Blind Fiddler

Tom Smith playing “Blind Fiddler” (Click to play audio)

Jehile Kirkuff playing “First Two Ladies Cross Over”
(Click to play audio)

I think of Jehile Kirkhuff when I sing this song. I met Jehile in Northeastern Pennsylvania about 1974, making several more visits during that summer. I think I may have made myself a nuisance, though he did allow me to accompany him on guitar during a show at the local school cafeteria. He was indeed a blind fiddler with a great breadth of tunes and skill with his bow. He was also a dance caller and entertained us all night with his magical story telling. On his mantle he proudly displayed a trophy that read “World Champion Fiddler”.

I learned this song from Jody Stecher. On this recording I play guitar and banjo. The conga is a software instrument loop (couldn’t resist).