INFORUM.com | WDAZ.com

WDAY: The News Leader

Published June 12, 2011, 01:47 PM

Fiddling contest at the International Peace Garden

Dunseith, ND (WDAY TV) - An international contest attracted both North Dakotans and Canadians this weekend.

By: Teri Finneman, WDAY

Feet were tapping, fingers were flying, and the stage was set for competing. We're here at the International Peace Garden for this weekend's old-time fiddling contest. From lessons to dancing and, of course the contest, it was a weekend of old-fashioned family fun.

The contest began Saturday morning and went into the evening. Judges scored contestants based on criteria such as technical ability and rhythm. All songs also needed to be of "danceable quality."

TIM WOLLENZIEN - International Music Camp Director: “We've hosted this contest for many years because the art of fiddling and old time music is part of the culture in this part of the world and has been for, you know, generations.”

MIKE PAGE - Belcourt Fiddler: “You learn new things every time you get here and meet different people. It's enjoyable, you know. That's what I come for.”

There were also workshops offering fiddling lessons for all ages.

JORDAN RUSSIFF - Harwood Fiddler: “It's actually really fun learning new songs. It's really fun being up here in the Peace Gardens. I've never been here before. It's a really good experience.”

An experience that lasted into the evening and hopefully for generations to come.

Tags:

More from around the web