & Jean Corrigan 8th 15th 22nd Oct 2019 – Club Night 29th Oct 2019 – Andy Phillip
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) - 10th – 14th October 2019 – Festival with various bands 31st Oct 2019 – Saltire – Alex Hodgson & David Vernon
Sutherland (Rogart Village Hall) - October 2019 -
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 7th October 2019 – John Stuart SDB
Turriff (Commercial Hotel, Cuminestown) – 3rd October 2019 – Robert Whitehead & the Danelaw
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 17th October 2019 – Bon Accords
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) -
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 15th October 2019 – Tweed Valley CB
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Annan
2. Arbroath
3. Blairgowrie
4. Button Key
5. Campsie
6. Clydesdale
7. Crieff
8. Ellon
9. Forfar
10. Glenfarg
11. Gretna
12. Islesteps
13. Montrose
14. North East
15. Orkney
16. Peebles
17. Renfrew
18. Rothbury
19. Seghill
20. Tynedale
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 2018
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
9. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
10. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
11. Button Key A&F Club (
12. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
13. Canderside A&F Club (Stonehouse) (Feb 2019 – present)
14. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Clydesdale A&F Club (Sept 2016 – present)
17. Coalburn A&F Club (
18. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
19. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – present)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Forfar A&F Club (
26. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
27. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
28. Glendale A&F Club (Jan 1973 – present)
29. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
30. 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)
31. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
32. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
36. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
37. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 – present)
38. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
39 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
40. Macmerry A&F Club (Feb 2016 – present)
41 Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
42 Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
43 Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
44. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
45. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
46. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
47. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
48. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
49. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
50. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
51. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
52 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
53 Turriff A&F Club (1st April 1982 - present)
54 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
55 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
56 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?)
57. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
58. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
59. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
60. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
61. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
62. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
63. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
64. Britannia B&F Club ( joined 07-08 but much older
65. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
66. Buchan A&F Club
67. Callander A&F Club (
68. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
69. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
70. Club Accord
71. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 – cFeb 2014)
72 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
73. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
74. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
75. Cults A & F Club (
76. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
77. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
78. Derwentside A&F Club
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. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
83. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
84. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
85. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
86. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
87. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – ?)
88. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
89. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
90. Glasgow A&F Club (Aug 2017 -
91. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93? – left the Assoc c2013)
92. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
93. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
94. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 – 6th December 2015)
95. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
96. Kintore A&F Club (
97. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
98. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier -
99. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
100. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
101. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
102. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
103. Maine Valley A&F Club (
104. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
105. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
106. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
107. Mull A&F Club
108. Newcastleton Accordion Club
109. Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded much earlier – closed April 2011 when venue closed)
110. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
111. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
112. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
113. Northern A&F Club (Sept 2011 -
114. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
115. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
116. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
117. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
118. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
119. Selkirk A&F Club (
120. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
121. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
122. Stonehouse A&F Club (Opened 2003 - first report June 05 – Closed April 2018)
123. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
124 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 -
125 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
126. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
127. Tranent A&F Club
128. Vancouver Fiddle Orchestra
129. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
130. Wellbank A&F Club
131. West Barnes (1981? - April 2016?)
132. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
Advertising rates
Back Page (colour) - £320
Full Page (colour) - £256
Full Page (b&w) - £160
Half Page (colour) - £128
Half Page (b&w) - £80
Quarter Page (colour) - £64
Quarter Page (b&w) - £40
Eighth Page - £30
Small Boxed £20
B&F Treasurer –
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
Storms, deluges and nights drawing in – where did the summer go?………
Pia Walker
The Role of the MC at our Accordion & Fiddle Clubs
by Liam Stewart (NAAFC Executive Committee)
After some discussion at a recent NAAFC Executive Committee meeting, in relation to promoting the Box & Fiddle Magazine, and the general promotion of our association as a whole, it was suggested that we look at the influential role played by our MCs. I was happy to consider this topic, and produce a constructive article to highlight current practice, encourage Clubs to be aware of the overall presentation on a club night and to what extent a MC can contribute to future success.
