Reels - Vol 3, Bonanza - B-29656

Tracks: Reel Mirabel; Le Reel des milles iles; Le Reel Franco-Americain; Le Reel des Olympics; La Polka Irlandaise; La Valse du pere Benoit; La Valse Bleue; La Valse des lilas; C'Etait tout au fond de L'Alsace; Les deus pas du Cujo
 

Square Dances, London Records, EP - BEP 5140 Vol 1 - with no calls

Tracks: The Little Black Hen*; Major Mackie's Jig*; Northern Hoedown*; Calgary Breakdown*

Note: This is a four song 45 rpm EP

Jim Magill and The Nothern Ramblers, Condor Records / Heritage Music HCD 4511 - 2006

No list of musicians

Compiled by Lynn Russwurm for The Barn Dance Historical Society; Mastered by Keith Sullivan

Tracks: Fred Roden's Reel; Fiddle Heads; Gateman's Reel; Haste to the Wedding; Saskatoon Breakdown; Bride of the Winds; Farmer's Jamboree; Smash the Window; Canadian Breakdown; Bonnie Dundee / The Campbells are Coming; Rock Valley Jig; Chateauguay Reel; Jimmy's Favourite; Ste. Anne's Reel; Fiddler's Three; Southern Breakdown; Doc Boyd's Jig; Crooked Stovepipe

Once of Canada's fines old time fiddlers was James Creighton Magill. There are several versions of his birth, one says he was born in Northern Ireland in 1902, another version has him born in Montreal in 1905. He died in 1954, leaving a legacy of  34 or more recordings, released on the London label in Canada, England and the USA. Jim was a contemporary of Don Messer and they would often exchange tunes. He had a lengthy stay on CFRB radio every Saturday night at 10 P.M. from 1946 to 1954. He worked for the CNR along with his brother Joe, who was the stand-up bass player in the Ramblers for over 20 years while moonlightin at dance halls all around Toronto, including Palace Pier and the Labour Lyceum Hall. Fred Townsend and Joe Weller were his square dance callers and can heard on many of his 78s. Jim's hobbies were hunting and fishing and he was known to buy a pail of "Winkles" at the St. Lawrence Market, take them home to be cooked by his mother, sit down and eat the whole pail while telling stories. Jim Magill - one of the pioneers of Canadian fiddling.

Lynn Russwurm - Country Music Historian

In Memory of Fred Roden

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Terry-Lynn Mahusky

Terry-Lynn Mahusky, Condor 1538, 1998

Terry-Lynn Mahusky, fiddle; Ian Hamilton, piano; Robert Benoit, Rhythm & Lead guitars; Larris Benoit, Bass; Roddy Lee, drums

Produced by Bruce Murray; Engineer: Mike Pedrow; recorded at Rumenal Studios.

Tracks: Tamm-Lyn / Jam Session / Reel for Carl; Big John McNeil / Ste. Anne's Reel / Mason's Apron; Daniel's Waltz; Great Eastern Reel; Piper's Jig / Renfrew County Jig; Skye Boat Song; Reel du Printemps; Jean's Reel; Stratford Waltz; Compliments to Sean MacGuire; Lake Doré Waltz; St. George's Jig; Lisa Lynn Waltz; In Memory of Tara Lynne; Red Wing

Truck Drivin' Fiddler, Paragon ALS 199

Gerry Malley, Fiddle; Mike McConnell, Rhythm Guitar; Doug W., lead guitar; John P., Bass; Bobby Hudson, drums

Produced by Jack Boswell and Bill Bessey

Tracks: Red Wing; Snow Deer; Country Waltz; Smash The Window; Crooked Stove Pipe; Rippling Water Jig; Cotton Eyed Joe; Liberty Two-Step; Johny Waggoner; Flop Eared Mule; Hillbilly Calypso; Cock o' The North

One of the reasons for toe tapping of down east fiddle music becoming so popular is Gerry Malley. The melodic vibrations Gerry creates are synonymous with his ability to pick the right tunes and add his own flavouring.

The Gerry Malley that played the weekly Saturday night jamboree at radio station CKMR in New Brunswick can not be compared to the Gerry Malley today that has become a real pro because of age, time and experience.

Paragon Records are fortunate indeed to have acquired an artist with such feeling and a touch of individualism in regard to the fiddle.

Chuck Wilton

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Gerry Malley, fiddle

Produced by Jack Boswell and Bill Bessey

Tracks: The Old Man And The Old Woman; Irish Washerwoman; St Anne’s Reel; Uncle Jim’s Jig; Goose Feathers; Maple Sugar; Rag Time Annie; Silver and Gold; Fiddlin’ For Fun*; Down Yonder; Mississippi Sawyer

'It's A Saturday Night Barn Dance' compilation, Rodeo Records RLPCD 8045, circa 1996
track 14: Red Wing / Crooked Stove Pipe

Included on:
It's The Saturday Night Barn Dance Vol 2, Rodeo International RLPCD 8047,  1998
track 17: South
 

w/ Lucky Ambo & Victor Passowisty. From a 60's radio broadcast.

Included on:
It's The Saturday Night Barn Dance Vol 2, Rodeo International RLPCD 8047,  1998
track 1: Down Yonder / Mississippi Sawyer
 

Ranch Boys w/ Rossie Mann. Introduced by Johnny Brent who was boss-man on the Barn Dance from 1942 on. Down Yonder was always the opening & Closing theme and this is from a 1963 broadcast.

Country Waltzes, MCOTF - 2

Members: Archie Harrigan; Jimmy Carroll; Put Coulter; Clarence Duncan; Herb Duncan; Mel Echart; Allen Gold; Cliff Moore; John Nazarenko: Dorothy Roy; Olga Sawby; Royce Smith; Bernice Stewart; Peter Swain; Bob White

Tracks: Over The Waves; Good Neighbor Waltz; Sweedish Waltz; Country Waltz; Peekaboo Waltz; Beautiful Ohio; Let's All Sing Like the Birdies Sing; In the Goold Old Summer Time / Sidewalks of New York; Starlight Waltz; Life in the Finland Woods; Merry Oldsmobile; Throwing Dice

Maple Creek, Saskatchewan has been known for many, many years as a place where one could hear the vibrating echoes of fiddles being played. It is with great pleasure that we have made this album of Waltzes for you to enjoy. The painting on the front cover was done by Olga Sawby, a very active member of the Maple Creek Old Tyme Fiddlers. Not only does she paint, she is an active member of many other local organizations. She is the main stem of the Maple Creek Old Tyme Fiddlers. Without Olga's organizing, planning and just plain hard work, many of the Old Tyme Fiddlers' activities just would not have happened.

A special thanks goes out to all the wives and husbands of the members of the Maple Creek Old Tyme Fiddlers. Looking after the home fires while we are away playing, being with us on tours, and providing us with food. Our group has learned that behind every good old time fiddler, there is a kind, patient and understanding wife or husband.

Native fiddling Fever, Sunshine Records - SSBCT-442

Cliff Maytwayashing, fiddle

Tracks: Andy's Old-Time Waltz; Interlake Swing; Ti-Gean Booribale Reel; Red River Blues; Pete's Breakdown; Apple Blossom Waltz; Lonesome Indian; Buffalo Gal; Bedford Waltz; Donny's Polka

Zeke Mazurek
(died 2010)

I Ain't Dead... Yet - A Choice And Authentic Collection of Traditional and Contemporary Melody Specially Adapted for the Violin Being Gems culled from Life in Canada as collected and arranged by Zeke Mazurek, Iady Music - 1995

Zeke Mazurek, fiddles; Danny Greenspoon, guitar; Rob Hollett, bodhran; Sneezy Waters, guitar; Rick Bauer, guitar

Produced by Zeke Mazurek; Engineer: Rick Hodgson & Chris Szpakowski; Mixed at Star Link Sound by Danny Greenspoon; Mastered by Peter Moore at the E Room, Toronto, ON; Recorded at Star Link Sound, Brighton, ON & St. Paul's Anglican Church, Brighton, ON.

Tracks: Lament for Owen Christy (New Brunswick); A Brisk Young Man's Jig Medley: Teufelpferd (The Black Nag) / Colleraine / Miss Shepperd (British Isles); Cinquantaine (French); Back To The Hills (Scottish); Szia Dzieweczka Do Laseczka (Polish); The Battle of Glencoe (Scottish); SI PA BI (Loatian); Medley: Rodney's Glory / Dust In The Lane / Sally Gooding / Billy Cheatem (Irish/American); Blind Mary (Irish); Variation on Sandor Lakatos' Verbunk in A (Magyar); A Mira Melody (Cape Breton); Captain O'Kane (Irish); Lament for Owen Christy (Reprise)
 

Lament for Owen Christy - Jim Stewart: I'll let Jim tell you about this lovely piece.

"Owen Christy was one of nearly 17,000 Irish immigrants fleeing the Famine who attempted to land in Saint John, New Brunswick, in 1847. That was the peak year of the Irish influx. Of those 17,000, some 2,000 died on the voyage over or shortly after. Owen is buried, with approximately 600 others, in mass graves on Partridge Island in Saint John harbour. The Tune was written for all those immigrants but Owen's name just jumped out of a list of casualties from the quarantine station reprinted in a book by the New Brunswick museum. His name may well have been "Christie" but it appears as "Christy" in the list of deaths."

A Brisk Young Man's Jig Medley: Teufelpferd (The Black Nag) / Colleraine / Miss Shepperd (British Isles): A Potpourri of tunes from the British Isles

Cinquantaine (French) - Gabriel Marie: I learned this piece from Vancouver street musicians David and John-David. For years and years I thought it was an old Eastern European Street song. Boy, was I mistaken. Turns out to be written by Gabriel Marie (1852-1928), an obscure French composer, critic and conductor. This kid doesn't get out much.

Back To The Hills (Scottish) - J. Scott Skinner 1843-1927: The composer's motto (I keep running into it on old sheet music of the period) seems to have been, "Talent does what it can, Genius does what it must." This piece is a whole bunch of fun to play. I learned this tune from the multi-talented David MacIsaac of Halifax, NS

Szia Dzieweczka Do Laseczka (Polish): "A Girl went into the Forest" is the English translation of this piece. I learned this from my father. (The song! Not that a girl went into the forest!).

The Battle of Glencoe (Scottish): The massacre of the MacDonalds on Feb. 13, 1692, for a technical failure to declare allegiance to the new British king, William III. About 40 died in this surprise attack by Campbell soldiers under the orders of Sir John Dalrymple, the King's Secretary of State.

SI PA BI (Loatian): Sneezy Waters learned this piece in Laos way back in 1970. It was a big hit in the area he was visiting that year. Sneezy Waters is a real sweetheart of a guy for sharing this with me.

Medley: Rodney's Glory / Dust In The Lane / Sally Gooding / Billy Cheatem (Irish/American): The first tune is Irish, the rest are from the our best friends to the south.

