Ardoin cousins lead the next Zydeco Capital Jam
Accordionists continue rich family legacy in La. music
Accordion aces Dexter Ardoin and Mark Ardoin lead the Zydeco Capital Jam from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. July
13 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
Louisiana music. He’s a descendant of legendary accordionist Amede’ Ardoin, whose highly-influential
recordings in the 1920s 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.
Mark Ardoin, Dexter’s cousin, was raised in Elton in a family of self-taught, accordion players. Playing
since the age of 3, Mark learned on his father’s Acadian accordion, made by pioneer builder Marc Savoy
of Eunice.
Mark Ardoin is a regular contributor to the Zydeco Capital Jam, which has free admission. The event is
open to all musicians and fans.
For more information, visit the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission web site at cajuntravel.com.