Shaking Out the Good Stuff: Christopher Stafford Memorial Cajun French Lyric Workshop

If you think might be interested in learning the rich tradition of singing Cajun music, then there is an event tonight that you may want to consider attending.

An immersive workshop is being put on tonight by the Christopher Stafford Memorial Foundation, led by the talented Jamie Lynn Fontenot and Blake Miller. It will be held at the Center for Louisiana Studies located at 1204 Johnston St. in Lafayette.

The Cajun French Lyric Workshop series is open to students of all skill levels, providing them with the tools to sing up to eight traditional Cajun songs.

The best part is there is no cost and no experience required. This will be Week 2 of the four-week series. However, you can sign up for as many classes as you'd like.

Each week, you will dive into a world of Cajun two-steps and waltzes, gaining a deeper understanding of the music and culture. Two new songs are taught each week. You will also explore direct English translations to help strengthen your French vocabulary.

Material is provided in advance so if you're interested in registering for tonight's workshop, do so as soon as possible.

By registering and providing your email, you'll receive song materials in advance, allowing for optional preparation. Register now at the Stafford Foundation website.

All participants 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult and included in their registration form.

Drop-ins will be welcomed only if space allows.

About the late Christopher Stafford

Christopher Forest Stafford passed away on May 2, 2024, at the early age of 36, removing one of the brightest stars from Louisiana’s musical constellation.

A one-of-a-kind multi-instrumentalist hailed from an early age as one of the region’s most talented musicians, he was revered for his mastery of traditional instruments and styles, as well as his ability to innovate and reinvent his musical heritage from within.

The Christopher Stafford Memorial Fund was created to carry on Chris’ legacy.