Many fiddlers in our association enjoy pitting their skills against others in the form of a contest. Contest fiddling has become an integral part of our association's activities. Even those who don't choose to compete enjoy the performances. In a typical contest the contestants play several tunes of different styles before a panel of judges with the public invited. Except for twin fiddling, in which two fiddlers play together in harmony, the fiddler is accompanied by up to three rhythm players and no other musicians. Contests are typically divided into age divisions from the very youngest of children to the senior senior division. Winners are declared in each division.

Our state contest is held each March. The date and location are announced in advance in The Hoedowner and under Upcoming Events on our home page. Follow this link, Contest Rules, for the specific rules contestants must adhere to. NOTE the rules have recently changed, so be sure to check. If you have questions about the contest, contact Cat McClintock, ., gdaewalt@comcast.net

The Oldtime Fiddlers' National Contest is held each June in Weiser Idaho. It draws fiddlers from across the nation and internationally as well. It is billed as a festival as well as a contest as it includes more than a week of events and jamming that fills the town with fiddle music. For more information you can check out the contest website at National Fiddle Contest. Again, the specific dates will be announced in The Hoedowner and in the Upcoming Events section on our home page.

The Willamette Valley Fiddle Contest is a relatively new event. It is usually held in August. Check the Upcoming Events section on the OOTFA.org homepage for date and location. For more about this contest visit the CONTEST PAGE on Facebook or contact Starr McMullen: mcmulles@hotmail.com. Again the date and more information will be available in The Hoedowner and in Upcoming Events on our home page as the August date approaches.