Bengal's Corner

Every Wednesday Evening, 7:30 - 10:30 PM, Durham, New Hampshire.
For more information, check this link.

Thanks, Benoit Shoja!
Bengal.

Bonjour,

Quebecois traditional music group Genticorum will also be performing in concert at One Longfellow Square (Portland, ME) on 18.Jan.2009 and at Barbe's (Brooklyn, NYC) on 11.Jan.2009.

1/11 Barbe's, Brooklyn, NYC
1/16 Club Passim, Cambridge, MA
1/17 Blackstone River Theatre, Cumberland, RI
1/18 One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME

Steve

Session Hiver 2009

Oyez Oyez! La période d'inscription pour les cours de la session Hiver 2009 est maintenant ouverte! Les cours débutent la semaine du 19 janvier 2009 et sont donnés au 911, rue Jean-Talon Est bur. #010. Vous pouvez vous inscrire par retour de courriel, par téléphone ou par la poste, en nous laissant vos coordonnées complètes et en spécifiant bien quel(s) cours vous voulez suivre.

Un dépliant détaillé est disponible à nos bureaux et lors de nos activités (Veillées du Plateau, Virée dans Villeray). Nous vous invitons à le prendre et à le distribuer autour de vous. Vous pouvez aussi le télécharger: ici.


Nouveau cours de violon, niveau Élémentaire,
donné par Pascal Gemme, le mercredi à 19h00.

Le niveau *élémentaire* est destiné à ceux qui ont une base avec l'instrument et qui veulent élargir leur connaissance des formes, styles et techniques propres à l'apprentissage de la musique traditionnelle. Ce cours, offert sous forme de transmission orale (apprentissage à l'oreille), servira à développer le répertoire d'airs traditionnels des joueurs débutants tout en leur donnant la vitesse d'apprentissage nécessaire pour le cours intermédiaire. À travers ce répertoire, les élèves entreront en contact avec les divers genres et styles des différentes régions du Québec. Ce cours est aussi idéal pour les personnes qui possèdent une bonne base en
classique et veulent commencer leur apprentissage à l'oreille. L'utilisation d'un appareil d'enregistrement est fortement conseillée.

Voici quelques *appréciations* des personnes inscrites à la session d'automne:

- "C'est toujours un plaisir de venir suer toutes les semaines au rythme des rigodons!"; "J'ai maintenant une meilleure connaissance de notre tradition, notre folklore". (cours de gigue)

- "Je suis maintenant plus à l'aise pour danser dans les veillées". (cours de valse)

- "J'ai du plaisir enfin à jouer de la musique". (accordéon)

Passez le mot!

Carmen Guérard

Espace Trad
SPDTQ
911, rue Jean-Talon Est local 010
Montréal QC H2R 1V5 (514)273-0880

Bonjour,

Quebecois traditional music group, Genticorum, will also be performing
in concert at One Longfellow Square (Portland, ME) on 18Jan09 and at Barbe's
(Brooklyn, NYC) on 11Jan09. (www.genticorum. com)

1/11 Barbe's, Brroklyn, NYC
1/16 Club Passim, Cambridge, MA
1/17 Blackstone River Theatre, Cumberland, RI
1/18 One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME

Steve

I know it's a bit early for the celebration, but since I'm on vacation for a week, I won't be around that much... :) Thus, I want to wish everybody celebrating it, a great Thanksgiving holiday!

Bengal.

Greetings, everyone,

It is with great pleasure that John Parkinson and I invite everyone to join us for a house concert/Christmas party with Genticorum.

This is open especially to Morris people, but also to friends and fellow lovers of traditional music. We propose a pot luck supper (6 p.m.) followed by a wonderful concert with Genticorum (8 p.m.), and then a session for all those who play music and/or sing. Please bring a pot of whatever food you make that is good to share, and bring your own beverages of a sociable nature.

Date: Friday, December 12th
Time: Please arrive any time after 6 p.m., Concert begins at 8.
Place: Parky and Sydney's log home near Shelburne
Cost: $20 per person - all proceeds go to Genticorum - let's help them have a fine Christmas.

Please email me to reserve your spot. We have a good number of seats available, but they will very likely be reserved in no time. Once we are full, that's it.

If you've not had the pleasure of hearing Genticorum before, please check them out at their website. Pascal Gemme (fiddle & feet), Alex de Grosbois Garand (flute, bass) and Yann Falquet (guitar, jew's harp) do an absolutely fabulous concert of both original and traditional music, and have developed a following all around the world. Genticorum finished their third CD earlier this year, to critical acclaim. (Their second CD actually got nominated for a Juno Award.) Their three part harmonies on their wonderful traditional call and response songs will blow you away.

So, please email me at wjeg at 3web.net to reserve spots - please indicate how many tickets you need. (You can pay when you arrive at the party.) Once you have reserved, I will send you driving directions.

Cheers!

Elizabeth Szekeres

29 November: Contradance, Montpelier, VT
Raz de Marée/Tidal Wave performing.

Future events: 2009

15 Jan: Contradance, Concord, MA
Info: TBA

16 Jan: House Concert
Info: TBA

16-18 Jan: Ralph Page Legacy Weekend, Durham, NH
Info: TBA

27-29 March: Dance Weekend, Richmond, VA

22-23-24 April: School programs, Saranac, NY

25-26 April: Franco-American Festival Dance, concerts

23 May: Extravadance! Greenfield, MA
Info: tophillmusic at aol.com

4-11 July: American Dance and Music Week, Mendocino Woodlands, northern CA

12 July: Contradance, San Rafael, CA
Info: TBA

Calendar of francophile events in New England:

Dimanche-Samedi L'Air du Temps, WUMB, Boston, MA (www.wumb.org)
Dimanche-Samedi Canal Academie, Paris, FR (www.canalacademie.com)
Dimanche-Samedi Couleur France, Paris, FR (www.couleurfrance.net)
Dimanche-Samedi Radio France Internationale, Paris, FR (www.rfi.fr)
Dimanche 08:30-09:30 Salut! Bonjour! WNRI 1380 AM, Woonsocket, RI (www.wnri.com)
Dimanche 09:00-11:00 La Revue Francaise, WEZR 1240 AM, Auburn, ME (www.cnn1240.com)
Dimanche 09:00-12:00 Chez Nous, WFEA 1370 AM, Manchester, NH (603-669-5777)
Dimanche 12:00-14:00 L'Echo Musical, WNRI 1380 AM, Woonsocket, RI (www.wnri.com)
Dimanche 17:00-18:00 L'Heure Francaise, WHTB 1400 AM, Fall River, MA (508-677-1400)
Dimanche 17:00-19:00 Your French Connection, WUML 91.5 FM, Lowell, MA (www.wuml.org)
Lundi 06:00-08:00 French Toast, WMBR 88.1 FM, Cambridge, MA (//wmbr.org)
Samedi 11:00-13:00 L'Echo Musical, WNRI 1380 AM, Woonsocket, RI (www.wnri.com)
Samedi 12:00-14:00 L'Heure Francaise, WCUW 91.3 FM, Worcester, MA (www.wcuw.com)

