the bluegrass music association of central canada ......so onward and upward we journey into the...

BMACC Notes—January 2010

BMACC Notes The Bluegrass Music Association of Central Canada Newsletter—Volume 4 Issue 1—January 2010

Random Photos from the Awards Show

www.bmacc.ca

AWARDS ISSUE

Larry

See how many times you can find Larry inside this issue. There’s no prize. It’s just for fun.


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BOARD OF DIRECTORS President – Denis Chadbourn Home: 705-776-7754 Work: 705-474-2271

Vice-president – Donald Tarte 888-876-3369

Secretary – Leanne Chadbourn 705-776-7754

Treasurer – Roland Aucoin 905-635-1818

Directors at Large

Gord deVries 519-668-0418

905-331-9915

Karen May 705-788-4362

Rory Gardiner

Bernie Melosh

Larry Johnston Cindy deBoer-Winterbottom Wes Lowe

2010 BMACC Board of Directors Larry Johnston, Roland Aucoin, Cindy deBoer-Winterbottom, Gord deVries, Bernie Melosh, Wes Lowe, Karen May, Donald Tarte, Leanne Chadbourn, Rory Gardiner, Denis Chadbourn

WHAT”S INSIDE From the President—Page 3

THE AWARDS – Page 4—9

Out Among the Stars—Page 10/11

Elliot Lake News—Page 11/12

Birth of Seldom Scene—Page 14

Spirit of Kindness—Page 15

Songwriters Association of Canada—Page 17

Organizational Memberships – Page 19/21

Bluegrass on the Radio—Page 21/22

Letters—Page 23

Winter Concert Series—Page 23


I’d like to send a shout out to all of the friends, old and new, that I had an opportunity to meet up with again, on my annual pilgrimage to the bluegrass awards in Huntsville. This is the premier event…the Mecca of bluegrass in Central Canada… and there are no better people in the world than those who attend. You know who you are…I love you all. In my capacity as both, the President of BMACC, and a member of The C-Denny Band, I was in a constant state of “GO ” at this year’s showcase and awards! Sigh…so much bluegrass…so little time. Indeed, I even found it necessary to forego the all-night jamming forays, that I used to be an accomplice to. Well…I probably instigated one or two… There could be no better place in the world, to hold the bluegrass awards, than at the Deerhurst Resort. The efficient, courteous service, in which the staff provides, is unparalleled, and the accommodations are way, way above average. The same can be said about the organizer of the Central Canada Bluegrass Awards, Mr. Tony deBoer. Tony maintains high standards too; he is very accommodating, and is always open to suggestions. Countless hours go into bringing these awards (and concerts he organizes) to fruition…so, in recognition of Tony’s passion and dedication to bluegrass music, the first act of the new BMACC board, was to award him with a lifetime membership in BMACC. Tony, thank you for being born! I must also express my gratitude to the out-going BMACC board members Wes Lowe, Steve Pritchard, and Brother BrianPowley ...who stepped down as directors. Guys…thanks for the time and effort you selflessly dedicated to build this organization. BMACC is a volunteer board…the only reward is seeing bluegrass flourishing. In this regard, I would be remiss not to also acknowledge the returning directors, and new board members…I’m just not going to do that explicitly here, ‘cause it’ll go to

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

their heads…but there should be a photo of the new board somewhere in this issue. lol Further thanks go out to all of you, who stopped by the BMACC table to join or to renew your memberships…your support is so very critical to BMACC’s operation. Your membership fees help to publish this the newsletter, and maintain the web site. More broadly, your contributions help us to achieve the goals set out in our mission statement…to preserve and promote bluegrass. Now, for those of you who did not get an opportunity to renew your membership at Deerhurst, or just cant remember when your membership comes due for renewal, we have some good news. Gord Devries, our computer whiz, knowledgeable of all things “tech-y”…is currently implementing a program for the BMACC web site, to facilitate online applications and renewals, and will send out automatic reminders. The directional focus of the new BMACC board is to find new markets for bluegrass. This may sound simple, but exposing non-fans to bluegrass, and breaking down stereotypical barriers, is a formidable challenge. However, those of you who attended the Annual General Meeting, already know the details of the progress we are making, and the vision of the organizations future. So onward and upward we journey into the quickly approaching New Year of 2010. With diligent efforts, we will persevere, stay the course, and continue to make progress. Congratulations to all the award winners. Best of the season… wishing you health, happiness and prosperity in the New Year.

Warm regards, Denis Chadbourn

BMACC President


CENTRAL CANADIAN BLUEGRASS AWARDS 2008 AWARD WINNERS

DJ—Ron Moores (Ottawa)

Banjo Player—D’Arcy Campbell (Hard Ryde)

Fiddle Player—Tyler Beckett (Hard Ryde)

Bass Player—Rick Koop (Hard Ryde)

Guitar Player—Marc Roy (Hard Ryde)

Mandolin Player—Will Meadows (Hard Ryde)

Dobro Player—Doug Van Den Kieboom (Bluegrass Edition)

Female Vocalist—Sherry Philp (Concession 23)

Male Vocalist—Thom Gardiner (Northern Sons)

Composer—Melissa Sherman (Hard Ryde)

Promising Group—Canucky Bluegrass Boys

Instrumental Group—Foggy Hogtown Boys

Recording—North to Ontario (Compilation)

Vocal Group—Canucky Bluegrass Boys

Gospel Group—General Store

Overall Group—The Foggy Hogtown Boys

Entertainer—Doug de Boer (Hard Ryde)

