In a city famous for its jazz, New Orleans may not be at the top of the list for places to hear traditional Cajun music. Yet, nestled among the stately homes of uptown New Orleans, a unique musical tradition thrives on a front porch, bringing the sounds of South Louisiana to the Crescent City.
Cajun music goes uptown
Every month, the porch of L’Union Francaise on Prytania Street transforms into a stage for a Cajun jam session. Founded in 1872, L’Union Francaise originally aimed to teach English to French immigrants. “We were teaching French immigrants English, which is now the opposite of what we’re doing,” explains Joe Mistrot, the organization’s president. “We’re teaching English-speaking folks French.”
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“We see people come out,” Mistrot says, ” who know good music and it gets them interested in learning more about Cajun culture.” This monthly gathering, initiated by James DeRoussel, has become a staple for both seasoned musicians and curious locals. DeRoussel, who grew up in southwest Louisiana, moved to New Orleans and found a lack of Cajun music. “I thought, well, I need to fix that,” he says, leading to the formation of these jam sessions with the support of L’Union Francaise.
Playing cajun on the cello
The jams bring together nearly two dozen musicians, playing an assortment of acoustic instruments including the fiddle, guitar, accordion, string bass, and even a cello. Natalie Naquin, a former classical cellist, says, “This is part of my healing journey as a burnt-out classical musician. It’s good music and it’s communal music.”
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a community affair
The New Orleans Cajun jam is more than just music, it’s a community affair. Mistrot explains, “You don’t have to be a member of L’Union Francaise. We just want the community to be a part of our community here and grow it.” Over a couple of hours, neighbors stroll over, set up chairs on the lawn, and enjoy the lively sounds of Cajun waltzes and two-steps.
a mix of beginner and pro
The event welcomes all skill levels, from professional musicians to amateurs. Michelle Landry, who plays the accordion and sings, has Cajun roots. “I was able to find my people,” she says.
Through music, L’Union Francaise continues to keep alive the language and culture that are integral to Louisiana’s identity.
attending the cajun jam
The monthly jam sessions are held at L’Union Francaise, located at 4522 Prytania Street, New Orleans, LA. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming events. Email: social@lunionfrancaise.org. Phone (504) 899-4477.
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