First of all, consider the following synonyms for compere, presenter, host, anchorman, MC, ‘master of ceremonies’.
General Observations;
- The person designated to introduce the musical items throughout the night has the opportunity to really ‘sell the product’ and may have a considerable impact on audiences’ overall experience of the Club, and their decision to return the following month or seek something better elsewhere.
- Comperes should be able to sufficiently and competently introduce the Guest Artiste for the night, giving a ‘build up’ and creating the theatre/concert atmosphere for the headline act. I think we would all agree that is the Guest Artiste’s responsibility to ‘work the crowd’ and entertain for the allotted time, however this can be very difficult to do if there was no adequate, formal introduction given in the first place.
- Generally speaking, MCs should try to avoid ‘killing the atmosphere’ at the end of the Guest Artiste spots, by regurgitating local club news, or even advertising next month’s meeting – this should be done earlier in the night, perhaps before the guest performers are invited onto the stage – there is nothing worse for a musical performer than a feeling of anticlimax, after working so hard to get the crowd ‘on side’ and buying into the whole performance experience.
- It is common for the raffle to be drawn prior to the Guest Artiste returning to the stage for their second spot. If there is setting up / change of stage equipment required, the MC should be able to advertise NAAFC events, fund-raising initiatives, and any other topics worthy of mention for the general good of the Club/Association, while that setting up is being done.
- If a youngster is attending the Club, and has recently competed in ANY competition, the MC should seek out such information in order to recognise success, and congratulate the performer for their efforts.
A similar approach can be used for visitors to the club, returning members, a performer celebrating a birthday, a guest band fresh from a successful broadcast/album/tour etc etc.
- Our (Exec. Committee) initial discussions hinted at the desire for MCs to advertise and encourage support of the Box & Fiddle magazine, and liaise with whosoever is selling them, in order that they can mention the product at regular junctures throughout the night. The most obvious style of advertisement would be for the MC (who has read the most recent magazine) to highlight a couple of articles included, to generate an interest amongst the audience.
- MCs should introduce/thank ALL performers (including accompanying musicians) enthusiastically, warmly, and professionally. Avoid comparisons to other performers (for obvious reasons!), such as “Well folks, if you enjoyed tonight’s Guest Artiste, wait until you hear who we have coming next month!.....”
- As far as local players are concerned, the Club night may well be their only performance outlet, having prepared themselves physically and mentally to perform for a knowledgeable audience and talented guest artistes within earshot. It is therefore vital that the MC can generate a warm and friendly atmosphere, whilst inviting players to the stage, and thanking them as they leave – every effort should be made to avoid patronising or embarrassing performers, and allow them to feel that their preparations have been appreciated and worthwhile.
- MCs should discourage audience members from engaging in boisterous conversations whilst performers are on stage, as well as ill-timed trips to the bar or toilet etc. “Right folks, please give the best of order for .....” It is also their responsibility to encourage/initiate generous applause for every act.
- MCs should try to oversee the smooth-running of the performance element of the Club and, where possible, impress upon the audience that the Guest Artiste, and indeed local players, will have a predetermined programme of items to perform, and discourage audience members shouting ‘the usual popular tunes’ (we all know what the usual requests are!! ) If the performer on stage decides to invite requests, so be it! – but our clubs should never be an open forum, where players are bombarded by requests for the same tunes, at every club they visit. Allow them to play their own material, and the MC may wish to highlight the “wonderful blend of traditional and contemporary material performed”.
At this point, I would like to state that my observations (which are shared by a great number of players and enthusiasts alike, and could be challenged by others) may strike a chord with our readership. Indeed, it may help individual clubs to review their current practice, as they consider how best to generate growth and success in the coming years.