Honour Roll Vocal Group—Northern Sons


Bluegrass DJ—Ron Moores—Ottawa Sponsor: Valley Bluegrass Festival

Presented by Bob Johnston

Banjo Player—D’Arcy Campbell—Hard Ryde Sponsor: Best of Bluegrass, Brian MacCarthy

Presented by Eric Gibson

Fiddle Player—Tyler Beckett—Hard Ryde Sponsor: Thames Valley Bluegrass Music Association

Presented by Wayne Uncer

Bass Player—Rich Koop—Hard Ryde Sponsor: Palmer Rapids Twin Festivals

Presented by Al Schutt


Guitar Player—Marc Roy—Hard Ryde Sponsor: Athlone Studios and Sound

Presented by Gene Gouthro

Mandolin Player—Will Meadows—Hard Ryde Sponsor: David Tinkhoff Memorial

Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Association. Presented by Donald Tarte

Dobro Player—Doug Van Den Kieboom Bluegrass Edition

Sponsor: The Stringman Presented by Wayne Uncer

Male Vocalist—Thom Gardiner—Northern Sons Sponsor: Essex-Kent Bluegrass & Old Time Music Assoc.

Presented by David Blakney


Female Vocalist—Sherry Philp—Concession 23 Sponsor: Lois White Memorial Award Presented by Bill White—White Pine

Composer—Melissa Sherman—Hard Ryde Sponsor: Skyway Bluegrass Club

Presented by Rolly Aucoin

Recording—North to Ontario 2009 Gene Gouthro & Tom McCreight Sponsor: Campbell’s Corner Music Sales

Presented by Dan and Shannon Campbell

Instrumental Group Foggy Hogtown Boys

Sponsor: Tottenham Bluegrass Festival Presented by Peter Deveau Accepted by Steve Pritchard


Instrumental Group—Foggy Hogtown Boys Sponsor: Bluegrass Music Association of Central Canada

Presented by Denis Chadbourn Accepted by Steve Pritchard

Entertainer—Doug deBoer Sponsor: The Pineridge Bluegrass Club

Presented by Gary Meyer

Gospel Group—General Store Sponsor: Willow Park Jamboree—Presented by Marvin Laforme


Promising Group—Canucky Bluegrass Boys Sponsor: Queen’s Bush Bluegrass Club—Presented by Gord Chapman

Vocal Group—Canucky Bluegrass Boys Sponsor: Conestoga Trail Bluegrass & Gospel Festival

Presented by Fran and Gerry Morgan

Honour Roll Vocal Group—Northern Sons

Presented by Tony DeBoer


OUT AMONG THE STARS

Random Bits of news from the world of Bluegrass

By Tom McCreight

Partner with the Bluegrass Museum in the new Ambassadors Program!

The International Bluegrass Music Museum, Owensboro, KY, sends this message to all bluegrass associations:

Dear Bluegrass Lovers,

The International Bluegrass Music Museum wants to partner with you! We’re starting an official Bluegrass Museum Ambassadors Program, and we’re inviting your association to participate.

Your association will appoint or elect a person who is willing and enthusiastic about being an Ambassador from your association to the International Bluegrass Music Museum. This Museum Ambassador will work with the Bluegrass Museum on special projects, report news and information for our newsletter, report Museum news back to your association for members and newsletters, encourage Museum membership and donations, encourage donation of bluegrass artifacts to the Museum, and attend a yearly meeting of Ambassadors at ROMP in Owensboro each year. ROMP takes place the 4th weekend of June.

Ambassadors will receive a complimentary IBMM membership, a VIP ROMP pass (which includes VIP access to all events, backstage privileges, meals with Artists/Pioneers), and an Ambassadors t-shirt. The museum will arrange low-cost lodging for your stay at ROMP, getting you in on our artists’ rates (typically $54/night + tax).

What we need from you:

Designate your official Museum Ambassador and send us the following information.

Association name:

Ambassador: Mailing address: Phone number: E-mail address: T-shirt size: S M L XL 2XL

Please mail this information to the address below or by e-mail to Gabrielle Gray.

International Bluegrass Music Museum Attn: Bluegrass Ambassadors 207 East Second Street Owensboro, KY 42303 GRASSTOWNE NASHVILLE, TN - Grasstowne's lead singer, Steve Gulley, is hoping their cleverly titled brand new sophomore release, The Other Side of Towne, does just what this band of veteran players intended for it to do when they were recording the project - define who Grasstowne is as a band and solidify their identifiable sound. Early indications are that it is doing just that.

The Other Side of Towne showcases their musical voice as a band, and shares exactly who they are and what they sound like live. Gulley says, "We were very proud of our first album, but The Other Side of Towne really speaks to who we are. It defines who we've become as a group," he says.

Grasstowne's sophomore release features the group's identifiable instrumentation and vocals with Phil Leadbetter on dobro, Alan Bibey on mandolin and vocals, Jason Davis on banjo, Dale Perry on bass and vocals, and guitarist and lead singer Steve Gulley pulling every ounce of emotion available from each and every lyric.

The Bluegrass Journal sings the album's praises and says, "It's definitely worth the wait!" Guest artists, fiddle master Stuart Duncan and Terry Baucom bring their award winning talents to the table to help solidify the sound of this band who bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs calls, "some of the best you'll find in the country."