Blind Mary (Irish) - Turlough O'Carolan 1670-1738: I would like to dedicate this song to Bernie Martin and Mary Lofthouse, two very dear friends. This beautiful melody is attributed to O'Carolan and sometimes to that prolific writer Trad. and his equally famous relation Anon. I learned this from Piper's Hut, an eclectic folk ensemble from Port Hope, ON.

Variation on Sandor Lakatos' Verbunk in A (Magyar): I retrieved this lovely song from an old, scratchy recording by the Hungarian Master Violinist Sandor Lakatos. I no longer have the record, it disappeared years ago. Just to confuse you further, I've recorded this in G.

A Mira Melody (Cape Breton) - Tracie Dares: Tracie told me that she was 15 years old when she wrote this haunting piece. ("Haunting" because when I first heard it I could not get it out of my mind. Even the tried and true method of humming "You Are My Sunshine" failed to drive it from my head. The only solution was to record it.) She was practising her piano in the living room when her father asked her to play something slow. Two hours later A Mira Melody was born.

Captain O'Kane (Irish) - O'Carolan: I learned this at Bernie & Mary's in Kendal, ON

Lament for Owen Christy (Reprise): If you would like to hear more of Jim's compositions, may I recommend the excellent album "The Marco Polo Suite" available from Jim Stewart, 102 Shore Rd., Renforth, Saint John, NB, E2H 1K8

Dedicated by My Mother and Father

Thank you to some very special people: Alexandra Adamson, Trevor Moat, Sharry and Mark Despeault, Officer Tim - Guardian of the Public Good, The Wakami Wailers, Jim Yates, Ted Staunton, The Folks at QADS, Edna and Dave Theakston, Christine Brown, Andy Rush, Terry Tufts, Johnny Pearl, Rufus Stewart the Luthier, John and Cheryl Clarke, Alec Lunn, George Essery, Picton, Milford, Thrasher's Corners and Small Towns, Folk and Fiddle Clubs everywhere.

Special Thanks to: K. John Spot, violin Maker, Belleville, ON for the use of spot #2. Maggie Yates for the use of her bodhran. Mark Despeault for the use of his Martin D-35. Rev. Max Woolaver and the congregation of St. Paul's Church, Brighton for the use of their church.
 

Favorites of Family and Friends, DEM 0600 - 2000

Debbie McMillan, Violin; June Tremain-Blanchard, keyboards; BenWeatherby, bass; Yvonne Stilwell, guitar; Terry Patterson, drums; Howard Ross, harmonica

Produced and Engineered by Ben Weatherby; recorded and mixed a Weatheby Sound Studio, Saint John NB

Tracks: Four Jacks; I Live Alone; If Ever You Were Mine; Alex and Maureen's 2-Step; Bonnie's Waltz; Jimmy's Favourite Jig; Valse Gisele; Parry Sound Reel; Renfrew Co. Waltz; Happy Acres 2-Step; Celina; Down Yonder

Special thanks to Yvon Cuillerier and to Sylvia Campbell for composing such lovely waltzes. Thanks to Yvonn for the jam session ay 27, 2000. Appreciation goes to the back-up musicians for their time and talent, and to family and friends of the fiddle world for their inspiration and support.

Roma McMillan

Seaway Valley Fiddle Tunes By Roma McMillan, Guitarama Inc.,  LPGU-6004

Roma McMillan, Violin; June Boulerice, guitar; Doug Switzer, electric guitar; David Andrew, piano; Daniel Ladouceur, mandolin

Produced by Daniel Ladouceur; Engineer: Roger Grant; Recorded at Studio Marc.

Tracks: Sir Wilfred Laurier March; Lou Sullivan's Hornpipe; Donegal Jig; Friendly River Waltz; Prairie Schottische; Can-Am Two Step*; Lake St. Laurence Waltz*; Upper Canada Jig*; Five Foot Two; Valse Bleu; Steel Guitar Rag; Ault Island Clog*; The World is Waiting for the Sunrise; New Brunswick Breakdown
 

I like to watch the way the river flows,
The mighty St. Lawrence, full and strong,
I'd like to follow where the river goes,
And touch its banks as it rolls along,
Ontario, New York, and old Quebec
All border a friendly stream
Follow it along and listen to its song,
Oh, that would be a favorite dream.

Drifting down, by friendly town
Follow the stream where the waters run,
Proud St. Lawrence, free and strong,
Ripples and sparkles and shines in the sun.

And in Canada and U.S.A.,
Friendly neighbours all the way
Peacefully forever may,
Follow the river along

David Andrew

This record is dedicated to the pioneers. Back to Jacques Cartier who had dreams of finding a way to by-pass the Lachine and Long Sault rapids and open a waterway to link the Sea to the interior of Canada and the United States, a distance of 3766 kilometers. The opening of the Seaway in April 1959 marked the full realization of a 400 year old dream. The first efforts were pioneered by Dollier de Casson in 1680, who, after twenty years of struggle with his superiors, and the apathy of local settlers, succeeded in signing a contract for the construction of a canal to link Lake St. Louis and Montreal. The Casson Canal was not completed until 1824.

By the middle of the 19th century, a continuous water route linking Lake Erie and the sea was available to vessels of less than 2.4 M draught but by 1904 the Lachine and Welland Canals were deepened to 4.3 M. The St. Lawrence River flows mainly within the Canadian borders, so after years of study by the United States and Canada, a treaty was signed in 1909 which established the International Joint Commission. In 1952 the International Joint Commission gave approval for the construction of the 8.2 M navigation route between Montreal and Lake Erie. The United States Federal Power Commission in 1953, granted a fifty year license to the Power Authority of the State of New York, for the development of the United States half of the Power Project. It was about this time that the United States Congress authorized the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation to construct on the United States Territory all of the 8.2 M navigational facilities required. The first sod was turned for the St. Lawrence Seaway on August 10, 1954.

On August 25, 1959 the 'Iberville' made the first through transit of the St. Lawrence Seaway, which was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and President Dwight D. Eisenhower of the United States. Today, after twenty-two years of operation, the waterway remains not only a fine example of the spirit of co-operation between two nations, but also a great tribute to the ingenuity, capability and perserverance of all those who had a hand in its realization.

Note:

Ce disque est un hommage à tous les gens qui de près ou loin ont été touché par la construction de la voie Maritime du St. Laurent.

Roma McMillan, Violin; David Andrew, piano; June Boulerice, guitar; Doug Switzer, electric guitar; Lionel Blais, drums; Daniel Ladouceur, mandolin

Produced by Daniel Ladouceur; Engineer: Roger Grant; Recorded at Paff Studios, Hull QC.

Tracks: Cowboy Reel; Ottawa Girls Jig*; Four Jacks Polka; Mountain Ranger Hornpipe; Don Messer’s Memorial; Sparks Street Mall Polka*; Warm Stuff; Cadeau Jig; Barbara Polka; Colonel By Waltz*; Johnson Rag; Old Joe Clark; Muscrat Rambel; Billings Bridge Waltz
 

On July 5, 1911, in the City of Lachine, Quebec, Roma Clarke McMillan was born. She received her education in the Earl Grey and Lachine High Schools. Moved to Montreal West in 1928. In 1935 she married Hugh Andrew McMillan and moved to Williamsburg, Ontario where she and her husband farmed for many years until his death in 1974. In 1978 she moved to Ottawa where she held the position of National Secretary of Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada. Roma has three children, June Boulerice of Morrisburg, Joye Oswald of Vankleek Hill and Roger of Williamsburg.

Roma studied violin and piano from Professor Armand LeDuc of Lachine Quebec. In 1929 she joined the Montreal Philharmonic Orchestra where she played until her marriage. It was not until moving to Ontario that she played old time fiddle music. In the early war years she formed a dance band and played for many years.

In 1961 she entered her first competition in Alexandria, Ontario and won first prize and her first trophy. Since then she has to her credit forty-five trophies, winning fourth place in the senior class in Shelburne, Ontario. Roma has done a great deal of volunteer dance music for senior citizens since coming to Ottawa, and intends to keep on doing so as long as possible.

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Tommy McQueston

Tommy McQueston, Violin; Kate Murphy, piano; Ian Bell, guitar

Produced by Ian Bell; Engineer: Brian Pickell; Recorded at Tom McQueston's Living Room, King City ON

Tracks: The Queen's Wedding (Pride of the Ball); 48th Highlanders' March / Laird of Drumblair / Victoria Reel; Down The Burn / Rosin The Beau / Teviot Bridge; Gay Gordons / Lovett Scouts / Scotland's Farewell To Ireland / Athlone Highlanders; Leage and Slashers; Charlie Hunter / Unknown Jig / Shannon Bells; Londonderry Hornpipe; Mist on the Mountain / Staten Island / MacIlmoyle's; Rosebud of Avonmore

"With Variations!" was what Tommy would sometimes say if he felt he (or someone else) had just made a mess of a tune. For the record, he doesn't actually say it anywhere on this CD.

Tommy was born in Ballymoney, County Antrim, Ireland around the turn of the last century. He learned the fiddle there as a boy. Tommy came to Toronto in 1924 and later lived for many years in King City. In the 1930s and 40s he played with Russ Creighton & His Haybailers, Norm Graham and His Harvesters and George Wade and His Cornhuskers. (Three bands that all would have been a big help around the farm!) Tommy also enjoyed competing in fiddle contests right up until the end of his life. Despite his Irish origins, his real musical passion was the Scottish repertoire. Although he is said to be on some Cornhuskers 78s, he never made any commercial recordings under his own name.

These tunes were recorded with a single track (Marantz?) cassette recorder in Tommy's living room in about 1980 by Brian Pickell. I recall it being a sunny winter afternoon - but I could be wrong. The music for the session was not particularly rehersed although Kate and I were playing fairly regularly for square dances with Tommy at that time. Tommy's buddy Sam McVandal was also there that afternoon and can be heard bringing the fiddler a bottle of beer at one point - "Atta boy Sam"

Tommy died at the age of 100 on February 27, 2002

Ian Bell, 2008

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Rudy Meeks

Canadian Fiddle Sound, Mariposa Music 1189 M - early 1970s
Rudy Meeks, fiddle; Bob Brown, piano; Paul Zaza, drums; Tom Bays, guitar; Don Wood, bass

Produced by: Bob Brown and Rudy Meeks; Engineer: Paul James Zaza

Tracks: First Century Reel*; Cadeau’s Jig; McPhail’s Tune; The Dolphin Waltz; Rustic Jig; The Bonny-Lynn Breakdown*; Temagami Winter Carnival Breakdown*; Village Carousel Waltz; Whistling Rufus; Debbie “M” Jig*; The Orillia Waltz*; Camp-A-Rosa Hoedown*
 

Perfectionism is something very seldom heard of these days, but when this perfectionism is incorporated, it stands out and shines like the north star on a clear night. Rudy Meeks is not only a perfectionist, but so versatile he becomes stunningly unique in his art. To every old time fiddler, the ultimate has to be the Shelburne championship, playing the , and the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. Rudy Meeks has had all of these honours and more. Rudy Meeks has competed in and won most all the highly recognized fiddle contests in Ontario. Rudy Meeks is a quiet, easy going man, but also a very determined man. Determination persistence and practice lead to the title of North American Old Time Fiddle Champion in 1972.

