We are a talented group of instrumentalists playing the traditional dance music of central France on unusual instruments, including the hurdy gurdy, button accordion, and French bagpipe, as well as the more familiar piano accordion, fiddle, pennywhistle and guitar.
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This is delightful folk music from the villages in the center of France, and French villagers have danced to it for hundreds of years. You'll also probably hear some Parisian musette music, which some of us play.
We are a "session", which is not the same thing as a performing band. We don't know in advance what tunes we will play, and we don't rehearse together. Instead, we rely on our musicianship and knowledge of the genre to choose and play tunes on the fly. It's spontaneous, relaxed and participatory. (Talk to Mitch if you play an appropriate instrument and want to participate).
We'll be playing at Coffee Catz, 6-8 PM, on the SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH. Please try their wonderful sandwiches, soups, salads, deserts, smoothies, and interesting coffee drinks while you listen to music you likely won't find elsewhere!
Here is a video of the monthly SF French Session, including Mitch and Roz who run the Sonoma County session.
Here are two videos of a few of Les Sessionaires and friends playing French trad at a street fair in Palo Alto.
Watch this site for more photos, videos and links soon!
contact Mitch at mitchgord@aol.com