Traditional Ensemble

Balfolk: Qu’est ce que c’est?

This class will serve as both an introduction to bal folk repertoire, for those new to the genre, and as repertoire building class for those who have some experience. The beauty of balfolk repertoire is that the tunes are initially more accessible than many other genres, thus easier to learn and remember; but for those seeking a challenge, fear not: there will be plenty of opportunity for that! This course will include a visit from guest instructor Eric Boodman. 

Balfolk is a form of social folk dancing popular in northern and western Europe (becoming more well known in the US and Canada), and has its roots in the early 1900s ‘Bals Musette’ of Paris and further back, the country and court dances of Central France as well as the Fest-Noz tradition of Brittany, in the Northwest corner of France. Balfolk is not precisely a style of music but rather an umbrella term for the tunes that get played during a typical dance. From central and southern France the dances include: 3 count & 2 count bourrée, scottishe, 3/4 & 5/4 waltz, polka, rigaudon and mazurka. From Brittany the dances include: gavotte, plinn, andro, hanter-dro, laridés, rond, and kost ar c’hoat.

Open to all instruments.

Prerequisite: Intermediate or above; ability to play by ear.