Rudy Meeks has had music bred right into him, for on both sides of his family the fiddle reigned supreme. In face, his dad was considered one of the best old time fiddlers around. His brother Bill also achieved this distinction. Born in the beautiful Muskokas, Rudy has been drawing the bow across the strings of a fiddle since the age of seven. Rudy Meeks has always had great respect and admiration for his father, for he says it was his father who encouraged and taught him to play the fiddle. Now living on the shores of beautiful Lake Couchiching in Orillia he and his band play for many dances and other functions near and far afield.

Rudy Meeks is not only the perfectionist we talked about, but let’s also include composer. Throughout this album, you will enjoyably experience some of his own compositions, which include The Orillia Waltz... The First Century... Camp-A-Rosa Hoedown... Bonny-Lynn Breakdown... Debbie “M” Jig... and the Temagami Winter Carnival Breakdown. As a note of interest, the three tunes that Rudy played when he won the Shelburne contest are on this album... The Village Carousel Waltz... Rustic Jig... and the First Century Reel. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I now present a Man and his music... Rudy Meeks.

Rusty Draper,
CFOR Radio

I am honoured by this gentleman fiddler, Mr Rudy Meeks, to write a portion of the liner notes for his latest album.

Though I have known him only a short time, I was warmly impressed by his genteel manner as well as his mastery of the fiddle.

He is truly a fine artist and has a repertoire unsurpassed for reels, jigs and waltzes. As one Nashville musician said, “He is Canada’s answer to Howard, (Big Howdy) Foster.” I agree with this statement - You will too as you listen to the fine tone and delivery of these wonderful compositions.

Parry F Harris, DDS, MD, FACS
Co-ordinator: The Grand Master’s Fiddlers
Contest, Nashville, Tennessee

Rudy Meeks, fiddle; Bob Brown, piano; Fred Collins, drums; Tom Cathcart, guitar; Accompaniment Arrangements: Bob Brown

Produced by Bob Brown and Rudy Meeks; Engineer: Paul Zaza; Recorded at Zaza Sound Productions, May 1974

Tracks: Shelburne Reel; Canadian Four Step; Peek-A-Boo Waltz / Ice On The road Reel / Mason's Apron Reel; Noble Meeks Jig*; Blue Mountain Hornpipe; London Derry Hornpipe / Blue Water Hornpipe; CNE Breakdown / Mitton's Breakdown; Farmers Jamboree; Rosebud of Avondale; Irish Heart To The Ladies / Big John McNeil Reel; Fiddlers of Shelburne Hornpipe*

I can well remember, many years ago, reading a letter of reference or recommendation given to a personality of great ability, outstanding brilliance and integrity by a dear friend who held this particular personality in extremely high regard. I can truthfully say that this introduction to Rudy Meeks and the Fiddles of Shelburne is an exact duplication of just such an instance. Almost a quarter of a century ago, even before the Fiddles of Shelburne came into being, I had been interested in and associated with fiddle playing and it has been most gratifying to me to watch the fine progress of Rudy Meeks. The great contest at Shelburne has brought many talented fiddlers into the limelight and one of the greatest is this artist - Rudy Meeks. When the late Cliff McIntosh brought the idea of a fiddle contest from Calgary to the Shelburne rotary club no one had the faintest hope of it eventually becoming what it has - The Greatest Event of its kind in North America. Many thousands of crippled children and music lovers have benefited and enjoyed the good works of so many dedicated personalities. Rudy Meeks is the type of individual who very definitely "Plans his works and Works his Plan". Rudy Meeks is S-O-L-I-D in every sense of the word and with his winning smile, the twinkle in eye, heart of gold and his deep interest in old time fiddling he is surely destined to retain the title of "The Wizard Of The Bow" for many years to come. It is my delight and pleasure to have been given the opportunity to participate in this worthy tribute to Rudy Meeks whose wholesome fiddle accomplishments will, I am sure, delight the hearts of all lovers of quality and respect. I extend the best wishes to Rudy, his wonderful family and his many thousands of friends and admirers all over North America so now I say let's tap our toes as we listen and enjoy Rudy Meeks and the Fiddles of Shelburne.

Fiddlingly yours

Vince Montford
Shelburne's (Fiddleville) Perennial Emcee

Note: At the time this album was being produced it was learned of the untimely death of fellow fiddler Johnny Mooring. The entire fiddle world has been saddened by the passing of this fine fiddler.

Rudy Meeks, fiddle; Bob Brown, Accordion, Harmonica, Piano; Don Wood, Bass; Fred Collins, drums; John Kenneth Gulley, guitar

Produced and Devised by Rudy Meeks and Bob Brown; Engineer: Ken Friesan; Recorded at Eastern Sound Studios, Toronto, July 1976

Tracks: The Old Box Stove Jig / Exile's Lament Jig; Dick McDougall's Reel / Fiddlehead Reel / Crazy Creek Reel; Miramichi River Jig / Murray River Jig; Bracebridge Centennial Hornpipe* / Out the Buckhorn Way; Frisco Waltz; Old Time Polka; Carlton County / MacKilmoyle's Reel; Centennial Waltz; Dundee Hornpipe / Lamplighter's Hornpipe; Vic's Jig / Concert Reel

Heritage: That which is rightfully ours by inheritance.

That definition, I guess, can cover just about every part of our growing up in Canada, from the old china cups in the corner cabinet, to the music which we readily call our own. But in the music tradition, as in most things Canadian, there is always a contradiction. Even though we say it's ours, the roots of that tradition are invariably from outside Canada. Our musical heritage is a long and slow evolution of the blending of English, Scottish, Irish, French as well as other European influences brought here by our forefathers. For hundreds of years the fiddle played the predominant role. Rudy has taken some fine examples and put them into this collection.

But what about this thing called heritage? What is it really? Maybe I can answer that by telling you about something which, for me, is a litter closer to home.

Each year in Northwestern Ontario, we have a Spring celebration called the Fur Trader's Fiddle Contest. It commemorates the days in the early part of the last century when Trader's and voyageur's with the Northwest Company, later the Hudson's Bay company, would rendezvous with the Western Trader's at Fort William at the end of Lake Superior. It was a hard, dangerous journey from the lower St. Lawrence to the Lakehead. Many Voyageurs gave their lives in the month long trip as they pushed their heavily laden freighter canoes across the all but impenetrable country. When the trip was ended the celebration would begin and would last as long as there was energy to dance and play the music. The story of that journey is our history, now; the music is our heritage.

Rudy Meeks came to the Fur Trader's Fiddle contest, this year as a special guest. When he played on that warm Spring night to the packed arena, the effect on the audience was magic. His fingers danced across the strings and the music went straight to the hearts of the people as they began clapping in time with the joyful sound. The old sense of real celebration was brought to life again, while he was on the stage that night.

When Rudy finished playing, the standing ovation he got was enough to raise the Voyageurs and the Fur Traders from their timeless graves. And that is what the heritage is all about... isn't it? As long as there are people like Rudy Meeks around to keep it alive and well.

David Forsee
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Thunder Bay, Ontario
April 1976

Note: I first met Rudy Meeks several years ago at the Canadian Open Old Time Fiddle Contest in Shelburne, Ontario. Each year I'd go up to Shelburne with my dad, Reid Forsee, who, as many people know, produced the contest for CBC radio for many years. An automobile accident in 1968 took his life and ended those summer excursions for all of us. I think you can appreciate this is a special honour for me to have been asked to write these notes for Heritage Fiddle. It's an opportunity that brings back a lot of memories.

DF

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Marcel Meilleur & The Red River Echos

Marel Meilleur at/au Festival du Voyageur, Sunshine Records SSBLP-417, circa 1978

Marcel Meilleur, fiddle/violon; Irwin Wall, guitar/guitare; Ron Halderson, bass/basse; Joe MacKintosh, piano; Roland Dandeneau, drums/percussion

Producer/production: Ness Michaels; Recording Engineer/Ingénieur du son: John Hildebrand; Recorded at/Enregistré aux studios Century 21 Studios, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Tunes: Festival du Voyageur reel*; War Bonnet Reel*; Sweet Lady Fingers waltz*; Guy’s Special Breakdown*; Armand’s Jig*; Red River Jig; Red River Brigade Reel*; Snow-shoe Reel; Mona Lisa Hornpipe*; Hometown Waltz*; Reel A Beaulieu*; Little Red Lantern Reel*
 

Marcel Meilleur is not a newcomer to the old-time music scene and he has come a long way since the days he had to hide while playing his dad’s violin. Better known for having accompanied and toured with Andy DeJarlis for 14 years, Marcel comes from Fisher Branch, Manitoba. In 1962 he moved to Montreal with Andy and played in clubs and lounges for three years. During that time, he frequently contributed to a series of radio and television shows that were broadcasted throughout Quebec.

Before long, he was a musician recognized in his own right. He subsequently made three appearances on the Don Messer Show and played at the 1974 Festival International in France, a festival regrouping representatives from 26 countries.

Since 1976, Marcel heads the Red River Echos and for the past two years has also featured on the CBC series special “Les Echos de la Rivière Rouge”. Again in 1979, he will be heading a ten week series on the CBC network.

This fine musician has contributed to 34 LP’s but this is the first LP he can really call his own. Most of the pieces are his own compositions and reflect a style that is truly his.

Marcel has already contracted for another LP and is now preparing a tribute to Andy DeJarlis. Many people already know Marcel through his tours across Canada. Now they can share his love of old-time folklore music.

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Pat Menard

Tunes: Widdifield Hornpipe*; Bruno's Jig*; Lisa Lynn Waltz*; Golden Slipper; Colonial Breakdown*; Gateway Two Step*; Money Musk; Hummel's Breakdown*; On The Way To Boston*; Chippewa Breakdown*; Hell Among The Yearling; Lynd Field Schottische*

Don Harveson, bass; Dougle Trineer, flat top guitar; Pat Menard, fiddle; Pete Schwimmur, banjo

Tunes: Seymour Special**; Spittin’ Grass*; Northern Lights*; Blue Grass Breakdown; Shuckin’ The Corn; Banjo Fiddle Trot*; P. Julien Trot**; Bow Pickin’ Swing*; Turkey In The Straw; Fall Creek Breakdown**

* by Pat Menard; ** by Pete Schwimmur
 

MMC Recording Company is proud to present one of the finest Blue Grass albums ever released in Canada. Featuring Canada’s one and only Blue Grass fiddle – Pat Menard, along with the most amazing and unique five string banjo style of Pete Schwimmur. This album speaks for itself. Need we say more.

President

Paul Menard

Paul Menard, fiddle; unknown band

Tracks: Reel de Cordonnier; La Gigue d'Amedee*; Breakdown de Bill Bessey*; Danse du Bon Vieux Temps; Paul Jones; Reel de St. Anne; Gigue de Lomer; Le Reve du Diable

Paul Ménard

Paul Ménard, le violooniste Canadien bien connu, est né le 16 Mars, 1932. Le plus jeune d'une famille de dix, Paul commença à jouer de cet instrument à l'age de 6 ans lorsque son frère, Joe, se rendant compte de l'intérête avait pour la musique, lui fournit son premier violon.

