Tuning up for the Frontenac Old Time Music Championships

Photo:  Clifford Rines performs at a FOMTC fundraiser in Verona on June 10.

Since taking over the reins of the Frontenac Old Time Music Championships (FOTMC) in October 2011, Cliff and Mary Rines of Enterprise have made a couple of interesting changes. The popular event was founded by Roy and Joan Shepherd, who still run the regular Sunday open mike jams at the Bedford Hall, and it attracts players and singers of all ages from far afield to compete in a variety of classes over two days.

The Rines' first change was holding an additional fundraiser, which took place at the Verona Lions Hall on June 10. The event attracted over 70 talented players and listeners to enjoy an afternoon of classic old country tunes. Along with the $5 cover charge, guests could purchase t-shirts, hats and tote bags with the FOTMC logo. There was also a draw for a Canadian-made Seagull Performance acoustic guitar that was to be autographed by its maker, Robert Godin.

Another change is the Rines' decision to hold the competition in September, on the 22nd and 23rd, instead of earlier in the summer months. The change was made in the hopes of attracting more young players to the championships.

“The event is really all about encouraging youngsters to learn to play, perform and compete so by holding it after the school year has begun we are hoping to attract those who otherwise may have been off doing different things during the summer holidays”, Cliff said.  

Lastly, the couple are hoping to raise enough money this year to support not just one but two local area schools and their music programs. In the past the championships have donated all of their proceeds to one single school in the area. “We'd really love to be able to support two schools this year, one from the Limestone District School Board and one from the Algonquin Lakeshore School Board and this fundraiser today is one more way that will help us to be able to do that this year”, Cliff said.

Cliff is also a musician himself and he took to the Lions Hall stage to sing a couple of his favorite oldies. Judging by his passion for both the music and the event it looks as though the Frontenac Old Time Music Championships are in very able hands. For more information visit the website at www.frontenacoldtimemusic.com, email cliffordrines@gmail.com or call Cliff or Mary at 613-358-5370.