French Canadian Musicians
Hold Big Audience Enthralled

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French-Canadian music continues to be alive and well in Vermont, thanks to the continued sponsorship of traditional music by Chandler Music Hall in Randolph.

Last Saturday was the second time in two years that Chandler has been visited by the intoxicating blend provided by LeVent Du Nord, a five-player group from the Montreal area, and a crowd of 40 or so filled Chandler with roars of delight.

Even before the main evening event, a couple of dozen enthusiasts paid $40 each for workshops in fiddling with Olivier Demers and step-dancing with Benoit Bourque, followed by a short contra-dance.

Le Vent Du Nord, like many of the French-Candadian groups weaves its magic as much by vocal splendor as by its instrumentals, though fiddler Demers is unsurpassed. When all four members sing together, usually in unison, usually in the "call and response" style, the sound is riveting and resonates for hours afterwards. Chandler Music Hall's fabled acoustics provides a perfect space for this music.

Le Vent du Nord does have one thing that nobody else has—the group's leader, Nicholas Boulerice, plays as his main instrument the Hurdy-gurdy, a stringed instrument sounded by turning a wheel which activates a drone and a melody string. Boulerice is a bit of a musical genius, showing off on the accordion and piano as well, and taking many of the vocals.

It was a great night in the Music Hall and made one hungry for the 15th annual New World Festival, coming to Randolph Sept. 2. This day-long extravaganza of Celtic and French Canadian music is one of the best U.S. showcases of traditional music from north of the border. For more information, go to Newworldfestival.com.

—Dick Drysdale