Lake Charles Community Band - Suite Louisiane Movement 5 by James Syler

Suite Louisiane by James Syler
Suite Louisiane was commissioned by a consortium of colleges and universities from the Louisiana Chapter of the College Band Directors National Association for the 2019 Louisiana Intercollegiate Honor Band.
Louisiana is uniquely rich in vernacular music. The goal for this work has been to display that richness in a symphonic suite that entertains as well as educates. James Syler selected five songs which each have unique histories and rich musical characteristics that he was able to amplify and expand upon. This afternoon we will be performing 2 of these songs:
I. Isabeau S’y Promene- In this setting, the indigenous people of Louisiana are represented by a descending pentatonic chant on the solo trombone accompanied by drums and bells and the Acadian people by a French-Canadian folk song. Both musics come together in this setting to represent the collision of cultures so characteristic in all American Music. Isabeau S’y Promene (Isabel was a walking) is an old French ballad believed to have originated in Normandy. The tragic text is about a young girl and her love who does not return after searching for her lost ring.
IV. Eunice Two Step- Popularized by a 1929 recording by Afro-Creole accordionist Amede Ardoin and fiddler Dennis McGee, this classic has become a favorite among Cajun accordionists. This setting accentuated
the reedy accordion sound and two-step groove by the way of the percussion. Ardoin’s influence on Cajun music and accordionists cannot be overstated and this energetic setting is a small homage to his tragic death and lasting influence. Local Grammy nominated musician, Sean Ardoin, is continuing in his ancestors’ footsteps.