A 9 ans, Paul jouait pour les quadrilles dans la région de Kirkland Lake et dans le nord du Québec; à l'age de 10 ans, Paul rejoignit ses frères au programme du poste de radio local et ensuite fit de nombreuses tournée à grand succès dans le nord du Québec et de l'Ontario.

En 1951, Paul Ménard jouait pour la tournée de musique de l'Ouest est fasait partie de nombreuses réunions du quadrille par tout le Canada.

Bien connu, par suite des ses nombreuses représentations à la télévision au Canada, Paul nobre parmi les Célébrités violonistes du quadrille.

Les Fameux Danseurs de Quadrille Brading

La grace et l'adress Canadienne traditionnelle se confondent avec la joie et le plaisir de cet agréable divertissement, si populaire, le quadrille.

Ces sept dernières années, les fameux danseurs de quadrille Brading, ont considérablement contribué à cette scène de gaieté et à entretenir un fort intérêt dans cette danse Canadienne traditionelle. Ces danseurs ont été présents à de nombreuses manifestations de marque par tout le pays, y compris l'Exposition Canadienne du Sport et l'Expostion National Canadienne.

Paul Menard

Paul Menard, well known Canadian fiddler, was born March 16, 1932. Youngest of a musical family of ten, Paul first started playing at the early age of 6 when his brother, Joe, seeing Paul's interest in music provided him with a violin of his own.

At the age of 9, Paul was playing for square dances in the Kirkland Lake and northern Quebec districts, and at the age of 10 Paul joined his brothers on a local radio station program after which followed many highly successful tours throughout northern Quebec and Ontario.

In 1951, Paul Menard played the western music circuit, and appeared at many Square Dance Jamborees throughout the Dominion.

Well known from Canadian Television appearances, Paul is ranked tops in his field on Square Dance fiddle playing.

The Famous Brading's Square Dancers

Traditional Canadian grace and skill mingle with modern fun and pleasure in the popular activity of square dancing. Young and old alike enjoy "Do-Si-Do" and "Allemand Left" as the growing numbers of square dance clubs and "Old Tyme" dances attest.

For the past seven years the Famous Brading's Square Dancers have proudly been part of this happy scene and have assisted in supporting interest in this traditional Canadian dance. The dancers have appeared at major events throughout the country, including the Canadian National Sportsman Show and the Canadian National Exhibition.

Tracks: Big Tiger Rag; Turkey In The Straw; Cotton Eyed Joe; Rocking The Moon; Billing in the Lowlands; Flop Eared Mule; Sally Goodin'; The Mockin' Bird; Smoky Mountain Rag; Fiddler's Dream; Hitch Hiker's Blues; Tennessee Wagoner

Paul Menard Plays Don Messer, Point P-263

Tracks: St Ann's Reel; Ladies Slipper; Fireman's Reel; Big John McNeill; The Growling Old Man & Old Woman; Flowers of Edinburgh; Rippling Water Jug; Rambler's Hornpipe; Angus Campbell; Stack of Barley; Le Bon Homme Et La Bonne Femme; High Level Hornpipe

(Note: Rippling Water Jug is most likely a typo for Jig - ed)

Paul Menard Plays Live from The Cycle Ranch, Banff / Rodeo SBS 5308, circa 1972

Paul Menard, fiddle

Engineer: Paul Mongeau; Produced by Dougal Trineer

Tunes: Foggy Mountain Breakdown; Old Joe Clark; Sweet Georgia Brown; Lady Be Good; Windy and Warm; Camptown Races; Redskin; Flop Eared Mule; Arkansas Traveller; Maple Sugar
 

“It was on a Tuesday evening in April that PAUL MENARD dropped into the Cycle Ranch to discuss one of our fravourite subjects – Bikes!

We have known Paul for quite a few years and have seen him perform many time, both in Night Clubs and on National Television, so talk naturally drifted around to another mutual love – Country Music.

Before too long the idea of having a live recording session right at our shop evolved and everyone was excited by the possibility. How often do you get the chance of sitting right in the front row centre at a recording session of one of the greatest, if not the greatest, Country Music Fiddler.

When we are turned on by an idea, none of us fool around, s the session was slated for Saturday of the same week. Paul and the boys arrived bright and early with the fiddle, guitars, banjos, drums and all the paraphernalia that goes into taping a session.

Before too long everything was in high gear and the citizens of Pierrefonds were being treated to music country style by some of the tops in the business. In between the foot stomping, we were able to get in the act creating the other kind of music you hear on this record – the sounds of a 650 c.c. BSA Firebird Scrambler and a Bridgestone 350 GTR.

We all thoroughly enjoyed our day and hope you will too, through this recording. Who knows, this may be the first of many to follow!”

Grant Hunt

---

Tracks: Le Reel de mon oncle Damas; Marianne Lapierre; Le reel ouesteurne; Hitch Hiker’s Blues; Fiddler’s Dream; Le reel de la bete puante; Rambler’s Hornpipe; Des fleurs sur le gazon; The Little Green Frog; Irish Washer Woman
 

The Best of Paul Menard, MCA Coarl CB 35009

(Formerly released on The Point Label)

Tracks: Turkey In The Straw; Flop Eared Mule; Smokey Mountain Rag; St. Ann's Reel; Big John McNeill; Angus Campbell; Le Bonhomme et la bonne femme; Rambler's Hornpipe; Orange Blossom Special; Me And My Fiddle; Shenandoah Waltz; Black Mountain Rag. 

Paul Menard, fiddle

Tunes: Le reel Hill Lilly; Le reel des pieds noirs*; Breakdown de Mosher Bay*; Valse de l’esclave*; Le salut du diable*; Paddy On The Turnpike; Le reel du fermier*; Breakdown on Tennessee; Ramblers Hornpipe; Anniversaire des vielles filles*

Paul Menard, fiddle; Pat Menard, banjo and guitar

Produced by Paul Menard; Engineer: Don Cocksedge; Recorded at Tamarack Sound Studios, North Bay, ON - February 23, 1983

Tracks: Hitch Hiker's Blues; Jolly Jig*; Mocking Bird; Fiddlin' Rag; Adieu Quebec*; Ryan's Buddy*; Alanna Waltz*; Bed And Breakfast*; Strawberry Winter*; Home Again*
 

It gives me great pleasure to dedicate this Fiddle album to my two grandchildren, Ryan and Alanna.

After more than 30 years of traveling throughout Canada and the United States, performing six nights a week; appearing on numerous Radio and Television Shows; owning and performing with my own Recording Company; producing and playing on over 1,000 albums; in March of 1980 I underwent successful open-heart surgery and then decided to leave Montreal and return to Northern Ontario.

"Home Again"

This latest Fiddle album says it all. To my longtime friends in Quebec "ADIEU"; to my new friends in Northern Ontario, I am "HOME AGAIN", and to all lovers of Fiddle Music everywhere, I know you'll enjoy this album and my six new compositions as well as the four traditional numbers.

Thank you to my brother Pat, who did an excellent job on Banjo and Guitar and who also contributed much in making this album a success.

A special thanks to Don Cocksedge and Tamarack Studios, for a job well done, and to my son Dean who took the cover photograph.

To all the staff at CKAT Radio, North Bay, (where I host a weekly two-hour Bluegrass Show), here at last is something new to play by Paul Menard.

Sincerely,

Paul Menard

P.S. A new Fiddle Waltz Album is in the making .... watch for it.

---

Ray Meyers

Orange Blossom Special with Ray Meyers, no label – no serial, circa 1970

Ray Meyers, fiddle; Wes Yaciuk, rhythm guitar; Mike Neitzel, 5 string banjo; Alf Myhre, tenor banjo; John Mac, bass; Mike Harney, drums; Rob Williams, Steel Guitar; John Muirhead, saxophone

Produced by Ray Meyers; Mixer: Darrel Goede; Recorded at Machine Shop Audio Recording Ltd., Edmonton, Alberta

Tunes: Maidens Prayer; Orange Blossom Special; Karl’s Waltz; Under the Double Eagle; Blue Ridge Express; Lovers Concerto; Jubilee Schottische; Life in the Finland Woods; Clarinet Polka; Tyrolian Woodchopper Polka; Ukranian Butterfly Dance*

Two Sides of Ray Meyers, World / Audat - 477-9080, circa 1980

Ray Meyers, fiddle, accordion & mandolin; Paddy Smith, drums; Rich Chernesky, guitar; John Mac, bass; Don Evoy, tenor & five string banjo; John Muirhead, saxophone

Produced by Ray Meyers and Joe Kozak; Recorded at Project 70 Studio, Edmonton, Alberta

Tracks: Home Sweet Home; Shannon Waltz; Lonesome Indian; Kiss Me Waltz; Rippling Water Jig; Skiffle Fiddle; Joliet Waltz; Klondike Stomp*; Crack of Dawn Waltz*; Red Cross Schotish*; Hunters Waltz; Carol Ann Polka

(Ed Note: Ray divides the tunes on this album between fiddle and accordion; Red Cross Schotish is his spelling of what is probably 'Schottische')

Probably one of the best compliments I have ever gotten about my previous album 'Fiddlin' Fun' is that someone has said that the record was played at a party and they enjoyed dancing to it.

To my way of thinking there just are not enough of our traditional old time dance records around which keep alive those old dances like the Schotish, Waltz or Two-Step, which have been enjoyed for so many years. It seems a little sad that most of the records put out today are aimed at pleasing the younger set and no one is really too concerned about entertaining our older people, who would like to hear a few of the tunes and dance sounds of by gone days, which always bring back a few memories of some good times once had.

Just a word or two about myself.

I was born just a few miles north of Paradise Hill, Saskatchewan, somewhere around the year of '35 and have lived there ever since. I'm always a little proud to mention that I am a farmer and rancher and have always thought that this is still the best way of life there is.

I don't do much playing anymore, just the odd local dance and a few neighborhood get togethers.

It is my sincerest wish to have my album in your collection at your next dance party. Have fun.

Ray Meyers

---

Aimé Mignault

Violoniste Et Violoneux, Ultra UL-29565

Tracks: Ranger’s Waltz: Casatschok; Village Carousel Waltz; Poor Girl Waltz; Silver And Gold; St Anne’s Reel; Shelbourne Reel; Big John McNeil; Sprout Spa; Burnt Potato; Graham’s Waltz
 

Né à Armagh, comté Bellechasse en 1904 il commenca l’étude du violon des l’âge de 10 ans pour en donner lui-même des leçons plus tard pendant 25 ans.

Maintenant marchand de musique dans le nord-ouest Québecois il est connu et apprecié de tous et surnommé par les musiciens de la place “Le papa des musiciens”. Il aime tous les genres de musique et le “Violoniste” deient “Violoneux” a la grande joie de ses amis.

