The Connections Between the Fiddling Traditions of Ireland, Scotland and Appalachia

In this interactive presentation, we will explore how the history of Scottish and Irish immigration has influenced the evolution of traditional Southern fiddling. Andrew will demonstrate various fiddle styles, bowing techniques and repertoires and the audience can ask questions. The performance is meant to be participatory and inspire larger conversations about immigration, identity, and Irish & Scottish music’s place in the larger tapestry of Southern culture.

North Carolina-native violinist/fiddler Andrew Finn Magill grew up studying traditional Irish music, oldtime, bluegrass and swing every summer with the best fiddlers in the world at the Swannanoa Gathering. He is a Fulbright Fellow, South Arts Emerging Traditional Artist, North Carolina Arts Council Fellow, All-Ireland fiddle finalist, and signed to Ropeadope Records.

He has been featured on MTV-U, PBS, and multiple times on NPR. His 2016 album, “Roots” debuted at number #46 on the folk DJ charts, and he has performed with artists including Rising Appalachia and Grammy nominees John Doyle and Trio Brasileiro. Fascinated by the connections between the fiddling traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Appalachia, in 2016 Finn began giving a lecture series “The connections between the fiddling traditions of Ireland, Scotland and the U.S: An Immigration Story,” which he has given at museums and universities throughout the Southeastern U.S.

Says legendary Americana artist & Grammy-winner Tim O’Brien: “I’m gonna keep listening for Finn Magill.”