About

Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Association (CGMFA) /
L’Association canadienne des grands maîtres violoneux (ACGMV)

Incorporated in 1989, the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Championship was conceived by a group of people interested in preserving Canadian Traditional Fiddling, and giving recognition to the excellent fiddlers found across Canada. The first competition was held in 1990. The first president was Len Grace, followed by Bruce Cummings. Under their leadership, recognition of this event achieved national prominence.

In 2008, the name of the organization was changed to the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Association (CGMFA) and the CGMFA became a national arts organization recognized by the Canadian Government. The CGMFA officially became a truly national representative for all of Canadian fiddle styles with this designation. In March 2010, the CGMFA received its charitable tax status from the Canadian Revenue Agency.

From its beginnings in 1990-1995, the competition had been held after the Labour Day weekend. Since August 1996, it has been held annually at the end of August each year. The location of the competition varies from year to year providing a showcase of Canada’s top fiddlers from coast to coast. Approximately 30 fiddlers from across Canada are invited to compete for the title of Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Champion.

Mission & Vision

The original mandate of the CGMFA was to promote and preserve Canadian Traditional Fiddling, and give national recognition to our top Canadian fiddlers. This mandate remains the same today.

Le mandat initial de la CGMFA était de promouvoir et de préserver le violon traditionnel canadien et de donner une reconnaissance nationale à nos meilleurs violoneux canadiens. Ce mandat reste le même aujourd'hui.