A celebration is on the cards in Perth to honour a cherished acoustic guitar that has been a part of a local musician’s life for 50 years. Roger Woods acquired the iconic Fender F-35 when he was 19 years old from McCormack’s, a renowned music store in Glasgow, back in 1974. Over the years, this guitar has travelled far and wide with Roger and his family, accompanying them on journeys to places like the US (Texas and New Mexico), Spain, Germany, and beyond. The guitar has now been passed down to Roger’s son Chris, who plays with The Mad Ferret Band in Perthshire. Known affectionately as ‘The Old Fender,’ this guitar has been a source of inspiration for generations of musicians in the family, witnessing the creation of numerous songs and being a part of countless performances. Despite its 50 years of service, the Old Fender still has many songs left in it and holds a special place in the family’s musical history.
The milestone of the Old Fender’s 50th birthday will be celebrated with a special event at The Twa Tams in Perth this Sunday, November 17. Friends, family, and fellow musicians will gather at the venue for a Sunday Social Open Mic to pay tribute to this treasured guitar. The event will run from 3pm to 8pm, offering attendees the chance to share stories, songs, and melodies with their own instruments. Musicians are encouraged to sign up for a 15-minute set and even have the opportunity to play on the Old Fender itself. The Twa Tams’ house band will be present to support and accompany performers throughout the event. Admission to the celebration is free, and individuals under 18 are welcome until 8pm when accompanied by an adult.
The gathering at The Twa Tams is not just a birthday celebration but a recognition of the unifying power of music to connect people across generations and locations. Attendees are invited to relax, enjoy the music, have a drink, and share in the joy of music. It promises to be an evening filled with heartwarming performances, shared memories, and a celebration of the enduring legacy of a beloved guitar.