The album's single "Big, Big, Heartaches" is already sitting at #16 on the National Bluegrass Survey, after a radio debut 3 months before release. In addition to "Big, Big, Heartaches," the album features writing by band members Alan Bibey and the co-songwriter of 2008's IBMA Song Of The Year, Steve Gulley.

Steve Gulley penned three of the tunes on the album. The gospel influenced, "Lifting Up The Cross" with Ken Mellons and two other tunes with writing partner Tim Stafford. Wayne Winkle and Craig Market contributed four tracks including the title track and Michael Bentley lends his talents on the only a cappella Gospel track on the CD, "Salvation of the Lord". Bibey co-wrote "Pay Your Dues" with Ronnie Bowman and Shawn Lane as well as an instrumental called "Tobaccoville Road".

The Other Side Of Towne is the long awaited follow-up to their first release, the critically acclaimed 2007 debut release, The Road Headin' Home. The album had a healthy run at radio and its single, "Dixie Flyer", reached #1 on Bluegrass Music Profile's single's chart and the album was #1 for 3 consecutive months on the National Bluegrass Survey. The single also saw success in the #1 spot for two months on the Bluegrass Unlimited chart. The debut project netted a win for SPBGMA's Album of the Year, Mandolin Player of the Year, and Dobro Player of the year. The Other Side Of Towne features writing from band members Alan Bibey and 2008's IBMA co-songwriter of the year, Steve Gulley.

Phil Leadbetter, Steve Gulley, and Alan Bibey have known each other since each was a young man. They began their musical careers in different touring bands, but fate brought them together to form the unique venture known as Grasstowne. Grasstowne is meant to infer the roots of their beginnings and their future, in one shot. Bluegrass music with a 21st century edge, sums up the essence of the band according to Phil Leadbetter. With the addition of Jason Davis on Banjo, and Dale Perry on upright bass, the band was formed.

These players have racked up a pedigree that

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See OATS


reads like a Who's Who in bluegrass including, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, J.D. Crowe and the New South, Mountain Heart, BlueRidge, IIIrd Tyme Out, and more. It's no wonder their music and playing is top tier and Other Side of Towne is destined to position them as a band that is in it for the long haul. (from GoodStuff PR Co.)

[GRASSTOWNE will be at THE Quinte, and Valley Bluegrass Festivals next summer] Interesting Blog Ted Lehmann has posted a blog entry called "On the Road with Darin and Brooke Aldridge." In addition to seeking to profile this fine young couple, he provides a picture of the hard work and joys of being a touring bluegrass musician. The post covers five days in their week, during which they performed five times. www.tedlehmann.blogspot.com Fiddler's Dream by Gregory Spatz - Book Review by Ted Lehmann “ I've posted a review of a novel by Gregory Spatz called "Fiddler's Dream." Spatz, who plays fiddle for John Reischman and the Jaybirds, has written a novel of self-discovery about a young musician who leaves home in Vermont to journey to Nashville in search of his musical self and his long lost musician father. A good read and a nice gift for your bluegrass reader. - Ted www.tedlehmann.blogspot.com Greg also has a wonderful CD called "Fiddler's Dream." You can pick up these gifts at www.gregoryspatz.com. Ralph Stanley’s Intimate Memoir, Man of Constant Sorrow: My Life & Times (Nashville, TN) Dr. Ralph Stanley’s behind-the-scenes autobiography, ManOf Constant Sorrow: My Life & Times, was co-written with music journalist Eddie

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Dean. The book chronicles in Stanley's own distinctive voice his rise from poverty and a broken home in rural Virginia to his musical pairing with his older brother, Carter, and the creation of the trailblazing Stanley Brothers sound, to his career culmination as a multiple Grammy winner, member of the Grand Ole Opry and recipient of the National Medal of Arts. In its ringing review of the book, Publishers Weekly observed, Stanley's plainspoken narrative is told in a rural diction as though he were sitting in the front seat of an old Ford headed down the mountain for his next show. His story is a comprehensive and endearing cornucopia of authentic mountain music, place, family, friends, rivals, faith, love, life, death and the road. Labeling Stanley's narrative a delightful, outspoken surprise, Kirkus Reviews concluded, He's at his best recalling his backwoods upbringing, the vicissitudes of the bluegrass road, the murder of one of his lead singers, the power of gospel music and old-time religion and the fast-vanishing South of his boyhood. An often tart yet affecting music memoir. Stanley continues to tour with his band, the Clinch Mountain Boys. Morris Public Relations Jack Cooke – RIP Norton, VA (December 2, 2009) - Jack Cooke, long-time bass player and singer with Ralph Stanley's Clinch Mountain Boys, died Tuesday, December 1, 2009, at a hospital in his hometown of Norton, VA., after collapsing at his home. Vernon Crawford Jack Cooke was born Dec. 6, 1936. His first professional job was playing with the Stanley Brothers while he was still in his teens. He left the Stanleys to join Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys, a post he held from 1956-1960. During that time, he recorded such songs with Monroe as Gotta Travel On, Big Mon, and Tomorrow I’ll Be Gone. Later, he formed his own group, Jack Cooke and the Virginia Mountain Boys, and played in bands headed by Earl Taylor and the

Stonemans. He joined the Clinch Mountain Boys in 1970 and remained there until he was sidelined by health problems early this year. In 2002, he shared with the Clinch Mountain Boys a best bluegrass album Grammy for Lost In The Lonesome Pines, a collection headlined by Jim Lauderdale and Ralph Stanley. Lauderdale producedCooke's only solo album, Sittin On Top Of The World, which was released in 2007.

