Annual Spring Workshop

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One of the many things The Maritime Fiddlers Association in known for, is our passion for  Old-time music and commitment to keeping it alive for generations to come.

For more than 30 years, we have put on workshops to bring together old time musicians and enthusiasts from all over the Maritimes and beyond. When the MFA first introduced the idea of  presenting workshops they did two each year, one in the Spring and one in the Fall. The workshops would move around the Maritimes, being held at a variety of different locations. Around 1990 the decision was made to only do the Spring Workshop. It was decided that Bible Hill, Nova Scotia would be the permanent home. 

The first Workshop was organized by Ben and Aggie Robichaud of Truro. The Robichaud's continued to coordinate this Workshop for the next decade. When they decided to hand over the reins, the responsibility was picked up by another husband and wife duo, Elizabeth and Jamie Durning. The Durnings lovingly organized the Workshop for another decade.

When the Durnings were ready for a much deserved break, Helen Wiper (Mother of fiddler extraordinaire, Susie Eisan) stepped up to make sure the tradition continued. A few years later there was one more changing of the guard; another husband and wife duo, Julie and James Johnstone, became Co-chairs of the Workshop Committee. Seven years later the Johnstones continue to organize the Maritime Fiddlers Association Spring Workshop and Concert.

Although the organizers have changed over the years the spirit of this event remains the same. On average, about 125 musicians attend the Workshop each year. We offer classes for every level and bring together some of the most sought after instructors in the Maritimes. It is a day of music, learning and fellowship.

In the evening we put on a concert that no fiddle enthusiast would want to miss. In the past we have had performers including Ivan and Vivian Hicks, Keith Ross, Stacey Read, Julie Johnstone and Kimberley Holmes, to name just a few.

******We will be releasing information about the 2024 Fall Workshop as it becomes available.  We will also put a notice in our Newsletter when information becomes available.********