The Traditional Music Ensemble was established in Spring 2011 under the direction of Dr. Mark DeWitt and Mr. Wilson Savoy. In this first version of the ensemble, students are learning standard Cajun and Creole dance tunes by ear in a sort of structured jam session, sitting in a circle. Singing, especially in French, is also encouraged.

Usual instrumentation includes accordion, fiddle, acoustic guitar, and upright bass, but already we have had students play instruments less frequently heard in Louisiana French music, such as the piano and the clarinet. Guitarists who can play lead are also welcome and will need a small amp to be heard. So whatever you play, come and audition for us the first week of class and show us what you got!

Public ensemble performances the first semester included a reception in the lobby of Angelle Hall and the closing gala for the Festival of the Arts, held in Dupré Library. Planned performances for Fall 2011 include leading a jam session at Festivals Acadiens et Créoles in October and an appearance at Medicine Show, an annual fundraising event for programs of the Dr. Tommy Comeaux Endowed Chair in Traditional Music.

"Traditional Music Ensemble" is ultimately a flexible concept with the potential to take many forms, depending on student interest, initiative, and instructor availability. Already there is some interest in forming a bluegrass ensemble, and other genres are not out of the question. For further questions about traditional music ensembles, please contact Dr. DeWitt at (337) 482-1020 or dewitt [AT] louisiana.edu

Accordionist/instructor Wilson Savoy leads the ensemble during its final meeting of the semester outside of Angelle Hall. Ordinarily the ensemble meets in a classroom but it was a nice day! Wilson is also an expert fiddler and pianist. April 2011.

The Traditional Music Ensemble performs with steel guitarist Sonny Landreth at chair dedication reception in Angelle Hall lobby. March 2011.

Ensemble students Joe Vidrine, Megan Brown, and Forest Huval jam with artists in residence BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet outside of the BeauSoleil Louisiana Solar Home next to Fletcher Hall. March 2011.