MINTO COUNTRY MUSIC WALL OF FAME INC.
Maxime, better known to most as Max was born in Minto in the 1930’s. At a very young age Max took a very strong interest in music, playing guitar was a dream this young boy wanted to fulfill.
Max began playing violin with the “Rhythm Boys” when he was 16 years old. They included Earl Mitton on violin, Vic Dovine on rhythm guitar and vocals, Al Goguen on electric guitar, Ivan (Lefty) Gaudet on bass. This band toured around the province and Max filled in for Vic Dovine as Vic would return to Nova Scotia for the weekends.
After his beginning with the Rhythm Boys, he also played with Gerry Robichaud, Freddy Fulton, Fred McKenna, and Eric Richard. This band was known as the “Casa Loma Rhythmairs”.
In the 1950’s he played on radio with Wayne Nightengale, Mac Brogan, and Jimmy Chapman. They also played at the Capital Co-op Jamboree aired on CFNB from the old Teachers College in Fredericton.
Other notable musicians he played with were Fritsy Myers, Lila Surette, Celime Richard, and his brother Eric.
Max played music in Maine for exhibitions and also at the Fredericton Exhibition in the 1950’s.
Max concluded his professional career playing guitar and singing in 1976. At age 72, the life long resident of Minto, NB continues to play for family. Maxime and his wife Sophie have raised five children, Maurice, Marcel, Roger, Claire and Rose –Marie. He enjoys music and encourages his grandchildren to do the same --- sing, dance, play an instrument and just enjoy themselves and what life has to offer.
