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Shania band members entertain fans during annual convention

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The Daily Press
August 12, 2006
Chelsey Romain

After graduating from Juilliard with a master's degree in viola performance, Allison Cornell never dreamt she would be touring with one of country music's top-selling female artists.

But that's exactly what happened when Cornell received the call to play fiddle in Shania Twain's band during her rise to stardom.

Cornell, who has performed with the likes of Pat Benatar, Tracy Chapman and currently with Cyndi Lauper, was trained in classical viola, and had barely played the fiddle at the time. She said Shania's music was different from the music she had played.

"I think it was a good fit though," said Cornell. "I was able to stretch my ear enough to modify my style."

Cornell started with Twain just shortly after the release of her album 'The Woman in Me' and has been a part of everything she has done, except for a promotional tour for her 'Up' album.

"She was the most up-and-coming act I've worked with," said Cornell.

"I've never been able to spend so much time with someone who is at the beginning of her ascent."

With all the experience Cornell has with the Timmins native, it was only fitting she be invited to attend the convention and spend time with fans.

"Other band members (who have attended the convention) have warned me about the intensity of this place," said Cornell. "But I feel like I haven't done anything to deserve this."

One of the other band members she speaks of is J.D. Blair, drummer for Shania's 'Come on Over' and 'Up', who is attending his third fan convention in Timmins.

"I just like the people and if it weren't for them I wouldn't have a career," said Blair. "I actually feel like I'm among family here."

While Cornell continues to tour with other artists while Shania focuses on family and her private life, Blair has somewhat removed himself from the musical spotlight.

Living in Nashville, Tenn., when Blair isn't working on his own music or providing beginners with drum clinics, he works at Team Choice, an athletic store.

"It's so much fun and a lot of people don't expect to see Shania's drummer behind the counter selling jerseys," laughed Blair.

But that's not to say fans have seen the last of him. While he admits he doesn't miss being on the road he's busy working with other artists putting together his own sound.

"It's great to put music together from here and have people appreciate it," said Blair pointing to his heart.

Even though Shania hasn't been on tour in a couple of years, Blair continues to attend the convention for the fans they have made over the years.

"It's cool that here they can come and talk to us," said Blair. "Once we're back on the road things become formal again with security and everything and you can only wave."

Cornell, too, is taking time to write her own music and prepares to release her debut solo project.

"It's eclectic, it's my voice and it's my songs," said Cornell. "I think I have enough time in my life right now to at least give my songs a chance."

While Cornell's presence at the convention is meant to be an experience for the fans, she said she can relate to how they feel when they visit Timmins.

"I'm in the same boat as they are because I'm excited to see what motivated her," said Cornell.

"Having that direct connection with the fans is also very helpful, reassuring and affirming as a musician."

Blair said he was hooked on the convention and the people since the first time he attended, but also said he can't believe he has already been to three of them.

"Never would I have imagined I'd be here two more years back to back like this," said Blair.

"Everyone here is just so friendly and down to earth."

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