There’s so much to love and appreciate about Louisiana that when it comes to the preservation of the culture, you can’t pick just one thing. The people and their stories, the food, the accents, the lifestyle, the architecture, the ambiance — it goes on and on. But some will insist it’s the music. The Jazz, the blues, Zydeco, Cajun. And then there’s the accordion. For Cajun and Zydeco it somehow captures the deep roots of Louisianans in a way that will touch you deep inside. This happy instrument helped America fall in love with the old sounds.

No one knows this like Lafayette musician Ray Landry. He’s been playing for a lifetime — even when others lived for the guitar, and rock and roll. Back then the music of his roots almost died off. But then people rediscovered Cajun and Zydeco, and the instrument that brings them to life.  Says Landry of the sweet sound of the Accordion: 

 

 

“It makes the people dance.”

Ray Landry

The old music and the instruments soared back to life in places like Lafayette, Louisiana where jam sessions at the Acadian Cultural Center, and the Vermilionville Historic Village,  are almost constant. In nearby Breaux Bridge,  Saturday morning breakfast at the Tante Marie, comes with music and anyone can join in and learn. In Scott, Louisiana we get to meet Junior Martin where the family business, Martin Accordions, is crafting hand made instruments.  People from from all over the world come to buy them.  On some days, you walk in the door, all work stops, and you get your own personal concert. Talk about test driving the equipment! Out here, Saving Americana — is truly Louisiana Magic.