Hopefully, we are all agreed that the MC plays a vital role in securing continuity and a sense of occasion throughout the night. Presentation and professionalism are key attributes, as well as an appropriate injection of humour. I feel it is important to point out that a good MC needn’t be a musician, or comedian, or even knowledgeable about the technical aspects of musical performance; they simply need to be enthusiastic and able to give encouraging introductions and appreciative votes of thanks...and is very much a vital link between performer and audience.
Probably, some of the best and much-loved MCs of yesteryear may have been selected from amongst the club members, for their dynamic personality, eloquent use of language, sense of humour, musical knowledge, etc. Many of whom served their Club(s) admirably over lengthy periods of time. The overwhelming notion is that (even for the bargain entry fees) our audiences deserve to be entertained and motivated, whilst musicians are encouraged and appreciated. All of these things can be achieved during the circa. 4 hour stay at a Club.
How does the show look in your Club?;-
- Microphone (whether wired or wireless) allowing the MC – from a central position – with sufficient volume, to be heard clearly giving introductions and announcements. This should never be done sitting down, or from the bar, or the back of the room etc.
- Reliable and professional background information about the Guest performers, so that a proper introduction can be given. Some performers may even have a ready-made CV from which the MC can pick items worthy of note.
- MC must have the ability to avoid awkward silences before/after performances, by relaying anecdotal material with the audience to keep them engaged at all times. It may be that a secondary (shorter) introduction may be required, if some time has passed between the initial introduction and performers ready to play.
- They should have an accurate and updated list of upcoming Club/NAAFC events, and try to encourage audience members to give their support to any/all.
- Behind many good MCs is a hard-working assistant, who perhaps primes local players about their place in the order of performances, who might even liaise with the Guest Artistes, so that the MC is able to ‘keep the show going’, rather than being bogged down with organisational and off-stage matters. This is always an efficient system, where the assistant has already spoken to the next performer and made a note of the desired backing musicians, which should then be simply announced by the MC.
Much of the foregoing article is an accumulation of my own interpretation and observations, - having been part of the Accordion & Fiddle Clubs scene for approximately thirty years, as a performer and spectator – but I know these views are shared by many musicians and enthusiasts alike.
As we strive towards the future of our association, we must embrace change, with the view to improving our Association for the benefit of all. I have highlighted the role of MC at any given Club but we all know that there are many other elements to be explored in future discussions or articles. I hope it might generate some interest in the improvement of our overall presentation...our common goal must surely be an amalgamation of the following; strong Clubs – Strong Association, influx of new members, bigger and younger audiences, more local players, renewed enthusiasm for our music (within and outwith our relatively small scene) and, ultimately, the best possible promotion of our Accordion and Fiddle Clubs product for future generations.
Musical Memories – Part 8
by Denis Shepherd
After the demise of the Aberdeen Alternative Festival, the TMSA continued to hold concerts in country venues in conjunction with the annual Aberdeenshire Council Doric Festival. Nowadays there is no Doric Festival but the TMSA Branch still hold two Doric concerts.
Over the years, we have visited quite a variety of halls in the North-East, including Methlick – one venue which I can’t forget because it gave its name to a tune! I had, some years previously, written a 2/4 pipe march, and this nameless tune was first played by Denis and the Menace at a Methlick concert. By the end of the evening, it had a title – The Methlick Barn Dance.
Over the years the Branch has taken part in many events, from Aberdeen to its twin city Clermont Ferrand. The venue closest to home was the historic building, Provost Rust’s House opposite Marischal College, where Aberdeen City Council had asked us to provide traditional music for visiting tourists. In their wisdom the Council did not advertise our event and refused us permission to put up a sign outside, with the result that most visitors saw no reason to proceed beyond the café to the first floor. On one occasion, the only listeners were four people who knew about the event only because I had told them. On another, the audience was even smaller – two female German students who had found us by chance. I think they were outnumbered 4 to 1 by the performers!
In the latter case, I managed to embarrass myself while attempting to show off my knowledge of German acquired at university many years previously. I managed to announce in German that I was going to sing the traditional song The Birken Tree, but had to apologise that I had forgotten the German for birch. The students laughed and said, “It’s birken!”
