Product Overview
This piece was commissioned by Georges Vilson and The Kandelab Foundation. Kandelab seeks to bring awareness to Haitian Folk and Vodou music. Vilson's book, Kandelab: 101 Notated Haitian Folk and Vodou Songs are transcriptions of this music that has otherwise been handed down through an aural tradition. Vilson's descriptions of the tales that go with these melodies were a great help in setting the tone of this work. Many thanks to Vilson and Kandelab for introducing me to these wonderful melodies and rich cultural heritage.
Minis Azaka is known as the great Minister of Agriculture in Haitian Vodou. Iwa peasants bring grievances to him and also reach out to him for prosperity.
An invitation is made to a gathering along the countryside and this piece introduces a dignified Minis Azaka entering a hall adorned for his arrival. His followers trail behind him. He sits to listen to their gripes, but also joins them in dance as he is
also a well known dancer. He exits with the same reverence he entered, then disappears into the fields with his entourage. This piece expresses a veil of mystery and darkness setting the tone of great honor and respect.
The Nago drum reference is included with the parts. The pattern should be played in reference to the slash marking in the score. The reference is meant as a guide and liberty may be taken with the pattern.
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