Aimé Mignault se présente dans les concours de “Fiddlers” parmi les plus importants au Canada et aux Etats-Unis. En 1971, il remporta le primier prix sénior à Montpelier, Vermont et répéta le même exploit l’année suivante. En 1973, il se classe deuxième sénior à Shelburne, Ontario. Et voilà qu’à l’âge de 70 ans, Aimé Mignault nous présente son primier microsillon incluant nos airs préférs: Ecoutons-le....

Francine Boyer Mignault

 Yvon Mimeault

Y'était temps! : It's About time!:no label or serial - 1998

Yvon Mimeault, violon et piets / fiddle & foot tapping; Éric Favreau, violon / fiddle; Paul Marchand, guitare / guitar; Daniel Roy, flageolet et guimbard/ wooden flageolet, Jew's harp; Kevin Carr, cornemuse irlandaise, violon / uileann pipes , fiddle; Barbara Mendelsohn, piano , cuilères / spoons; Lauri Rivin, violon / fiddle; Laura Sadowsky, violon / fiddle; André Marchand, guitare; Guy Bouchard, guitare, violon / guitar, fiddle

Produced and engineered  by André Marchand; Studio du rang 4, Notre-Dames-des-Prairies, March 26 - 30, 1998; text by Guy Bouchard & Yvon Mimeault; translation, Laura Sadowsky

Tunes: Hommage à Andrien Alain / Réjean Ferguson; Véronique va voir à ta soupe / Reel de mes p'tites vaches; Pot pourri de Mont-Joli à la Calafornie; Quadrilles de l'oncle Ti-Bé; Hermas Réhel / Histoire de mon vieux coq; Le Forgeron; Chaîn de quadrille de l'oncle Adelme / Ti-Blanc Davis; Fort Worden / A.A. Deschênes; La femme qui crie encore / L'accroche-pied; Moineau Lamoureux / La gigue du père Doiron; De passage à Brossard / Yvon-t-y finir...; Y'était temps; La gigue du bonhomme / Soirée à Lamecque; Pot-pouri des quatre violons; L'oncle Petit / Le reel à tout le monde; Souvenirs de Cascon / Reel de Drummondville; Pot-pourri des Maritimes; Le reel du batelier / Le reel de St-Augustin; Le reel du pendu

1. Hommage à Andrien Alain / Réjean Ferguson

Yvon a recuelli ses airs un peu partout en Gaspésie et il avait beaucoup d'admiration pour plusieurs violoneux dont Adrien Alain de Gascon qui "...jouait dans deux salles de danse le même soir...". Réjean Ferguson, un autre fameux violoneux gaspésien, a été président de l'Association québécoise du loisir folklorique.

Yvon learned his tunes from all over the Gaspésie. He greatly admired a number of fiddlers including Andrien Alain de Gascon who "...played in two dance halls on the same night...". Réjean Ferguson , another well known fiddler from Gaspésie, was president of the Association québécoise du loisir folklorique.

2. Véronique va voir à ta soupe / Reel de mes p'tites vaches

Certaines mélodies de chansons servaient vouvent d'air aux violoneux. Let mots de celle-ci étaient: "Véronique, voir à ta soupe car elle est cuite et prête à manger." "... On jouait cette mélodie pour fiare danser une première partie de quadrille." Yvon est un artisan de grand talent, et il a entre autres sculpté des vaches magnifiaques. C'est pour elles qu'il a composé la deuxième partie de ce pot-pourri.

Fiddlers often borrowed song melodies to use as dance music. The words of this song are: "Véronique, go check your soup, because it's ready, because it's ready; ready to be eaten." "... We played this melody for the first part of a quadrille." Yvon is also a great craftsman and he has sculpted many magnificent wooden cows. He composed the second tune for them.

3. Pot pourri de Mont-Joli à la Calafornie

"Mon père jouait cette mélodie et elle m'est ravenue en mémoire lors d'une semaine à Port Townsend au Festival of American Fiddle Tunes, en juin 1997. J'ai appris la deuxième en écoutant la radio en Gaspésie et je crois qu'elle provient du répertoire d'Elmo Leblanc. J'ai intitulé le pot-pourri en l'honneur de mes amis de Californie Laurie, Barbara et Kevin que vous entendez tous rire à la fin..."

"My father played this tune and it came back to me during the week I spent in Port Townsend at the Festival of American Fiddle Tunes, in June 1997. I learned the second one off the radio in Gaspésie and I think that it comes from the repertoire of Elmo Leblanc. I named it the pot-pourri in honour of my California friends, Laurie, Barbara and Kevin whom we hear laughing at the end..."

4. Quadrilles de l'oncle Ti-Bé

"L'oncle Antoine Mimeault (Ti-Bé) habitait Ruisseaux-des-Olives et, dans les annés 40, il jouait régulièrement pour les danses. Il jouait ces deux airs que je j'ai plus jamais entendus par la suite."

"My uncle Antoine Mimeault (Ti-Bé) lived in Ruisseaux-des-Olives and in the 1940s he played regularly for dances. He played these two tunes which I have never heard since then."

5. Hermas Réhel / Histoire de mon vieux coq

Hermas Réhel est un ami d'Yvon et un autre excellent violoneux originaire de la réegion de Gaspé. Il vit aujourd'hui à Brossard en banlieue de Montréal. "J'ai composé le deuxième air en souvenir d'un vilain coq que nous avions quand j'était petit."

Hermas Réhel, one of Yvon's friends, is an excellent fiddler originally from the Gaspé region. Today, he lives in Brossard, a suburb of Montréal. "I composed the second tune which reminds me of the crowing of the rooster we had when I was a kid."

6. Le Forgeron

"C'est un reel que j'ai arrangé à ma manière aprés l'avoir entendu de Jean Carignan. Je joue cet air sur le violon que j'ai fabriqué en 1949 et je l'accorde La-Mi-La-Mi."

"This is a reel that i arranged in my own way after hearing Jean Carignan play it. I'm playing this tune on the fiddle that I made in 1949; it's tuned A-E-A-E."

7. Chaîn de quadrille de l'oncle Adelme / Ti-Blanc Davis

André accompagne ici Yvon car nous éditions tous 'calés' dans la 'bouette' sur le chemin menant au studio. "J'ai appris la première mélodie de mon père. La deuxième m'a été jouée par un accordéoniste aveugle de Rivière Madeleine qu'on surnommait Ti-Blanc Davis ."

André backed up Yvon on this one because the rest of us were stuck in the mud on the road to the studio. "I learned the first tune from my father. The second one was played for me by a blind accordion player from Rivière Madeleine whose nickname was Ti-Blanc Davis."

8. Fort Worden / A.A. Deschênes

"Mon père jouait cette mélodie. Il a certainement appris de nombreux airs des passants qu'on appelait des quêteux et qui logeaient chez nous pour une nuit. C'était la mélodie préféré de mon groupe d'étudiants à Fort Worden au Festival of American Fiddle Tunes... "

"André Albert Deschênes, un 'faiseux de violon' comme il disait, originaire de Les Hauteurs près de Rimouski m'a rappelé cette autre mélodie du répertoire de mon père."

"My father played this tune. He sure learned lots of tunes from the itinerant fiddlers whom we called beggars and whom we often put up for the night. At the Festival of American Fiddle Tunes at Fort Worden, this was my group of students' favourite tune..."

"André Albert Deschênes, a fiddle maker as he called himself, originally from Les Hauteurs near Rimouski, helped me remember another tune from my father's repertoire."

9. La femme qui crie encore / L'accroche-pied

"Deux autres pièces du répertoire de mon père... Le premier titre a été trouvé par mon garçon Francis qui a réalisé la pochette. C'est l'un de mes accompagnateurs, le pianiste Jean Bellevance, qui a baptisé le deuxième. C'est vrai que mes airs sont souvent 'accrochants' à accompagner..."

"Two other tunes from my father's repertoire ... My son Francis, who designed the CD cover, came up with the first title. Jean Bellevance, one of my back-up piano players, came up with the second. It's true that some of my tunes are hard to back up..."

10. Moineau Lamoureux / La gigue du père Doiron

"La première mélodie était jouée dans notre famille. Elle rapelle 'la chicaneuse' mais ches nous, c'était l'air du bûcheron qui veillait au village en courtisant la fille du voisin. J'ai appris la seconde de mon ami violoneux de Kamouraska, Ferdinand Dionne."

"The first tune was played in our family. It's similar to 'la Chicaneuse'. But where I'm from, it was the tune of the lumberjack who used to spend his evenings in the village courting the neighbour's daughter. I learned the second one from a fiddler friend, Ferdinand Dionne, from Kamouraska."

11. De passage à Brossard / Yvon-t-y finir...

"Le violoneux de Gaspé Hermas Réhel m'a souvent joué ce reel lors de mes passages chez lui à Brossard. J'ai composé le deuxième lorsque je jouais pour les longues danses comme le Brandy. Quand je n'avais plus d'air en mémoire, j'improvisais en peu en pensant quelquefois 'y-vont-y finir...'"

"Hermas Réhel, a fiddler from Gaspé, often played this reel when I visited him in Brossard. I composed the second tune when I played for long dances like the Brandy. When I ran out of tunes in my head, I improvised a little sometimes asking myself, are they ever going to finish?"

12. Y'était temps

"Je détiens le premier reel de mon père et j'ai composé le deuxième l'hiver dernier. Éric Favreau avec qui je joue ici est l'un de ceux qui peuvent le mieux suivre ma façon de jouer. Mes amis pensent que c'est l'effet 'El Mimeault' qui donne tant d'élans à nos violons..."

"I got the first tune from my father and I composed the second one last winter. Éric Favreau, with whom I'm player here, is someone who can really follow my way of playing. My friends think that it's the 'El-Mimeault' effect that gives so much swing to our fiddles."

13. La gigue du bonhomme / Soirée à Lamecque

"C'était le 6/8 préféré de mon père Odilon et c'est pour cela que je l'ai surnommé la gigue du bonhomme. C'est lors d'une soirée à Lamecque au Nouveau-Brunswick que la deuxième mélodie m'est revenue en mémoire."

"This was my father Odilon's favourite jig. This is why I nicknamed it 'La gigue du bonhomme'. It was during a party in Lamecque, New Brunswick, that I remembered the second melody."

14. Pot-pouri des quatre violons

"Avec Éric, Guy et laurie, c'est tout un orchestre de violons pour interpréter cet air de mon père que nous enchaînons avec une mélodie que j'ai entendue à la radio acadienne du Nouveau-Brunswick. Le tout est soutenu par Kevin sur son alambic que certains nomment à tort cornemuse."

"With Éric, Guy and Laurie, it's quite the fiddle orchestra for playing this tune from my father followed by a tune that I heard on an Acadian radio station from New Brunswick. Kevin supports the orchestra on his whiskey still, which some people incorrectly call a uilleann pipe."

15. L'oncle Petit / Le reel à tout le monde

"L'oncle Petit était en réalité un gros et grand bonhomme, un oncle de mon père et un excellent gigueur. C'était sur ce reel qu'il aimait danser. Le reel à tout le monde est joué à peu près par tous les vieux violoneux et j'ai emprunté un peu à chacune des versions qui j'ai entendues."

