Fiddlers ReStrung Entertain in Spring Hometown Concert

Saline, MI - If spring is a harbinger of renewed spirits, it can also mark a rite of passage to new challenges. And, any sign of spring in early March is refreshing to those who have had enough of winter's wrath. Fiddlers ReStrung's Spring Hometown Concert on March 1^st was infused with energetic clogging, serene waltzes and the undeniable air of youthful performers having a good time.

The concert's prelude featured the Middle School Fiddle Clubs, led by director Krista Knight. The middle school performers provided an entertaining warm up with songs including "Rickett's Hornpipe," featuring solos by Louis and Kristina. "The Scholar," a duet performed by Melissa and Amelia and "The Ash Grove" featuring Allie and Patrick followed before the group concluded with the fiddler classic "Blackberry Blossom", featuring solos by Joel, Ashleigh, Ian and Cameron.

Fiddlers ReStrung took the stage with a performance that emphasized the group's wide repertoire and highlighted senior performers in their final Hometown performance. Amid colorful spring plants and a quilt-lined stage, Fiddlers ReStrung began their evening's musical performance with a lively arrangement of "The Farewell Set" they learned from former guest artist Natalie MacMaster.

Senior Audrey provided lead vocals for the wistful "I've Forgotten You" accompanied by junior Tommy's harmonic vocals and mandolin. A waltz duet performed by senior cellist Catherine and senior bassist Matt provided a lead into "Star of the County Down". This magical, organic Celtic tune quickly evolved into a fast reel complete with charming lyrics. Later in the set, senior violinist Courtney and Matt reprised the duet "Minnie and Alex's Reel" they initially performed at last year's Spring Hometown show. The song's rhythmic complexity was evident with its wicked melodic cuts, stunning ornaments and intense bass rhythmic accompaniment complete with slaps, taps and plenty of funk.

A quintet of ReStrung members demonstrated creativity in their own interpretation of Nickel Creek's "Lighthouse's Tale." Their collaborative efforts resulted in an arrangement of this hauntingly beautiful ghost story featuring vocals by senior violinist Kari and Tommy. Accompanying instrumentalists included Catherine, Matt, and rhythm coach Doug Smith.

Cloggers showed off months of diligent training with choreographer Sheila Graziano as they clogged for "Westfalia Waltz". This traditional dance style, popular in both Quebec and England, is far different from the reel rhythms they had previously been taught. The waltz was interspersed with group and solo performances by seniors Lisa, Tomas, Kevin and junior Asheema.

At the conclusion of their rousing performance, Fiddlers ReStrung members provided the audience with a bittersweet moment as they acknowledged the contributions of Artistic Director Cori Smith. Ms. Smith will be concluding her studies in Music Education at Michigan State University and stepping down as director of Fiddlers ReStrung this summer. Each fiddler processed onstage in turn to present her with a rose, followed at the end by her parents, Doug and Sherry.

After a brief intermission, guest artists Grant Gordy Quartet took the stage performing mainly original compositions of a new genre dubbed "progressive stringband music". Hailing from Denver, Colorado, the group is comprised of Gordy on guitar, Adam Galblum on fiddle, Ian Hutchison on bass and Dominick Leslie on mandolin. Their combined talents and easy-going manner captivated the audience and provided an atmosphere of a relaxed, front-porch style jam session. Their unique musical genre ranged from the mellow, folksy sound of "Little Grapes" through the upbeat bluegrass tune "Daisy Gets Down" to a jazzy reflection titled "Digging Hargreaves".

The group took on an improvisational twist inviting audience participation in choosing between a bluegrass or experimental tune before performing both to everyone’s enjoyment. There was even an amusing short polka piece, which ended with appreciative grins and chuckles from audience members. "Requiem" was an impressive original composition, beginning with a melancholy tone then becoming hopeful and uplifting, serving to highlight each musician’s instrumental skills.

Eager to encourage and educate young musicians, the professional band conducted an open workshop earlier that morning which was free for SAS Fiddle Club members, followed by a private workshop in the afternoon for FRS members.

Fiddlers ReStrung is sponsored and supported by Saline Area Schools and is made up entirely of Saline High School students. For almost 15 years, Saline Area Schools has proudly produced one of the most renowned fiddling ensembles ever created. Founded by string educator and composer Bob Phillips, these high school students perform over 80 shows a year in venues ranging from community service to high profile and private events.

For More Information Contact:
Rebecca Groeb-Driskill
(734) 429-8020. fax (734) 429-8025
www.fiddlersrestrung.com