If you happened to walk by the Moose Hall last weekend you would have been amazed at the great sounds of fiddles, guitars and pianos wafting from the doors and windows! The ‘Fiddle Fun’ program offered by the Bella Coola Valley Learning Society has added real depth to the after school fiddle classes for children and adults.
Music began at Bella Coola Elementary and Acwsalcta School performed by two of Canada’s most engaging fiddlers and teachers, Gordon Stobbe and JJ Guy. The laughter from the children was heartwarming as they learned music, helped JJ learn “Dum dee diddly diidly do” and a visit by the Maestro. (Ask any child for clarification.) They also played to them as they skipped back to their classrooms.
‘New Horizon’s for Seniors’ funding provided for an afternoon concert of such requested tunes as “the Kentucky Waltz”, “Crooked Stovepipe” and “Orange Blossom Special”. We are sorry for those who were sick and could not attend.
Over the rest of the weekend, thanks to the Williams Lake and District Credit Union, Gordon and JJ taught fiddlers from ages five to over 60 throughout the weekend. At the potluck/square dance they entertained us in the Old Time/ East Coast tradition of Canadian music. There were many smiling happy faces doing the Virginia Reel, Sasha, squares, foxtrots and waltzs. An amazing night of fun!
Without a doubt, they have inspired us with their enthusiasm, friendliness, patience and talent. Gordon and JJ have now created the connection of fiddling through the Cariboo region and finally, the Bella Coola Valley is a part of it. Thank you to everyone who made this event a huge success.
The fiddlers will share their new tunes at the Music Night at Augsburg Church Friday, March 21, 7pm along with Lois Casperson. They have learned a great deal in the short time they have played.
The next musical event will be a program, ‘Artstarts Artist-in-Residence at BC,’ happening April 7 – 11. There will be fiddles, guitars and pianos lessons at the school among other project-based opportunities for students.
Calvin Cairns and Roxanna Sabir will teach at the school, lead several adult lessons in the evening and perform a concert at the Moose Hall, Wednesday, April 9, 7pm. They, too, have taught all over British Columbia and the North, performing, teaching ay fiddle camps and creating CDs.
New classes begin after the Spring Break for beginners from ages five and up. Feel free to call the New Leaf Learning Centre for more information about getting involved! 250 799-5822