If you build it, etc.
For years, one of my favourite movie quotes has been “If you build it, he will come”. Why? Because there’s a truth behind it, and we have a similar case close to home. Back, four decades ago, a family in the area offered their field as a place to come and play; in particular, traditional music.
They did build it, going from a hay wagon the first year to a stage, followed by other building and now, a complete complex. Where, in passing, people do come to play. The fiddle rules supreme at certain times of the year. However, forty years of hosting is tiring, and last year the family announced their intention to sell that field.
There is a generation of younger player who want to see the tradition continue. Tonight, we joined several hundred others in a disaffected church, to listen to tunes and discuss the future. The desire is giving way to action; a Gofundme campaign, and a modified direction to the keystone festival, to assure that families continue to enjoy the whole package.
Some great talent on stage. The East Pointers, who really do tour the world. Colette Cheverie (hadn’t heard from her in a while, but I’m glad to say she still does justice to her tunes). Richard Wood, with an ease of bowing that astounds. JJ and the gang, going strong into the future. A good concert, even if the pews were just as hard as when the main show was preached instead of played.
Might have to attend that Fiddle festival.
