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Folk Instruments
Louisiana
has produced a wide variety of traditional music styles reflective
of its cultural diversity. Original to the state are Cajun music,
black Creole zydeco, and of course, traditional jazz. In addition,
Louisiana is recognized for its gospel, blues, old-time country,
and rockabilly music. Louisiana folk instruments show a range
as broad as the styles played. They go from the most basic mouth
box, cigar box fiddle, and vest washboard to fiddle, mandolin,
and diatonic accordion. The latter was developed by Cajun craftsmen
during World War II when German models were no longer available.
The vest frottoir, used for zydeco, shows how modern sheet metal
technology can serve to carry on the Afro-Caribbean rhythm of
Creole French music. These instruments, from basic to elaborate,
are the "tools" of traditional music in Louisiana.
In the hands of Louisiana folk musicians these and other instruments
as well as peoples' voices provide the waltzes and two-steps
of a Saturday night Cajun fais-do-do, the breakdowns and reels
of North Louisiana fiddle contests, and the second-line beat
of the New Orleans street parade.
View or Search Folk Instrument Artifacts of the Creole State Exhibit
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