Scottish bagpiper John Cunningham released this on LP in 1976 - we suspect the tape came later, though we really have no basis for that assumption. [i]John Cunningham was born in Leven, Fifeshire, Scotland and plays his 3 Row Chromatic Accordion on this, his first record.[/i] [i]John's love for the accordion was inspired by one of Scotland's champion accordion players, namely Jimmy Shand, who was a crony of John's father. So, through this association, John acquired an accordion at the early age of 10. And, by practice, patience, and playing at every opportunity in his home town and surrounding district, he acquired a unique playing skill.[/i] [i]In 1966, John emigrated to Canada and since then has been active in playing in Scottish and Old Time Music. He formed a Scottish Dance Band called the "Calededonian Dance Band" consisting of himself on accordion, Minnie Hall on piano, and Mac Peebles on bass. This group provides the musical accompaniment on this album. John has reached one of his life's ambitions in being able to present to you his musical skill through the medium of this record. This achievement is all the more unique due to the fact that he was self-taught.[/i] [i]John has performed on numerous television and radio programs and has participated in many Ethnic Concerts through- out the Province of Alberta. He has recently competed in the Kimberly International Old Time Accordion Championships and placed 3rd against all of the North American Competitors for 1976.[/i] [i]In this first record, John has selected music that is suitable for a variety of dances. Such tunes as "The Gay[/i] [i]Gordons", "St. Bernards Waltz", and "Eightsome Reel" are interspersed with beautiful melodies like "Dark Island" and the "Highland Cradle Song".[/i] [i]We hope that you will enjoy John's music and invite you to get up and trip to the "Light Fantastic Toe"![/i] [i]Yours,[/i] [i]Andy "Axe" Baxter[/i]
