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Artist in Performance of the Northeastern Arts Network at Frazer

Dennis Stroughmatt et l'Esprit Creole performed in Frazer, Nov. 6 as the Artist in Performance of the Northeastern Arts Network Big Sky Series. Bringing the history of the Creole people of Illinois and Missouri to Montana, the band performed a medley of music, language and culture to K-12 students and faculty. Bob Knebel (l) of Bozeman, played the upright base for the group as well as served as the driver and tour guide during their stint in Montana. Stroughmatt (c) of Albion, Ill., played the fiddle and shared stories of the power of language and music, and enlightened audience members on the differences between Creole and Cajun cultures. Doug Hawf (r) of Allendale, Ill., played guitar and also shared some of the Creole history in the region originally included in the Louisiana Purchase.

Students responded enthusiastically during the performance, clapping and bobbing along to the beat. "The students had a hard time staying still," said Stroughmatt. "Some were absolutely moved by the music." Stroughmatt, of French Creole and Native ancestry himself, added, "It was important for us to bring some of this history, especially with this audience. Some of it may be evident to us, but maybe we brought something new for them."

The Big Sky Series is made possible in part by the Montana Performing Arts Consortium Presenter Development Program which is supported by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, Montana Arts Council, and a legislative grant from Montana's Cultural Trust.

 

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