Blue Skies Fiddle Orchestra Jam-a-thon a huge success

Natalie Reynolds | May 04, 2016

On April 23, the Blue Skies Fiddle Orchestra (BSFO) Jam-a-thon took place at the Maberly Hall. This year's Jam-a-thon, which was a fundraiser for the orchestra, also celebrated Tay Valley Township's 200th anniversary of the Perth Military Settlement.

The all-afternoon acoustic jam circle featured an array of soloists, trios and groups sharing songs with a community of joyful musicians and listeners.

The day began with Gary's lively play-along tunes. The hall was abuzz with the sounds of all kinds of instruments, including the fiddle, bass, mandolin, cello, and ukulele.

Next, the beginner and intermediate groups showcased their well-rehearsed sets of reels, jigs and hornpipes.

Shortly after, the Unspoken Rests, a youth ensemble group representing the BSFO, played their signature set of tunes, featuring their own arrangements and ending with a rock n' roll, foot-stomping tune by Gordon Stobbe.

The Fiddlers Guild then performed their dynamic sets of tunes, some of which were accompanied by entertaining narratives.

To follow, the Long Sault Trio shared their music, which consisted of original and traditional tunes, and ended with a captivating, new vocal number.

The Classical Group brought a new angle of music to the Jam-a-thon and many people were raring to play along and join the fun.

The pie auction was a massive success. Eager pie-buyers helped raise over $300 on the auction alone.

At the end of the afternoon, the over 50-member Blue Skies Community Fiddle Orchestra performed their polished set-list of tunes including bluegrass, Scottish, and Cape Breton tunes.

With the help of sponsors and the community, over $3000 was raised from the Jam-a-thon. The jam was a great turnout and for sure a huge success for the BSFO.