Alford Image Library

I came across this interesting photograph whilst visiting Mrs Forbes of Huntly, whose husband, Sandi and whose father, John Forbes Jnr, both had dance bands in the Elgin area. There may well have been connections with the Strathbogie Fiddlers since John Cockburn was a leader of that group. Hector McAndrew was a leading composer and exponent of North East fiddling.

Hi, Have had a look at your picture of Huntly fiddlers & would like to correct your text. I'm Keith Cockburn of Huntly & have a black & white version of the photo. Jimmy Cockburn was my father & he brought his friend Hector McAndrew from Aberdeen,to Huntly to meet the Forbes family. Jimmy used to stay in Huntly & knew the Forbes family well.There was no brother John Cockburn. It was John Forbes Jnr(Jake) who was leader of the Strathbogie Fiddlers & when he died he was succeeded by Dougie Raeburn who was a butcher. As you say Hector was one of the leading exponents of North East fiddling style.The Forbes dance bands were always based in the Huntly area & not Elgin as your text says. Regards Keith

Hello Keith, many thanks for the corrections....I have left the original text unedited so that your interesting comments make sense when read alongside. A fascinating group photograph. Mrs Forbes did say that her recollection was not as good as it used to be (and combined with any mistakes I made, it's not surprising that there was a little confusion). Thanks once again for putting the story right.

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