Singing for French dancing

There is a huge overlap between songs and dances in the French tradition; many songs have a dance rhythm, and many dance tunes have words ranging from a simple refrain to a lengthy narrative. In some regions, such as the Massif Central, sung dances or ‘bal a la voix’, are a popular form of music. This workshop will teach some French songs written as dance tunes, at the speed and in the rhythm needed for dancing, with optional harmonies. The rhythm of sung French can be different from the spoken language, and this will be discussed. There may be an opportunity to play tunes learned at a bal later in the weekend – [with participants form the French tunes workshop]. Some knowledge of French helpful (translations given), words and dots provided.