Goussy Célestin

Goussy Célestin's Ayiti Brass

A music performance and dance ensemble 

 

Goussy Célestin's Ayiti Brass is the current project that is the focus of Ms Célestin’s expansive creative energy. It is a music performance and dance ensemble, consisting of 10 musicians and 2 dancers in its fullest incarnation. The project is a long held vision of Ms. Célestin, and the culmination of the blending of her artistic experience, interests and cultural heritage. Incorporating both sound and movement, including New Orleans’ second-line and Haiti’s Rara traditions — fused with Jazz, Call-and-Response, and Field Hollers — Goussy Célestin’s Ayiti Brass has as its mission to engage and awaken audiences, workshop participants and community at large in an impactful way, ultimately evoking an experience of connection, openness and possibilities. Performances will encourage attendees to participate in song and dance, aiming to leave them moved and uplifted. 

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Such an ensemble is a bold foray into a new territory at the intersection of music, dance, creativity and community. This particular cultural combination has never existed before…at least not since the days of the turn of the century - the 19th century - when former Haitian slaves brought their cultural traditions to New Orleans during the Haitian Revolution, adding to that city’s unique diversity. Jazz ensembles and Haitian bands abound today, but rarely the combination of these traditions which encourages audience interaction. Ayiti Brass performances will foster an interactive experience, taking place in the round wherever possible, dismantling the separation between “performer” and “audience” encountered in most settings.