DESCRIPTION:
"Galope doux bedon", performed by Genticorum (www.genticorum.com) at the Institute of Musical Traditions (www.imtfolk.org), Takoma Park, Maryland, USA on January 8, 2014.

Leaders of a new generation of Quebec traditional music groups, the three members of Genticorum bring an irrepressible joie de vivre to the hallmarks of the Quebec repertoire: non-stop dance rhythms, hearty call-and-response singing, traditional-style foot percussion, and intense and impassioned playing that leaves audiences in a frenzy. The band also performs original compositions so true to tradition that it's difficult to tell the difference between the old and the new.

The huge sound emanating from this trio features intricate fiddle and flute melodies, backed by guitar and electric bass and rich resonant vocals that blend in stirring three-part harmonies and a humorous stage show that ties the music and the audience together.

The band was founded by musicians with an unparalleled passion for their musical heritage. Both Pascal Gemme and Alexandre de Grosbois-Garand were literally raised on traditional music. Alex grew up in the midst of living room jam sessions hosted by his father, traditional musician and Quebec culture promoter Gilles Garand. Pascal spent his childhood summers in Huntingdon, Quebec, where his grandfather was the village fiddler. Yann Falquet grew up playing guitar in rock bands but soon discovered traditional music and is now is an in-demand rhythm player.

Sound: Art Isaacs, Dave Eisner, Dave Richardson

Camera: Laura Christoplos, Tim Twomey, Ralph Lillie

Editing: Ralph Lillie

© 2014, Institute of Musical Traditions