1/01-12/31 400e anniversaire de Quebec (1608-2008) (QC) (www.monquebec2008.com)
1/01-12/31 100e anniversaire de Olivier Messiaen (1908-1992) (www.oliviermessiaen.org)
7/01-6/30 Exhibit: Le Louvre a Quebec @ Musee national des beaux-arts, Quebec, QC
8/30-12/07 Exhibit: Mystic Masque: Georges Rouault @ BC, Chestnut Hill, MA (www.bc.edu)
9/01-5/31 Charles Dutoit @ Philadelphia Orchestra , Philadelphia, PA (www.philorch.org)
9/14-1/25 Exhibit: Street Art, Street Life @ Bronx Museum, NYC, NY
9/15-11/15 French lessons @ FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.com)
9/24-3/22 Exhibit: Irene Nemirovsky @ Museum of Jewish Heritage, NYC, NY (www.mjhnyc.org)
9/27-12/11 French lessons @ French Library, Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
9/30-12/20 Next Wave Festival @ BAM, Brooklyn, New York, NY (www.bam.org)
9/30-11/20 Eric Vincent en tour @ USA (www.eric-vincent.com)
10/08-12/09 French class @ 7 pm, Tu., Brown U., Providence, RI (www.brown.edu/continuingstudies)
10/09-12/18 French Cinema (1930-1945) @ 7 pm, Th., Prov., RI (www.brown.edu/continuingstudies)
10/17-11/20 Exhibit: Denis Daracq: La Chute @ FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
10/22-11/23 Exhibit: Pierre Montgrain @ Gershwin Hotel, NYC, NY (www.pierremontgrain.com)
10/23-12/11 French class @ 5:45 pm, Thurs., AFH, Hartford, CT (www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
10/24-1/07 Exhibit: The Anyspacewhatever @ Guggenheim, NYC, NY (www.guggenheim.org)
10/30-1/04 Cirque du Soleil: Wintuk @ Madison Sq. Garden, NYC, NY (www.cirquedusoleil.com)
10/31-11/22 Voyeurs de Venus @ Plaza Theatre, BCA, Boston, MA (www.companyone.org)
11/01-25 Celebration: 20th Anniversary Florence Gould Hall @ FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/05-12/04 Paris/NYC: Design Fashion Culture @ MCNY, NYC, NY (www.mcnyc.org)
11/05-18 Boston Jewish Film Festival @ Boston, MA (www.bjff.org)
11/06-30 Film: Louise Bourgeois @ Museum of Fine Art, Boston, MA (www.mfa.org)
11/06-16 Coup de Coeur Francophone @ Canada (www.coupdecoeur.qc.ca)
11/07-12/04 Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust @ Met.Opera, New York, NY (www.metopera.org)
11/07-18 Offenbach: Les contes d'Hoffmann @ Majestic Theatre, Boston, MA (www.blo.org)
11/12-16 New French Films @ Rose Cinema, BAM, NYC, NY (www.bam.org)
11/13-1/09 Exhibit: Jose Ann Bernier @ Beliveau Galerie, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.com)
11/13-16 Kurt Weill: Marie Galante @ FIAF, New York, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/14-20 Films of Les Blank @ Film Forum, New York, NY (www.filmforum.org)
11/14-20 Film: Un conte de Noel @ IFCC, New York, NY (www.ifccenter.com)
11/14-20 Film: Un conte de Noel @ LPC, NYC, NY (www.lincolnplazacinemas.com)
11/14-20 Film: L'enfant sauvage (The Wild Child) @ Film Forum, NYC, NY (www.filmforum.org)
11/14-20 Film: La Fille coupee en deux @ The Movies, Portland, ME (www.moviesonexchange.com)
11/14-20 Film: La Fille coupee en deux @ Catamount, St. Johnsbury, VT (www.catamount-arts.org)
11/14-20 Film: JCVD @ Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA (www.coolidge.org)
11/14-20 Film: JCVD @ Kendall Square Cinema, Cambridge, MA (www.landmarktheatres.com)
11/14-20 Film: JCVD @ Village East Cinema, NYC, NY (www.villageeastcinema.com)
11/14-20 Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ KSC, Camb., MA (www.landmarktheatres.com)
11/14-20 Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ WNC, Newton, MA (www.westnewtoncinema.com)
11/14-20 Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ AFC, NYC, NY (www.angelikafilmcenter.com)
11/14-20 Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ LPC, NYC, NY (www.lincolnplazacinemas.com)
11/14-20 Film: Man on Wire @ Coolidge Theatre, Brookline, MA (www.coolidge.org)
11/14-20 Film: Man on Wire @ Sunshine Cinema, NYC, NY (www.landmarktheatres.com)
11/14-20 Film: Ne le dis a personne @ Cinema Village, NYC, NY (www.cinemavillage.com)
11/14-20 Film: Ne le dis a personne @ WNC, Newton, MA (www.westnewtoncinema.com)
11/14-20 Film: Peurs du noir (Fears of the Dark) @ IFCC, New York, NY (www.ifccenter.com)
11/14-20 Film: Peurs du noir (Fears of the Dark) @ CCC, Prov., RI (www.cablecarcinema.com)
11/14-20 Film: Plus tard, tu comprehenras @ Avon Theatre, Stamford, CT (www.avontheatre.org)
11/14-20 Film: Plus tard, tu comprehenras @ Quad Cinema, NYC, NY (www.quadcinema.com)
11/14-20 Film: Un Secret @ Criterion Cinemas, New Haven, CT (www.bowtiecinemas.com)
11/14-20 Film: Un Secret @ IFCC, New York, NY (www.ifccenter.com)
11/14&16 Proustfest @ Providence Atheneum, Providence, RI (www.providenceatheneum.org)
11/14-15 Symposium: Int'l Criminal Justice @ Fletcher School, Tufts, Medford, MA (www.tufts.edu)
11/14&15 Fall Festival @ Lycee Francais, New York, NY (www.lfny.org)
11/14 Atelier: French learning games @ FIAF, New York, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/14 AFP: Cafe et Conversation @ 10 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/14 AFP: Maureen Collins Baker: B.T. Collins @ 11 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/14 AFP: Cinema Vendredi @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/14 Salon: Anka Muhlstein: Marcel Proust @ 5 pm, Prov., RI (www.providenceatheneum.org)
11/14 Messiaen: Quartet for the End of Time @ 8 pm, UUC, Montpelier, VT
11/15 AFNW: Cafe & Conversation @ 10 am, Library, Southbury, CT (www.afnwct.org)
11/15 Club francophone @ 1:30 pm, It's Only Natural, Middletown, CT (203-907-7031)
11/15 OFNY: Kurt Weill: Marie Galante @ 8 pm, FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/15 Dennis Stoughmatt & Creole Stomp @ 9 pm, Ossining, NY (www.creolestomp.com)
11/15 Slippery Sneakers @ Pawtucket, RI (www.slipperysneakers.com)
11/15 Ravel: Le Tombeau de couperin @ 8 pm, VMA, Providence, RI (www.riphilharmonic.org)
11/15 Messiaen: Quartet for the End of Time @ 8 pm, McCarthy Center, Colchester, VT
11/16 Gounod: Romeo et Juliette @ Avon Theatre, Stamford, CT (www.avontheatre.org)
11/16 Film: Deux Vies plus une (Two Lives Plus One) @ 4 pm, WNC, Boston, MA (www.bjff.org)
11/16 Cyril Gelblat @ 7:45 pm, MFA, Boston, MA (www.bjff.org)
11/16 Film: Les Murs Porteurs (Cycles) @ 7:45 pm, MFA, Boston, MA (www.bjff.org)
11/16 Elodie O @ 8 pm, The Beehive, Boston, MA (www.beehiveboston.com)
11/16 Film: J'ai ete au bal / Hot Pepper / Dry Wood @ Film Forum, NYC, NY (www.filmforum.org)
11/16 OFNY: Kurt Weill: Marie Galante @ 3 pm, FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/16 Gounod: Romeo et Juliette @ 12:30 pm, Jane Pickens, Newport, RI (www.janepickens.com)
11/16 French contra dance @ 2 pm, LeFoyer Club, Pawtucket, RI (www.lefoyer.org)
11/16 Proustfest w/Aurea ensemble @ 4 pm, Music Mansion,Prov.,RI(www.providenceatheneum.org)
11/16 Dennis Stoughmatt & Creole Stomp @ 8 pm, Ger.Club, Pawtucket, RI (www.salsrbclub.com)
11/17-21 Conference: New Literature from Europe @ NYC, NY (www.frenchculture.org)
11/17 Club Richelieu de Fall River @ 6 pm, White's restaurant, Westport, MA (www.richelieu.org)
