John Arcand

John Arcand
Born
Jean-Baptiste Arcand

(1942-07-19) July 19, 1942
OccupationMusician
AwardsOrder of Canada, Molson Prize
Websitehttp://www.johnarcand.com/

Jean Baptiste "John" Arcand, CM (born July 19, 1942, in Jackson Lake, Saskatchewan) is a Canadian fiddler, composer, teacher, and luthier. Arcand has been composing and performing since childhood, having learned the traditional Métis tunes from his father Victor and his grandfather Jean-Baptiste. John Arcand has said, "I knew from childhood I would be a fiddler." "I love the constant challenge because you cannot ever master the fiddle." He is known for the impeccable sense of timing in his music, a skill that is necessary when guiding dancers.

Arcand has been recognized by the Métis community for ensuring that this important tradition survives. Along with a busy performing schedule, John Arcand is active as a guest artist and judge at fiddle contests, is in demand as an instructor at many fiddle camps and with private students, and is also a fiddlemaker and fiddle repairman.