Growling Old Man and the Cackling Old Lady

A traditional French-Canadian reel also known by numerous variations including “Grumbling Old Man and Woman,” “La Chicaneuse,” and “Le Bonhomme Et La Bonne Femme Chicaneux.” This tune appears throughout Quebec, Maritime Canada, and the American old-time tradition with over 29 different title variations. The contrasting sections musically represent the quarreling voices of an elderly couple – the low growling section depicting the grumpy old man and the higher, more agitated part representing the cackling woman. Manitoba Métis fiddlers Frank Catchaway and Joe Chartrand recorded notable versions The tune is often played with characteristic shuffle bowing and double-stops that emphasize the grumbling and cackling effects.