History

The Cajun French Music Association non-profit organization comprised of Cajuns and non-Cajuns whose purpose is to promote and preserve, not only Cajun music, but also various aspects of the Acadian Heritage. The CFMA was founded in Basile, Louisiana in November of 1984 with Harry LaFleur of Eunice as its founder. Since its beginning by less than 30 persons, it has grown to a membership of approximately 2,000 families serving seven Chapters in Louisiana and three Chapters in the Cajun Region of Southeast Texas.

Most of the local members are grass roots Cajuns who want to preserve their heritage by teaching the authentic Cajun language and the traditions of their Acadian ancestry. Chapters usually sponsor lessons on how to play Cajun fiddle, accordion, guitar and dance lessons. Most Chapters offer classes on how to speak Cajun French. Some members donate their time in classrooms to help teach pupils language and other cultural aspects of Cajun culture. All Chapters sponsor local Cajun Music and Dance Festivals.

The National Governing Body is comprised of two board members from each Chapter and serve to regulate and oversee the constitutional and by-law guidelines. This body sponsors the "Le Cajun" National Cajun Music Awards, held the 3rd weekend of August annually, in Lafayette, LA. In addition, the Governing Body sponsors many other National Projects in education, heritage, dance, monthly newsletters, etc., which are ongoing projects to preserve our Cajun Culture.