who are the Métis

Métis Culture​

Michif. the vital link for our culture

our Language

Michif languages are unique languages that are historically linked to Métis communities across the Métis homeland. 

The three Michif languages, commonly referred to as Southern, Northern, and French Michif, and are made up of elements from both First Nations languages (Cree and Saulteaux) and European languages (French and English).

In the Michif languages, the two most prominent source languages are Cree and French, while Saulteaux and English contribute to a lesser extent.

While Northern, Southern, and French Michif are considered critically endangered today, Métis people and communities across Canada and the US are working to revitalize these languages to ensure current and future generations have access to them.

 

Learn to Speak Michif

Samson LaMontagne is a Michif teacher from Saskatchewan who shares online resources and videos on his YouTube and TikTok accounts for Northern and Southern Michif. 

Samson LaMontagne's Site
Northern Michif
Heritage Michif

the reflection of our culture

our music

Métis music is a vibrant blend of European and First Nations musical traditions, particularly evident in fiddling and jigging. It’s a reflection of the Métis people’s cultural resilience and their unique identity shaped by their Métis history. 

 

Key Aspects of Métis Music

  • Fiddling:
    The violin, introduced by European traders, became a central instrument for Métis music. Métis fiddling incorporates elements of French-Canadian, Scottish, and First Nations musical styles, creating a distinct sound. 
  • Jigging:
    Métis jigging is a lively dance form that combines First Nations footwork with European step-dancing styles like reel, jig, and quadrille. It’s a symbol of Métis identity and cultural pride.
  • Blending of Cultures:
    Métis music reflects the blending of First Nations rhythms and beats with European melodies, often creating a unique “crooked” melody where beats are added or dropped, giving it a distinctive sound.
  • Musical Instruments:
    While the fiddle is prominent, other instruments like spoons, drums, and guitars are also used in Métis music.
  • Traditional Tunes:
    Some popular Métis tunes include the “Red River Jig,” “Rabbit Dance,”, “Broom Dance”, “Drops of Brandy”, “Whiskey before Breakfast” and “The Seven Step”.
  • Resilience and Identity:
    Métis music serves as a way to preserve and celebrate their heritage, particularly in a time of cultural resurgence.
  • Notable Fiddlers and Musicians:
    Many prominent Métis fiddlers and musicians, like John Arcand, Reg Bouvette, Andy Desjarlais, Alex Kusturok, and Brianna Lizotte have contributed to the popularization and preservation of Métis music.
  • Contemporary Music:
    Métis music continues to evolve, with contemporary artists incorporating elements of hip-hop, jazz, and other genres while staying true to their cultural roots. 

Métis Dance

the red river jig

The Red River Jig and Métis fiddle music are both products of a blend of cultures, just like the Métis themselves are a blending of First Nation and European traditions and values. The Métis music reflected – and continues to reflect – the life-force of the Métis people who have faced adversity and risen above it.

The Métis Heritage Project thanks Madeline McCallum, who hails from Ile a la Crosse, Saskatchewan for graciously giving the Métis Nation Local 845, Rocky Mountain House, permission to use this video to teach the youth to learn, love and dance the Red River Jig. Enjoy!

Keeping Métis culture alive

Learn more about the Métis.

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