Haiti’s budding musicians hold concert amid ongoing gang violence
3 min read
Music school in Port-au-Prince
In the midst of ongoing gang violence that has gripped Haiti, a group of budding musicians is finding hope and purpose through their art. In the capital, Port-au-Prince, the children attending the only music school in the city continue to showcase their bravery and commitment to their craft despite the challenging circumstances. Their music not only serves as an outlet for expression but also symbolizes their aspiration for better futures, even in a country overwhelmed by violence and instability.
Haiti has been struggling with rampant gang violence for years, and 2023 has seen the situation worsen. Gangs are believed to control nearly 85 percent of the capital, leading to widespread fear and insecurity. Thousands of lives have been lost, and incidents of kidnapping and sexual violence have increased. Amid this chaos, schools across the country have been forced to close their doors, either due to direct violence or a lack of funds and resources. In many areas, parents are too afraid to send their children to school, let alone allow them to play outside. However, despite these dire conditions, the music school in Port-au-Prince continues to draw students, providing a rare beacon of hope and inspiration in the midst of turmoil.
The school, which began its work at internally displaced shelters, is funded by a non-governmental organization (NGO) and remains one of the few institutions offering a consistent education to children in the area. The music school not only focuses on teaching children how to play instruments and sing but also provides a vital emotional outlet for these young people, helping them cope with the harsh realities of life in a violence-ridden society.
Among the students is Yvenson Jeantille, a determined young boy who dreams of becoming a professional musician. Despite the dangers surrounding him, he walks long distances to attend the school at least twice a week. His dedication is evident in his words: “The situation of the country as it reaches me, it has an impact, but I don’t let it interfere in my future.” Yvenson’s commitment to his music is not just a reflection of his personal ambitions but also an act of resilience in the face of adversity.
The gang violence has made daily life in Haiti increasingly dangerous, but the music school provides a sanctuary for children like Yvenson, offering them a space where they can focus on something positive. Teacher Kevin Marc Duverseau emphasizes the importance of music in helping the children manage their emotions. “Music, in general, helps alleviate frustrations that we know many of us in our country are feeling,” Duverseau explains. “It also helps translate the feelings we all have, which can be both negative and positive, but even negative feelings can give rise to beautiful music.” Through music, the students find a way to express their anger, sadness, and hope, turning their struggles into something powerful and meaningful.
The School of Hope and Sunshine, or Ecole Soleil d’Espoir, as it is called, offers more than just a place for learning; it provides children with the opportunity to dream of a future where they can overcome the challenges they face today. As the country remains entrenched in gang violence, the school serves as a beacon of light for these young students, showing them that there is still room for hope, even in the darkest of times.
Despite the severe conditions outside, the students and teachers at the music school remain committed to their craft. Many of the students at the school aspire to have careers in music, and the end-of-year concerts serve as a testament to their resilience and determination. These concerts are not just about showcasing talent but also about providing an outlet for the students to connect with their emotions and with one another. For the children of Port-au-Prince, who are growing up in an environment marked by violence and uncertainty, the music school represents a safe haven and a path forward.
As the music school continues to attract students and prepare them for their futures, it highlights the power of art to heal and transform. In a country where hope can be hard to find, music provides these young people with the strength to face the challenges ahead and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow.
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