Newfoundland grandmothers can wail on the accordion. A historian wants them on stage

ST. JOHN'S, N.L.

- If there's a circle of Newfoundlanders gathered in someone's kitchen in the fishing community of Flatrock, there's a good chance Madonna Wilkinson is the focal point, snapping her fingers to cue the next song she'll sing and play on her accordion. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * ST. JOHN'S, N.

L. - If there's a circle of Newfoundlanders gathered in someone's kitchen in the fishing community of Flatrock, there's a good chance Madonna Wilkinson is the focal point, snapping her fingers to cue the next song she'll sing and play on her accordion. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? ST.

JOHN’S, N.L. – If there’s a circle of Newfoundlanders gathered in someone’s kitchen in the fishing community of Flatrock, there’s a good chance Madonna Wilkinson is the focal point, snapping her fingers to cue the next song she’ll sing and play on her accordion.

The 79-year-old has been playing the instrument since she was 15, when she picked one up that had been left behind at one of her parents’ rollicking parties in the oceanside town about 25 kilometres north of St. John’s, N.L.

She has played Sunday masses and St. Patrick’s Day parties, and community events of all kinds. “You’re invited to a lot of parties and they’ll say, ‘Bring your accordion!'” Wilkinson said in a phone interview, laughing.

“I still love it. Music can do a lot of wonders for you. That’s.