For the whole of the 1990s we leased the ground floor of the 17th century Wallace Tower – another Council building, which in the 60s had been moved from its city centre location and re-assembled brick by brick, in Tillydrone. By the end of the 90s it had become synonymous with the TMSA as it was the venue of our events ranging from committee meetings and Bothy Nichts rehearsals to open days and Christmas parties. In 1999 when the Branch released its first cassette, Fae Aiberdeen ‘n’ Roon Aboot, the automatic subject choice for the sleeve was the Wallace Tower! It was at one of these Christmas parties that the legendary singer Tam Reid made a speech to the effect that many other branches and festivals were defined by their own song and that it was time the Aberdeen Branch also had its own song. “So”, he concluded, “Denis is gau tae write it.”
This was the first I’d heard of it, but I promptly wrote a song called In the Wallace Tower referring to Wallace as the king (using my artistic licence!)The song has never been recorded but its original tune was included by Arthur Middleton on his second cassette, Mouth-Organ Maestro.
Shortly after the turn of the century we had to vacate The Tower, but by then we had established our monthly sessions. These started off in the Bucksburn British Legion – which closed soon afterwards. We simply relocated to the Westburn Park Lounge – which closed soon afterwards. We then moved to the Grampian Health Services Social Club – which closed soon afterwards. We do not think it is our music that has this devastating effect, but officials of The Sportsman’s Club must be counting their figures each month with bated breath……
We had one panic moment during our spell in the Westburn Lounge, where we also held our big competition day. A few days before the event, we were told we had not booked in, even though our Treasurer had seen the Manager write it in the book. It transpired he had left – taking the book with him.
Another event we used to organize was an afternoon ceilidh in the Douglas Arms during the Banchory Festival in May. I was doing my stint as MC when a group of young musicians came in from their competitions. I asked the fiddle winner, 15-year-old Paul Anderson, to do a spot; he proudly stood up at the microphone and played…… bum note! His automatic reaction (still at the microphone) was to say, “S***e!” So if I ever introduce Paul nowadays, I say I clearly remember the first note I heard him play and the first word I heard him speak on stage!
My other memory from that festival is of organiser Bill Smith objecting strongly to a certain song Sandy Mathers was singing in a bar session. However, he was quite happy when it was explained to him that the chorus consisted of the words, “If you see Kay.”
Angus S&R Society Festival
by
Festival time is approaching at speed! ………………….
Centre Stage
Ray Carse
In Memory – Jack Stalker (6th Nov 1928 – 11th Aug 2019)
by George Wilson & Liz Reid
Family, friends, dancers and musicians gathered at Warriston Crematorium on 21st August and later at Winchburgh Bowling Club to celebrate the life of Jack Stalker, well-known fiddler from Woodend, near Winchburgh.
Bandleader Jack, originally from Scone, the Largoward in fife, lived at Woodend from 1967 working as a joiner at Hopetoun House. He had several bands during his playing career, the highlights of which were a tour of Zambia in 1974 and playing solo before the Queen at Edinburgh Castle. His main band, formed in 1974, remained virtually unchanged until 2005, playing usually for Scottish Country Dancing and becoming very popular in the Lothians, Edinburgh and further afield. The band also played abroad between the years 1978 and 2002, mostly in the Mediterranean area, for country dancing holidays.
Jack was a prolific composer and many of his tunes have become originals for locally devised dances and are now in a book called ‘The Woodend Cottages Collection’.
After his band playing stopped, Jack continued to enjoy the musical nights at Letham, then Collessie, and was a regular visitor at Glenfarg Accordion & Fiddle Club. Unfortunately, a fall in 2018 put an end to his playing, and his health gradually deteriorated.
To honour Jack, all musicians attending the funeral were asked to bring their instruments, and, after refreshments, a great stramash was held in the Bowling Club leading to an amazing two hours of impromptu dancing and playing.