"My uncle 'Petit' (tiny) was in fact big and tall. He was one of my father's uncles and an excellent step dancer. He loved to dance to this reel. 'Le reel à tout le monde' (everybody's reel) is played by just about all the older fiddlers and I borrowed a little bit from each of the versions I heard."

16. Souvenirs de Cascon / Reel de Drummondville

"C'est suite à une autre visite chez le violoneux Adrien Alain de Gascon que j'ai entendu la première partie de ce pot-pourri et c'est Ti-Noir Joyal de Drummondville qui m'a joué la deuxième lors d'un spectacle dans sa région."

"I heard the first part of this medley while visiting the fiddler Adrien Alain of Gascon. Ti-Noir Joyal of Drummondville played the second one for me at a concert in his area."

17. Pot-pourri des Maritimes

"Lorsque nous étions jeunes à la maison, moi et mes frères écoutions sur une vielle radio les airs de violon que nous tentions de turluter pour les garder en mémoire. J'ai appris de nombreux airs de cette façon et plus tard, quand j'ai travaillé à Gaspé, nous écoutions régulièrement les émissions en provanance des Maritimes."

"When I was growing up, my brothers and I listened to fiddle tunes on an old radio. In order to remember them, we'd sing them using 'mouth music'. I learned numerous tunes this way. Later on while working in Gaspé, I listened regularly to radio shows from the Maritimes."

18. Le reel du batelier / Le reel de St-Augustin

"Mon bon ami de St-Augustin-de-Desmaurer, Henry Grimard, a composé ces deux airs sur son accordéon-piano."

"My good friend Henry Grimard from St-Augustin-de-Desmaurer composed these two tunes on his piano accordion."

19. Reel de pendu

Vous connaissez tous l'histoire de ce condamné qui, pour prouver son innocence, s'est improvisé joueur de violon. De la façon dont Yvon débute son air, il prouve bien que l'accusé n'avait jamais touché à un violon! Disons qu'il a par contre très vite appris ... Le violon est accordé La-Mi-La-Do#.

Everyone knows the story of the condemned man who, in order to prove his innocence, improvised this tune (the hangman's reel) on the fiddle. The way that Yvon starts the tune shows that the accused had never touched a fiddle. Let's just say that he was a fast learner... The Fiddle is tuned A-E-A-C#.

Biographie

Yvon Mimeault est né à Mont-Louis en Gaspésie en 1928. Il s'inite au violon dans au camp de bûcheron de la Côte-Nord et, à son retour au village, se fabrique lui-même un violon à partir d'une 'planche d'enclos à couchon'! (C'est le violon illustré sur la pochette et avec lequel il interprète sur cet enregistrement les reels du Forgeron et du Pendu!). Il découvre alors que son père Odilon est un habile musicien qui, par crainte de voir ses fils consacrer trop de temps à la musique, avait caché son violon depuis le jour de son mariage! Quelques mois plus tard, Yvon est devenu le violoneux régulier d'une émission radiophonique sur les ondes de la radio à Matane ou il fera danser des quadrilles et des sets carrés pendant de nombreuses années. Il est certes l'un de nos grands violoneux et il nous présente aujourd'hui dans un style rythmique et dynamique, un répertoire varié et original hérité de son père, de sa paranté et de ses amis musiciens et qu'il a acquis au cours des cinquante dernières années.

Yvon Mimeault was born in Mont-Louis in the Gaspésie in 1928. His first contact with the fiddle was in a lumber camp on the North Shore. when he returned home, he made himself a fiddle from memory out of a piece of wood from a pigpen! (On this recording, Yvon plays the reels du Forgeron and du Pendu on that same fiddle he made 50 years ago, which is shown on the cover!). A little later, he discovered that his father Odilon played fiddle, but that he had hidden his fiddle the day he got married for fear that it would be a bad influence on his sons! Several months later, Yvon became the regular fiddler on a radio who in Matane and also played for local dances (square sets and quadrilles) for a number of years. He is certainly one of our greatest fiddlers. With his rhythmic and dynamic style, he presents a varied and original repertoire which he learned from his father, relatives and musician friends with whom he has been playing music for over 50 years.

Merci...

À Éric, Paul, Daniel, Guy, Laura et André pour leur précieuce collaboration à cette enregistrement... À Laurie, Kevin et Barbara venus spécialement de la Californie pour cette occasion ... À Yves Lambert (La Bottine Souriante), Lisa Orenstein, Warren Argo, Ghislain Fiola (maire de Mont-Joli), Danielle Doyer (députée de Matapédia) et Gilbert Guérin (ministère des Affaires culturelles du Québec) pour leur appui à cette projet ... À Guy et Laura pour leur encouragement et leur aide et sans qui ce projet n'aurait probablement jamais vu le jour ... Au Conseil des Arts et des Lettres du Québec pour leur important soutien financier ... À Charles Vaillancourt de St-Mathieu pour le violon ... À Maurice Gravel pour l'hébergement ... À mes enfants qui m'ont encouragé dans ce projet et particulièrement à Francis pour la réalisation de la pochette.

Thanks...

To Éric, Paul, Daniel, Guy, Laura and André for their invaluable collaboration on this recording ... To Laurie, Kevin and Barbara who made a special trip from California for this occasion... To Yves Lambert (La Bottine Souriante), Lisa Ornstein, Warren Argo, Ghislain Fiola (mayor of Mont-Joli), Danielle Doyer (Member of the Québec National Assembly for Matapédia), and Gilbert Guérin (from the Québec Ministère des Affaires culturelles) for their support in this project... To Guy and Laura for their encouragement and assistance and without whom this project would probably have never happened... To the Conseil des Arts et des Lettres du Québec for their generous financial support... To Charles Vaillancourt from St-Mathieu for the violin... To Maurice Gravel for lodging... To my children who encouraged me in this project and especially to Francis for designing the CD cover.
 

Earl Mitton Plays Country Fiddle, Quality Records

Earl Mitton, fiddle; Bob Barry, piano; Al Goguen, lead guitar; Gary Mitton, drums; Roy Melanson, bass; Ron Goodine, rhythm guitar and banjo; Emma Mersereau & Ron Bailey, vocals; William Ritchie & William Spencer, callers.

Tracks: My Pretty Girl; Red River Valley; Crooked Stovepipe; Darling Nellie Gray; The Lightning Hornpipe; The Forrester’s Hornpipe; Exhibition Jig*; Blue Mountain Waltz; New Brunswick Polka*; Duncan Davidson & Flowers of Edinburgh; Teen-age Calypso
 

Fiddlin’ For Fun... that’s what Earl does every time he picks up his fiddle to play. Yes, Earl Mitton and The Rhythm Valley Boys enjoy playing as much as we are sure you will enjoy listening to them.

Earl’s first Quality album, Down East Fiddle Favorites, met with such success that he immediately made plans for his second release. Here is a selection of favourite jigs, reels and dance tunes, featuring Earl and all of his crew. Five selections with calls by Bill Ritchie and William Spencer to keep your toes a-tapping.

Besides making records, Earl and the boys are busy playing for all kinds of shows, dances and fairs, as well as a weekly TV show from CHSJ-TV in Saint John, NB. There are eight members in the group.

Tracks: Mackilmoyle’s Reel; Saint Francis Reel, Farmer’s Jamboree & Devil’s Dream; The Hometown Hornpipe; Jolly’s Breakdown; The Tableau Clog; The Quebec Reel; The Gateman’s Reel; The Village Carousel; Westphalia Waltz; High Level Hornpipe; Saint Anne’s Reel
 

I first me Earl Mitton when I was a country music dj at CFNB in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Then, as now, Earl headed the most popular old-time band in the area, and appeared regularly at dances and shows up and down the Saint John River Valley. His band, “The Valley Rhythm Boys” have always been in great demand for fairs, exhibitions, and any celebration that calls for a top notch square dance band.

Earl was born in Nova Scotia, but has spent most of his years in music around the Fredericton area. In the early fifties, he played a regular live weekly show over CFNB, and one of my most pleasant duties at the station was emceeing this program from 1955 - 1957. Earl and his group always turned in a first-class, professional performance, and their half-hour show was a great favorite in the area. Earl’s many compositions are played by Canada’s best fiddlers.

In the early sixties, the TV tube beckoned, and the Earl Mitton Show began to be seen by viewers of CHSJ-TV in Saint John. This led to guest shots the last few seasons on the Don Messer Jubilee over CBC-TV, and national recognition for this talented old-time fiddler.

We at Arc have grown somewhat proud of the roster of superb fiddle players we have on the label, and it is with some considerable pride that we welcome Earl Mitton to this group. Not only is Earl a fine musician who constantly works to improve his knowledge of music, but he’s a gentleman with whom everyone enjoys working. Here, then, is Earl Mitton, former North American open prize winner, a man you’ll be hearing more of through the years.

(Unclaimed - probably Ben Weatherby)
 

Tracks: Carleton County Breakdown*; Shelburne Rotary Breakdown; New Brunswick Hornpipe*; Blue Violet Breakdown*; Maple Sugar; Big John McNeill; Acrobat's Reel; French Reel; Ottawa Valley Reel; Earl Mitton's Breakdown*; York County Hornpipe*; The Clarinet Polka

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Monsieur Pointu (Paul Cormier)

Monsieur Pointu, Able ABB 7052

Tracks: La vent aux encheres; Viens dans les bois*; Le reel de mon voisin*; Le vrai bonheur*; Reel Pizzicato*; Ote tes raquettes* / Embarque dans mon char*; L'un dans l'autre on est heureux; Le Crepuscule reel*; Echo du Tyrol valse*; Danse caree Pointu*

Tracks: La chevauchee*; Le reel du Mont-Royal*; Les Crinolines*; Le reel de l’oiseau moqueur; La polka des optimistes*; Danse Carrée en trois partie: Primière Partie: Reel du Québec - Muk-Tuk Two Step - Reel St-Anne - Reel du Sucre D’Erable; Deuxieme Partie: La gigue de la rivière de la paix; Breakdown: Danse Carrée Pointu*

Paul Cormier, violon; Produced by Dougal Trineer; Recorded at Studios D.G., Montreal, Quebec

Tracks: Le reel des Couche-Tard*; La marche des Indiens; Le vol des libellules*; La danse des Papillons*; Dixie Hoedown; Le reel de Wapiti*; La valse des mouettes*; Le reel du geai bleu*; La gigue du vieux guide*; Le reel du virtuose* 

Paul Cormier (M. Pointu), fiddle

Arrangeur Musical & Chef D’orchestre: Gerry De Villiers; Ingenieur: Guy Rheaume; Producteur: Normand Bouchard; Enregistré au Studio Six, 1976

Les tunes: En Grattant le violon; La Polka des quatre cordes; La Fiève du violoneux; Sur la piste du caribou; La cascade gigue; Le reel de mon p’tit frère; Le reel de Rimouski; Ronfleuse Gobeil; La Galope de la Malbaie; La valse joyeuse

Chers amis…

C’est une véritable joie pour joie de pouvoir vous offrir cetted nouvelle sélection de mon répertoire.

