Evit Gabriel

Notes

“Evit Gabriel” is a modern masterpiece of the Breton and French Canadian traditions. Composed in the late 20th century by the Breton uilleann piper and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Le Féon, the tune was written as a tribute to the legendary Breton piper Gabriel Faere. While its origins are in Brittany (Western France), it has been adopted so wholeheartedly by the Quebecois and New England folk scenes that it is now a cornerstone of the modern “trad” repertoire.

The tune is a perigourdine (or sometimes played as a reel), and it is famous for its haunting, “circular” melody that feels as if it could spin on forever.

• The Key: It is played in E Minor (specifically E Dorian), giving it a modal, ancient, and slightly mysterious character.

• The Melody: The tune is characterized by its “winding” nature. It uses a lot of step-wise motion, meaning the notes are close together, creating a smooth, flowing sound that is incredibly satisfying to play on the fiddle or flute.

• The Structure: It has a unique energy—it feels more like a “groove” than a standard breakdown. The A-part stays relatively grounded, while the B-part lifts slightly, providing a sense of momentum that makes it a favorite for “medley” sets where it often transitions into a higher-energy reel.