11/17 Bon Appetit: Chef James Hackney @ 6:30 pm, Fr.Lib., Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
11/18-23 Film: Un Secret @ Cinema 320, Worcester, MA (www.cinema320.com)
11/18 Club francophone @ 9:30 am, Farmington, CT (203-238-3538)
11/18 Andre Raymound: Arabic Urban Modernism @ Fares Center, Medford, MA (www.tufts.edu)
11/18 Film: Les Murs Porteurs (Cycles) @ 7 pm, Capitol Theatre, Arlington, MA (www.bjff.org)
11/18 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Block Five Bistro, Worcester, MA (www.french.meetup.com/487)
11/18 M83 @ 8 pm, Middle East Downstairs, Cambridge, MA (www.mideastclub.com)
11/18 Cinema mardi: Familia @ 2 & 7 pm, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.com)
11/18 Living Today at Chateau Vaux le Vicomte @ 7 pm, FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/18 Film: Mademoiselle @ FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/18 Christian Boltanski @ Maison Francaise, NYC, NY (www.columbia.edu)
11/18 French-American Foundation Gala @ Four Seasons, NYC, NY (www.frenchamerican.org)
11/19-12/2 Exhibit: New Literature from Europe @ FCS, NYC, NY (www.frenchculture.org)
11/19-25 Film: La Fille coupee en deux @ The Movies, Portland, ME (www.moviesonexchange.org)
11/19 Club francophone @ noon, Senior Center, Storrs, CT (860-423-5463)
11/19 Francois Burgat: Islamism @ Fares Center, Tufts U., Medford, MA (www.tufts.edu)
11/19 AFB: Un Mois, Un Livre: Irene Nemirovsky @ 2 pm, Fr.Lib., Boston, MA(www.frenchlib.org)
11/19 Club Richelieu de New Bedford @ 6 pm, WamsuttaClub, NewBedford,MA(www.richelieu.org)
11/19 Club francophone @ 8 pm, chez, Cambridge, MA (www.french.meetup.com/24)
11/19 Annie Royer @ Nichols College, Dudley, MA (www.annieroyer.com)
11/19 Club francophone @ 6:30 pm, Panera, Nashua, NH (www.french.meetup.com/584)
11/19 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Kar-Min Thai, Dover, NH (www.frenchmeetup.com/29)
11/19 French Cuisine & Restaurants in New York @ MCNY, NYC, NY (www.mcny.org)
11/19 New Literature from Europe @ 6:30 pm, School of Visual Arts, NYC, NY
11/19 AFP: Chorale rehearsal @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/19 French-Canadian Fiddle Jam @ 7 pm, Le Foyer Club, Pawtucket, RI (www.lefoyer.org)
11/xx Club francophone @ 7 pm, Public Library, North Kingston, RI (www.nklibrary.org)
11/20-1/20 Exhibit: Roger Croteau: Symbols of the Soul @ FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
11/20-22 Premiere: Aurelia's Oratorio @ Skirball Center, NYC, NY (www.skirball.nyu.edu)
11/20 AFG: Cine-Club @ 8 pm, Cole aud., Library, Greenwich, CT (www.afgreenwich.org)
11/20 AFB: Cafe Philo: Foucault @ 6:30 pm, French Library, Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
11/20 AFM: Open House @ 5-8 pm, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.com)
11/20 AFM: Vernissage: Roger Croteau @ 6 pm, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
11/20 Lucie Therrien @ Le Club Boutique, Portsmouth, NH (www.luciet.com)
11/20 Vernissage: Roger Croteau @ 6 pm, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
11/20 European Graphic Artists @ 6:30 pm, MoCCA, NYC, NY
11/21-30 Film: Azur et Asmar @ Real Art Ways, Hartford, CT (www.realartways.org)
11/21-27 Film: Un conte de Noel (A Xmas Tale) @ KSC, Camb., MA (www.landmarktheatres.com)
11/21-27 Film: Un Secret @ Cinema 320, Worcester, MA (www.cinema320.com)
11/xx-xx Film: I've Loved You So Long @ Avon Theatre, Stamford, CT (www.avontheatre.org)
11/21 AFH: Fete du Beaujolais Nouveau @ Hartford 21, Htfd, CT (www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
11/21 Nicolas de Crecy @ 4 pm, Maison Francaise, NYU, NYC, NY (www.nyu.edu)
11/21 Dennis Stoughmatt & Creole Stomp @ 8 pm, Allons Danser, Conshohaken, PA
11/21 AFP: Cafe et Conversation @ 10 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/21 AFP: Jean Lachaud, CAFE @ 12 noon, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/21 AFP: Cinema Vendredi @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/21 Beaujolais Festival @ 7 pm, Federal Reserve, Providence, RI (www.fasri.org)
11/22-12/10 Vadim Pepin (violin) @ Canada & United States (www.kajimotomusic.com)
11/22 AFH: Cafe et conversation @ 10:30am,CafeMozzicato,Htfd,CT(www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
11/22 AFNW: Fete des Beaujolais Nouveau @ chez, Northwestern, CT (www.afnwct.org)
11/22 Annie Royer @ Ryles Jazz Club, Cambridge, MA (www.ryles.com)
11/22 Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust (HD) @ 1 pm, Met.Opera, NYC, NY (www.metopera.org)
11/22 AFP: Fete des Beaujolais Nouveau @ 5:30 pm, Int'l House, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
11/23-25 Film: La Fille coupee en deux @ Cinestudio, Hartford, CT (www.cinestudio.org)
11/24-1/04 Exhibit: Francois Chevalier @ Gershwin Hotel, NYC, NY (www.gershwinhotel.com)
11/25 Fete chretienne de Saint Catherine (Saint Catherine Day) (www.joyeuse-fete.com)
11/25 Club francophone @ 9:30 am, Farmington, CT (203-238-3538)
11/25 Club francophone @ 8 pm, Caprice, Boston, MA (www.french.meetup.com/661)
11/25 Film: Model Ship @ FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/25 Film: L'une chante, l'autre pas @ FIAF, NYC, NY (www.fiaf.org)
11/26-12/02 Film: Un conte de Noel @ Amherst Cinema, Amherst, MA (www.amherstcinema.com)
11/26 Club francophone @ noon, Senior Center, Storrs, CT (860-423-5463)
11/26 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Whole Foods, West Hartford, CT (www.french.meetup.com/624)
11/27-12/21 L'Orchestre de Contrebasses @ Connelly Theatre, NYC, NY (www.frenchculture.org)
11/28-12/14 New York African Diaspora Film Festival @ New York, NY (www.nyadff.org)
11/28-29 BSO: Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique @ Symphony Hall, Boston, MA (www.bso.org)
11/28-29 BSO: Messiaen: Trois Petites Litturgies @ Symphony Hall, Boston, MA (www.bso.org)
11/28-29 Concert: Jean-Michel Pilc @ 9 pm, Jazz Gallery, New York, NY (www.jmpilc.com)
11/29 Opera: Charpentier: Acteon @ 8 pm, Jordan Hall, NEC, Boston, MA (www.bemf.org)
11/29 Concert: Erica Brown @ Saco River Grange Hall, Bar Mills, ME (www.ericabrownonline.com)
11/29 Slippery Sneakers @ 8 pm, K of C Hall, Wakefield, MA (www.bostonzydeco.com)
11/29 Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust @ 12:30 pm, Met.Opera, NYC, NY (www.metopera.org)
11/29 Raz-de-Maree @ Contradance, Montpelier, VT (www.tidalwavemusic.com)
12/01-25 Gautier & Renaud Capucon @ Canada & United States (www.kajimotomusic.com)
12/01 Christine Capdeville @ 8 am, Today Show, NBC, NYC, NY (www.christinecapdeville.com)
12/02 Club francophone @ 9:30 am, Farmington, CT (203-238-3538)
12/02 RI Francophone League @ 6 pm, Alliance Francaise, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/03 Club francophone @ noon, Senior Center, Storrs, CT (860-423-5463)
11/23 Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust (HD) @ 7 pm, Met.Opera, NYC, NY (www.metopera.org)
12/03 Vernissage: Francois Chevalier @ 7 pm, Gershwin Hotel, NYC (www.gershwinhotel.com)