It was a memorable afternoon and Jack certainly got a great send-off.
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
David Vernon – On the Level – Review by Rob Howard
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Gary Innes (repeated on Sunday’s 13.05 – 15.00)
5th Oct 2019 – Burns Brothers Ceilidh Band + The Govan Gaelic Choir
12th Oct 2019 – A Special Band pay tribute to a leading Shetland Composer + leading piper Calum McCrimmon
19th Oct 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB + 70 years of the Perth All Scotland Festival
26th Oct 2019 – Craig Paton SDB + Gary visits left-handed fiddler Angus Grant
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) –
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms) 9th October 2019 – George Rennie Duo
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 20th October 2019 – Roger Dobson SDB
Arbroath (Arbroath Artisan Golf Club) - 6th October 2019 – Player Afternoon (Club Charity Day) & Evening Charity Dance to Scott Band Band
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – October 2019 -
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) – 28th October 2019 – Gordon Pattullo Duo
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 23rd October 2019 – Callum McColl Trio
Beith & District (Beith Bowling Club) – 21st October 2019 – Luke Brady & Malcolm Ross
Biggar (Biggar Bowling Club) –
Blairgowrie (Red House Hotel) - 8th October 2019 – Lynne Christie SDB
Button Key (Greig Institute, Windygates) – 9th October 2019 – Roger Dobson SDB
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 1st October 2019 – Shirley Cathcart SDB
Canderside (Stonehouse Bowling Club) - 10th October 2019 – Seamus O’Sullivan & Friends
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) - 10th October 2019 – George Rennie
Castle Douglas (Threave Rovers Football Club) – 15th October 2019 – David Vernon
Clydesdale (St Mary’s Club Rooms, Lanark) - 6th October 2019 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 4th October 2019 – Dance to Willie McFarlane Band 17th Oct 2019 – Stuart Anderson Trio
Crieff & District (British Legion) 3rd October 2019 – Buttons & Bows
Dalriada (Argyll Inn, Lochgilphead) -
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 2nd October 2019 – Lindsay Weir Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 16th October 2019 – Cameron McLaren Trio
Dunfermline (Sportsman Bar, Rosyth) – 8th October 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB
Duns (Masonic Lodge) 21st October 2019 – Kyle Innes Trio
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 22nd October 2019 – Club Night
Forfar (Forfar RBL) - 27th October 2019 – Derek Edmond SDB
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 9th October 2019 – Ian Thomson SDB
Fort William (Railway Club, Inverlochy) - 1st October 2019 – Susie Simpson SDB
Galashiels (Gala YM RFC) - 3rd October 2019 – Derek Edmond Trio
Glasgow (Scotstounhill Bowling Club) - October 2019 -
Glendale (The Glendale Hall) - 24th October 2019 – Scott Band Quartet
Glenfarg (Glenfarg Village Hall) - 2nd October 2019 – Michael Philip SDB
Gretna (The Solway Lodge Hotel) - 6th October 2019 – Tay Ceilidh Band
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 21st October 2019 – Clyde Valley CB
Inveraray (Inveraray Inn) - 9th October 2019 – Gordon Pattullo & Malcolm Ross
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 3rd October 2019 – Adin Graham Trio
Islesteps (Locharbriggs Social Club) – 1st October 2019 – Neil MacEachern SDB
Kelso (Kelso Rugby Club) – 30th October 2019 – Martin Donaldson Trio
Langholm (Langholm Social Club) – 27th October 2019 – Alan Gardiner Trio
Lewis & Harris (Caladh Inn, Stornoway) - 3rd October 2019 – Club Night
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 15th October 2019 – Andrew Gibb SDB
Lockerbie (Mid Annandale Comrades Club) 29th October 2019 – Alan Small Duo
Macmerry (Miners Social Club) - 20th October 2019 – Seamus O’Sullivan Experience
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 15th October 2019 – Karyn McCulloch Duo
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 2nd October 2019 – Ian Cruickshanks Trio
Newburgh (Adbie Hall) -
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 8th October 2019 – Martainn Skene Trio
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 1st October 2019 – Scott Band SDB
Oban (The Royal Hotel) – 4th October 2019 - tbc
Orkney (The Reel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) – 31st October 2019 – Neil Galloway SDB
Perth & District (Salutation Hotel) – 15th October 2019 – Marian Anderson SDB 26th Oct 2019 – Neil Hardie SDB After the Festival Dance
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 9th October 2019 – Clappy Doo Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - 3rd October 2019 – Gavin Piper supported by Joan Kirk & Friends
Seghill (Old Comrades Club) - 1st October 2019 – Julie Best & Jean Corrigan 8th 15th 22nd Oct 2019 – Club Night 29th Oct 2019 – Andy Phillip
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) - 10th – 14th October 2019 – Festival with various bands 31st Oct 2019 – Saltire – Alex Hodgson & David Vernon
Sutherland (Rogart Village Hall) - October 2019 -
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 7th October 2019 – John Stuart SDB
Turriff (Commercial Hotel, Cuminestown) – 3rd October 2019 – Robert Whitehead & the Danelaw
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 17th October 2019 – Bon Accords
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) -
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 15th October 2019 – Tweed Valley CB
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Annan
2. Arbroath
3. Blairgowrie
4. Button Key
5. Campsie
6. Clydesdale
7. Crieff
8. Ellon
9. Forfar
10. Glenfarg
11. Gretna
12. Islesteps
13. Montrose
14. North East
15. Orkney
16. Peebles
17. Renfrew
18. Rothbury
19. Seghill
20. Tynedale
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 2018
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
9. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
10. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
11. Button Key A&F Club (
12. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
