Buddy MacMaster School of Fiddle

The Cape Breton style of fiddling has captivated audiences across the globe. Every year, thousands of visitors travel countless miles to Cape Breton with one objective in mind: to immerse themselves in this music. Few players can claim the level of prestige and influence that the late local legend Buddy MacMaster. His name is synonymous with Cape Breton fiddle music, and every fiddler on Cape Breton Island today has been influenced by his music in one way or another. In 2006, renowned Cape Breton fiddler Kinnon Beaton founded an annual school in his honour.

The Buddy MacMaster School of Fiddling is a five-day series for intermediate and advanced players. Each day features two different instructors chosen from among Cape Breton’s very finest fiddlers, each with their own unique musical signature. Students will learn the nuances of the Cape Breton style in a personal setting.

Students are encouraged to purchase tickets for the Master's Concert held at the Celtic Music Centre on Oct 8, 2026. Tickets on sale!

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/masters-concert-tickets-1218163442649?aff=oddtdtcreator

Our teachers for 2026 are confirmed.

Monday October 12

• Dara Smaith-MacDonald
• Glenn Graham

Tuesday October 13

• Troy MacGilliray
• Andrea Beaton

Wednesday October 14

• Kendra macGillivray
• Donna Marie DeWolfe

Thursday October 15

• Liz Carroll
• Gabrielle MacLellan

Friday October 16

• Mairi Rankin
• Kenneth MacKenzie