John Arcand
John Arcand | |
|---|---|
| Born | Jean-Baptiste Arcand July 19, 1942 Debden, Saskatchewan, Canada |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Awards | Order of Canada, Molson Prize |
| Website | http://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.