ANNUAL rally 2013

The Garioch Fiddlers Strathspey and Reel Society was formed in 1982 in Inverurie and has grown from strength to strength since then. On Saturday 20 April 2013, this year’s round of practice, performance and competition activities came to the most rousing end yet with the 30th Garioch Fiddlers’ Rally taking place in Inverurie Town Hall.

It is difficult to properly reflect the unique nature and level of accomplishment of this cultural occasion in the heart of the Garioch. Perhaps the complete sell-out of tickets for the one-night performance speaks for itself. The audience for this traditional music event was, as ever, informed and responsive, giving huge encouragement with their applause to both the full Fiddle and Accordion orchestra and the Junior section. In the usual tradition, the Garioch Fiddlers were joined by guest players from various societies, including Banchory, Dundee, Macduff and Strathbogie. Colin Dempster clearly enjoyed his role as conductor and his enthusiam was evident throughout the Rally. The assistant conductor was Andrew Bowie. Neil Hehir led the orchestra with great flair and the pianist for the evening was the accomplished Anne Watt. The Juniors were conducted by Nicola Auchnie assisted by Emma Gibb.

Geordie Smith compered the event in his own highly entertaining and inimitable style, with stories old and new that were much enjoyed by everyone. Guest Artistes Paul Tierney, Mo Rutherford and the Society’s very own Nicola Auchnie provided a selection of evocative sung and instrumental pieces, their programme complementing beautifully that of the fiddle orchestra.

A key part of the Rally is always the Presentation of Awards. This year’s winner of the Alex Garden Memorial Trophy for Best Young Fiddler was Finlay Morse. The Bert Morgan Cup for the best Slow Air was awarded to Fergus Rodgers. Cameron Nixon received the Bill Johnston Memorial Trophy as the new Young Fiddler of the Year. It is always a pleasure to see the talent and hard work of the Society’s younger players recognised at the Rally. The part that the Juniors play in the Garioch Fiddlers continues to be acknowledged as a key to success, and of course vital in ensuring the continuation of traditional music in the Garioch.

Finally, thanks were given to the many other individuals who contributed to the evening’s success, notably Sybil Clews;  Secretary, Manda Sim; Administrator and Graham Hehir; Stage Manager. The backstage teams did a superb job through the day and the course of the evening, supporting by their efforts yet another successful Garioch Fiddlers’ Rally.



Joe McDowall
Chairperson