12/03 AFP: Chorale rehearsal @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/04 CineClub francophone @ 7 pm, Coolidge Cine, Brookline, MA (www.french.meetup.com/598)
12/04 Lucie Therrien @ FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
12/04 Charles Hobson: American Jazz in Paris @ MCNY, NYC, NY (www.mcny.org)
12/04 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Panera, Cranston, RI (www.french.meetup.com/785)
12/xx-xx Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ Bethel Cinema, Bethel, CT (www.bethelcinema.com)
12/xx-xx Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ Images, Williamstown, MA (www.imagescinema.org)
12/xx-xx Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ RRT, Concord, NH (www.redrivertheatres.org)
12/xx-xx Film: Un Secret @ Avon Cinema, Providence, RI (www.avoncinema.com)
12/xx-xx Film: Un Secret @ The Triplex, Great Barrington, MA (www.thetriplex.com)
12/xx-xx Film: Roman de gare @ The Roxy, Burlington, VT (www.merrilltheatres.com)
12/05-11 Film: Il y a longtemps que je t'aime @ Cape Cinema, Dennis, MA (www.capecinema.com)
12/05-07 Films of Nathaniel Dorsky @ HFA, Cambridge, MA (www.hcl.harvard.edu/hfa)
12/05 Atelier: Francophonies d'Outre Mer @ French Library, Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
12/05 La Rencontre @ 11 am, Fr.Am.Heritage Ctr, Lewiston, ME (www.francoamericanheritage.org)
12/05 AFP: Dejeuner @ 12:30 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/05 AFP: Cinema Vendredi @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/06 Fete chretienne de Saint Nicolas (Saint Nicholas Day) (www.joyeuse-fete.com)
12/06 AFH: Cafe et conversation @ 10:30am,CafeMozzicato,Htfd,CT(www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
12/06 AFNW: Cafe & Conversation @ 10 am, Library, Southbury, CT (www.afnwct.org)
12/06 AFNW: Dejeuner @ 11:30 am, Watertown, CT (www.afnwct.org)
12/06 AFNW: Josee Vachon @ 1 pm, Watertown, CT(www.josevachon.com)
12/06 Film: The Strange M. Victor @ 7 pm, HFA, Cambridge, MA (www.hcl.harvard.edu/hfa)
12/06 Film: La Marie du port @ 8 pm, HFA, Cambridge, MA (www.hcl.harvard.edu/hfa)
12/06 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Soiree de Samedi, chez Dover, NH (www.french.meetup.com/29)
12/06 Film: Chaos @ 8 pm, Thalia Theatre, New York, NY (www.nyadff.org)
12/06 Magnolia @ 8 pm, German Club, Pawtucket, RI (www.magnoliacajunband.homestead.com)
12/07 Film: Pattes blanches (White Paws) @ 3 pm, HFA, Cambridge, MA (www.hcl.harvard.edu/hfa)
12/07 Film: Wrestling Grounds @ 5 pm, AFA, New York, NY (www.anthologyfilmarchives.org)
12/07 AFP: Fete de Noel (pour enfants) @ 3 pm, Machado Hse, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/07 Fete de Noel avec Les Gais Chanteurs @ 5 pm, LeFoyer, Pawtucket, RI (www.lefoyer.org)
12/08 Fete musulmane du sacrifice (Id al-Adha)
12/08-1/08 Jules Massenet: Thais @ Met.Opera, New York, NY (www.metopera.org)
12/08 Film: Where Are You Going Moshe? @ 6:30 pm, AFA, NYC (www.anthologyfilmarchives.org)
12/08 AFN: Fete de Saint Nicolas @ Newport, RI
12/09 Club francophone @ 9:30 am, Farmington, CT (203-238-3538)
12/10 Club francophone @ noon, Senior Center, Storrs, CT (860-423-5463)
12/10 Club francophone @ 7 pm, West Hartford, CT (www.french.meetup.com/624)
12/10 AFP: Chorale rehearsal @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/11 AFH: Un Petit Extrait d'une piece de Moliere @ 6pm,Htfd,CT(www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
12/11 AFBC: L'Apero: rendez-vous @ 6 pm, French Library, Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
12/11 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Public Library, Chelmsford, MA (www.chelmsfordlibrary.org)
12/11 SCFSU: Fete de Saint Nicolas @ 6 pm, chez Waters, Saunderstown, RI (401-474-6434)
12/11 Club francophone @ 7 pm, Harris Library, Woonsocket, RI (www.french.meetup.com/599)
12/11 Concert: Angela Rossi @ 7 pm, Public Library, Chelmsford, MA (www.chelmsfordlibrary.org)
12/12-18 Film: Un Secret @ Catamount Cinema, St. Johnsbury, VT (www.catamount-arts.org)
12/12 AFM: Fete de Noel @ 6 pm, Franco-American Center, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
12/12 AFP: Cafe et Conversation @ 10 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/12 AFP: Cinema Vendredi @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/13 Exhibit: Dennis Gingras: St. Nicholas Collection @ FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.org)
12/13 Concert: Lucie Therrien @ 2 pm, Pleasant View auditorium, Concord, NH (www.luciet.com)
12/14 Tribute to Conrad Depot @ 2 pm, Blackstone R. Theatre, Cumberland, RI (www.riverfolk.org)
12/14 AFP: Un Noel en Provence @ 4 pm, Machado House, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/15 Club Richelieu de Fall River @ 6 pm, White's restaurant, Westport, MA (www.richelieu.org)
12/16 Club francophone @ 9:30 am, Farmington, CT (203-238-3538)
12/16 Cinema mardi: The Rocket @ 2 & 7 pm, FAC, Manchester, NH (www.facnh.com)
12/16 Matt Haimovitz @ 7 pm, Proshansky Hall, CUNY, NYC, NY (www.oxingale.com)
12/17 Club francophone @ noon, Senior Center, Storrs, CT (860-423-5463)
12/17 Club Richelieu de New Bedford @ 6 pm, WamsuttaClub, NewBedford,MA(www.richelieu.org)
12/17 AFP: Chorale rehearsal @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/18 AFG: Cine-Club @ 8 pm, Cole aud., Library, Greenwich, CT (www.afgreenwich.org)
12/18 AFBC: Cafe Philo @ 6:30 pm, Goethe Institute, Boston, MA (www.frenchlib.org)
12/19 AFP: Cafe et Conversation @ 10 am, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/19 AFP: Cinema Vendredi @ 7 pm, AFP, Providence, RI (www.frenchri.org)
12/20 AFH: Cafe et conversation @ 10:30am,CafeMozzicato,Htfd,CT(www.alliancefrancaisehtfd.org)
12/20 AFNW: Cafe & Conversation @ 10 am, Library, Southbury, CT (www.afnwct.org)
12/20 Club francophone @ 1:30 pm, It's Only Natural, Middletown, CT (203-907-7031)
12/20 Noel en la Francophonie, 1200-1500 @ FCC, Cambridge, MA (www.blueheron.org)
12/20 Jules Massenet: Thais (HD) @ 1 pm, Met.Opera, NYC, NY (www.metopera.org)
12/21-29 Fete juive des lumieres (Chanukkah)
12/21 Noel en la Francophonie, 1200-1500 @ Grace Church, Prov., RI (www.museumconcerts.org)
12/21 Jules Massenet: Thais (HD) @ 1 pm, Met.Opera, NYC, NY (www.metopera.org)
12/26-30 Film: Le Fils de l'epicier @ Catamount Cine., St. Johnsbury, VT (www.catamount-arts.org)
12/25 Fete chretienne de noel (Christmas) (www.joyeuse-fete.com)
12/27-28 Chris Norman Ensemble & Suzie LeBlanc @ Saranac, NY (www.hillandhollowmusic.com)
12/28 Fete musulmane de Muharrem (Al Hijra)
12/04 CineClub francophone @ 7 pm, Coolidge Cine, Brookline, MA (www.french.meetup.com/598)
12/31-1/03 Ashokan Winter Fiddle & Dance Music Camp @ Woodstock, NY (www.ashokan.org)
12/31-1/03 Red Stick Ramblers @ Ashokan Camp, Woodstock, NY (www.ashokan.org)
12/31 Fete de fin d'an (New Year's Eve) (www.joyeuse-fete.com)
12/31 River City Slim & Zydeco Hogs @ First Night, Weston, CT
12/31 Concert: Michele Choiniere @ First Night, Burlington, VT (www.michelechoiniere.com)
12/31 Concert: Beaudoin Legacy @ First Night, Burlington, VT (www.beaudoinlegacy.com)

