Sète

The Sète Symphony: A Groovy History of a French Coastal Town’s Unique Musical Heritage

Sète, a charming town on the French Mediterranean coast, boasts a vibrant musical heritage, a tapestry woven with threads of diverse genres and captivating stories. Let’s dive into this groovy history, uncovering some funny facts along the way!

From Traditional to Modern:

• The “Sète Song” (Chanson de Sète): This traditional folk song, sung in Occitan, is a cornerstone of Sète’s musical identity. It’s a nostalgic ballad, reflecting the town’s maritime history and the struggles of its fishermen. The song’s repetitive chorus, “Oh, Sète, my Sète,” is a testament to the locals’ deep affection for their home.
• The “Sète Swing”: In the 1930s, the town became a hub for jazz and swing music. Local musicians, inspired by American artists, brought their own vibrant twist to the genre. The “Sète Swing” was born, characterized by its energetic rhythms and captivating melodies, often featuring the unique sound of the “accordéon diatonique,” a local type of harmonica.
• The “Sète Blues”: Inspired by the blues traditions of the American south, Sète’s blues scene developed in the post-war era. Local musicians fused their own experiences with the blues, resulting in a melancholic yet powerful sound. It’s said that some Sète bluesmen would even sing in Occitan, adding a unique local flavor to the genre.

Funny Facts & Quirky Characters:

• The “Accordionist of the Sea”: Legend has it that a local fisherman named Jean-Pierre, known for his accordion skills, would often perform on his boat while fishing. One day, a storm hit, sending his boat crashing into a nearby pier. Jean-Pierre, miraculously unharmed, was seen playing his accordion amidst the wreckage, still serenading the storm!
• The “Singing Fishmonger”: Pierre, a fishmonger in the local market, was known for his booming baritone voice. He’d often break into song while selling his wares, attracting customers and amusing shoppers. Legend has it that one day, a famous opera singer, visiting the market, was so impressed by Pierre’s voice that he offered him a spot in his upcoming performance!
• The “Jazz Cat”: A local musician, nicknamed “The Jazz Cat,” was known for his outrageous performances. He’d often wear a flamboyant, fur-trimmed jacket and perform on a modified, neon-lit saxophone. His concerts were legendary, filled with improvisation, humor, and a touch of chaos!

Contemporary Sète:

Today, Sète continues to be a melting pot of musical styles. From traditional Occitan music to modern pop and rock, the town pulsates with a lively and diverse sound. Local festivals, like the “Fête de la Musique” and the “Festival de Sète,” showcase the town’s musical heritage and attract artists from around the world.

A Groovy Conclusion:

Sète’s musical history is a testament to the town’s vibrant spirit and its ability to embrace diverse influences. From traditional folk songs to modern jazz and blues, the town’s music is a reflection of its people, its history, and its unwavering passion for life. So next time you find yourself in Sète, be sure to listen closely. You might just hear a groovy melody echoing from the streets, the sea, or even a fishmonger’s stall!