The renowned Cape Breton fiddler Buddy MacMaster grew up in Judique, Inverness County, influenced by musical giants including Bill Lamey, "Little Jack" MacDonald, Angus Chisholm and Mary MacDonald. By 1949, Buddy performed for local square dances, and by the 1960s he played across Canada, the U.S. and Scotland, sustaining old-time music and the dance tradition. A master fiddler, his awards include the Order of Canada, the Order of Nova Scotia, and honorary degrees from ST.F.X.University and Cape Breton University. Buddy adhered to the Gaelic fiddle tradition that he cherished as much as life itself.

Told out of his rare friendship with Sheldon MacInnes, the Buddy MacMaster story highlights his devotion to family, faith, and community, as well as his music. He is seen at home, at school, on the farm, and at the CNR where he worked for 45 years. After seventy years performing, his most recent recording was with his niece, the popular Natalie MacMaster. The legend of Buddy MacMaster is kept alive in accounts from many friends, relatives, and fellow musicians.

Sheldon MacInnes taught, researched and administered programs in Celtic Music, Gaelic Language, Traditional Dance and the Performing Arts at Cape Breton University. He is the author of A Journey in Celtic Music—Cape Breton Style.

Sheldon MacInnes' profile page