Now in its eleventh season, Saline Fiddlers has undeniably set the standard for extracurricular music programs in the United States. The Saline Fiddlers began with a simple idea: introduce an alternative style of music education to public school students. It has grown into a model of instruction and motivation that is being emulated across the nation. Yet more importantly, it is a brilliant example of what young adults can and will achieve if given a direction and the opportunity to explore, and pursue their own interests. The Saline Fiddlers astound audiences every time they take the stage. They present an energetic, polished stage show that includes music, song and dance from the traditions of American folk fiddle, bluegrass, western swing and Celtic music.

Their repertoire, which grows every year, includes many pieces composed or arranged by an exceptionally talented artistic team, headed up by Artistic Director Ben Culver. Culver's fellow Fiddler alumni Jesse Mason and Reid Smith share the duties of Assistant Directors. With each passing year the appeal of the Saline Fiddlers grows. The members continue to work independently and as a group polishing existing skills and learning new material. While primarily an instrumental ensemble, Saline Fiddlers adjusts to the individual talents of its members.

Over the years the group has introduced many fine singing voices, as well as the immensely popular Fiddlers Cloggers, choreographed by Sheila Graziano. The Saline Fiddlers represent the positive side of today's youth while reflecting the rural traditions of Saline and ultimately the country. The performers, all students at Saline High School, earn their places through competitive auditions based on musical ability and personal integrity. Each Fiddler balances academics, sports, school organizations, church activities, jobs and social lives with this demanding commitment to music.

During its first decade the group has performed more than 650 times in 17 states, the District of Columbia, and four foreign countries. They have been honored to perform twice at the White House and twice on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center, as well as at the State of Michigan's Presidential Inaugural Ball in January 2001. The Fiddlers have shared the stage with many top artists as well as other student groups. Especially gratifying is the number of student fiddle organizations, which have started around the country inspired by the Saline Fiddlers.

The Saline students look forward to sharing workshops and concerts with these new fiddle ensembles. Supported by hours of volunteer labor, donations from appreciative sponsors, sales of recordings and fees for performing, the Fiddlers also continue to provide community service by means of music in and around their hometown. They have released six recordings since 1996; the most recent in June of 2004 titled "The Sky's The Limit". Profits from the sale of the recordings help finance the annual tour.

During Spring break in April 2002 they toured, performed, and gave several workshops for young fiddle players in Florida. Last summer's trip was a tour of the New England states, including concerts in Central Park New York City, downtown Boston on July 4th and resort locations in New Hampshire. All trips are scheduled on the Fiddlers year-round agenda, which boasts an average of 80 performances each year.