This meticulously researched anthology presents detailed biographies and transcriptions, including bowing, ornamentation, and accentuation of 39 fiddle tunes as played by 25 Newfoundland fiddlers from locations throughout the island. For unparalleled authenticity, the author’s live field recordings of each tune are available online, offering a unique perspective of the various types of tunes and techniques favoured by past and present Newfoundland fiddlers.

Newfoundland, a former British colony, possesses a rich and varied cultural heritage due to its history of unique settlement patterns. Beginning in the 16th  century, European migrants from Ireland, Scotland, West-Country England, and France settled on the island, bringing with them their various cultural practices, including their fiddles!

This collection provides insight to the backgrounds, geographical locations, and musical preferences of the individual players, and how music-making and the role and status of Newfoundland fiddlers have evolved over time. The tunes included here vary from original compositions and revival collectors’ treasures, to reinterpreted versions of timeless Irish, Scottish, and French tunes. Together, they form a part of the modern-day Newfoundland fiddling tradition.

This book will delight fiddle players and any musician who wishes to further enhance their repertoire and technique, or simply learn more about the island of Newfoundland and its music. Includes access to online audio.

 Fiddle Players on the East Coast of Newfoundland

 Kevin Broderick

 Everett Russell

 Kelly Russell

 Billy Sutton

 Colin Carrigan

 Christina Smith

 Edward Lear

 John Cole

 Jerome Cole

 Jack Fitzpatrick

 Observations of Fiddle Players on the East Coast

 The Codroy Valley

 Walter J MacIsaac

 Danny MacDonald

 Joe Aucoin

 Lisa MacArthur

 Conclusions from Observing Fiddle Players in the Codroy Valley

 The Port-Au-Port Peninsula

 Emile Benoit

 Ivan White

 Alphonsus Young

 Howard Oliver

 Lester Alexander

 John Jim Cornect

 Pat Hynes

 Conclusions from Observing Fiddle Players on the Port-Au-Port Peninsula

 The Northern Peninsula

 Ivan Payne

 John Sexton

 Mark Sinnicks

 Rufus Guinchard

 Conclusions from Observing Fiddle Players on the Northern Peninsula

 General Observations of Fiddle Playing in Newfoundland

 Changes in the Role and Status of the Fiddle Player in the st Century

Bibliography

Interviews

Archival Recordings

Discography

Glossary of Terms

Appendix A: Audio Files