In Arabic, the family of words Amin, Iman or imam, imana designate faith, trust, security. This word is also present in the Swahili language (Kenya, Tanzania, East Congo Kinshasa) in the form imani: trust.
"The term Imana is not the equivalent of God-Goddess which is a Western vision of divinity. Indeed,: "the term "imana" does not designate above all a personal being that should be honored and implored, but a diffuse fluid that should be captured." In other words, Imana is a neutral vital force that manifests itself in the inner cosmos of each living being." ¹
Imana, by Michel Darlin Johancy is a musical, symphonic and spiritual journey through three geographies: an inner geography of meditation, a cultural identity journey and an artistic musical stroll. These three itineraries unfold in Haitian spaces.
This symphonic and spiritual journey takes place in 10 stages or 10 movements.
Read the article in :
The opening of the doors is commanded by the saxophone which plays the role of a common thread. The opening is slow as in some symphonies. This slowness allows us to gently enter an atmosphere of travel and reflection. Musically, the opening is based on the dialogue between the choir, the guitar/piano duo and jerky percussions, katap katap type.
“Si mòn pa bay, lavil ap peri”: if the hill does not produce, the city will perish”. The quest for the mountain is doubled by other quests: the search for effort (monte mòn), the return to the countryside, which must be revalued, and also the search for elevation of the spirit. It is like a pilgrimage. We can also lighten our multiple burdens or problems by depositing them on the other side of the mountain.
The saxophone introduces this sequence. We hear like the noise of a crowd marching and an incantation, a repetition, like a mantra of the name of the divinity Oloroun, from the Afro-Brazilian Yoruba pantheon.
"Creator of the World, you who trace all things, make the rain fall." It is a call for a nourishing and invigorating rain.
"Pase m t ap pase", this refrain, symbol of the journey, is punctuated by the percussions that play in cadence.
This interlude marks a well-paced pause of very diverse percussions, between katap and rabòday.
“Writing so as not to disappear, because the wind carries away the words” (Van pote pawòl ale) says Darlin Johancy. He continues: “Writing what we say and what we produce”. It is a call to protect, safeguard our creative heritage. And then above all, he affirms “mete sèl anba lan nou! Let’s put salt under our tongues! Because salt protects us from the zombification that threatens us”.
First the sound of water in dialogue with the saxophone playing in soft flame, "an alchemical marriage" Darlin Johancy tells us, between water and fire. The choir returns, voices, murmurs, whispers, with, in parallel, a "marriage" katap rabòday. "It is not a coldly programmed composition", Darlin Johancy tells us, all this music and this spiritual journey met inside me. I had to put all this in harmony. It also corresponded to a time when I myself needed harmony. I hope that it will have a calming effect and conducive to meditation in those who listen to Imana. "
https://on.soundcloud.com/vwhiN
Rafael Lucas, Lecturer, teacher-researcher, University of Bordeaux Montaigne
IMANA is produced thanks to the support of the Swiss Cooperation in Haiti. Music credits:
Natzart: Lead and choirs
Ery Guillaume: Saxophone
Herbysson Pierre: Bass
Schneider Saint fort: Drums
Drums: maestro Lélé
DarlinJohancy: Composition, arrangements, production, lyricist.
¹.https://www.kugaruka.org/post/imana-le-culte-de-kiranga-ryangombe-uburundi-urwanda
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/haitiwonderland
Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@haitiwonderland
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/haitiwonderland/
Twitter : https://twitter.com/haitiwonderland
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/haitiwonderland/
On Thursday, October 24, 2024, the Center for Political and Diplomatic Studies, CEPOD, launched its Diplomatic Fortnight via a summit that took place at the Montana Hotel in Pétionville. The event took place under the theme of Haiti’s place in globalization, and in the presence of an audience of distinguished guests. consisting of public authorities such as the current Haitian Prime Minister, Dr. Garry Conille (Honorary President of the summit); his Minister Delegate for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Herwil Gaspard; Foreign diplomats, among whom we can cite the Canadian Ambassador, Mr. André François Giroux (Guest of Honor of the summit); Dr. Christian Mouala, Country Director of UNAIDS Haiti, and a group of other public figures (such as sociologist Daniel Supplice), members of the press, such as senior journalist, Rotchild François Junior and students of all kinds.
