Embracing the storm: Kitchen party at library

A surprise snowstorm in Calgary transformed the Instrumental Stories performance into an intimate kitchen party, offering fiddler Scott Duncan the opportunity to entertain and educate his audience in a cozy setting. 

Despite a forecast for light snowfall on Leap Day, February 29, the sudden storm kept many ticket holders away, resulting in a sparse audience at the sold-out event. 

In perhaps the grandest of settings for a kitchen party - the Alexander Calhoun Salon at the Memorial Park Calgary Public Library - the audience enjoyed the warmth of a traditional kitchen party, where friends, family, and even strangers gather to share music and stories. 

Mentor Grandpa Herb Duncan would have encouraged the show to go on. With his trusty fiddle in hand, Scott Duncan recounted his musical journey, shaped by Grandpa Herb, to his involvement in today's local music scene. From playing in grandpa's kitchen in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, to competing with grandpa in fiddle competitions, to recent recordings with many Western Canadian musicians, including the late music legend, Ian Tyson. 

Shelving formalities, the evening embraced audience interaction, foot tapping, and laughter, creating a lively atmosphere. Scott's passion for music and his instrument was evident as he shared his eclectic repertoire and clarified the distinction between fiddle and violin playing. He even took requests.

Reflecting on his Calgary roots, Scott expressed gratitude for the mentors and experiences that shaped his career. Stories of playing and competing in fiddling contests, his early days with prominent classical teacher Joan Barrett, playing with Dean Marshall and the Calgary Fiddlers, and his roots with the Calgary Youth Orchestra. 

"All the people I've played with, been involved with, and have learned from, have really influenced the musician I've become," says Scott. "That hometown feeling – it's difficult to express what Calgary means to me and what it's meant to my evolution as a musician. I'm lucky to have so many mentors, teachers and friends who've made a difference in my journey."

Scott didn't make the snow go away but his ability to uplift spirits through music showcased the transformative power of the arts. He turned an evening with a challenging commute, into a memorable celebration of community and culture. 

It might not be a superpower quite as cool as invisibility or night vision, but it's certainly powerful. February's 2024 Instrumental Stories was a true kitchen party.

Grandpa Herb would have been proud.