Old French

Notes

“The Old French” is a cornerstone of the New England contra dance repertoire, despite its name suggesting a continental origin. It is actually a French-Canadian reel (often called Le Vieux Moulin or “The Old Mill”) that traveled south and became one of the most recognizable melodies in the Northeast. It is the perfect example of a “crooked” sounding tune that actually fits perfectly into a standard 32-bar dance structure, making it immensely satisfying to play for both dancers and musicians.

As a 4/4 reel, it is characterized by its bright, rhythmic drive and a distinctive “walking” melody that feels both sophisticated and rustic.

• The Feel: It is incredibly jaunty and “square.” Unlike some of the faster, more frantic reels, “The Old French” has a balanced, mid-tempo pulse that allows the melody to breathe. It feels like a sunny afternoon at a rural fair—full of movement and community spirit.

• The Key: Almost always played in D Major, which allows the fiddle to use the open D and A strings for a resonant, “ringing” quality that cuts through the noise of a dance hall.

• The Melody: * The A-Part: Features a series of descending, scale-like runs that feel like someone walking down a flight of stairs. It is very grounding and establishes a clear rhythmic pulse.

  • The B-Part: Moves into a more rhythmic, “arpeggiated” feel, often using a “seesaw” motion between notes that gives the tune its characteristic French-Canadian “bounce.”