Photograph: Dexter Ardoin (Photograph from St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission.)
Accordionist continues rich family legacy in La. music
Master accordionist Dexter Ardoin leads the Zydeco Capital Jam from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 12 at the St. Landry Parish Visitor Center, I-49 exit 23, in Opelousas. Since February 2019, the jam has allowed professional musicians, newcomers and seasoned players to share and learn zydeco songs in the music’s cradle, St. Landry Parish.
Dexter Ardoin, who specializes in traditional zydeco, represents one of the most revered families in Creole and Cajun music. He’s a descendant of legendary accordionist Amede’ Ardoin, whose highly-influential recordings in the 1920 and ‘30s laid the foundation for Creole and Cajun music.
Dexter’s grandfather, Alphonse “Bois Sec” Ardoin,” earned a National Heritage Fellowship during his 60 years as a world-renowned Creole accordionist. Dexter’s late father, Morris, and uncles were dancehall favorites as the Ardoin Brothers band. Dexter’s cousins include contemporary zydeco star Chris Ardoin and three-time Grammy nominee Sean Ardoin.
Mark Ardoin, another cousin, entertained a packed house in August at the Zydeco Capital Jam.
In 2003, Dexter Ardoin and his Creole Ramblers released their “What You Come to Do” CD. He has toured the United States and Europe and shared the stage and studio with Sheryl Cormier, Willis Prudhomme, Nathan Williams and others.
The Zydeco Capital Jam has free admission and is open to all musicians and fans. For more information, visit the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission web site at cajuntravel.com.
