Dennis Stroughmatt et L'Esprit Creole are the keepers of the flame for traditional music that has been part of the French Midwest for about 300 years. This band plays French Creole fiddle tunes and ballads from old "Upper Louisiana" -- the current states of Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. Though widely known for his interests in Creole and Cajun music from the state of Louisiana, Dennis first learned to play fiddle in Old Mines, a French-speaking community in southeastern Missouri. In Old Mines, Dennis learned to play fiddle tunes from Roy Boyer and Charlie Pasha, and he absorbed the many songs and stories at weekend "bouillon" parties. The songs from Upper Louisiana share some similarities with French music from other parts of North America including Quebecois and Cajun styles. In addition, you might hear strains of a Celtic song, a reel, or an old-time string band tune. The L'Esprit trio is well-versed in Cajun and Creole music traditions, so expect to hear a sprinkling of traditional music from "lower Louisiana" as well. The band will include Dennis Stroughmatt on fiddle, Rob Krumm on guitar, and Randy Cordle on the upright bass.
Dennis Stroughmatt et L'Esprit Creole will be performing at the KICKOFF-PARTY
Thursday November 3
5-7 pm in the Lobby
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Free! No wristband required