There’s a tradition of folk fiddling all across Canada. The variation that developed in rural Ontario is less well known than the rich traditions of Quebec and the Maritime Provinces. To tell the truth, it’s rather tame compared to the eastern styles. You get the impression that the phlegmatic Old Ontarians did not let their hoedowns get too far down. But there are some pleasant tunes, and some of the “old tyme fiddlers” in the province where fine musicians. Clare Adlam has a pretty convincing claim to having been the best. Beginning his professional career at the age of four, and having his own radio show at the age of fourteen, he dominated this little musical niche for an incredible seventy-five year performing career. “Adlam’s Apple”, a vinyl issued in 1978, is the only recording you are likely to find, and it contains a mix of standards and Adlam’s originals, the best being “Georgian Bay Two Step”.
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