Love That Fiddle

Tracks

Liner Notes

When I was four years old, I could hardly wait until my parents got me my first fiddle. Being the youngest, I would watch my brother Bruce and my sisters Kendra and Elizabeth playing the fiddle along side dad, Merv. And they were all accompanied on the piano by mom, Carolyn.

There must have been something about that music they played. It was rhythmic; it was melodic; it was simple; it was catchy. I knew then I wanted to play as well because I already loved that fiddle!

As I began practicing and studying, I soon realized the music my family was playing was contagious. And it wasn’t just fiddlers… It was those looking to square dance to a good breakdown or reel. It was those ready to swish around the old hardwood floor to an old time waltz or polka. And it was those who were content to just sit and tap their toes along with the familiar melodies.

I believe the draw to this fiddle music is more than just the tunes. I think it takes the listener back to a simpler time. Long before smart phones, computers and the many electronic distractions for today’s youth, folks would entertain themselves by playing, singing and dancing right at home or in the dance hall or in the barn. Fiddling represents that peacefulness in life that so many long for today.

I am honoured to have my Mom, Carolyn and her amazing piano playing on this recording, along with my sister Kendra with her accordion, Minnie Pearl routine and her incredible harmony fiddles. She takes the lead on the Shannon Waltz, which has always been a favourite of hers.

Steve Piticco, Tyler Beckett and Darin Parise are all brilliant musicians who lend a sparkle of musical “ear candy” to the recording. Their dedication and professionalism are second to none.

Some of the tunes recorded here are composed by fiddlers who helped me to love that fiddle music when I was growing up – Gerry Smith, Brian Hebert, Carol Kennedy, Andy DeJarlis, Yvon Cuillerier, King Ganam and Bob Wills.

I have composed a few new tunes myself recently – 3 of which are released on this album. Angus Street Reel – written for the street on which Keri & I live in Fergus, Ontario; Frank & Edit’s Polka written for my in-laws - whose energetic Hungarian dancing at a recent wedding reception inspired the tune. And our two retrievers… Melody and Harmony inspired a Bob Wills-type tune called Melody & Harmony’s Harmonious Melody.

I hope you enjoy this collection of tunes and I hope you too will Love That Fiddle!

Scott

Musicians

Scott Woods: Fiddle, Vocals, Bass, Drums
Carolyn Woods: Piano, Keyboards
Kendra (Woods) Norris: Fiddle, Vocals, Accordion
Tyler Beckett: Fiddle, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin
Steve Piticco: Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Dobro, 4-String Banjo
Darin Parise: Pedal Steel, 5-String Banjo

Credits

Produced by: Scott Woods
Musical Arrangements by: Scott Woods, SOCAN
Recorded & Mixed by: Scott Woods, McLeod Music Productions, Fergus, Ontario
Mastered by: Doug Stronach, Eclipse Music Productions, Toronto, Ontario
Graphic Design by: Janet McGlynn, Lumin8, London, Ontario