My French-Canadian grandparents marked their 65th wedding anniversary this summer. In celebration, today’s post will focus on French-Canadian folklore songs, that is a musical style commonly referred to as “chansons à répondre” (response songs) or “rigodons.” Grab a set of spoons.
Céline Dion and her 126 siblings cover a medley of rigodons in celebration of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Québec City. In typical Canadian fashion, let’s ignore the blatant colonialistic implications and sing along to Joe Monferrand, La bastringue, Jack Monoloy, Nos vielles maisons, Le bal chez Joe Brulé, and À la claire fontaine.
During the 1970s-80s and aired before the national telecast of the NHL game, la Soirée Canadienne (the Canadian evening) would travel within Québec and feature local residents and their traditional songs.
Aside from songs, traditional dance and key instruments also contribute to French-Canadian culture. As someone who attended Francophone schools, French language education played a crucial role in developing a sense of belonging within one’s community. This often took the form of community dances and an appreciation for bruising your hands while making music with vos cuillères (spoons).
Dance Moms, Québec style.
There can’t be a discussion of folklore songs without involving le temps des fêtes (holidays). Our Christmas eve is called “le Réveillon,” and my childhood celebrations consisted of my father playing the accordion (don’t ask!) while we all sang traditional songs normally led by my grand-maman (don’t ask!).
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