The Great Grey Owl is one of the largest owls in the world. It can be found throughout the central and western portions of Canada as well as the Northwestern United States.

However, the title of this tune actually refers to a controversial figure in Canadian history. Archibald Belaney was born in England, he emigrated to Canada as a young man, became a trapper and assumed a native american identity while living with Ojibwe people. He claimed to be half-indigenous, the son of a Scottish man and Apache woman. He dyed his hair black and darkened his skin to maintain the facade. “Grey Owl” was the name he assumed. He eventually met and married a Mohawk woman, Gertrude Bernard. She is credited with influencing him to give up the fur trade and become a conservationist and animal activist. Together, they are credited with saving the beaver from extinction. It wasn’t until after his death that his indigenous identity fraud was revealed. A search of the internet will produce a wealth of information about the man, “Grey Owl”. Here's a good place to start: Grey Owl, White Indian

John Arcand is a renowned Métis fiddler from Saskatchewan, Canada. He learned the fiddle as a boy from his father and grandfather. He is credited with composing over 500 fiddle tunes. He writes and plays tunes in the Métis tradition. The link will take you to a brief bio.

The Métis Nation is one of Canada’s three recognized indigenous peoples (along with the Inuit and First Nations). They are of mixed ancestry, a blending of Native and European traditions. To learn more about the Métis people, Click HERE

Fiddles were introduced to the indigenous population when French and Scottish trappers brought them along as they moved west through Canada in search of furs. The Métis adopted the instrument and have developed a distinct style combining elements of European and Native musical influences. Métis tunes are known for their syncopated style and extra beats. Double stops are common. This short video will be informative for those who would like to hear more about Métis Fiddling

On to the tune: “Grey Owl” is played in the key of D. It has been adopted by the bluegrass and old-time communities and is frequently encountered in jams. It is slightly crooked in the “A” part. The playing sequence is AABB.

Here are links to some of my favorite versions:

The original (John Arcand)

Molly Tuttle, Joe K. Walsh and John Mailander

Sierra Hull and Courtney Hartman

You’ve probably noticed that clawhammer banjo is conspicuously absent from these clips.Here’s a link to the version I have come up with along with the tab.

VIDEO: GREY OWL (John Arcand)
(click to view)

Grey Owl - TAB

Grey Owl (double C, capo 2 tuning)

VIDEO: Grey Owl (TOTW)
(click to view)

Grey Owl (CH) tab

 

Edited by - JanetB on 04/11/2026 16:28:07