LEWISTON, Maine – 10/29/17 — Fiddle-icious performance at Lewiston’s Gendron Franco Center. Photo by Roger S. Duncan. Roger S. Duncan
Joanne Toone, a key member of Fiddle-icious, shared insights into the origins and mission of the group, along with details about their upcoming concerts. Toone does marketing for Fiddle-icous as well as play playing the fiddle in the orchestra.
“I am passionate about bringing this music to the community to enjoy,” Toone said.
The story of Fiddle-icious began as a monthly fiddle workshop led by the Don Roy, a National Heritage Fellowship awardee in 2018. Alongside him is his wife, Cindy, a piano virtuoso. Both Don and Cindy hail from French Canadian families where music was an integral part of their upbringing. Their deep-rooted connection to the traditions passed down through generations fuels their commitment to preserving Maine’s musical heritage and fostering a sense of community through music.
Fiddle-icious is a diverse ensemble, welcoming musicians of all ages and backgrounds. Toone says their repertoire is a tapestry of tunes inherited from Scottish, Irish, Quebecois, and Acadian ancestors. She says the primary objective of Fiddle-icious is to ensure the continuity of these traditions by sharing Maine’s musical heritage with the community. They accomplish this mission by performing at four concerts throughout the state every October, with this year’s shows scheduled for Gorham, South Portland, Freeport, and Lewiston.
“At our concerts you will experience great toe-tapping fiddle music, see traditional step dancing, and hear the Fiddle-icious chorus perform a few songs,” Toone said. She said audiences at Fiddle-icious concerts are in for a treat, as they can expect spirited fiddle music that will make toes tap, traditional step dancing that will mesmerize, and the melodic harmonies of the Fiddle-icious chorus. “We will be joined by special guests Erica Brown and Matt Shipman, a powerful music couple who perform together in several bands including Erica Brown and the Bluegrass Connection. Also joining us are the Arnott siblings, three young fiddlers who will showcase their amazing talents,” said Toone.
Toone emphasized the importance of keeping fiddle tunes alive, noting that they “only live as long as they are played.” The dedication of both the musicians and the tunes they play creates an atmosphere brimming with energy.
She said Fiddle-icious stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to connect generations and communities. Their mission to preserve Maine’s musical heritage continues to enrich the cultural tapestry of the state, and their upcoming concerts promise to be a celebration of tradition and talent.
“Fiddle tunes only live as long as they are played. Both the tunes and the people who make up Fiddle-icious create an atmosphere of infectious energy and joy. Get your feet tapping, you are bound to smile when you hear the music created by Fiddle-icious,” said Toone.
There will be a 2 p.m. show on Sunday, Oct.22, at the South Portland High School Auditorium, 637 Highland Ave. Tickets are available at the door, $20 for adults, $15 for students. Ages 12 and under are admitted free.
For more information, visit www.fiddleicious.com.
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