A big snowy hello from Elliot Lake and area! Just returned from the famed Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards weekend at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville. What a place THAT was to begin with, and then what a SHOW! Stellar performances by my favorite Canadian bluegrass groups with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike, as well as the beloved Gibson Brothers into the mix. I kept pinching myself to see if it was all real. It was. All participating bands were polished to a brilliant bluegrass lustre that shone through the entire weekend, both on stage and in the jam groups scattered about the complex. Every time one set of goosebumps disappeared, someone would do another spine-tingling number and back came the goosebumps!

Where to start with the talent on that stage? Difficult to put them in any order—


OATS

ELLIOT LAKE NEWS

From Gloria and the Elliot Lake Bluegrass Jammers

See Elliott Lake


they are all number one in this bluegrasser’s book. Hard Ryde never disappoints, and Melissa’s ‘Weak in the Knees’ brings me to my knees every time. Northern Sons were a harmony force to be reckoned with, not to mention they had us digging for Kleenex and shirt-sleeves with ‘Hobo’s Wings’. My eyes water as I write the words. What power! General Store showed us the perfection brought about by practice. Newcomers Rhyme ‘n’ Reason make flawless bluegrass look easy. Long-time jam partners, now known both sides of the border as Canucky Bluegrass Boys continually wow the crowds with their driving brand of grass, played as tight as it gets, energy galore. ‘Course watching Matt’s ongoing and animated love affair with his bass is the high spot of my night wherever they are! And for him to be for once rendered speechless and a tad emotional at receiving the awards they got was a moment frozen in time for me.

Honeygrass harmonies are like no other, and their sweet sound is unique, right up there with Rhonda and Allison. Those Ducharme boys have to have been born with instruments in their hands! The C-Denny band with Denis and his lovely talented girls captivated the audience—you could hear the proverbial pin drop as he ground out original after original. Beautiful lyrics and expertly done. Bluegrass Edition, Concession 23, Foggy Hogtown Boys, and all of the recipients of the awards on Saturday night are to be congratulated for jobs well done. The passion for the music shows through in what they have achieved.

Every good bluegrass weekend is jam-packed, literally. You could walk through any hallway or foyer and find a jam. Jamming with the likes of Ednson’s, Grassfyre, Manitoulin Miffs (Scattered Grass), the Ducharmes and others is my idea of Heaven on earth. We are still changing dressings on our tortured picking fingers and bathing in

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A535 a week after the event, but not minding a bit. Granddaughter Lauren at 13 is hooked on bluegrass and can’t wait to play on stage. She will.

'Bands like Siverbirch with the illustrious Tom McCreight, and Bluegrass Edition, Concession 23-- so many others who performed over the weekend, made the Central Canada Bluegrass Awards Weekend what it was. So much talent, so little time to savour each group! Ah, but the memories will linger right through to Novemeber 2010.'

All in all, it was a fine weekend of music and bluegrass fellowship. A huge thank you to Tony DeBoer for elevating bluegrass to where it is today in Central Canada, and to the organizers of this fine weekend for the mammoth effort they put forth in making this event happen every year for the past three decades. To those of you who have never been to Deerhurst to the awards show, make plans for next year. You will never regret it!

Elliott Lake

Matt Naveau Canucky Bluegrass Boys

Thom Gardiner of Northern Sons with son Jacob


Ben Eldridge and John Starling, who had both been to U.VA in the early 1960s, lived in the same block of Chase Avenue in Bethesda. They got together to play music frequently. A weekly jam session took place in Ben's basement for years from about 1968 through 1971. Other regulars included Mike and Dave Auldridge, Gary Henderson, and Bruce Barnes. Although the music was great, no one, at first, played professionally. I used to occasionally join the weekly jam sessions, not as a regular, since I was already playing some (poorly) paying gigs with Emerson & Waldron, Benny & Vallie Cain, and others. The main bass player at the jam sessions was Gary Henderson.

A few times, Len Holsclaw (the Country Gentlemen's manager) played bass at the jams. Len was a good friend of John Duffey, and realized that these guys in the basement just might be good enough to tempt John Duffey to play and sing again. John had quit the Country Gentlemen in early 1969 in disillusionment with the music business. He had not played except to occasionally substitute with the Gents when Jimmy Gaudreau was called for his duty in the Reserves. John didn't even own a mandolin any more. Several people had tried without success to lure him back into playing music again. Len heard John Starling singing, blending smoothly with the Auldridge Brothers in vocal harmony, and the thought came to him: Perhaps this is what is needed to make Duffey want to play again. He was right. Len invited Duffey to come to one of Ben's basement jam sessions, and the two Johns did enjoy singing together. I think that would have been in mid 1971.

For a time in 1969, Mike Auldridge and I

both played with Bill Emerson and Cliff Waldron at the Red Fox. After Emerson left to rejoin the Country Gentlemen, Ben Eldridge was hired by Cliff to replace Emerson; Mike remained, but I was already gone, replaced by Ed Ferris. In early 1971, both Mike and Ben quit Cliff's band. In October of 1971, The Red Fox needed a band to fill in for Cliff Waldron, who had a better-paying gig elsewhere one night. Walt Broderick,

who owned the Red Fox called Mike or Ben to see if they could bring a band in to fill the date. The band consisted of John Starling on guitar and lead vocals, Dave Auldridge on guitar and tenor vocals, Mike Auldridge on Dobro and baritone vocals, Bruce Barnes on mandolin, and Tom Gray on bass. For a new band, I think we did a decent job. Walt must have thought so too, for he recommended us to the owner of another nightclub, The Rabbit's Foot in the Tenleytown area of D.C. The Rabbit's Foot was a big rock and roll club, and its owner wanted to try this alternative music called bluegrass on Monday nights, so he called Walt for a recommendation.

