The Unique Sounds of Non-Traditional Instruments in Canadian Music

Canadian music has a rich and diverse tradition that includes both traditional and non-traditional instruments. Non-traditional instruments are often used to create unique sounds and add a new dimension to the music. This article will provide an overview of some Canadian ensembles using non-traditional instruments, including The Creaking Planks, The Fretless, and The Blind Boys of Alabama. We will also discuss other Canadian ensembles using non-traditional instruments, and the impact they have on Canadian music.

The Creaking Planks

The Creaking Planks are a Vancouver-based ensemble that specializes in using homemade and found instruments to create their unique sound. They combine traditional instruments like guitar and banjo with unusual objects such as saws, typewriters, and cheese graters. The group’s music has been described as “inventive, playful, and joyfully odd.” They have gained a following in Canada and beyond, performing at festivals and venues around the world.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Creative use of unconventional instrumentsMay be challenging for some listeners
Unique and playful soundLimited appeal beyond niche audience
Broadens the definition of what can be considered an instrumentDifficult to reproduce live

The Fretless

The Fretless is a string quartet that uses non-traditional tuning and techniques to create their sound. They combine traditional Celtic music with original compositions, resulting in a unique blend of old and new. The group has won numerous awards and accolades, including the 2017 Juno Award for Instrumental Album of the Year.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Blend of traditional and modern stylesMay not appeal to purists of traditional Celtic music
Innovative use of tuning and techniquesLimited range of sound
Well-respected in the Canadian music communityMay not have mass appeal

The Blind Boys of Alabama

The Blind Boys of Alabama are a gospel group that has been active for over 70 years. They are known for their powerful vocals and incorporation of brass and percussion instruments. They have collaborated with numerous musicians over the years, including Ben Harper, Taj Mahal, and Lou Reed.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Strong vocals and musicianshipLimited appeal beyond gospel music fans
Long-standing career and collaborations with other musiciansMay not appeal to listeners who prefer secular music
Influence on Canadian gospel and blues musicLimited impact on the mainstream Canadian music scene

Other Canadian ensembles using non-traditional instruments

In addition to the ensembles mentioned above, there are many other Canadian groups using non-traditional instruments to create unique sounds. These include experimental and avant-garde groups like The Holy Body Tattoo, and mainstream acts like Arcade Fire, who have incorporated instruments like hurdy-gurdies and glockenspiels into their music. One notable example is the Evergreen Club of Toronto, a percussion ensemble that uses unconventional instruments like flowerpots, garbage cans, and bicycle wheels.

The Evergreen Club of Toronto is another Canadian ensemble that uses non-traditional instruments to create unique sounds. This percussion ensemble has been active since the 1983 and has gained a following for its innovative use of unconventional instruments like flowerpots, garbage cans, and bicycle wheels. They have also incorporated traditional instruments from around the world, like the marimba and the tabla.

The Evergreen Club’s music has been described as “rhythmic, engaging, and surprising.” They have released several albums and have performed at festivals and venues throughout Canada and the United States. Their use of non-traditional instruments adds a new dimension to percussion music and expands the boundaries of what can be considered an instrument.

The Evergreen Club is just one example of the many Canadian ensembles using non-traditional instruments to create unique sounds. From experimental and avant-garde groups to mainstream acts, these ensembles are pushing the boundaries of what is considered music and offering listeners a new and exciting listening experience.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Expansion of the boundaries of Canadian musicMay not have mass appeal
Creative use of non-traditional instrumentsChallenging for some listeners
Diverse range of styles and genresLimited impact on the mainstream Canadian music scene

The use of non-traditional instruments in Canadian music is an important part of the country’s musical tradition. Ensembles like The Creaking Planks, The Fretless, and The Blind Boys of Alabama have expanded the boundaries of what is considered an instrument and created unique sounds that have influenced other Canadian musicians. Other groups, both experimental and mainstream, have also embraced non-traditional instruments, adding a new dimension to Canadian music.

If you are interested in exploring Canadian music further, a great resource is evergreen.ca. This website offers a comprehensive guide to Canadian music, including information about artists, venues, and festivals. You can also find resources for learning about Canadian music history and current trends.

Non-traditional instruments play an important role in the Canadian music scene, expanding the boundaries of what is considered music and offering a unique listening experience. Ensembles using these instruments have had a significant impact on Canadian music and will continue to influence future generations of musicians.