Shetland Fiddlers' Society

Shetland Fiddlers’ Society, the ‘oldest’ performer in the Folk Festival, is one of the few still-active participants from the first 1981 festival.

The group, formed by Tom Anderson to perform at the Shetland Hamefarin’ in 1960, was nicknamed ‘Da Forty Fiddlers’ by Magnus Magnusson, because they had 40 musicians - 39 male and 1 female. Since then the Society has faithfully upheld Shetland’s fiddle tradition, encouraging participation by young and old alike, including numerous younger fiddlers now renowned in their own right. Adhering firmly to the melodies and playing style that gives its unique and distinct idiom, the Society is still thriving strongly 64 years later.

Over the years, the group has toured internationally to European and UK folk festivals including support to Barbara Dickson at the 2019 Portsoy Boat Festival. The Society has also collaborated with Shetland Folk Dance, who also preserves the traditional dance steps. Both looking forward to touring Norway in July 2024 with Norwegian Solje Music and Dance group.

The Society practises every Wednesday in Islesburgh Community Centre, welcoming all ages and all fiddle abilities. If interested in finding out more, please contact facebook page “Shetland Fiddlers Society” or email: [email protected]