The Chaisson Family One particular family in the area is a leader keeping the traditional music alive. The Chaisson family almost seems to have been born with a fiddle, or the very least a musical instrument in their hands. There has been at least six consecutive generations of Chaissons play the fiddle. Probably the most important contribution is the establishement and development of the Rollo Bay Fiddle Festical. This annual event was created by brothers Joseph "Joe Pete" and Roderick Chaisson - and a friend, Most Rev. Faber MacDonald. The original intention was the save and promote the traditional music, as well as raise money for music lessons to teach children, youth and adults how to play.

As a result of this effort, many can read the music, something the older fiddlers could not do. Needless to say, the Rollo Bay Fiddle Festival has been quite successful and has served its purpose in keeping the music alive.

People from across North America gather in Rollo Bay each summer to enjoy traditional music, singing and dancing. The Chaissons are well known across the Island and the Maritimes. It is especially impressive to see the grandchildren of Joe Pete proudly play with their fathers and the seasoned veterans. It is reassuring to hear the music come alive in their hands.

Copyright
Waldron H. Leard