Eddie’s Reel

Notes

“Eddie’s Reel” (or Le Reel d’Eddie) is a classic and highly accessible tune within the French-Canadian and Acadian fiddle traditions. While many tunes in this genre are “crooked” (having irregular phrase lengths), “Eddie’s Reel” is often noted for its steady, square structure, making it a favorite for both social dancing and instrumental learning.

A Tune of Many Sources

The tune’s history is as lively as its melody, with several “Eddies” often associated with its title:

• The Acadian Connection: It is frequently linked to the legendary Prince Edward Island fiddler Eddy Arsenault (1921–2014), who was a central figure in preserving Acadian music and often performed high-energy reels for step-dancers.

• The Quebecois Heritage: It is also known as a standard in the Quebecois repertoire, often traced back to accordionists like Louis Bodo, who helped popularize the specific rhythmic “lift” that characterizes the French-Canadian sound.

Musical Characteristics

This reel is designed to be upbeat and driving, typically played in G Major.

• The A-Part: Features bright, ascending arpeggios that give the tune an immediate sense of forward motion.

• The B-Part: Offers a bit more melodic space, allowing players to add “fills,” variations, or the rhythmic foot-tapping known as podorythmie that is iconic to the genre.

• Learning the Style: Because it is so accessible, it is often used as a teaching tune to help players master specific French-Canadian ornaments and bowings.