Auburn junior fiddler 3rd in state championships

Eli Clegg of Auburn placed third in the Junior Fiddle division (ages 13-17) at the 58th annual California State Old Time Open Fiddle and Picking Championships on April 18 in Lodi. The contest is certified by the National Old-Time Fiddlers Contest in Weiser, Idaho. Contest tunes are: 1. a hoedown, which is a lively tune; 2. a waltz; and 3. tune of choice, which can be another old-time tune or is often a ragtime piece played in old-timey style, or perhaps a jig. There is a great variety of tunes played. "Fiddle, you just kinda put your own twist on things," says Eli, 16. He says he became interested in the instrument because, "Albert Einstein played the violin, and I kinda wanted to try it." He has attended fiddle jams in Oroville and Orangevale. "You just name a tune and everyone plays it. Or you can just strum the strings," Eli says. Eli's teacher, Mary Preston, says, "He thrives being out there. He has a wonderful feel for that style of playing. It's fun to watch him play, and he picks up new tunes quickly. We're so excited that he was a finalist again. He had some pretty good competition, but he played with his usual great energy and enthusiasm and really rocked the place." Preston says she teaches Eli mostly by ear, and he takes instruction well. He isn't the only musician in the family. His dad and grandfather play guitar, and twin sister Mia takes piano lessons. Rachel Clegg, Eli's mom, says he isn't fazed by performing in front of people. "He's very determined to do his best and it's a great experience for him," she says. "The community is really encouraging and it's nice for him to have different opportunities. We're really proud of him and he does really well under pressure." Accompanied by two experienced guitarists and a string bass player, Eli played for his first round "Rachel," "Joyous Waltz" and "Denman Island Chocolate Stop" (a jig). He advanced to the second round and played "Devil's Dream," "The Ash Grove" and "Donnybrook Fair" (a jig). Preston added, "He was well-rehearsed and had so much fun. It's so wonderful to see these kids playing this music. They're so happy to get together at these contests, and you can see them jamming together outside having a marvelous time (and not a cell phone in sight!)." Fiddle, guitar, mandolin and banjo players, whatever their level of play, are encouraged to enter the different competitions. There are various fiddle divisions based on age, three twin fiddle divisions and three picking divisions. Picking can include guitar, mandolin, banjo and baritone ukulele. Contestants featured are from the very young to the "very experienced." Come join the fun!