Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers’ Association disbands

On Friday, June 10, the Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers' Association made the decision to disband the organization. After 45 years, many decided it was time to call it quits.

The organization was formed on March 26, 1966. The first meeting was held at Ron Clare's home in Maxville.

The constitution was drawn up and the name chosen was the Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers' Association. The purpose was to promote and preserve old time fiddling and its related arts and skills. Membership was aimed at people who were interested in and enjoyed old time music.

The first big concert and dance was held in the spring of 1966 at the Maxville community hall. It featured Stan Hamilton of Toronto. Some featured guests included Rudy Meeks, Johnny Mooring, Scotty Fitzgerald, Angus MacKinnon, Bobby Brown, Cape Breton Symphony, Schryer Family, Leahy Family, Kelli Trottier with Pig and Whistle, to mention only a few.

At the first few dances, beer was only 50 cents and liquor was only 75 cents. The women contributed the food. Spring and fall dances were held.

Practices started in 1990 prior to producing the association's first tape in 1991 for its 25th anniversary. 'By Request' followed in 1995 with 'Memories' following in 1998. In 2006, the association recorded its final tape, 'After 40 years'. All proceeds were donated to charitable organizations.

The group entertained at senior citizen venues all over the area, from Rockland to Winchester to Lachute to Cornwall. Every year the association donated between $2,000 and $5,000 to needy projects.

Attendance was kept for close to 20 years and some years, the association entertained more than 60 times. No remuneration or gas mileage was received, but most times performers would get a meal.

Curling Day was started in January 1994 with fiddle music, dinner and other activities. It continues to this day. The Old Time Fiddlers' entertained at the Ottawa Arts Centre, as well as the Centrepointe Theatre as part of Glengarry Concerts.

In 2004, the association was one of the first groups to be inducted into the Glengarry Celtic Music Hall of Fame.

The group began practicing twice monthly at the Maxville Manor. The residents enjoyed these sessions. Members did not entertain during July and August, except for the occasional special event.

By 2007 the group was beginning to wind down. The age ratio was increasing and it was harder to keep numbers up and a decision had to be made. The association continued Christmas dinner and dance for a few more years. However, it too, was becoming a struggle.

So after 45 years we had an afternoon of music and socializing at the Alexandria Curling Club. Renewing old acquaintances and reminiscing.

The association has donated its remaining money to Glengarry District High School. A bursary of $200 a year will be given to a graduating student who excels in music, whether by performing in the community, at school functions or participating in the classroom.

The association would like to thank everyone for their support over the last 45 years.

A commemorative plaque will be placed in the fiddlers room at the Celtic Music Hall of Fame in Williamstown in recognition of countless hours of volunteering and entertainment.