History of Music Guernsey

The tradition of Guernsey is the culture of the island of Guernsey has been shaped by its local Norman language and traditions as well as French (especially Norman) and British (especially English) cultural influences, to which have been added cultural trends from settler communities like the Portuguese.

source of picture: en.wikipedia.org

The Renovation brought Calvinism to the islands and the later strong influence of Methodism suppressed dancing and secular music. A number of traditional songs and dances have been recorded, and some renovated dances were collected in the 19th century in Guernsey. La Bebebe (the Baby Polka or Klatschtanz) is a 19th century novelty dance which also remains well-known with costumed folklore orchestras in various parts of Europe. Some traditional folk songs like Jean, Gros Jean and J'ai perdu ma faumme have survived.

According to Edith Carey (1903), the traditional chifournie had disappeared from Guernsey by the mid-nineteenth century John Ireland settled for a time in Guernsey.

Recently, Guernsey has hosted a live music occasion known as Guernsey Live. This music festival has been one of the biggest events in the Channel Islands and sister festival of Jersey Live.

The Music Service in Guernsey is popular for its high quality of teaching and the effects of this can be seen in the standard of performance of many young people in the place.