Meanwhile, John Duffey had been to Ben's basement jam session and hit it

off with John Starling, and was willing to give the music business another try. We agreed to some rules, proposed by Duffey: There would be no big deals with this band, no band vehicle. We would play one night a week in a local club, keeping our days jobs. We would make records. We would play concerts and festivals on weekends. The Rabbit's Foot offered a weekly paid engagement. We were a six-piece band with two

tenor singers. After a few weeks of that, Dave graciously bowed out, leaving the tenor job solely to John Duffey. On our seventh Monday night at the Rabbit's Foot, we had an altercation with the management. Our friend Richard Dress had the nerve to ask the bar tender to turn down his radio (the Redskins were playing a night game) so he could hear the music. They threw Richard out on the street. We objected to their treatment of our friend, and quit the joint. The next month, we began a 6-year engagement at the Red Fox.

A story in the Frederick Post Dispatch credits John Duffey with putting the band together. I think the one who really got the band started playing publicly was Mike Auldridge. The one who brought John Duffey into it was Len Holsclaw. Len could have claimed the bass-player job for putting it together, but he was tied up by his duties on the Arlington Police Force and his management of the Gents. Since Len couldn't take the job, Mike offered it to me. Thanks again, Mike, it was a dream gig. Duffey may have set the rules by which we would do business, but Mike made the calls. And that's how the Seldom Scene came to be. Tom Gray

THE ORIGINAL SELDOM SCENE

The Birth of The Seldom Scene – by Tom Gray (originally posted to an online bluegrass discussion group, and used withTom’s permission)


The first time I heard the word Bluegrass it was some twenty-five plus years ago and I thought it was a type of grass seed you planted on your yard. So I dutifully went to the library and borrowed “The History of Bluegrass Music” by Neil Rosenburg. After reading how Bluegrass music started and spread from the Appalachian Mountains in the southeastern United States, I developed an appreciation for the music. I grew to love the sound of Bluegrass music and the fun and excitement of attending outdoor festivals in the United States and Canada. People from all walks of life and all corners of the United States and Canada would come together to share their love of the music and experience camaraderie with family and friends.

However, the last few years I’ve found a spirit of meanness has crept into the music scene in Ontario. Not amongst the fans, but amongst the festival promoters, and the Bluegrass concert and Club organizers. For example, I witnessed a club in Ontario planning and promoting for almost a year, a concert featuring a prominent American musician - then about two months before the date of the concert another organizer scheduled an event the same night, stating it was the only night available. What’s that all about? Both parties lost out on that event. When a BMACC member asked a festival promoter if he could set up an information table at a festival, he was refused. Why?? In another incident, a newsletter describing all the events happening in Bluegrass over the summer, failed to mention one of the new festivals – was that deliberate? I

concerns. In all fairness, I was amazed when I went to work for a smaller company in Woodstock and found the work ethic was alive and well and Union and Management worked together to provide a safe and productive work environment. How refreshing was that! We all lose in the end if we can’t work together to support each other’s efforts.

Thanks for letting me vent my frustrations and coming to my whine and cheese party. I listened recently to the broadcast of a previous interview on CBC radio with the late June Callwood. When she was asked if she believed in God – she replied “I believe in kindness”.

Sounds like a good philosophy for the bluegrass organizers and promoters. Let’s try it.

Audrey DeVries

hope not. Those are some of the examples of not working together that I have observed over the past few years. Can we not support each other in our efforts to promote and preserve the music we care about?

If BMACC had the full support of the Bluegrass community, eventually it could be possible to accomplish many worthwhile projects similar to IBMA in the United States. For instance, IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Assoc.), also a non-profit organization, has established a Bluegrass Trust fund as a means to help bluegrass music professionals in time of emergency need. The Bluegrass Trust Fund raises money through IBMA’s Fan Fest at the Bluegrass Awards show and also receives donations from individuals. It has disbursed financial assistance to dozens of bluegrass professionals and their families in time of need. A similar fund (in Canada) would certainly be a worthwhile future goal for BMACC.

This and other worthwhile initiatives can only become reality if there is a genuine spirit of cooperation and a unified commitment to the mission and goals of the BMACC. Let’s all agree to shed the aura of meanness and get on with the job of making the bluegrass community in Canada stronger, healthier and (hopefully) wiser.

This spirit of not working together which has invaded the bluegrass scene reminds me of my working days as a Registered Nurse in the field of Occupational Health for several large corporations in London. The Union and Management were often at odds with each other even though they worked for the same company. The Medical staff frequently seemed to be in the middle – if an employee was angry with management he/she would soon be off on compensation with a work related strain. I could appreciate both sides of the issue and witnessed the unwillingness to cooperative on the part of management and on the part of the Union as well. However, what I couldn’t understand was why they wouldn’t work together and listen to each other’s

THE SPIRIT OF KINDNESS

By Audrey DeVries

NEW CATEGORY FOR AWARDS Should there be a Song of the Year category added to the annual bluegrass awards? Tony is willing to add the category if there is enough support. Please let us know what you think. Thanks

The Editor


The Songwriters Association of Canada is a national non-profit organization that represents, and is run by, songwriters and whose mission is to protect and develop the creative and business environments for songwriters in Canada and around the world.

