Composer

:

Sydney Guillaume

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2003

Average_duration

:

3:35

"Kalinda" is a choral work composed by Haitian-American composer Sydney Guillaume. The piece was composed in 2012 and premiered in the same year. It is a four-movement work that is characterized by its use of Haitian Creole text, rhythmic complexity, and lush harmonies. The first movement, "Lè m' wè zèklè," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a call-and-response between the choir and a soloist. The text speaks of the beauty of lightning and the power of nature. The second movement, "Mwen vlé touye chen," is a slower and more contemplative piece that features a soloist singing a mournful melody over a lush choral backdrop. The text speaks of the desire to kill a dog that has been causing trouble in the neighborhood. The third movement, "Mwen pa wè anyen ankò," is a haunting and atmospheric piece that features a soloist singing a mournful melody over a sparse choral backdrop. The text speaks of the feeling of emptiness and despair that comes after a loved one has passed away. The final movement, "Kalinda," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a call-and-response between the choir and a soloist. The text speaks of the Kalinda, a traditional Haitian dance that is performed to the beat of drums. Overall, "Kalinda" is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Guillaume's skill as a composer and his deep connection to his Haitian heritage. Its use of Haitian Creole text and traditional rhythms gives the piece a unique and authentic flavor, while its lush harmonies and complex rhythms make it a challenging and rewarding work for choirs to perform.

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