MIAMI —The Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department is inviting the public to experience the vibrant music and culture of Haiti during a free, live concert featuring the legendary Magnum Band, Friday, Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m. at Oak Grove Park, 690 N.E. 159 St., Miami.
Admission and parking are free for the event, part of the season’s expanded free Noches Tropicales/Tropical Nights concert series presented by the parks department and sponsored by the Knight Foundation.
For more information call District 2 Commissioner Jean Monestime’s office, 305-694-2779.
Concert-goers are encouraged to bring along a blanket, chairs and snacks to better enjoy the festivities. In the event of rain concerts may be cancelled.
UNIQUELY HAITIAN
Magnum Band was formed in 1976 by the Haitian-born Pasquet brothers André “Dadou” and Claude “Tico,” and has been touted as one of the most diverse, enthralling and longest-running bands by the Haitian music industry.
The band is legendary for creating a unique style of Konpa music (the African-based music of Haiti); blending socially conscious lyrics and elements of their Haitian roots and Caribbean culture with a twist of jazz, pop, and soul-filled rhythms.
Some of Magnum Band’s most popular songs include Paka Pala, Ashadei, Fierte, Moun Sa, Pike Devan and Severite.
Dadou is a bandleader, vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist who many refer to as “Haiti’s Six String Ambassador.” His elder brother Tico has been called the best drummer and percussionist in the history of Konpa music.
Magnum Band has performed in some of the most sought after international concert venues, such as Le Zenith arena in Paris, France, and as part of the entertainment for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games at Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, Ga.
That same year, the Haitian Music Industry honored Magnum Band with the distinction of “best music group” and their album La Seule Difference as “best album.”
OPPORTUNITY
Now in its 36th year, Magnum Band continues to deliver high-energy musical performances and unparalleled Konpa rhythms that celebrate the enduring depth and popularity of Haitian music and culture.
The band has more than 33 albums to its credit, including its most recent album Rété Avè’m Chéri.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for residents and their children to enjoy a memorable family night out in their neighborhood park, as well as a rich cultural experience with these amazing musicians from our Haitian musical community,” said Commissioner Monestime.
For more information call Commissioner Monestime’s office, 305-694-2779. For future concert information call 305-271-0812 or visit miamidade.gov/parks
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