13. Canderside A&F Club (Stonehouse) (Feb 2019 – present)
14. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
15. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
16. Clydesdale A&F Club (Sept 2016 – present)
17. Coalburn A&F Club (
18. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
19. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
20. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
21. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – present)
24. Ellon A&F Club (
25. Forfar A&F Club (
26. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
27. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
28. Glendale A&F Club (Jan 1973 – present)
29. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
30. 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)
31. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
32. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
33. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
34. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
35. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
36. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
37. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 – present)
38. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
39 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
40. Macmerry A&F Club (Feb 2016 – present)
41 Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
42 Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
43 Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
44. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
45. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
46. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
47. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
48. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
49. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
50. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
51. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
52 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
53 Turriff A&F Club (1st April 1982 - present)
54 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
55 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
56 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?)
57. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
58. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
59. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
60. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
61. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
62. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
63. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
64. Britannia B&F Club ( joined 07-08 but much older
65. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
66. Buchan A&F Club
67. Callander A&F Club (
68. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
69. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
70. Club Accord
71. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 – cFeb 2014)
72 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
73. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
74. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
75. Cults A & F Club (
76. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
77. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
78. Derwentside A&F Club
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. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
83. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
84. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
85. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
86. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
87. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – ?)
88. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
89. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
90. Glasgow A&F Club (Aug 2017 -
91. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93? – left the Assoc c2013)
92. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
93. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
94. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 – 6th December 2015)
95. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
96. Kintore A&F Club (
97. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
98. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier -
99. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
100. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
101. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
102. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
103. Maine Valley A&F Club (
104. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
105. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
106. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
107. Mull A&F Club
108. Newcastleton Accordion Club
109. Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded much earlier – closed April 2011 when venue closed)
110. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
111. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
112. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
113. Northern A&F Club (Sept 2011 -
114. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
115. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
116. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
117. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
118. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
119. Selkirk A&F Club (
120. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
121. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
122. Stonehouse A&F Club (Opened 2003 - first report June 05 – Closed April 2018)
123. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
124 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 -
125 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
126. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
127. Tranent A&F Club
128. Vancouver Fiddle Orchestra
129. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
130. Wellbank A&F Club
131. West Barnes (1981? - April 2016?)
132. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
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