We present an excerpt from a review in the July 2008 edition of the eNewsletter of MyrtleHart.org, whose Founder/Executive Director is Rashida Black, an African American harpist:
by Martina Green
Haitian-American pianist, Suki Guerrier, graced the stage of Purchase Conservatory of Music's recital hall, in an elegant, yet simple beige pleated dress, her hair swept back in a beautiful side bun. The concert began with a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace, in commemoration of her beloved and renowned friend, Kip Collins.
The theme "Dreams of Haiti" was inspired by Suki's exposure as a young girl to the music of the famous Haitian composers Ludovic Lamothe, Henrie Etienne, Frank Lassegue (amongst others), and the sounds of traditional folklore music, which was infused with strong drum beats, dance, and soulful singing. While visiting Haiti in the summer of 2007, she had the fortune to meet pianist extraordinaire Micheline Laudun Denis, who encouraged and assisted in the orchestration of Ms. Guerrier's first performance in Haiti. The performance was a "passing of the torch," a rite of passage for the young musician, leaving the pianist to realize that she had indeed come full circle.
Ms. Guerrier's Haitian music selection was that of Ludovic Lamothe (1882-1953, born in Port-au-Prince), one of Haiti's most celebrated composers. The pieces Tango, La Dangereuse in E Major, Danse Espagnol in A minor, Habanera Danza No.1, & Souvenir were as you may have guessed, dance pieces, capturing an essence of Haitian tradition, in a classical form. The music entranced the audience from beginning to end, ranging from playful soft music, to dark and sinister, forte/piano, passionate, light hearted, with spins on various dance moves such as a Viennese waltz, to a vivacious and sensual Latin dance. The music transposed one's soul and transported the audience to different worlds, time, and characters. [The Haitian composer Ludovic Lamothe (1882-1953) is profiled at AfriClassical.com, along with Justin Elie (1883-1931), Occide Jeanty (1860-1936) and Solon Verret.]
Haitian-American Pianist
Dreams of Haiti
Ludovic Lamothe
Henrie Etienne
Frank Lassegue
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