by WGO Staff
Since its inception back in 1972, the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association has remained steadfast to its mandate to preserve and promote traditional Cape Breton fiddle music. And now, the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association is excited about plans for its 50 Years of Making Music: Celebrating Cape Breton’s Celtic Culture.
There will be several events and celebrations across the island in the coming months to mark the musical milestone. Among the 50th celebration events planned are a banquet at Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, a stage performance depicting the early days of the Association as well as a concert performance at the Glendale Concert, both part of the 2023 Kitchenfest schedule. Members of the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association will be part of the opening at the Iona Highland Village Concert and will also perform during the 2023 Celtic Colours International Festival.
A highlight of the year-long celebrations will be the 50th Anniversary of the Festival of Cape Breton Fiddling to be held Friday, August 18th to Sunday, August 20th at Colaisde na Gàidhlig / the Gaelic College in St. Ann’s. The weekend event will kick-off with the Association hosting a giant jam session including members and guests from around the world. The weekend celebration will also include a viewing of the 1972 documentary, The Vanishing Cape Breton Fiddler, followed by a Q & A with the documentary’s producer, director and writer Ron MacInnis. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in fiddling, piano, and step dancing workshops and a square dance. There will also be traditional tunes performed by some of Cape Breton’s top talent as well as artists from across Canada, the United States, Ireland, and Scotland during concerts scheduled for Saturday evening, and the gala concert on Sunday.
“This is an exciting time for the Association. Cape Breton fiddle music is alive and flourishing not only here at home on the island, but throughout the world,” says Betty Matheson, Secretary/Treasurer of the Fiddlers’ Association Board of Directors. “The Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association is proud to be part this perseverance, not just for the past 50 years, but for many years to come.”
For the past half century, the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association has nurtured, supported, and celebrated its members, providing them with opportunities to learn traditional tunes and fine-tune technique. Through workshops and mentorship programs, members remain true to the island’s traditional roots, while at the same time elevating the island’s Celtic sound, not only here at home but around the world. Several members have had their work published, and many perform on world stages.
For a full list of 50th celebration events and performers, as well as event updates, go to the Cape Breton Fiddlers’ Association website: https://www.capebretonfiddlers.com.
