Branch #1 (PG) of the BC Old Time Fiddler's Association hosts the Provincials this weekend      Facebook

Prince George, BC – With a membership of more than 700 and 13 active branches throughout the province, Prince George has the distinction of being the birthplace of the BC Old Time Fiddler's Association…

Formed in 1969 by a group of local musicians dedicated to preserving the Canadian-style of old time fiddling, Branch #1 now has 155 active members and is marking its 45th anniversary by hosting the Provincial Championships at the Blackburn Community Centre today, followed by a concert tonight.

Organizing Chair, Judy Feyer, says, generally, there are a number of participants who travel from around the province to compete.  While registration a little later this morning will confirm this year's attendance, Feyer says Branch #1's annual contest attracts anywhere from 20 to 60 competitors.  In the early years, Prince George always hosted the provincials, but the contest now moves from branch to branch annually.

"We have all ages taking part, from the very young – with the little juniors aged 9 and under – all the way up to seniors 65 and older," says Feyer.

Doors open to the public at 11am and you can tap your toes to the jigs, polkas, and reels all day for a cost of $5.  There are 150 tickets going on sale at the door at 10am for this evening's light meal and concert for a cost of $7.