Thanks, Benoit Shoja, for sharing it!
Bengal.

[PT] Depois de um ano de 2008 com mais de 35 concertos dados, dentro e fora de Portugal, e não tocando em Lisboa desde Julho deste ano, os Dazkarieh decidiram terminar a sua tournée na mítica Galeria Zé dos Bois.

Com novo disco na forja aproveitam também para apresentar sua nova formação, com bateria, e muitos dos temas que serão incluídos no seu 4º trabalho de estúdio que será lançado no início de 2009. O concerto acontecerá no dia 5 de Dezembro, 23h e os bilhetes custam 6€. Enquanto o disco não sai, pode ouvir-se já um tema (ainda em versão demo) no MySpace da banda.


[EN] After a very good 2008 so far with more than 35 concerts, Dazkarieh decided to finish their tour in the mythic ZDB in Lisbon.

With a new album coming out soon, they will be performing with their new drummer some of the new songs. The concert will take place on December 5th, at 11 P. M. Tickets are selling for 6€. While the new album isn't out yet, listen to one of the new songs (still in demo version) on the band’s MySpace.

The Philadelphia Ceili Group will continue the celebration of their 50th anniversary by presenting the very popular show "Irish Christmas in America" to be held December 9th at 8pm at the Commodore Barry Club, Carpenter Lane and Emlen Street in West Mount Airy, Philadelphia.

Marking its fourth consecutive year of holiday performances, Irish Christmas in America will grace the stage of the Irish Center of Philadelphia on December 9th at 8pm for a heartwarming and entertaining presentation of seasonal cultural traditions from the Emerald Isle. Produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada of the award-winning traditional group Téada, the cast also includes one of Ireland's leading female vocalists, Karen Casey formally of the Irish "super group" Solas and Téada's Sean McElwain and Tristan Rosenstock on guitar and bodhran respectively. Acclaimed harpist Gráinne Hambly and uilleann piper Tommy Martin, along with dancers Abbey Magill and Sienna Hickey, round out the ensemble, which also features evocative images and engaging narrative.

Mingling ancient traditions with the contemporary artistry of some of Ireland's finest performers, the enchanting show brings the spirit of Christmas on a distinctively Irish journey throughout America.

Further info on show here.
Tickets are $25 and $23 for Group members at the door on the night of the concert. Advance tickets are available at the Commodore Barry Club.

Commodore Barry Club: (215) 843-8051, (215) 248-0502.

For any Quetrad fan planning on visiting Ontario, two events coming up are been offered:

Saturday, November 22nd, 1-4 P.M.: a fiddle workshop with Claude Methe, to be held at Claude Church, Caledon, Ontario. (45 minutes NW of Toronto)

Friday, December 12th: house concert & Christmas party (includes a pot luck supper, Concert by Genticorum, followed by a trad music session). This is being held in a lovely log home in Shelburne, Ontario, in the
heart of wind farm country. (1.25 hrs NW of Toronto)

Anyone interested in the events can email Elizabeth for further details at wjeg at 3web.net

Hello, all!

During these past 3 years I've been discovering more and more curious instruments from other cultures or other origins in time. It's always exciting to discover a new quality of sound, a new rhythm, a new musical instrument. So... I decided to bring to you all a group of entries on these instruments. I'm not the one posting (I wish I was the expert on them all!) but an artist more involved and knowledgeable on the instrument will do it. I've been talking to a group of people and if you have suggestions or want to participate, please, send me an email. Just click the link "my complete profile" in the left of the website and you can find it.

Thanks for your visit and your patience with my absences from time to time...

Bengal.

