Yann-Fañch Perroches, a Celebration

An Droug Hirnez, by Yann-Fañch Perroches
With much gratitude, I celebrate Yann-Fañch Perroches.

Owen Woods, who writes the fantastic Music and Melodeons, mentioned in passing that he's playing a gig in support of the great Breton accordéonist, Yann-Fañch Perroches. After the wave of envy passed, it struck me that, even though I have Perroches' link over there in the "Relevant Links" column, I've never actually written about him. This is a travesty.

This is a travesty, not only because his music is that good, but because he's been a particular inspiration to me for over a decade. The first thing I heard of Perroches' was An Droug Hirnez, which features Breton tunes in a chamber jazz setting, with piano, bass, cello, and winds accompanying the box. Very beautiful. That was about twelve years ago. Doing some research I found out that Perroches had been a member of the very prominent Breton group Skolvan since 1984. I sought out their work, as well. His work with Cocktail Diatonique was the first time I heard the sort of multi-accordion arrangements that are now redefining tradFrench (and tradBelgian) music. My favorite recording of his is the duo recording of Perroches with violinist Fañch Landreau, Daou Ha Daou. Something everyone should hear. All of this music, and more, can be found at Perroch's site.

I should also mention that when I was starting out on the accordéon, Perroches very kindly corresponded with me and helped me work through some problems playing the basses. It's worth noting that his tutorial is outstanding.

Listen to some of the man's music, and celebrate.

A marvelous solo piece:


Cocktail Diatonique:


Scottish du Regret, perhaps Perroches' best known composition:

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