Possum stole the pumpkin: finding voice in Cajun music in Australia

摘要

This research project explores how I have found a musical voice in Cajun music and have created styles of fiddle –playing and composition which reflect an Australian experience. The exegesis details the historical and cultural backgrounds of Cajun music and discusses questions of authenticity, the nature of tradition and problems associated with performance of the style in Australia. The work discusses my own search for a personal identity in the Australian music scene and presents original music for fiddle and percussion. I have included transcriptions and analysis of the tunes which describe technical aspects of the music and a commentary which illuminates the underlying sense of meaning in the music. I have used several methodologies including autoethnography, professional practice-based research, and ethnomusicology. These approaches have enabled me 1) to situate my own personal journey as an artist in broader social and historical contexts; 2) to reflect on thirty years of professional music –making ; 3) to present knowledge of Cajun music as played in Louisiana; and 4) to offer insights into my sources of inspiration, both musical and extra-musical. A field trip to Southwest Louisiana in July 2005 where I received lessons and shared tunes with many leading Cajun musicians has also informed and inspired the project. In effect, this research project explores how music and culture from other times and places can be re-interpreted in a contemporary Australian setting.