If you aren’t necessarily interested in the commercial appeal of your songs, and are wondering if there is a place within the S.A.C., the answer is YES. Many S.A.C. members have an interest in strictly honing their craft for their own development and/or community performances. With membership, comes a community network of other musicians and songwriters for possible collaboration. S.A.C. members are writing songs in genres that include: pop, country, blues, rock, bluegrass, gospel, R&B, hip-hop, rap, soul and more.

If you are interested in doing more with your songs than just performing them in front of a Sunday afternoon local cafe audience, then you definitely should be part of the S.A.C. The networking opportunities, both at S.A.C’s live events and online communities, can help to create those new relationships that can help you get to the next level.

If you are songwriter and your focus is currently fronting a band and you’re wondering how to break into the songwriting-for-other-people market, the best way to start writing for others is to do research and look for acts that are currently performing around town (either covers or originals). Ask asking if they might consider performing other material or even co-writing. This allows songwriters to get their foot in the door with an act that is developing and also gives both parties a larger "net" to cast when promoting the material. These songwriters should always be looking for "vehicles" for their material — even if they are only looking for vocalists to sing on their next demo.

Benefits For the last 26 years, the S.A.C.’s focus has been on Advocacy, Education and Community, with services and benefits that have been developed for exclusive use to members. Some of these services include:

Canadian Song Vault: This is the only copyright protection service of it’s kind in Canada that can help substantiate your claims of original authorship of a particular musical work. The Song Vault exists to file and store copies of your original

sound recordings, but also to provide notarized copies of your original material should you ever need to substantiate your claim of original authorship. For those of you with your material “out there” on MySpace, Facebook and other social networking sites, this is a valuable “peace of mind” service offered exclusively to members at a reasonable cost.

Song Assessment: Song critiques by music industry professionals via mail and soon online through a new website update. Each submission is critiqued personally by a professional songwriter /mentor chosen by the S.A.C. All assessments includes a detailed response to your material covering presentation, performance, song structure, lyrics, music and commercial appeal. For those interested in writing with the notion of improving their craft, this service has been invaluable.

Date with a Demo: A front-line business connection that allows songwriters to have their song demos critiqued in person by industry professionals including publishers, A&R reps from record labels and successful songwriters and other music industry professionals. We also offer member discounts to our workshops like the Songshop and Power Songshop, and Bluebird North, a public showcase that celebrates Canadian songwriters. The S.A.C. also offers discounts on many services including CD’s replication and duplication manufacturing, music directories, etc.

Advocacy In a time when music is more accessible than ever before, the role and importance of the songwriter and his / her network becomes even more evident. The Songwriters Association of Canada has taken a lead role internationally in ensuring that music creators are at the “table” when developing new models for revenue streams for performing songwriters. In fact, the S.A.C. has developed a proposal to monetize music file sharing that is being reviewed be music creator groups around the world.

To find out more on this proposal and to sign on to the concept, go to www.musicfilesharing.ca .

For more information on membership and events and activities, go to www.songwriters.ca.

Although songwriting can be a solitary task, the objective and role of the S.A.C. is to be there to help nurture and develop your songwriting skills and community, so that you can find your own personal success. If you’re not already a member, we look forward to seeing you in the S.A.C. family!

Keep writing,

Don Quarles


See SAC

http://www.musicfilesharing.ca/

http://www.songwriters.ca/


Don Quarles is the Executive Director - Songwriters Association of Canada As a songwriter and event producer of over 20 years, Quarles is passionate about helping Canadian songwriters. He was a regional workshop coordinator for the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) for over 7 years and has helped to bring songwriting into Canadian schools with the founders of a program called “SASS” (the School Alliance of Student Songwriters). He continues to write and perform, mostly with his family band 'The Family Quarles". Quarles sits on the National Advisory Board of FACTOR, the International advisory Board of transmission, is on the advisory council of the Paris Accord (an International copyright group) and is the proud father of three great fiddle playing kids.

(Continued from page 17) SAC

ERRATA

The dates for the 2010 Awards Weekend are incorrect in the Bluegrass Calendar. The correct dates are November 26, 27 & 28.

The Editor


ORGANIZATIONAL MEMBERS

Here is a list of the organizations who have become members of BMACC:

Bluegrass Sundays Contact: Judy Fink 416-779-2627 [email protected]

Campbell’s Corner Music Sales Contact: Dan Campbell 519-371-5037 [email protected]

National Bass & Cello Contact: Bill 705-246-3261 [email protected] http://nationalbassandcello.com

Northern Bluegrass Committee Contact: Tony deBoer 705-758-9049

The Stringman Contact: Gord DeVries 800-587-4647 [email protected]

FESTIVALS

Lindsay Country and Bluegrass Music Jamboree Contact: Dave Barber 705-357-3467 or 705-741-6097 www.lindsaycountryjamboree.com

Norwich Family Bluegrass Festival Contact: Mike & Maryann Tirellia 518-783-3154 [email protected] www.norwichfamilybluegrass.com

Palmer Rapids Twin Music Festival Contact: Allan Schutt 613-758-2747 [email protected]

Sally Creek Music Festival Contact: Wayne Uncer 519-469-3392 1-888-288-4423 www.sallycreekmusicfestival.ca www.tvbma.ca Sand Road Sugar Camp Contact: Julie or Brian 613-538-2991 www.sandroadsugarcamp.com

