The fiddle has figured prominently in the lifestyle of the
Métis people for hundreds of years. It is the main
instrument used in the Métis jigs.
The famous 'Red River Jig' has become the centrepiece of Métis
music. Since this European instrument was exceedingly expensive
in early Canada, especially for the grassroots Métis
communities, many craftsmen learned how to make their own.
Today, the fiddle is still used in celebrations and is a symbol
of our early beginnings and the joyful spirit in which we
lived and grew. Communities hold fiddle and jigging contests
and give the instrument as a symbolic gesture of nationhood
and pride.
Want
to know about the Métis Fiddle? Best to hear the stories
from a Métis Fiddler
- they have some gems. Meet Emile
Lemeux (below) from the Sudbury area.
Emile Lemeux
"Proud to be Métis"
[hi]
[lo]
"Getting Started"
[hi]
[lo]
"My Instruments"
[hi]
[lo]
"Playing a Tune"
[hi]
[lo]
On November 16th each year, the Métis Nation
hosts commemorative ceremonies at locations throughout Ontario
and western Canada to honour Riel's contributions to Canada
and to his people, the Métis. >>
The fiddle has figured prominently in the lifestyle of the
Métis people for hundreds of years. It is the main
instrument used in the Métis jigs. 
Emile Lemeux
