Donald Angus Beaton (Cape Breton)
1912 – 1982

Donald Angus was born in Mabou, Nova Scotia and comes from a musical family. His father, Angus Ronald Beaton was a noted fiddler, while Donald Angus’ sister, Janet, was a fiddler and pianist. Donald Angus got his start when he was approximately 8 years old. His fondness for the music stemmed from hearing many visiting fiddlers to his home and moved him to begin learning the fiddle himself.

Donald Angus is noted for his musical lineage, playing a distinct Mabou Coal Mines style of fiddle, with a powerful bowing technique that lent itself to a full Gaelic flavour. This distinctness was further empowered with the accompaniment of his wife, Elizabeth (MacEachen). The duo played regularly at weekly dances in Inverness County and their unique style is captured on record, entitled “The Beatons of Mabou” which also feature their sons Joey and Kinnon Beaton.

As much as Donald Angus is noted for his fiddle ability, he is equally renowned in his popular compositions that are featured in books, recordings, and local concerts. His earliest composition was written in 1935. The legacy of Donald Angus is highlighted in his extended family with talented children and grandchildren following in his footsteps.