#79 MUSIC THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

November 21, 2024

#79 MUSIC THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

STRINGS, HORNS AND KEYBOARDS

August Homuth

This violinist is my Great Grandfather, August Homuth (1851-1940); he was likely in his early 80s when the photo was taken. He always enjoyed music, but at what age he began to play the violin is not known. Had he played his whole life or as a young farmer or as a retired gentleman? Not known. There is little doubt that he was self-taught as some of his techniques—bow grip, posture, left hand and violin positions--are just a little off the formal style, but in this photo he definitely seems confident and experienced. I also suspect that Great-Grandpa likely was more of a fiddler who played for family and friends in casual settings.

At the turn of the 20th century, the violin (or fiddle) was often the main instrument at dances, gatherings and celebrations. Its portability made it a favourite at rural gatherings and it was a suitable instrument for both solo and ensemble playing. That it could be purchased relatively cheaply and basic skills could be learned without any formal training, made it a popular instrument for amateur musicians and children.

August's Violin

My Grandfather, Fred Homuth, was also a music lover. Growing up, he learned to play the flute, violin and accordian. He sang in the church choir, belonged to the Wingham Flute band. He had the skills to repair the Sunday school organ. (In the 1960s, Grandpa and Dad built an electric chord organ from a kit.).

When dating my grandmother in 1912, he gave her violin lessons. Homuth’s Drug store in Harriston sold violins (among hundreds of other drygood items); the newspaper advertisement was “Buy a half-size or full-size violin $3.50 to $35 and get 5 lessons free with each violin over $35”. Fred, naturally, was that violin teacher.

In 1921 Fred began taking trombone lessons and was one of the "Peerless Six" orchestra which played at local concerts, churches and dances.

Fred (third from left) and the "Peerless Six" playing a fox trot

At the same time, he joined the Harriston Kiltie Band which competed in area tattoos (playing a mix of band music, scotch tunes, novelty songs). The band played at churches, skating rinks, curling bonspiels, Remembrance Day parades, Orange parades, falls fairs, cemetery services, summer concerts and Sunday evening concerts.

Harriston Kiltie Band

Harriston Kiltie Band 1928--Fred, trombone, front row, 2nd right

It was my father, Carol, however, who was likely the most skilled family musician. He took lessons in Harriston, but when he advanced beyond that teacher’s skills, he took the train from Harriston to Palmerston to Listowel for weekly lessons.

Dad often participated in the Stratford Musical Festival.

For a short while, Dad performed with a small band when he came to Toronto to study optometry. But for some unknown reason, (either other distractions and hobbies or ?) Dad laid down his violin. I never ever heard him play.

Dad's violin

Mom played the accordian and often performed at Finnish concerts. It was an easy switch to the electronic organ because it chorded the same way as the accordian.

It was inevitable, I guess, that Vicky and I also took up the accordian although we never had formal lessons. Mom and Grandpa Fred were our teachers. It was also easy for Vicky and me to transition to the electronic organ.