WHAT: In support of their new album “Bluesy Lunedi” and to the delight of jazz connoisseurs everywhere, Alain Bédard, Canada’s Premier Jazz Artist and his Auguste Quintet will be performing live at Boston’s Beehive for two exclusive shows on Sunday, November 2, 2008 at 8:00PM, and on Monday, November 3, 2008 at 8:30pm. Alain Bédard is an inspiring Canadian bassist and composer and will be accompanied by the Auguste Quintet adding a touch of mischievous humor to contemporary acoustic jazz through rich, modern, soaring, dynamic compositions.
Auguste Quintet:

Frank Lozano (tenor & soprano saxophones, bass clarinet)
Jean-Christophe Béney (tenor saxophone)
Alexandre Grogg (piano)
Alain Bédard (double bass)
Pierre Tanguay (drums)


WHERE: The Beehive, 541 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116
P. 617.423.0069

WHEN: Sunday, November 2, 2008 8:00 PM
Monday, November 3, 2008 at 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM

INFO: No Cover charge, Cash Bar, Dinner Reservations recommended - Call: 617-423-0069.

About The Beehive:
The Beehive or La Ruche -- "the beehive" in French for which it is named – was an early 20th-century artists' colony in Paris where the likes of Matisse and Chagall worked and made merry. Today The Beehive is an underground Bohemian bistro featuring amazing cuisine, libations, artwork and live music nightly. Nestled below the Boston Center for the Art’s historic Cyclorama in Boston’s South End, The Beehive serves the eclectic fare of Chef Rebecca Newell with an emphasis on rustic comfort foods with American, European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. Open for dinner 5:30 pm to 1:00 am seven days a week, and with cocktails and live entertainment available nightly until 2:00 am; The Beehive is the perfect location for after-work cocktails, dinner, live music, events and more. Come to taste the cuisine, come to view the art, come to hear the music, or simply come to share in the merriment.

The Beehive is located at 541 Tremont Street in Boston, MA, 617-423-0069.
Dinner 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., bar to 2 a.m., entertainment nightly. Saturday and Sunday Brunch is now being served at The Beehive from 10:30 am until 3:00 pm, bar menu from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.

About Alain Bédard:

Born in the town of Beauport near Quebec City, self-taught bassist Alain Bédard began his musical career in the eighties. He has since accompanied various Quebec ensembles, including Effendi JazzLab, Lapon Balèze, Carole Therrien, Dadjé (Quebecois and Senegalese musicians) B.C.J.S Quartet, Ivan Simons Group, Gilles Bernard Repertory Orchestra, Michel Lambert, Greg Clayton, Guadeloupean Frank Souriant, Thuryn Von Pranke trio, Ogane Song and many others.

He has participated in a number of high-profile projects with several of these ensembles, including numerous appearances at virtually every international jazz festival in Canada, as well as many in France (JVC Jazz Festival in Paris, Nantes Jazz Festival, Jazz entre les deux Tours in la Rochelle, Nancy Jazz Festival, Vienne Jazz Festival), and Belgium (Ciney and Brussels Jazz Festivals). Outside the realm of jazz, he has appeared at the Festival de Musique Actuelle de Victoriaville and the Festival d'été de Québec. Touring France with the group Dadjé in 1987, he performed in such renowned Paris clubs as New Morning, Bataclan and Chapelle des Lombards.

The following year he appeared with the same group at the Iba Mar Diop Stadium and Club Kilimandjaro in Dakar, Senegal. He has accompanied internationally acclaimed Martinican dancer Josianne Antourel, most notably at the 1990 Marin Festival in Martinique (with Malian percussionist Yaya Dialo), as well as in sever- al shows across Canada. He toured Morocco in 1992 with singer Robert Robitaille and saxophonist Michel Côté. In 1994 he began studying classical double bass with Marc Denis at UQAM, becoming a mem- ber of the University's chamber music orchestra under the direction of violinist Martin Foster.

In 1994 he formed his own group, Auguste, performing numerous times across Quebec as well as abroad. The group appeared at the Vienne Jazz Festival in France in 1998, the Montreal International Jazz Festival in 1997, 2001 and 2005, and the Off Festival de Jazz in 2002 and 2004. Alain Bédard has played on more than twenty Radio-Canada and CBC recordings, and is a member as well as artistic director of the group Effendi JazzLab. Formed in 2002, this group has given over 50 concerts across Quebec, Canada, France and the USA.

Alain Bédard is the president and founder of the jazz label Effendi, established in 1999. As an accom- plished musician and sound technician, he has produced more than 45 jazz albums to date.

COMMUNIQUÉ - POUR DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE

Sortie en magasin du 3e album d’Alain Bédard Auguste Quintet intitulé « BLUESY LUNEDI »

Montréal, 22 septembre 2008 – Effendi Records est fière de vous annoncer la sortie du troisième album intitulé « Bluesy Lunedi» d’Alain Bédard, contrebassiste, président du label montréalais Effendi Records et leader de l’Auguste Quintet.

Disponible en magasin et sur le site Internet, www.effendirecords.com, dès le mardi 14 octobre 2008 (Distribution Fusion III).

Alain Bédard et son Auguste Quintet récidivent pour le plaisir des connaisseurs. Après un deuxième opus (Sphere Reflexion - FND069) fort réussi, les voilà à nouveau, en train de concocter un projet dont ils ont le secret. Avec humour et espièglerie, le quintet sillonne le jazz acoustique contemporain, avec des compositions riches, modernes, planantes, efficaces.

Échos dans la presse:

« … richesse des harmonies, la souplesse de la rythmique et la robustesse de l’ensemble : cet album est habité. »
Guillaume Bourgeault-Côté

« Ce disque est original, il est bon et il s’inscrit dans la mouvance du jazz contemporain mondial. »
Gilles Archambault, Québec Audio

Tournée promotionnelle Automne 2008:

17 et 18 octobre : Montréal - Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill
24 octobre : L’Assomption - la Boîte à Chansons
25 octobre : Sherbrooke - Théâtre Centennial
30 octobre : Jonquière - Côté-Cour
31 octobre : Baie-Comeau - Théâtre de Baie-Comeau
1er novembre : Québec - Palais Montcalm
2 et 3 novembre : Boston - Beehive
6 novembre : Trois-Rivières - salle Louis-Philippe Poisson
7 novembre : Bel-Œil - Diffusion de la Coulisse
14 novembre : Gatineau - Maison e la Culture de Gatineau
15 novembre : Edmonton - Yarbird Suite
16 novembre : Vancouver - The Cellar
18 novembre : Winnipeg - Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain
21 novembre : Calgary - Beat Niq
22 novembre : Toronto - The Rex Club

BLUESY LUNEDI (FND088)
Alain Bédard – contrebasse et compositions
Frank Lozano – saxophone ténor et soprano
Jean-Christophe Béney – saxophone ténor et soprano
Alexandre Grogg – piano
Pierre Tanguay – batterie

Source : Maurin Auxéméry / Effendi Records (514) 597-2345 /
promo at effendirecords.com
Relations de presse: Alain Labonté Communications (514) 523-9922
alain at alainlabonte.ca

******************************************

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alain Bédard - Auguste Quintet’s third album BLUESY LUNEDI, available in stores

Montréal, September 22nd, 2008 – Effendi Records is pleased to announce the release of Alain Bédard’s third album, “Bluesy Lunedi”. Double bassist Bédard is president of Montréal label Effendi Records and leader of Auguste Quintet.

