Vi Wickam

Champion Fiddler, Inspired Performer

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Sally Johnson – Fiddle Tune a Day – Day 3

The 3rd edition of Fiddle Tune a day is a special treat. Since I happened to be in Colorado Springs, I was fortunate that my friend, and amazing Fiddler, Tony Ludiker was available for a little jamming.

Sally Johnson is a Texas Style breakdown. This tune features Vi Wickam on Fiddle, Tony Ludiker on Fiddle, and Zach Lawson on Guitar.

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Comments

  2. Matt Shacklady says

    Hi Vi,

    Can you explain what a ‘Texas style’ breakdown is please? What makes it Texas style?

    thanks,
    Matt

    Reply

    • says

      Hi Matt,
      In general, Texas Style breakdowns are built on taking a melody and creating variations around that melody. The Texas Style of Fiddling evolved around American Old Time Fiddling as it was influenced by Jazz and Swing. As such, Texas Style Breakdowns involve a form of improvisation commonly known as controlled improvisation. In the Jazz and Swing styles, improvisation is free, and is only constrained to the chords of the song. In controlled improvisation, the goal is to create interesting variations on the melody without losing the essence of the song. As you improvise around the melody (rather than around the chords), you want to make sure that the song is still recognizable. And, the reason it’s Texas Style is that the style developed largely in Texas and Oklahoma.

      Thanks,
      Vi

      Reply

  5. Hans Lueschen says

    Thanks Vi,

    Day three now and I am really into it. I have not been able to actually learn each tune every day but I am listening every day and letting the music “soak in” as I selectively learn tunes. It takes me more than one day per fiddle tune.

    I have “The Bluegrass Fiddle Songbook” by Cathye Lynne Smithwyck and some of your tunes are in there. I have to hear the tune and have the chart to play it.

    Thanks for the explanation above on Texas Breakdowns.

    Hans

    Reply

  6. says

    I can imagine that it helps to practice this song with someone who knows the accompanist chords. My problem is and always has been, no improv in my bones. really enjoying these videos, thanx for making them.

    Reply

  12. says

    Hi Vi!
    I am new to your Fiddle Tune a Day. I am on day three. Your fiddling is very entertaining and an enjoyable way to start the day. Thanks so much. I'll be back tomorrow!

    Reply

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