I had the most remarkable weekend at the annual fiddle festival in Pembroke in the Ottawa Valley. Fortunately I knew some people who were going, and who knew the lay of the land. In particular, I’d like to thank Charlie Walden and Patt Plunket and the whole “Fred Smith Group” for welcoming me into their group, feeding me, and putting up with me much of the weekend. They made me feel very much among friends. A few folks also took the trouble to offer me excellent advice about improving my own playing (you know who you are), and also about fiddles. I really appreciate it. These players have so much more experience than me. Although I’m in my 60’s, I only got into fiddle a few short years ago and need all the help I can get.

I also had a chance to meet my fiddle teacher. You see, I’ve been taking fiddle lessons via Facetime from Cindy Thompson and after 3 and a half years we hadn’t actually met in person. I was able to to meet up with Cindy and her hubby Bruce and play some tunes and chat in person.

I hope this video provides a snapshot of the festival. I’ve included a walk downtown, along with some fabulous jams and some footage from the formal fiddle contest. This includes Charlie Walden’s winning performance in the +65 category (how does that guy look so young?).

There is an overwhelming amount of fabulous music that happens this weekend. I feel like a “fiend with his dope, a drunkard his wine”. I need more of this action soon!!

Please enjoy the video. It’s on the Rediscovering my Toronto site even though the content occured about a 5 hour drive away. I figure an occasional fieldtrip is appropriate. If you haven’t subscribed to my channel, please consider doing so. It’s free and my new videos will show up in your YouTube subscriptions.