This new CD will be available in stores and on the Effendi website, www.effendirecords.com, beginning Tuesday October 7th (Distribution Fusion III).

To the delight of jazz connoisseurs everywhere, Alain Bédard and his Auguste Quintet are at it again. Hot on the heels of their highly successful second opus (Sphere Reflexion - FND069), they’re now busy cooking up a new project, of which only they know the secret... The quintet adds a touch of mischievous humor to contemporary acoustic jazz through their rich, modern, soaring, dynamic compositions.

Reviews:

« … richesse des harmonies, la souplesse de la rythmique et la robustesse de l’ensemble : cet album est habité. »
Guillaume Bourgeault-Côté

« Ce disque est original, il est bon et il s’inscrit dans la mouvance du jazz contemporain mondial. »
Gilles Archambault, Québec Audio

Promotional tour Fall 2008:

October 17 & 18: Montréal - Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill
October 24: L’Assomption - la Boîte à Chansons
October 25: Sherbrooke - Théâtre Centennial
October 30: Jonquière - Côté-Cour
October 31: Baie-Comeau - Théâtre de Baie-Comeau
November 1st: Québec - Palais Montcalm
November 2 & 3: Boston - Beehive
November 6 novembre : Trois-Rivières - salle Louis-Philippe Poisson
November 7 novembre : Bel-Œil - Diffusion de la Coulisse
November 14: Gatineau - Maison e la Culture de Gatineau
November 15 : Edmonton - Yarbird Suite
November 16: Vancouver - The Cellar
November 18: Winnipeg - Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain
November 21: Calgary - Beat Niq
November 22: Toronto - The Rex Club

BLUESY LUNEDI (FND088)
Alain Bédard – double bass & compositions
Frank Lozano – ténor & soprano saxophones
Jean-Christophe Béney – tenor & soprano saxophones
Alexandre Grogg – piano
Pierre Tanguay – drums

Contact: Maurin Auxéméry / Effendi Records (514) 597-2345
promo at effendirecords.com
Press Relations: Alain Labonté Communications (514) 523-9922
alain at alainlabonte.ca

Nicolas Boulerice, one of the organizers of the festival.

Finally, I'll bring some tales about the 5th edition of Chants de Vielles festival - 2008. It was held last September 5th to 7th, in the Quebecois city of Calixa-Lavallée.

Just keep in mind this is my view of the fest and I didn't see all the shows - well, duh, nobody saw since there were 3 stages with multiple events going on simultaneously... But I missed shows of very talented artists that I won't be mentioning here. So, feel free to add any comments to this post, if you want to...

After enjoying a day in Montréal with François, we arrived in Calixa on Friday afternoon and had just a quick moment to prepare before starting our night at the fest, meeting old friends and new ones...

The first people I ran into were my beloved friends Sue and Liz... And the night started with an ensemble of artists as a preview of what was about to come the following days... They were all gathered together for a tribute to great Quebecois trad singer Jean-Paul Guimond. Everybody sang his famous tunes, great part a cappella, and Monsieur Guimond joined many himself.

I had the chance to walk around the festival site and visit with friends coming from USA and Canada. The organization of the event this year surprised me with their efficiency in distributing the spaces and adding more parking area. And in good time, because the audience grows bigger every year!

The two brothers Beaudry (from right).

Saturday started with the main reason for my visit to Chants de Vielles this year: Eric and Simon Beaudry. Their 2007 album Le Sort Des Amoureux is my favorite one for that year (in Quebecois Trad) and one of my favorites of all times. This is one album I do recommend to everyone! I lost the count how many times I've listened to it... It was really great to see them live playing my favorite tunes!

That same afternoon, we enjoyed ourselves with the sounds of Daniel Roy, Ruthie Dornfeld, Simon Riopel, Jean-François Bélanger and many others. For me listening to the music from France, Québec and Scandinavia with Paul Marchand (guitar) and Laurie Hart (nyckelharpa, vielle à roue, fiddle) was refreshing. I was fully conquered by the ingenuity of the nyckelharpa! Maybe an instrument to think about in the future?

The brothers Brunet.

One of the most surprising performances of that Saturday though was André and Réjean Brunet's... Their show was simply ecstatic! I can't find a better word to describe the exaltation on everyone's faces in the audience... (Well, I was actually going to use another word, but I think I would make Réjean blush) They were electric and exhilarating, and it was impossible to stay still with those two on stage...

Later on, another surprise: for one of the main night shows, Claire Pelletier performed with Pierre Duchesne on the keyboards. Claire is getting famous through out Québec, playing electronic music. Many people were excited with her presence at Chants. I confess I'm not a big fan of electronic music and I never heard her before that day. I asked Nicolas Boulerice (one of the organizers of the festival) what was the intention bringing Claire Pelletier to a Quebecois Trad fest. He told me they were looking for exotic mixes and having Claire playing Quebecois Trad would be really interesting. Well, I actually agree although I didn't see that happening... Nicolas played one song with them on his vielle à roue, and then it was all electronic music. Although, I really enjoyed one song in Spanish on voice and flute. Claire has a beautiful voice indeed... Still, not my style and I thought the show was out of place. But that's just me... the audience apparently enjoyed, since they had full house!

After socializing around a bit and enjoying the variety of beers and the catered food, we were back to the night shows, but this time it involved more from the audience: the Quebecois traditional dances, under the guidance of the musicians Olivier Demers, André and Réjean Brunet, and caller Jean-François Berthiaume. I had a great time enjoying the show although I didn't dance. It was really exciting to see the chemistry between the fiddlers on stage... For moments, it seemed they would even forget they were playing with an audience... the interaction and stage jokes among them would be a show apart. They were there having fun and enjoying to play just for playing, and I really like to see this side of the artists.

In between shows through out the day, it's common to see many of the artists that are in the audience, filling all the spaces of the festival site with folk music. All sorts of instruments and influences gather together and exchange tunes, tips, experience and friendship, creating a family-friend environment for all ages. This is the usual spirit of these festivals on Quebecois Trad. The artists scheduled to be on stage, also join the crowd from time to time, making themselves very accessible to friends and fans.

Despite all full Saturday immersed in music, Sunday everybody is back for more! This time, we started with the accordion battle with Jeremiah McLane, Daniel Thonon, Réjean Brunet and Jan Le Clair. Each one took the time to explain their model of the instrument (piano accordion, chromatic, diatonic, etc) showing their structure and sound. Then, the artist would play a group of trad tunes proper for that particular kind of accordion. It was really educational, giving a clearer view of the instrument limitations and advantages in comparison with each other.

Of course, being François a guitar player, our next step was the Rencontre de plectromanes with Paul Marchand, Éric Beaudry, Jean-Philipe Reny, Daniel Roy and Michael Ayles.

We were lucky that the shows in another stage were delayed because we could enjoy once again the brothers Brunet! This time playing for another dance session with caller Jean-François Berthiaume. It's very difficult to choose when you have shows happening at the same time...

The final moments of the festival happened in the same sequence of previous years: a walk between the fest site till Calixa-Lavallée's church - Église Sainte-Théodosie, a pause for the official photo of the event - including the artists and the audience - and then, the last concerts of Chants de Vielles, inside the church. This year, the artists performing were: Laurie Hart and Paul Marchand, Jean-François Bélanger and Yann Falquet and The Swamp Ward Orchestra. I actually just saw the first two shows due to other appointment previously scheduled.