Tommfest Lake Ontario Park, Kingston, ON [email protected]

Tottenham Bluegrass Festival Contact: Peter Deveau 905-936-4100 1-888-258-4727 www.tottenhambluegrass.ca

Valley Bluegrass Festival Contact: R. Johnston/Shiela Kirk 613-432-5000 [email protected]

Willow Park Jamboree Contact: Marvin LaForme 905-768-1448

CLUBS

Elliott Lake Bluegrass Jammers Contact: Gloria Hansen 705-461-8077 [email protected]

Manitoba Oldtyme Bluegrass Society Inc. (MOBS) Contact: John Sawatzky 204-467-2182 www.manitobabluegrass.ca

Nipissing Bluegrass Association Contact: Denis Chadbourn 705-776-7754 [email protected]

Ottawa Valley Bluegrass Association Contact: Donald Tarte 887-876-3369/613-234-1000 [email protected] www.valleygrass.ca

Queensbush Bluegrass Club Contact: Don Day 519-376-7945 www.queensbush.ca

Skyway Bluegrass Club Contact: Roland Aucoin 905-635-1818 [email protected]

Thames Valley Bluegrass MusicAssociation Sally Creek Music Festival Contact: Wayne Uncer 519-469-3392 [email protected] www.TVBA.ca

Townships Bluegrass and Old-Tyme Music Society Contact: Gordon Cameron 450-539-0333

BANDS

Acoustical Strings Contact: Roger Spense 705-432-2598 [email protected]

Appalachian Grass Contact: Vern McIntyre 419-568-1220 [email protected] www.fotmc.com

Backwoodsmen Contact: Lorne Buck 613-475-3740

Blue River Band Contact: Jim Mayville 613-771-0492

C-Denny Band Contact: Dennis Chadbourn 705-776-7754 [email protected]

Church and State Fair Contact: Dottie Cormier 416-996-4253 [email protected] www.myspace.com/churchandstatefair

Concession 23 Contact: Nick Strachan/Sherry Philp 819-459-1089/613-623-0779 [email protected] www.concession23.com

Crosswind Contact: Roland Aucoin 905-635-1818 [email protected]

The Ducharme Family Contact: Nicole Ducharme 705-758-9589

Foggy Hogtown Boys Contact: Chris Coole 416-516-3796 www.chriscoole.com www.foggyhogtownboys.com



Foxtail Contact: Gord DeVries 519-668-0418 [email protected] www.foxtail.ca

General Store Contact: Bill Blance 905-451-9077 [email protected]

The Generation Gap Contact: Gretchen Lamers 519-866-5910 [email protected]

Gid-R-Done Contact: Wayne Uncer 519-469-3392 [email protected]

Canucky Bluegrass Boys Contact: Lee D. Roy 705-669-1945 [email protected] www.canuckybluegrass.com

Hard Ryde Contact: Doug DeBoer 519-249-0397 [email protected] www.hardryde.ca

Hometown Bluegrass Contact: Al Benner 905-936-2008 or 647-430-5761 [email protected] www.hometownbluegrass.ca

Honeygrass Contact: Karen May Snell 705-788-4362 [email protected] www.honeygrass.com

Jan Purcell and Pine Road Contact: Jan Purcell 819-459-3362 [email protected] www.pineroadbluegrass.com

Keslering Ridge Contact: Ron Luxton 905-623-2828 [email protected]

Lazy John Contact: Shane Crumb 613-472-5548

(Continued from page 20) [email protected] www.myspace.com/lazyjohnband

Northern Sons Contact: Marty Coney 613-836-2589 [email protected]. www.northernsons.com

Rhyme’N’Reason Contact: Stefan Van Holten 905-679-4049 [email protected]

Scattered Grass Contact: Gloria Hansen 705-461-8077

Shades of Grey Contact: Lou Hebert 807-622-2518 [email protected]

Silverbirch Contact: Tom McCreight 705-228-8426 [email protected]

Virginia Ridge Contact: Susan Wollman 204-268-3714 [email protected] www.virginiaridge.piczo.com

Bill White and White Pine Contact: Bill White 613-372-2400 [email protected] [email protected] www.billwhiteandwhitepine.aztechdigital.ca

The Uncalled Four Contact: Raymond Loponen 807-345-9282

The Young Family Band Contact: Brad Young 613-478-3356 [email protected]

Bluegrass on the Radio Linda Axman and Dan Joseph Blueridge Express CKRW-FM-98.5—Kitchener Wednesday at 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Dan Bieman Bluegrass Rules AM920 CKNX—www.am920.ca [email protected] 519-357-1310 – ext. 446 Sundays at 1:00 p.m.

David Blakeny Daybreak in Dixie CJAM-FM 91.5—www.cjam.ca [email protected] Sunday 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Howard Bonner The Catalogue Parlour CFRC – 101.9 FM—www.cfrc.ca [email protected] Fridays – 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Brother John’s Sunday Morning Gospel Hour www.theislandfm.com Sunday 8:00 a.m.

Don Day and Dusty Hill Bluegrass Express [email protected] CKCY 93.7 FM-www.country93.ca 519-376-2030 Sundays at 9:00 p.m.

Linda Elliott Country and Bluegrass CHIP 101.7 FM—www.chipfm.com 819-683-3155 – 888-775-3155 [email protected] Saturday – 5:00-10:00 p.m. Sunday – 6:00-10.00 p.m.

Audrey Lockwood Bluegrass Program CKOL 93.7FM—[email protected] Friday 9:00-10:00 p.m.

