Fiddlers will compete this weekend

Fiddlers will gather in Spokane Valley this weekend to vie for spots in a national competition.

The fiddlers’ waltzes must be played in perfect time, and the hoe-downs need to be dance-provoking during the 37th Northwest Regional Fiddle Contest in order for competitors to get the top score, said Ed Miller, a coordinator of the competition.

More than 100 fiddlers – ages 5 to 85 – from eight states and Canada are expected for the event, which will be at East Valley High School, 15711 E. Wellesley Ave., Saturday and Sunday.

In addition to a waltz and a hoe-down, competitors will play a third song of their choice, but they must play all three tunes in no more than four minutes.

Performances are scheduled for 8 a.m. and 1 and 6:15 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sunday. The winners of the eight age-based categories will go to the national competition in June in Weiser, Idaho.

The competition is open to the public.

Single performances cost $8 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, and are free for those under 5. Weekend passes are also available: $18 for adults and $16 for students and seniors.

For more information: 228-9030.