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Finlay was born at Greenfield, Ontario on May 26th, 1930. His father played the violin and chorded the piano by ear and music was on the agenda almost every day. At age twelve he started to play by ear. John Angus (Danny Jim) McDonald, a friend of his parents and one of Glengarry's violinists would come to visit and was a great influence.

When [[Rev. John MacPhail|Father John MacPhail]] came to St. Finnan's, he had a series of Bonnie Prince Charlie plays at the Scotch concerts in the St. Finnan's Hall in which Finlay played Bonnie Price Charlie. Fr. MacPhail started the St. Finnan's Orchestra and he sent Finlay along with others to Agnes Valade to learn to read notes as she was a violin teacher. Finlay also took a year of classical music training from a teacher from McGill in 1983.

Over the years he has enjoyed played with the [[Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers|Glengarry Old Time Fiddlers Association]], and the [[Glengarry Strathspey and Reel Society]]. Finlay was also involved with the [[Glengarry Highland Games]] for many years, and was president of the Games in 1994 and 1995. He feels that the Highland Games are a great way to promote our Celtic heritage. Finlay is also an active member of the Clan Donald Association.