Saline Fiddlers at Wardle High School

Saline Fiddlers at Wardle High School

Tuesday 2 July saw the American folk group the Saline Fiddlers attend Wardle High School as part of their 'Isle of Smiles' summer tour of Great Britain. In the afternoon the group did a workshop in the school, shared a meal with Wardle students and later in the evening they put on a spectacular performance as part of a folk evening organised by Cliff Woodworth.

The night started with Wardle High School's very own folk band taking to the stage, showing their talent to the eager crowd.

They were followed by That's All Folks who treated the audience to a preview of the set they were playing at the Music For Youth National Finals later in the week.

Both bands then collaborated to produce another fantastic performance. Ceol Tire performed a few tracks from their forthcoming album, Aeroplane Seat, and the audience were then given a unique opportunity to watch clog dancing from Rossendale Clog Heritage.

The Saline Fiddlers took over from that point with energetic performances of songs from different genres and eras with a special Michael Jackson tribute performance of some of his classic songs with a folk twist. The evening ended with a ceilidh, which was energetically danced by all and called by Will from the Quadrille Ceilidh Band.

The Saline Fiddlers are a non-profit music education and performance organisation. Since 1994, the Saline Fiddlers have undeniably set the standard for extracurricular music programs in the United States. Their repertoire includes many pieces composed or arranged by their talented artistic team, headed up by Artistic Director Ben Culver. The performers, all students at Saline High School, earn their places through competitive auditions based on musical ability and personal integrity.

Janet Emsley, Director of Performing Arts, said, ‘It was a brilliant night, our visitors got a taste of Lancashire culture through food, music and dance, everyone thoroughly enjoyed their performance. We hope to have another ceilidh soon.’

As well as encouraging their students to develop academically, Wardle High School encourages anyone with musical talent to shine. Music contributes to the students’ success. Working with both primary schools and their own students, the Performing Arts team create prize-winning bands.