Newfoundland Women Accordionists Finding a Spotlight in St. John’s Pub Sessions

A gathering of Newfoundland women and gender-diverse accordionists in the coastal community of Flatrock has sparked a unique musical initiative at a pub in St. John's. At the heart of this movement is 79-year-old Madonna Wilkinson, a seasoned accordionist with a passion for the instrument since her teenage years.

Historian and musician Heidi Coombs, along with collaborators Than Brown and Heather Patey, introduced ‘I’se Not the B’y,’ a monthly performance showcase welcoming women and gender-diverse musicians playing traditional Newfoundland tunes. Coombs was inspired by the rich musical heritage of Newfoundland, where accorion-playing grandmothers like Wilkinson were revered.

Wilkinson’s journey with her accordion began at a young age, influenced by her musical upbringing in a rural Newfoundland household. She recalls fond memories of dancing with her family to her father’s harmonica tunes, which ignited her love for music. Her dedication led her to purchase her own button accordion at 19, a symbolic gesture marking the start of a lifelong musical adventure.

While Wilkinson focused on teaching and family in her later years, she found joy in sharing her accordion skills with seniors after retirement. The resurgence of accordion-playing women on platforms like TikTok has reinforced Coombs’ belief in the importance of showcasing these talents.

Notable figures like Minnie White, Newfoundland’s famed ‘first lady of the accordion,’ have paved the way for women in traditional music. The ‘I’se Not the B’y’ sessions, held at the Ship Pub on the first Sunday of every month, aim to provide a welcoming space for women, non-binary, and gender-diverse musicians, echoing the inclusivity of Newfoundland’s musical roots.

For Wilkinson and other accordion enthusiasts, this initiative represents a chance to celebrate their craft and connect with like-minded individuals. The resurgence of interest in traditional Newfoundland music is not only a nod to the past but also a step towards preserving the island’s unique cultural heritage.