Fingers and bow flying, Dennis Stroughmatt takes listeners on a musical odyssey! This is the story of the French Creoles who founded the Illinois-Missouri Country near the Ozark foothills, more than 300 years ago. Their songs, stories, and language remain largely intact and true to the traditions that have been passed down for generations. Dennis’ three-piece ensemble, L'Esprit Creole, plays music that bridges the gap between contemporary Canadian and Louisiana Cajun styles.

This performance will span the history of the French in The Illinois Country from the early 1700s through the present, via ballads, fiddle tunes, and humorous stories passed down through the ages.

Originally from southeastern Illinois, Dennis Stroughmatt was taught to play fiddle by Missouri Creole fiddlers Roy Boyer and Charlie Pashia in the tradition of their fathers. He became an adopted son of the French Midwest Creoles who settled near St. Louis, playing at weekly house parties or "bouillons." As a result of physical journeys that also included French studies in Louisiana and Quebec, Dennis finds himself in a unique position as one who can speak knowledgeably and play in a variety of French styles. He has an innate sense of what is needed to get an audience on their feet, and keep a band on its toes. Dennis Stroughmatt et l'Esprit Creole are passionate ambassadors of Creole music and traditions, expanding interest and excitement in a region that has been long ignored by the history books. As they say in the hills, "On est toujours icitte: We are still here!"

This concert is sponsored by the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation at the DeKalb County Community Foundation.

This concert is free and open to all ages. No registration is required.

For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.