It has been a long while since I have posted - too long. But this news has inspired me to share.

I met Margaret only once, sad to say. I live in Yellowknife, NWT, far from the kinds of face to face circles that would allow me to know a person like Margaret better. However, thanks to the Internet, I was able to make a connection with her prior to the Folk Alliance Conference in Vancouver. I had sent a request out to anyone interested in sharing a ballad set with me at the conference. Margaret responded.

Together, along with fellow Canadian balladeer, Paddy Tutty, we shared one of the most magical evenings of ballads I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.

One of the things that made this evening so special for the three of us was that we represented three generations of ballad singers. We sang similar ballads. We all played the Appalachian dulcimer, although we each had distinctive styles. Most importantly, we all shared a tremendous love of ballad singing.

Since that night, Margaret and I have kept in touch by email. I had always hoped we could get together again, maybe even collaborate on an album. I regret that that will no longer be possible. But I am very grateful that we had our chance to connect.

I will miss her more than I can express with words.

Moira Cameron