(Opelousas, LA) —Music & Market continues its four-week Spring series in Opelousas on April 27th with popular Cajun music band, Don Fontenot et Les Amis de la Louisiane. The Thursday evening outdoor concerts take place from 6-8 p.m. on the grounds of the historic Courthouse Square in downtown Opelousas. Other upcoming bands include Cypress Band featuring Willie Tee & Lynn August (May 4) and Leon Chavis & the Zydeco Flames (May 11).
Born in Opelousas, Don Fontenot purchased his first guitar for his wife, Millie, who needed a guitar for a class she was enrolled in. After she completed the class where she used the instrument, Don took up the guitar himself and started learning to play. Later, Don’s grandmother would gift him an old accordion, which he practiced with and learned to play by ear.
In 1993, Don joined W.D. and the Cherokee Playboys as an accordion player. During his tenure with the band, Don and a few friends came together, and formed the Tate Cove Ramblers. In 1995, Don and a group of musicians started Les Amis de la Louisiane, and began performing at clubs and festivals. Don would go on to record four records – two of them being CFMA award-winning records. Don still enjoys entertaining the audience and promoting Cajun music and its heritage.
Music & Market is initiated by the City of Opelousas Tourism Office with support from St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission and St. Landry Parish Government. Lawn chairs and outside beverages are welcome. For more information, call 337-948-6263 or visit www.cityofopelousas.com
