Margaret (Meg) Fidler
3rd October 1940 - 23rd May 2022
Author: Kim Waddell
I feel honoured to have been asked to write an obituary for Meg - Ethel Margaret Fidler - a woman who made a significant contribution to my life, from my younger years into adulthood. While she may not have realised it, Meg had a considerable influence on me, particularly in the area of music. Music was a central part of Meg's life, and it is through this focus that I reflect on her many achievements and contributions.
Meg's musical journey began with the bagpipes and harmonica, but it was later in life that she developed a passion for the accordion. This turning point occurred during a voyage to England, where Meg met Bill Fidler, a skilled accordionist. Their friendship grew, and after returning to New Zealand together in the early 1960s, they married and embarked on a shared life centred around music.
Meg and Bill both became members of the Canterbury Accordion Association (CAA) shortly after its establishment in 1962. Initially, Meg focused on administrative roles, but her commitment soon extended to conducting. She became the inaugural conductor of the Christchurch Royale Accordion Orchestra and held this role from its founding until 2009, guiding its development with her leadership.
After Bill's passing in 1980, Meg expanded her involvement in teaching. Having already taught music theory to some of Bill's students, she began providing practical instruction as well. From personal experience, I can attest that Meg was an excellent teacher. She possessed a unique ability to describe how she wanted a piece to sound and guide students on achieving it, all without needing to demonstrate it herself.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Meg's professional skills were wide-ranging. As a fitter and turner by trade, she later joined the University of Canterbury in 1982 as a Technician in the Fine Arts Department. Her technical expertise enabled her to become a proficient accordion repairer, designing and creating tools to assist with repairs - a reflection of her ingenuity and practical knowledge.
Meg's contributions to the Canterbury Accordion Association were extensive. She served as Secretary from 1967 to 1971, remained a committee member until 2011, and held the position of President for many years. In 1978, she was named a Life Member of the association, and she later became its Patron, a role she held from 1988 until her passing. She also served as a Trustee, helping to ensure the organisation’s ongoing success.
Among her many accomplishments, Meg played a key role in organising the Christchurch Accordion Orchestra's (CAO) international tours, including a notable visit to Reunion Island in 2005. Under her leadership, the orchestra recorded a CD, Christchurch Accordion Orchestra in Concert, featuring well-loved pieces such as "One Moment in Time," "Beer Barrel Polka," "Kanon in D," and selections from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. Her work as conductor and organiser earned her respect both locally and internationally.
Nationally, Meg was a valued supporter of the New Zealand Accordion Association (NZAA). She regularly adjudicated at the NZAA National Competitions and participated in Air New Zealand Accordion Orchestra international tours. Wallace Liggett noted in his book, The History of the Accordion in New Zealand, that Meg's travels made her well known in accordion circles worldwide.
Meg also supported the Accordion Examination Board of New Zealand, organising examinations in Christchurch over many years. In 1995, she received the Board's Merit Award in recognition of her contributions to the accordion movement in New Zealand. In 1993, she was named a Life Member of the NZAA, a fitting acknowledgment of her dedication to the organisation.
Meg Fidler led a life marked by service to the musical community and her unwavering commitment to the advancement of the accordion in New Zealand. Her contributions as a conductor, teacher, administrator, and repairer have left an enduring impact on the community she was part of.
As we remember Meg, we acknowledge her dedication, her expertise, and the legacy she leaves behind. Her influence will continue to be felt through the music she supported, the students she mentored, and the organisations she strengthened.
