Scottish and Cape BretoN Fiddle music
in new hampshire
For Violin and Mandolin, with Guitar Chord Charts
Arranged and edited by Jason Little
Revised Edition
Three dozen reels, marches, strathspeys, jigs, and airs from the Scots and Cape Breton fiddle tradition from the repertoire of the legendary Nelson, New Hampshire, fiddler Harvey Tolman. Transcribed for violin and mandolin by Jason Little, Tolman’s accompanist for more than ten years beginning in the late 1970s.
Harvey Tolman’s influence on local musicians, his recordings and compositions, and his regular appearances at the Monday night Nelson contra dance have all magically combined to help spread the compelling dance music of Cape Breton throughout New Hampshire and beyond. Harvey was honored in 2007 by being selected to receive the Governors Arts Awards’ “New Hampshire Folk Heritage Award” for his dedication to Cape Breton music.
Jason Little received his formal music training at Keene State College, earning a B.M. in guitar in 1982. He devoted himself to Cape Breton music at a young age, and this book is a result of his intense interest. He has carefully transcribed not only these 36 melodies but intricate guitar chords with suggested fingering.
The cassette tape, a companion to the book, contains medleys of some 45 tunes with all but 3 of the tunes from the book presented on the album. Harvey’s authentic style and energy, backed by Jason’s superb artistry on guitar and mandolin, make this a timeless recording of traditional Cape Breton music.
This is a special limited-time offer. Order while supplies last. Book and shrink-wrapped cassette not sold separately.
Click to see sample pages from the book, including list of tunes, introduction, and music.
Click for music clips from the cassette:
Memories of Joe MacInnis (march)
MacKinnon’s Brook/King George IV (strathspeys)