Les pièces que vous entendrez sur ce microsillon, je les ai choisies minutieusement parmi mes préférées dans l’espoir de vous communiquer toute la gaieté et la joie de vivre don’t mon coeur est rempli.

J’espère sincèrement que cette musique aidera beaucoup à ensoleiller vos moments de loisirs et de détant et que, en l’écoutant, elle contribuera à vous faire aimer encore d’avantage notre folklore qui sans contredit, est une des plus grandes richesses culturelles de notre belle nation.

Aussi, je vous souhaite beaucoup de bonheur et vous dis…

A bientôt!

Musicalement Vôtre,

Monsieur Pointu

Paul Cormier, violon; Dougal Trineer, banjo, guitare espagnole et électrique; Gérard Hébert, piano; Pierre Hébert, contrabasse; Gérard Masse, batterie, tambours et percussion et marimba

Production par Enterprises M. Pointu Inc; Technicien à console: Claude Allard; Enregistré aux Studios Marko, Montéal, QC

Tracks: Thème: M. Pointu*; Le reel de chapeau; Le reel à maman; La valse Georgia; Le reel des danseurs de Gandy; Ron Goodwin Hornpipe; Black jack et whisky; L’arbre à sucre; La valse Marion; Bill dans les basses terres
 

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Johnny Mooring

Down East Fiddling with Johnny Mooring and his Melodiers, Banff / Rodeo RBS. 1054 – 1961

Tunes: Trip to Windsor; Little Black Moustache; High Level Hornpipe; Carl’s Favorite Jig; Sailor’s Hornpipe; Twilight Waltz; Dreamy Eyed Waltz; Soldier’s Joy; Johnny Mooring’s Hornpipe*; Billy Wilson’s Clog

Tracks: The Duke & Duchess of Edinburgh Reel; Fiddling Red's Jig*; Black Velvet Waltz; Chatauguay Reel; Rocking Alone In An Old rocking Chair (Vocal with Harold King); Pembroke Reel*; Blind Man's Reel; Dauphin Waltz*; Darggin' The Bow; Wild Colonial Boy (vocal with Bill Mills)

Johnny Mooring hails from Springhill, Nova Scotia, and is one of Canada's top fiddlers. Johnny has been seen on a number of occasions Trans-Canada on the Don Messer Show and is extremely popular in his own Maritime Provinces. His rendition of Twilight Waltz (RBS 1054) became a hit in Western Canada, where he recently returned from a most successful tour. Johnny is also a well known composer of fiddle tunes and a number of his latest compositions appear on this album

North American Fiddle Champion, Banff Rodeo SBS 5220

Tracks: Fred Meilleur’s Hornpipe*; Roadrunners Two-step*; Clayton Poirier Reel*; Archie Menzies & Fisher’s Hornpipe; Maiden Behind the Bar; Puppet Reel*; Carol Kennedy Waltz*; Little Burnt Potato; Caledonian Schottische; Rosebud of Avonmore Waltz; Haste To The Wedding; Champion Hornpipe*
 

Johnny Mooring hails from Springhill, Nova Scotia and is one of Canada’s all time great Fiddlers. Johnny won the North American Fiddling Championship in 1964, among many other competitions. he has been seen on a number of occasions on the Don Messer Show Trans-Canada and is extremely popular, in his own Maritime provinces and throughout Canada where he travels extensively. His rendition of Twilight Waltz (RBS 1054) became a hit in Western Canada. Johnny is a well known composer of fiddle tunes and a number of his latest compositions appear on this album.

Johnny Mooring, fiddle; Gordon Summers, guitar; Smoky Martin, bass; Raymond Brunet, drums; Carol Kennedy, piano

Tracks: Carol Kennedy Waltz*; Twilight Waltz*; The Canadian Centennial Waltz*; Over The Waves; A Norwegian Waltz; Hesitation Waltz - Leezie Lindsay - A Rosebud By My Early Walk - My Love Is Like A Red Red Rose; The Marion Waltz*; The Dauphin Waltz*; The Tarr Waltz*; The Wild Colonial Boy
 

Johnny Mooring is the only fiddler in the 16 year history of the North American Fiddling Championship to win the title 3 years in a row. 1964, 1965 and 1966 saw Johnny sweep to victory over stiff competition, an achievement which will be hard to equal.

Johnny has toured Canada and the USA and played with such notable personalities as Don Messer, Tommy Hunter, The Rhythm Pals, the late Hawkshaw Hawkins, Hank Snow and Eddy Arnold. He has also played for the Lt Governor of Ontario - The Hon. Earl Rowe, and has earned a place for himself in the Honour Roll of Great Canadian Fiddlers.

Especially noted for his fine renditions of old time waltzes, many of which he composes himself, Johnny has devoted this album to the waltz, at the request of many of his admirers.

Born in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Johnny has been playing for the past two years in Ontario and Quebec and, with his many engagements, finds it difficult to get back home for a spell.

Johnny Mooring, fiddle; Gordon Summers, guitar; Smokey Martin, Bass; Raymond Brunet, drums; Carol Kennedy, piano

Tracks: Clayton Poirier Reel*; Little Stacks of Barley; Trapper's Jig; Mom's Waltz*; Timber Tom*; Dancing Don's Clog*; Teetotaller's Reel; Byeways Reel*; Trip To Windsor*; Hector the Hero
 

Johnny Mooring is the only fiddler in the 16 year history of the North American Fiddling Championship to win the title 3 years in a row. 1964, 1965 and 1966 saw Johnny sweep to victory over stiff competition, an achievement which will be hard to equal.

Johnny has toured Canada and the USA and played with such notable personalities as Don Messer, Tommy Hunter, the Rhythm Pals, and the late Hawkshaw Hawkins, Hank Snow and Eddy Arnold. He has also played for the Lt. Governor of Ontario - the Hon. Earl Rowe, and has earned a place for himself in the Honour Roll of Great Canadian Fiddlers.

Born in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Johnny has been playing for the past two 2 years in Ontario and Quebec and, with his many engagements, finds it difficult to get back home for a spell.

A prolific composer of fiddle tunes, of which many are well known to the public, Johnny has included some fine new compositions in this album which will delight his many fans.

Johnny Mooring, fiddle; Gordon Summers, guitar; Smokey Martin, bass; Raymond Brunet, drums; Carol Kennedy, piano

Tracks: Four Strings & I (vocal featuring Johnny)*; Geese In The Bog; Blue Spanish Eyes; Springhill Jig*; Flowers of Edinburgh; Joy of Quebec; Autumn Waltz*; Ray's Favourite*; The Western Waltz; Paddy On The Turnpike
 

Johnny Mooring is the only fiddler in the 16 year history of the North American Fiddle Championship to win the title 3 years in a row. 1964, 1965 and 1966 saw Johnny sweet to victory over stiff competition, an achievement which will be hard to equal.

Johnny has toured Canada and the USA and played with such notable personalities as Don Messer, Tommy Hunter, The Rhythm Pals, the late Hawkshaw Hawkins, Hank Snow and Eddy Arnold. He has also played for the Lt. Governor of Ontario - The Hon. Earl Rowe, and has earned a place for himself in the Honour Roll of Great Canadian Fiddlers.

Born in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Johnny has been playing for the past three years in Ontario and Quebec and with his many engagements finds it difficult to get back home for a spell.

A prolific composer of fiddle tunes, of which many are well known to the public, Johnny will surprise his fans with his fine vocal rendition of his own composition "Four Strings and I".

Tracks: The Winding Stream; Sun Mountain; Little Burnt Potato; Big John McNeill (sp) & The Dusty Miller’s Reel; Pretty Pricille Waltz; Frenchie’s Reel & Blue Waters Hornpipe; St Anne’s Reel; Parry Sound Reel*; Bonnie Prince Charlie; Dr. Harris’ Hornpipe; Poor Girl’s Waltz; Concert Reel & Mason’s Apron 

Tracks: Trip to Windsor; Carl's Favourite Jig; Twilight Waltz; Johnny Mooring's Hornpipe; Puppet Reel; Dauphin Waltz; Road Runner's Two Step; Fred Meilleur's Hornpipe; Clayton Poirier Reel; Dreamy Eyed Waltz; The Winding Stream; Sun Mountain; The Little Burnt Potato; Big John McNeil; Dusty Miller's Reel; Pretty Pricille Waltz; Frenchie's Reel; Blue Water's Hornpipe; St. Anne's Reel; Parry Sound Reel; Bonnie Prince Charlie; Dr. Harris' Hornpipe; Poor Girl's Waltz; Concert Reel; Mason's Apron

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Jim Morrison

Music From The Miramichi, Prime Time ACR - 12873 - 1987

Jim Morrison, fiddle; Maurice Fleming, piano; James Lawlor, guitar; Joe MacDonald, banjo; Bob Murdock, bass

Recorded at Prime Time Studios, Sussex, NB

Tracks: Off She Goes (To The Miramichi); Rock Valley Jig - Buffalo Gals; The Girl I Left Behind Me; Burnt Church River Waltz*; Little Burn (sp) Potato - Haste To The Wedding; The New Brunswick Hornpipe; St Anne’s Reel - Soldier’s Joy; Flowers of Edinbourgh; Hannigan’s Hornpipe; Golden Slippers; Newcastle Canada Days Waltz*; Lamplighter’s Hornpipe
 

Jim Morrison grew up in the resort and fishing community of Burnt Church on the Miramichi. Steeped in the local traditions of Saturday night dances, house parties and old time fiddling, these remain an important and rewarding ingredient in his life today. Jim’s earliest and fondest memories were of his father and brothers gathered around the piano rehearsing the music that made the Morrison Orchestra, led by his father Melvin a household word the Miramichi.

It might be said that while Jim was learning to talk he was also learning to express himself through the medium of the violin and by the time he reached his eighth birthday he had taken his place in the family band.

In the mid-sixties Jim formed the Valley Dance Band and continued the Morrison sound playing locally and throughout the province, making appearances at such events as the Woodstock Old Home Week; the Campbellton Salmon Festival, CBC Radio Showcase, ATV’s ‘Up Home Tonight’ show and for eleven consecutive years on ATV’s Christmas Daddies.

This recording fulfills a life-long desire to contribute to the musical heritage of the Miramichi and includes two of his compositions. Jim is accompanied on this album by a group of musicians with whom he has performed for many years.

Special thanks to Earl Mitton and Hudson Scott.

