Fiddler on the Hill Reigns as “Grand Champion” of Ohio

Since arriving at Denison University, Andrew Carlson has turned a lot of heads, both in the music department as well as across campus.

Not only is he a well-trained concert violinist, but he is also a multiple-time fiddle champion. On Friday, August 25, Carlson took to the stage of the Stuart Opera House in Nelsonville, Ohio and left a “Grand Champion.”

The opera house played host to the Original State of Ohio Fiddler’s Contest and featured performances from fiddlers across Ohio as well as Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

“I hadn’t entered a fiddle contest in years,” said Carlson. “I thought it might be fun.”

The event turned out to be more than fun for the two-time Ga. state champion, who almost didn’t attend the event. However, a decision made the day of the event brought Carlson to the town of Nelsonville.

As a part of the competition, each performer was required to perform three pieces: a hoedown, a waltz and a tune of choice. Participants were judged on tone quality, timing and authenticity.

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About Todd DeFeo 1651 Articles
Todd DeFeo loves to travel anywhere, anytime, taking pictures and notes. An award-winning reporter, Todd revels in the experience and the fact that every place has a story to tell. He is the owner of The DeFeo Groupe and also edits Express Telegraph and Railfanning.org.