History: Part 2 Back from the brink

1954 saw the death of Tom Sinclair Rae and a new conductor, James Moir was elected to office.

An impressive figure in his kilt he was admired by audiences for his wit and style.

Through his talents and committed efforts, the fortunes of the society took an upturn and provided a more stable environment for the society to continue.

Practice nights were once more held in Hall X, but on the night of October 26th 1962 disaster struck.

Following a boxing match earlier in the evening the St Andrews Hall burned down.

The following morning with the help of the firemen the society's music, stands and double bass were recovered, slightly scorched but still serviceable!

It wasn't easy to find alternative accommodation, but the Dixon Halls in Cathcart Road met the requirements.

The demand for the Orchestra's services increased throughout the late 60's and 70's and with disappointment expressed by those patrons not being able to "get a    ticket for the annual" it was decided to hold the event in the City Hall over two consecutive Saturdays.

In 1976 the Daily record suggested a National competition should be organised, sponsored by the newspaper, to find the best fiddle player in Scotland.

This was taken up and the Golden fiddle Orchestra came into being.

Jimmy conducted a massed orchestra of two hundred and fifty players and the event was a great success.

lf any particular year in the society's history stands out it must be 1979. James Moir was awarded an MBE for his untiring efforts to foster and maintain public interest in the traditional music of Scotland.

Many thousands of pounds were raised for charity during every playing season and this was recognised by the City Fathers with the presentation of the "Loving Cup'' by Lord Provost David Hodge at a reception held in the banqueting hall of the City Chambers on the 15 December 1979.

Having completed a third tour of Canada in 1980 Jimmy Moir's health began to fail and he announced his retirement as conductor, after twenty seven years service.