Nestled in the enchanting embrace of Haiti’s North East department lies a true marvel – Caracol. This picturesque area is more than just a destination; it’s a sanctuary where tranquility dances in harmony with the gentle whispers of nature. From the chirping of content birds to the warm smiles of its inhabitants, Caracol is a true wonderland waiting to be explored. One of the most captivating aspects of Caracol is its serene ambiance. Here, peace isn’t just a concept; it’s a way of life. Even the birds seem to sing with an extra ounce of joy, as if they’ve found their own slice of paradise amidst the lush greenery. Stepping into Caracol feels like entering a world where time slows down, allowing you to embrace the simple pleasures of life. But what truly sets Caracol apart is its people – kind-hearted souls who find solace in the simplicity of their daily lives. Engaged in activities like fishing and gardening, they embody a deep connection to the land that sustains them. And amidst it all, the industrious spirit of Caracol shines through, with the industrial parc serving as a beacon of progress and opportunity for the community. Yet, amidst the tranquil rhythm of everyday life, Caracol pulsates with the vibrant energy of Haitian culture. Voodoo, an integral part of local life, weaves its mystical threads into the fabric of daily rituals and traditions. And come July, the entire community comes alive with patronal celebrations that draw Haitian diaspora from every corner of the globe. It’s a time of joyous reunions, where cultural immersion meets spirited competitions, from exhilarating running races to thrilling boat races on the sparkling waters. As the sun sets on another day in Caracol, the excitement doesn’t end – it transforms. Carnival season, known as "mardi gras," casts its spell over the land, igniting the imaginations of children who eagerly don disguises and wield whips to make merry mischief. Laughter fills the air as they chase each other, their gleeful shrieks echoing through the streets, creating memories that will last a lifetime. In Caracol, every moment is a celebration, every day a testament to the resilience and warmth of its people. So, whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or a cultural adventure, Caracol invites you to discover its hidden wonders and experience the magic for yourself. After all, in this captivating corner of Haiti, every day is a journey into the heart of paradise.
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of all our activities and news on Haiti.
Haïti is known for its significant history and its crucial role in the fight against slavery and for independence. The country gained independence from France on January 1, 1804, becoming the world’s first independent black republic and the first country in the Americas to abolish slavery. However, this independence came at an enormous cost, the effects of which are still felt today.
In a digital world largely dominated by Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, Haïti is witnessing the birth of an innovation that could well be a game-changer: Toupatou, a 100% Haitian social network. Designed by a young local talent, this project embodies both the ingenuity of Haitian developers and the desire to create a platform adapted to local needs.
In collaboration with HPost5, Les Éditions Julien Hilaire are launching a call for contributions for the publication of the first issue of "Temps de poésie", a literary magazine that, according to the initiators, aims to be a space for exchange, creation and celebration of contemporary poetry. In these times marked by a penchant for destruction, chaos and the law of silence, speaking has become an obligation. Speaking to denounce. Speaking to resist. Speaking to build. The first issue of "Temps de poésie" with the theme "Cathedral under construction, poems as labor" is part of this approach. This theme is an invitation to reflect on the act of building, whether material, spiritual or metaphorical, we read in the press kit. Haïti Wonderland met Ansky Hilaire, the man who leads the project. Interview.
Haiti, often nicknamed "the pearl of the Antilles", is a fascinating destination for travelers in search of authenticity. This Caribbean island country offers a unique combination of natural beauty, an exceptional historical heritage, and a vibrant culture.
First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.
