Carrying on the tradition: A performance practice analysis of stylistic evolution in Texas contest style fiddling

Texas contest style fiddling remains a distinct sub-genre within American fiddling. It is performed in a competitive context that involves the direct use of ornamented and varied folk melodies. As the contest tradition evolved in style of performance and eventual locations outside of Texas, the term likewise evolved to describe a virtuosic and indigenous type of fiddling. In order to trace stylistic evolution, I analyze three successive generations of contest fiddle performers by focusing on recordings and fiddle tunes that best represent the performance practice. These individuals are Eck Robertson (November 1887- February 1975), Benny Thomasson (April 1909- January 1984), and Mark O’Connor (August 1961). Basing comparative analysis on transcriptions of each players recording, the thesis focuses upon bowing styles, fiddle techniques, and improvisation to demonstrate a nuanced picture of stylistic modifications made by the performer. Combining historical backgrounds and memory narratives, this thesis shapes the history of the Texas contest fiddle tradition, and contributes to the idioms continued relevancy. Situating the fiddlers’ performance innovations within the expectations of the fiddle tradition, it is clear these players carry on the tradition of fiddling while nevertheless creating individualistic renditions of canonic fiddle tunes.