Jim Morrison, fiddle; Maurice Fleming, piano; James Lawlor, guitar; Joe MacDonald, banjo; Bob Murdock, bass; Jimmy Lawlor, vocals

Recorded at Prime Time Studios, Sussex, New Brunswick

Tracks: Rippling Water Jig; The Repap Paper Mill Special*; The Old Barn Dance (vocal); Honeymoon Waltz; The Coo Coo’s Nest; Sailor’s Hornpipe; Big John McNeil; Lori Lynn’s Waltz*; The Old Man And Old Woman; Pennies From Heaven; The Red River Waltz; Londonderry Hornpipe
 

Well folks, here it is again, more old time music recorded by Jim Morrison and music from the Miramichi, the home of the Miramichi Folksong Festival. Good down east music as we call it! By the way, Jim and the entertainers were the featured guests at last years Folk Festival at the Beaverbrook Town Hall, Newcastle, NB (1988).

This LP Volume II contains some of the more popular down east tunes. It also includes two numbers composed by Jim: one a number in honour of our local paper mill (Repap), the other number is a waltz named after Jim’s daughter (Lori Lynn). The band has performed at the opening of the first new paper mill, where the crowd numbered 6,000 or more. Some of the band were featured at the 75th CPP anniversary in Montreal this past winter. Jim says being a guest on the popular TV show “Up Home Tonight” has also been a great experience.

Music is at its best when these musicians are together recording - all with many years of experience. From television shows and CBC Radio, concerts and dance work, the music has a very good rating. The Max Ferguson Show on CBC Toronto has also aired Music From the Miramichi. To the many television and radio stations in the country Jim says a special ‘Thank You’.

So, sit back and enjoy this great LP folks, we think it’s just what you want.

PS The band says a special ‘Thank You’ to our Producer, Gary Morris and Prime Time Studios for doing a great job on the recording.

High Level Fiddling, RMC - 194, 1994

Randy Morrison, fiddle, mandolin; Phyliss McDowell, piano; Jerry McNulty, guitar, banjo; Charlie Steinhoff, bass, mandolin, guitar

Produced by Randy Morrison

Tracks: Carlton County Hornpipe / Macton Reel / Le Reel Mysterieux; Haste To The Wedding / Basil's Jig; Peacock Rag; Village Carosel / Frisco Waltz; York County Hornpipe / Ottawa Valley Reel / Tommy Sullivan's Hornpipe / Cec McEachern's Breakdown; Texas Quickstep / Farmer's Reel; Washington County / Road To Columbus; Shenandoah Valley; High Level Hornpipe / Alley Crocker / Blue Mountain Hornpipe; Red Apple Rag / Tomahawk; maiden's Prayer; Dry River Waltz; Cajun Waltz; Jack Tamson's Hornpipe / St. Anne's Reel / Big John McNeil / Arkansas Traveller 

www.ambrec.com

Randy Morrison, fiddle, ryhthm guitar; Gray Townsend, piano; Les Boston, piano; Dave McKnight, bass; Paul Evans, Steel Guitar; Tom Skublics, clarinet; Tim McDonald, banjo

Produced and arranged by Randy Morrison; Engineered by Paul Evans & Randy Morrison; Recorded, Mixed and Digitally Mastered by Ambassador Records, Oshawa, Ontario

Tracks: Mouth of thte Tobique / Mackimoyles Reel; Frenchie's Reel; Rubber Dolly; Penny's Waltz*; Amber's Jig*; Wildwood Flower; Gord Stack's Reel*; Listen To The Mocking Bird; Barton St. Waltz*; Chernesky's Polka*; Maple Sugar; Golden Slippers; Tennessee Waltz; Alabama Jubilee; Joy's of Quebec / Blue Mountain Rag; Cold Cold Heart / Your Cheating Heart; Home in West Virginia; What A Friend We Have In Jesus
 

I would like to thank the musicians who gave their best efforts in this recording. Paul and Linda Evans who spent time helping me more ways than just the engineering and most of all I thank God for His Son and the gift of music.

Randy Morrison

Randy has much to be pleased about in 1998 as he celebrates twenty years as a musician and the release of his third album - Listen To The Mocking Bird.

During the past twenty years, Randy has had many opportunities to tour extensively across Canada and throughout the United States. He has performed with many of country and bluegrass musics great talents over the years including the late Faron Young, Mac Wiseman, Graham Townsend, Katherine McKinnon, Vic Mullen and Don Tremaine. Randy has performed at the Ryman Auditorium at The Gas Light Theater in Nashville, Tennessee. As well as being a successful promoter of the annual Randy Morrison Fiddle show, Randy has been nominated several times in Ontario for bluegrass fiddler of the year. Randy has composed many fiddle tunes and produces and consults on recordings for other fiddle players.

You will see Randy perform at fall fairs, festivals, concert halls, seniors homes and churches.

Randy's goal with his music is to make people happy, put a smile on their face and ultimately lift someone's spirit!

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Willie Mousseau
Old Native And Métis Fiddling in Manitoba, Vol 1, Falcon FP - 187 

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Ron Mrozik

Ron “Peanuts” Mrozik and His Orchestra, International Artists IAS 3056

Tracks: Cindy Joy Polka - Riverton Polka - Barbara Polka; St Paul’s Waltz - Dr Zhivago Waltz (Lara’s Theme) - When I Grow Too Old To Dream; Beer Barrel Polka: with Ach Tei Lieber Augustine - In Heaven There Is No Beer - Hi Lo Waltz - Beer Barrel Polka; Orange Blossom Special; Kozak Medley; So Long, It’s Been Good To Know You - Till We Meet Again - Home, Sweet Home; Arbourg Polka - Accordion Polka - Southern Polka; La Paloma - Isle of Capri - Yellow Bird; Petite Waltz - Frisco To Cape Cod Waltz - Crowing Rooster; Butterfly Medley: Oh My Darling Clemintine - Golden Slippers - Irene, Goodnight Irene - Maple Sugar - How Much Is That Doggie In The Window - Devil’s Dream - Springtime In The Rockies - Oh My Darling Clemintine - Boil Dem Cabbage Down
 

What ‘Western’ Canada has already come to recognize as the lively sounds of Ron Mrozik and his band have now been recorded for the benefit of all Canadians. For his first LP, Ron has selected the best of the songs he is most often requested to perform and arranged them into delightful, danceable medleys of polkas, waltzes and novelty songs.

Ron’s 20 year career as a musician is familiar to audiences in all Manitoba - they listened to him every Saturday afternoon over radio CJOB as part of the popular Western Hour, hosted by George (Hank) McCloy, and, later with the Canadian Wagonmasters, he performed with Porky Charbonneu over CKY. Since then, he has formed his own group and been busily keeping up with his numerous club, banquet, wedding and other social engagements.

For those of you who haven’t already danced to the sounds of Ron “Peanuts” Mrozik, this album will serve as an introduction, and if you are one of the few who can resist this invitation to dance, these old-time instrumental favourites are sure to bring you pleasant memories.
 

Sam Muirhead, fiddle; Vivian Hathaway, Piano

Tracks: When the Leavesw Begin To Fall; Colonel Bogie; Drury's Jig*; Rose Waltz; Road to Boston; Apple Cider; Piper's Reel; Caberfay; Marlene's Waltz*; Crossing the Ferry; Country Waltz; Muirhead March*; Shannon Waltz; Mouth of the Tobique

Sam Muirhead: Violinist Sam Muirhead has been playing competitively, since the age of twelve. He has well over one hundred first prizes to his credit.

Vivian Hathaway: His pianist, Vivian Hathaway played with him many years ago. They have recently started working together again to produce this album for your listening enjoyment!

Swingin' Fiddle with Vic Mullen, Banff RBS 1226

Tracks: Tennesee Wagoner / Rubber Dolly / Angus Walker Blues* / Arkansas Traveller / Turkey In The Straw / Swingin' Fiddle* / Lonesome Indian / Westphalia Waltz / Golden Slippers / Boil The Cabbage Down

MR COUNTRY STRINGS was born Melvin Victor Mullen on January 23, 1933 on a farm in Nova Scotia's Yarmouth County.

When he was 12 years old, Vic's family moved to Digby Co., N.S. where he started playing Mom Mullen's old guitar. One day vic heard a Bill Munroe mandolin solo and from then on Bluegrass was his first love in music. First professional work was with a traveling group where he was featured on Mandolin. Later a group called Rainbow Valley Boys gave Vic a job as fiddler in a country swing band working out of radio station CJLS in Yarmouth, N.S.

From 1952 to 1959 Vic toured the eastern Canadian provinces and New England states with several country shows. Then for 3 years he headed his own group, until an offer from CJCH TV and CTV Network took Vic to Halifax for a year and a half where he led two groups, The Countrymen on local CJCH-TV and The Bluenose Boys on CTV's Cross Canada Barndance.

For the past two seasons, Vic has been a featured act on Don Messer's Jubilee on CBC TV Network. Vic also heads two country bands, The Birch Mountain Boys and The Country Swingsters.

This is Vic's second Banff L.P., the first being Bluegrass Banjo (RBS 1121) on which Vic plays five different instruments using the multiple track process.

Vic also heads Rodeo's Artist & Repertoire Division in the Maritime Provinces and has been responsible for discovering many fine country artists from that area.

Joe Murphy And His Radio Swing Band

Barn Dance Music, Rodeo Records RLP. 3 - early 1950s

Tracks: Fiddle Head Reel; Jimmy’s Favourite Jig; Gateman’s Reel; Saskatoon Breakdown; Fred Roden’s Reel; Chateauguay Reel; Fiddle and Foot Polka; Little Black Hen; Fiddler’s Pet; Parry Sound Reel; Major Makie Jig; Jackpot Breakdown
 

Jim Magill 1904 - 1954: The late Jim Magill was a Canadian of Irish descent and the most prolific composer of Square Dance music of this century. He composed over 100 jigs and reels, many of which became international favourites.

With his passing Canada lost a valuable son whose talents were directed to furthering the musical heritage of Canada as a nation.

Rodeo Records takes great pride in releasing this Long Play Record of some of Jim Magill’s tunes as recorded by Cape Breton Island’s all time favorites Joe Murphy and His Radio Swing Band.

Joe Murphy and His Radio Swing Band: Swing Band leader Joe Murphy has had tremendous experience in the musical field, having roamed the United States with his own organization, landing in Florida where they played for many years. His original band was on Radio Station CNRA in 1922 and was then known as the Rainbow Melody Boys.

Bernie Leye and Joe MacDougall are better known as the twin fiddlers, having played together since boyhood days. They have been with the Swing Band for ten years, having followed in the footsteps of Joe’s father who, himself, was a famous Cape Breton fiddler.

Helen MacAulay, pianist with the Swing Band for the past 17 years, is considered one of the foremost pianists in ‘country style’ in Nova Scotia, with a complete knowledge of chords and chord structure, which is so important in this type of music. Helen is a Cape Bretoner.

Mike MacDonald, bass fiddle, follows the footsteps of his late father who was ranked the greatest bass fiddler in Eastern Canada. Michael, although only 18 years of age, is already a sensation with a very bright future.

Tracks: Northern Lights Jig; The Champion Jig; Ingleside March; King George IV - Dunse Ding’s A’ Reels; The Hundred Pipers - Bonnie Dundee; The Blue Bell & The Hop Polkas; The Liberty Two Step; The Judique Reel; The Mocking Bird; Shingle The Roof - Diamond Lil