2024 wrap up...Now that the dust has settled and I’ve had time to ruminate on this years Fiddlers Convention I am pleased to report that we had another successful year. This is not to say that all went totally smoothly and we were free from any hiccups whatsoever but everyone seemed to come away with a smile and satisfied that a good weekend was had. The weather was beautiful and shone on us all weekend.
Highlights of the convention were many. Our international act, Scott Cooke and Pamela Mae Johnson were a hit and my thanks go to Andrew Clermont for making the introductions possible. The Friday night concert was a great kick off to the weekend and it was wonderful to see so many people back in the mess hall enjoying the acts that entertained us so well. Last years bugbear, losing our catering was resolved this year by the Indian hot food tent and I had many positive comments regarding the food.
All our regular events over the weekend were well attended and the participation of all added to the general convivial atmosphere. The bluegrass concert on the Saturday night was a cracker with many folks listening from outside the rec hut. The dances, both cajun and old time were well supported and I’m sure there were some tired feet by the end of the evening. Sunday mornings' gospel singalong again saw a large circle of singers raising the roof in the mess hall. Most workshops were well attended and we thank the presenters for their time and expertise.
Of course none of this could have happened without the hard work and continued dedication of the small army of volunteers who so tirelessly give of their time to make the Fiddlers' Convention a wonderful weekend for all. My thanks go to you all. My special thanks also go to the coordinators who keep the cogs oiled and the train on the tracks. I couldn't do it without you, my appreciative thanks go to you all for making me look good.
Lastly, let me thank the co-op for providing our wonderful venue. The camp was really looking a treat this year. Finely manicured and neat as a pin.
Cheers. Mark.P
The Yarra Junction Fiddlers' Convention is Australasia's
biggest and oldest running festival/party for players of
bluegrass, string band, old timey, good timey, cajun
music and their friends and relations.
It is not just about fiddles, but as Gid Tanner said,"the
fiddle drives the band".
Banjos, guitars, bass, mandolins, dobros, autoharps and
even Cajun accordions get a look in too - but no electric
instruments (sorry Richard), and no drums. Concertinas
and mouth- harps? Of course. And lots of dancing.
Check us the following YouTube
videos
The Strzelecki Stringbusters 2020
Tamarisque & Clermont @ Yarra Junction Fiddlers 2020