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Notes
“Caribou Reel” is a classic of the Canadian Grainbelt and MĂ©tis fiddle traditions, popularized by the great Andy De Jarlis. Set in a bright G Major, this reel is a masterclass in rhythmic drive and melodic joy. Its accessible finger patterns and infectious “lift” make it a favorite for community dances and a staple for any player looking to explore the vibrant heritage of North American folk music.
“Caribou Reel” is a quintessential French-Canadian and MĂ©tis-style fiddle tune that captures the lively, foot-tapping energy of the northern woods.
The Story Behind the Tune
While often categorized simply as “traditional,” the Caribou Reel is most famously associated with the legendary Canadian fiddler Andy De Jarlis (1914–1975). De Jarlis, a MĂ©tis musician from Manitoba, was instrumental in bringing the “Red River” style of fiddling to a national audience.
The tune’s name evokes the rugged, rhythmic spirit of the Canadian North. In the MĂ©tis tradition, tunes like this were the heartbeat of community dances, often accompanied by the distinct, intricate “clatter” of traditional foot-tapping (podorythmie).
Musical Characteristics
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Rhythm & Key: It is a high-energy reel in 4/4 time, typically played in the key of G Major.
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Structure: It follows a standard AABB pattern. The “A” part is characterized by a bright, jumping melody that stays mostly on the D and G strings, while the “B” part often climbs onto the E string for a more soaring, triumphant finish.
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Style: To play it “correctly” in the French-Canadian style, a fiddler uses short, crisp bow strokes and adds specific ornaments like “triplets” or “flicks” to give the melody its characteristic “crooked” or bouncy feel.