Versatility in Caribbean Music- French Speaking Countries
Survey of Caribbean Music
Versatility in Caribbean Music- French Speaking Countries
In chapter two of Tour de Force, there were a few examples discussed about versatility. The topic of versatility continues to amaze and interest me. Therefore for this blog, I will be focusing on two of those examples given along with an additional example to dive more into the world of versatility BUT specifically in French speaking Caribbean countries.
Throughout French speaking countries in the Caribbean, versatility can be found within musicians, rituals, instruments, songs and many other parts of their culture. The book Tour De Force written by Christine Gangelhoff and Cathleen Legrand mentions some of these versatile musicians and their part in music.
According to the authors, Thurgot Theodat, a man from Haiti, wears multiple hats as he is known for playing his own version of Vodou Jazz. Thurgot Theodot is known to be a saxophonist, composer, and an arranger. Talk about a well rounded musician. This just screams versatility because it stays in the are of music. The authors of Tour de Force also mentioned that he focuses on the music and culture of Haiti. Christine Gangelhoff and Cathleen Legrand stated that "his version of Vodou Jazz mixes Jazz with rhythmic elements of Vodou music". That is different, I must say. I say this because I am so new to these musical styles that when I hear it, I am literally amazed.
Below is a picture of Thurgot Theodat.
Here is a video below of the talented Thurgot Theodat as he played a piece of his Vodou Jazz musical style on the saxophone. This was just a snippet so that you can hear his talent as well in between him speaking. He explains a little how this piece was formed and that it shows the culture of African origin. This was a sweet sound along with the guitar playing along with him.
Now let us move onto our second example Mr. Justin Elie. He was born in Haiti in the year 1883 and died in the year 1931. According to Tour de Force, "Justin Elie was initially a pianist that studied piano and composition at the Paris Conservatory". Again with this second example, he stays versatile within the area of music. He was popular across the Caribbean as a piano performer and a composer.
Below is a photo of Mr. Justin Elie.
Let us look at a video below of the talented pianist and composer performing tropical dance. This is definitely beautiful and it reminds me of a black and white silent movie. No words, just the music playing in the background as the characters live their daily lives. He stands alone playing and it is a magical sound. This inspires me as I am learning to play the piano, (except I will never be this good lol). I chose this because it seems so happy and catchy (and tropical is correct).
Last but certainly not least, I think it is time I use somebody who is well known in today's generation. We should have all heard about Wyclef Jean. I use the word "should" very loosely in case some of you have not haha. Nel Ust Wyclef Jean is a Haitian rapper, musician, and actor. Versatile in his career I must say. Wyclef Jean is Haitian-American rapper, producer, and activist who began his music career with hip hop group The Fugees. He won two Grammys in 1997 for his work on The Fugees album The Score.
Thank you for reading my blog!
Comments
Post a Comment