Other extra highlights (there are so many, I couldn't possibly write them all) that only added to the fun:

1) Quebecois artist Bernard Simard came to the festival as audience member. I was disappointed for not having him playing in one of the shows, but it was nice to talk to him about his new projects. Simard is the talent that recorded my favorite album (Quebecois Trad) of 2006 and one of my fav of all times: Spectacle Solo.

2) The person responsible for making sure every artist will be in the right stage at the right time of their concert, confused François for Ben Grossman. It was fun to watch her trying to convince François to go to the stage and play "his" vielle à roue. When he realized the confusion but also pictured himself sharing the stage with the talents we were enjoying so much, it was his time to convince her he was indeed Grossman but he was thinking about doing something different and show his skills on the guitar. The whole scene was... priceless! :)

I had a great time at Chants de Vielles this year. Bought many new albums (great majority with at least one of the Brunet brothers on them), visited with dear friends - although we could all use more time together, saw many of my favorite talents on stage and learned a bit more of this culture and art that conquered me years ago...

Bengal.
[photos by François]

Just a quick note about RadioTrad website: everybody already noticed that the site is down. They actually didn't renew the contract and the domain will be changed. The new website is not in the air yet but soon will be, also under the command of a new webmaster. Keep an eye open and check the new domain from time to time: RadioTrad.ca.

Meanwhile, check them out at this link. These are older files but you still can check for lots of info.

Bonjour!

After a number of e-mails confirming if I was still performing in Putnam, CT, this Saturday…YES, change of plans and I WILL be performing at French Day and all the activities in the park on Saturday, Oct. 25 at 3pm. Thank you to all for keeping me on the road! J Also, I'm finishing up recording a few new songs and my new CD, Collection Vol. II, will be out by December!

A bientot!

Josée Vachon



Other upcoming dates:

Nov. 5, 2008 - Potsdam, NY & Malone, NY (high schools & middle schools)
Nov. 6, 2008 - Beekmantown, NY (high schools & middle schools)
Nov. 7, 2008 - Biddeford, ME (Middle School)
Nov. 10, 2008 - Caribou, ME (schools at Perf. Arts Ctr & Presque Isle)and ME (schools)
Nov. 17, 2008 - Summit, NJ (area schools)
Nov. 21, 2008 - Verona, NJ (schools)
Nov. 26, 2008 - Kutztown, PA (Middle School, career day)

*OPEN TO THE PUBLIC:*

Oct. 25, 2008 - Putnam, CT, Fall Craft Fair & French-Canadian Festival, Rotary Park, 3pm (activities all day 10am -5:30pm)

Nov. 7, 2008 - Biddeford, ME - Middle School, 7pm, Info: (207) 282-6400, ext. 1004

Nov.9, 2008 - Fort Kent, ME - Univ. of ME, 2pm, Fox Auditorium in Cyr Hall, Info: (207) 834-7800

Nov. 17, 2008 - Madison, NJ – Drew University, 7:30pm, location TBD

Dec. 6, 2008 - Watertown, CT, Alliance Francaise holiday gathering, 11:30 lunch & 1pm
concert, Info: afnwct@snet.net

Jan. 9, 2009 - Kutztown, PA - Folk Music Society, St. John's UCC, 8pm, Info: 610-683-8720

Jan. 16, 2009 - Nashua, NH - St. Louis de Gonzague parish hall, Info: (603) 882-4362 ext 208

Where? Banquet Hall, Le Foyer, 151 Fountain St, Pawtucket, RI, 02860
When? Wednesday, Oct 29. 2008, 7 PM - 10 PM

FREE!

You can bring to life the music played in the homes of the French Canadian by participating in a fiddle jam led by Colette Fournier playing tunes of the Quebecois Traditions. Learn some new tunes as well as sharing your own. Musicians playing traditional tunes with harmonica, accordion, spoons, banjo, piano are all welcome. For young and old, all levels of experience are invited.

Come early and enjoy Wednesday Pasta Night at Le Foyer, 4 PM - 9 PM

For more information, feel free to call Colette Fournier (401-826-0093) or Roger Bonin (401-728-8328)



Roger Bonin
Le Foyer, President
2 Foxx Dr
Lincoln, RI 02865
401-728-8328

Check their website and take a look on their recipes... ;) Bengal.

Événement:

24-25-26 octobre 2008
Centre culturel de la Cité des Jeunes
Vaudreuil-Dorion (Québec),
tél.: (514) 252-3022
Link.

Renouez avec nos traditions! Venez apprécier la musique, les chants, les légendes et les danses traditionnelles. Au programme: compétition folklorique, atelier, soirées de danse et spectacles.

Association Québécoise des Loisirs Folkloriques

That's right: Quebecois talent Benoit Bourque is the new member of the famous trad band La Bottine Souriante! The news will be officially announced soon, but I couldn't wait to share my excitement with you all!

Bourque will be sharing his talents on vocals, accordion, guigue, bones, etc, as a full time member of the group, while current member Pierre-Luc Dupuis moves on to new endenvours, not yet disclosed.

The last performance of Pierre-Luc with La Bottine Souriante will take place this Saturday at the Old Port in Montreal (QB) with Bourque's participation on bones and guigue.

Great success on the new projects to all parties involved!

Bengal.

The 2008 Music City Masquerade has a decidedly Northern flavor, as we feature the dynamic Quebecois band, Tidal Wave (in French, Raz-de-Maree), fast becoming one of the premiere contra dance bands in North America.

Benoit Bourque, also from Quebec, will be on staff to teach step-dancing and Quebecois social dances. Benoit is known throughout the world for his infectious charm and delightful teaching.

From a bit farther south (Boston, MA) Sue Rosen will treat us to her fun mix of contra dances, including some of her own devising, and she’ll offer an insightful workshop on contra choreography, sharing with us the ingredients for a great dance and how to put them together.

Nashville is home to so many great bands and callers. Among those, on staff this year will be caller Susan Kevra, fiddler David Coe and guitarist Owen Morrison.

In addition to all the great dancing, don’t miss out on music and singing workshops. All the fun happens at the Cohn Adult Learning Center in Nashville. Dance in our spectacularly decorated hall on an exceptional hard wood floor with one of the friendliest dance groups in the country.

More information, here.

Thurs., Oct 30, 8 PM
The Quebecois Roots Band, Raz-de-marée (Tidal Wave) with guest stepdancer, Benoit Bourque to perform at Vanderbilt at the Alumni Hall Ballroom on Thurs, Oct 30, 2008 at 8 PM.

Raz-de-Maree - a quartet of four dynamic musicians from Quebec - brings to the stage a celebration of traditional Québécois music with effervescent step dancing, songs, stories and instrumentals on fiddle, accordion, mandolin, bass, and percussion. They will be joined by stepdancer, singer and musician, Benoit Bourque, who performed with Le Vent du Nord at Vanderbilt in 2006.

Admission is free and open to the public. Songs will be in French, but the concert will be in English. In addition to hearing great Quebecois music and seeing spectacular step dancing by Benoit Bourque, audience members will also have an opportunity to do some simple Quebecois dances.

For more information, contact the Department of French and Italian: 322-6900 or Professor Susan Kevra (susan.kevra at vanderbilt.edu).