Lawrence "Teddy Boy" Houle facts for kids

Lawrence "Teddy Boy" Houle (1938-2020) was a talented Anishinaabe Métis fiddler from Ebb and Flow, Manitoba. He started playing music when he was very young. It is said that he taught himself to play the song "Red River Valley" using just one string on his fiddle. Teddy Boy grew up to be a very important fiddler and singer. He recorded many albums and performed often.

Lawrence "Teddy Boy" Houle: A Musical Journey

Early Life and His Fiddle

Lawrence Houle had a difficult childhood. His father was not around, and his stepfather did not support his musical talent. Despite these challenges, Lawrence loved music. He taught himself to play the fiddle. This early start helped him become the amazing musician he was.

A Star on Stage and Screen

In the 1960s, there was a big interest in folk music. This was called the folk revival movement. Teddy Boy Houle became a part of it. He performed at many music events, like the famous Mariposa Folk Festival. He also showed his fiddling skills in movies. Some of these films include "Spirit Rider" and "Medicine Fiddler."

Keeping Métis Culture Alive

Teddy Boy Houle often danced a jig while he played his fiddle. This was a common part of the Métis fiddling style. His music followed the traditions of both Métis and Indigenous peoples. In his later years, he worked hard to bring back his Anishinaabe heritage.

He took on special projects to help recover and renew the Ojibway language. He even released albums of Ojibway music. Lawrence Houle was also an Elder and a cultural helper. He shared his knowledge at the Métis Calgary Family Service Society. There, he led many workshops, teaching others about his culture.