Jim Marino Smokin’ Bluegrass [email protected] CFMU-FM 93.3 http://cfmu.mcmaster.ca

John and Angel McNaughton with Maria Polillo The Bluegrass Show [email protected] CKRZ-FM 100.3—www.ckrz.com Tuesday 7:00-11:00 p.m.

Wilson Moore



Bluegrass Jam CHMA—FM 106.9—Sackville, NB 506-364-2221 www.mta.ca/chma—[email protected] Saturdays 6:00 pm—Sundays 4:30 pm (Atlantic Time)

Ron Moores The Back 40 CKCU FM 93.1—www.ckcufm.com [email protected] www.back40.ca Saturday Noon-1:00 p.m.

Brian Powley Brother Brian’s Bluegrass Show CFRC 101.9 FM—www.cfrc.ca [email protected]

Monday 6:00-8:00 p.m.

(Continued from page 21) Sunday 8:00-11:00 a.m.

Steve Pritchard Radio-Boogie CKLN FM 88.1—http://ckln.fm [email protected] Wednesday 10:00-12:00 p.m.

Other sources:

www.mountainechosradio.com This site plays some good stuff all the time.

Live 365 Internet Radio http://www.live365.com/cgi-bin/directory.cg1?genre=bluegrass Saturday – Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Bean Blossom Brown County Jamboree Preservation Foundation Inc.

The foundation continues fundraising efforts with the goal of $500,000 to assume operations of the music park. The Foundation announced The Bean Blossom Memorial Brick Wall Project at the Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park. The initial price per brick is $100 and includes a custom engraving worded by the brick donor. Once the wall is up, the price will be $125 due to the added expense of engraving bricks already in place. Go to the website for further details.

Look for us on the new Facebook Account that has been created.

The Deerhurst Resort Weekend 31st Bluegrass Awards—November 20-21-22, 2009

We’re all taking a trip to Deerhurst Resort to Bluegrass Awards

Show

That’s one place where everybody should go.

There are people there from many states

That proves just how the show rates

There are many super bands

That get many clapping hands

The bands can enter a contest

They all do their very best

The M.C.’s are always in place

They keep things going at a good pace

The Deerhurst resort is a great place to stay.

There’s more than one day of Bluegrass music

We Bluegrass fans have it made

We Thank You

Tony DeBoer & Family Rolla.Pilon W.M.

Some happy fans back stage


THE NORTHERN BLUEGRASS COMMITTEE Presents

The 2010 Winter Concert Series

February—The James King Band March—Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road April—Monroe Crossing

February 18—March 18 –April 15 7:00 pm Williamsville, NY

Harris Hill Mennonite Church, 5225 Harris Hill Rd. Contact: Ted Lambert 716-683-1495

February 26—March 19—April 16

8:00 pm Waterdown Legion 79 Hamilton St., Waterdown, ON

Contact: Tony de Boer 705-758-9049

February 20—March 20—April 17 Feb 20 – Dominion Golf Restaurant. Oldcastle

7:00 pm—Mar 20 & Apr 17—Knights of Columbus Hall 1303 County Rd. 22 (at Renaud Line), Belle River, ON

Contact: David Blakeney 519-975-2792

February 21—March 21—April 18 2:00 pm Scarborough, ON

Highland Creek Legion, 45 Lawson Rd. Contact: Judy Fink 416-779-2627


8:00 pm The Police Association Hall 141 Catharine St., Ottawa, ON

Contact: Nick Strachan 819-459-1089

February 23—March 23—April 20 8:00 pm The Waterloo Legion

77 Lewis St., Waterloo, QC Contact: Gord Cameron 450-539-0333


8:00 pm Christ Church 990 Sydenham Rd., Kingston, ON

Contact: Bill or June White 613-372-2400 Or Brian Powley 613-374-3888

February 25—March 25—April 22 8:00 pm The Owen Sound Legion

1450 2nd Ave. W., Owen Sound, ON Contact: Don Day 519-376– 7945

February 19 8:00 pm The Preston Legion

Cambridge, ON Contact: Doug or Melissa de Boer 519-249-0397

February 27

8:00 pm Havelock Legion 8 Ottawa St., Havelock, ON

Contact: Cindy Winterbottom 905-331-9915

March 26 8:00 pm Huntsville Legion

21 Veterans Way E., Huntsville, ON Contact: Tony de Boer 705-758-9049

March 27

8:00 pm Legion, Espanola, ON 370 Annette St. Afternoon Jam Session

Contact: Contact Ed Guay 705-869-4631

April 23 7:30 pm Summit Room, Voyager Motel

123 Delaware, North Bay, ON Contact: Tony de Boer 705-758-9049

March 28—April 25

7:00 pm Sault Ste. Marie 2:00 pm Afternoon Jam Session

Riuniti Hall, 1324 Great Northern Rd.

Maximize Your Membership If there are individual members of BMACC that belong to a band or other organization, you should consider paying an additional $30 to take advantage of what BMACC can offer. Organizational Members will be entitled to: A free listing in each issue of the “BMACC NOTES” A free listing in the appropriate info section of the BMACC web-site List their upcoming events in the BMACC EVENT Calendar Advertise at a reduced rate in the “BMACC Notes” All organizational members should submit their events to: Roland Aucoin 205 Plains Road W., Unit 84 Burlington, ON L7T 4H3 [email protected] or call 905-635-1818

the bluegrass music association of central canada ......so onward and upward we journey into the...

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