While in the US twenty-two years ago (1982), I began photographing the Cajun musicians of Louisiana. I had the good fortune to capture many portraits of the oldest and first pioneers of Cajun music.

The Cajun's, descendents of French farmers and fishermen from Brittany and Normandy, France, immigrated in the 16th and 17th century to what they thought would be their "Promised Land" of Acadiana in "La Merrique" (Nova Scotia, Canada), but their long journey ended in the bayou's of southern Louisiana.

By keeping themselves separated from American society until the second half of the 19th century, the Cajun's held onto their own culture. Their music has a unique folkloric quality, which is enhanced by the musical accompaniment of a small type of Cajun accordion.

I visited and photographed these Cajun musicians in their homes. The portraits were shot in their living rooms, kitchens, with their cars, or in their yards, whatever location was important to them. This allows you a unique view and experience into their living environment, not just a stage where they are surrounded by microphones.

Because I visited the region five times over the past years, it allowed me to capture and document a vast number of these musicians.
Following this text you can review a few portraits from this series of photographs.