Principles

The Valley Youth Fiddlers are guided by six fundamental principles, which work together to create “a unique experience for youth”, families and the community.

Community

• Family and friends are brought together through music.
• Seasoned members act as role models and mentor new members.
• An intergenerational model is used; the group is non-hierarchical and non-competitive.
• The atmosphere of the group emphasizes fun through learning.
• The group is inclusive, in that every youth who fiddles Cabbages may join and is an equal and valued member of the group.
• A spirit of generosity is fostered and encouraged among members.

Creativity

• Expressiveness is emphasized and players are encouraged in “give-and-take” with the audience.
• Performances are non-verbal for the most part, so connection with the audience is made in other ways; for example, through facial expression.
• This assists the manner in which the emotional impact of the various pieces (joy, sorrow, etc.) is conveyed.

Family Focus

• Family members of a fiddler are encouraged to play as backup and/or participate in VYF events.
• Parents are welcome and are encouraged to be present at practices and performances.
• Parents remain responsible for the supervision of their children less than 16 years old. They may make arrangements to delegate this responsibility to another parent.
• Parents are expected to actively support the group, as well as to participate with their children and support them.

Learning

• Players are given musical direction, support and structure in a safe environment.
• Life-long skills are developed.
• Players are strongly encouraged to learn fiddle music in the traditional way: by rote or by ear.
• Players learn to evaluate and appreciate good-quality, traditional music.

Performing

• The Valley Youth Fiddlers are committed to creating opportunities to perform and share our music in our home community.
• The group is dedicated to playing great tunes, and playing them well.
• Valley Youth Fiddlers will continue to support the terrific experiences provided through out of community tours and festivals.

Self Respect

• Players gain a feeling of accomplishment through hard work.
• Passion for music and performance is fostered and encouraged.
• Players develop confidence as musicians and performers.
• Pride and a sense of belonging are the by-products of membership in this dynamic, proficient, and exuberant group of young musicians.