GUILFORD — Singer, guitarist, and composer Claire de la Fontaine's music is an entrée into the romantic world of French chanson. She will sing at a house concert on August 2.
De la Fontaine's passionate interpretations of classics from Edith Piaf and Jacques Brel, as well as newer artists like Zaz, sound authentic. She also covers Charles Trenet, Jos Dassin, Marcel Mouloudji, Yves Montand, and Charlie.
Deniz Cordell will accompany de la Fontaine on accordion and piano.
Cordell is a pianist, accordionist, conductor and composer, who has appeared as both an accompanist and solo act in various cabaret events in New England.
Claire de la Fontaine is the stage name of Jessie Friedman, a French/American musician who grew up in Paris, Geneva, and New York City.
“When I lived in Manhattan, I went to the Lycée Français, so I was always immersed in French culture,” she said. “I created this project out of a desire to share some of the culture that I grew up with,” she said.
“There is a poetry to the language, to the way of living and viewing the world that I miss, and that is perfectly captured in these songs. And it's not just the poetry of the words and melodies; the very chord choices themselves are poetic, colorful, rich in a way you don't see anymore today.”
De la Fontaine will be singing at Wendy Redlinger's house concerts series on Thursday, Aug. 2. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $15. For more information or directions to the house at 2596 Tater Lane in Guilford, call 802-254-6189.