Ann Savoy

Ann Savoy (born: Ann Allen) knew very little about Cajun music when she met Cajun accordion player and builder Marc Savoy at the National Folk Festival in Washington, D.C., in 1975. Under Savoy's supervision, she learned the intricacies of Cajun guitar playing and singing. Performing together since their marriage in 1976, Ann and Marc Savoy continue to explore the traditional roots of Cajun music. Their group, the Savoy-Doucet Band, featuring Beausoleil fiddler Michael Doucet, has toured throughout the United States and produced memorable albums. In an attempt to learn the history of Cajun music, Savoy interviewed many of the influential musicians for a book, Cajun Music: A Reflection of a People. Published in 1985 by Bluebird Press, the book remains the authoritative source for information about Cajun music. Born in St. Louis, MO, and raised in Richmond, VA, Savoy learned French as a youngster and began playing guitar at the age of 12. She subsequently majored in French in college. In addition to working with her husband, Savoy plays with the Magnolia Sisters, an all-female group featuring Jane Udrine, Tina Pilione, Lisa Trahan Reed, and Christine Balfa of the Balfa Toujours. She produced the group's 2000 album Chers Amis.