Deuxième Partie de Quadrille d’Île d’Orléans

Notes

“Deuxième Partie de Quadrille d’Île d’Orléans” (the second part of the Île d’Orléans Quadrille) is a spirited and charming tune from the heart of the Quebecois tradition. It hails from the Île d’Orléans, an island in the St. Lawrence River known as the “Cradle of French Civilization in North America.” This specific tune is part of a larger quadrille—a structured social dance involving four couples—and it carries the joyous, communal energy of a village kitchen party.

• The Feel: As a quadrille, it has a very distinct “lift.” It is played as a 6/8 jig, giving it a rolling, galloping feel that is synonymous with French Canadian dancing. It isn’t meant to be played with the heavy “thud” of some Anglo-American tunes; instead, it has a light, bouncy quality that mimics the footwork of the dancers.

• The Melody: The tune is often played in D Major or G Major. It is characterized by short, repetitive phrases that are incredibly catchy. The “A-part” sets the rhythmic foundation, while the “B-part” often takes a slight melodic turn that signals the dancers to change their formation.

• The “Podorythmie” Connection: In a traditional setting, this tune is almost always accompanied by seated clogging (podorythmie). The fiddler or a companion will provide a syncopated, percussive beat with their feet, which is the heartbeat of this style.