This Monday, I would like to point your attention to this Yann Dour video from 2007. Aside from the precision in the playing and coolness of the tune (Scottish à André, according to one of the commenters), I always marvel at the power of a musician who can drive a room full of dancers like this. I know it’s not unheard of, but as someone who plays for dancers, I still find it impressive.
Category: Yann Dour
Hanter Dro
Another Breton tune, learned from clarinetist Steve Gruverman (tune finder extraordinaire). The hanter dro is that rare thing, an intimate line dance. Moving to the 3/2 meter, the dancers snake around the floor, spiraling, encircling, ensorceling the musicians. I try to embody the apparent Breton motto — “repetition is the soul of wit” — by matching an entrancing melody with a sweet, innocent harmony. Against current practice, I am a big fan of 3rds in my chords.
The Theme of the Month over on Melodeon.net is Tunes from Brittany and I urge anyone who enjoys that sort of thing to head over for a listen. The tunes and videos being posted are wonderful. Also, Andy of Vermont recently posted a Yann Dour tune played on his 3-row Castagnari Jacky. Check it out.
