There are languages every child speaks. Music is one of them.
Music Heals International (MHI) uses music as a force for education, creativity and healing among Haiti’s children. This year once again, the partnership comes to life at the KANPE Summer Camp: music workshops all week long, led by two distinguished guests, Paul Beaubrun and Dominique Dalio.
Dominique Dalio’s journey captures the very spirit of this partnership: it was with MHI that he learned music as a young boy; today, as an instructor, he passes it on. The circle is complete, and it begins anew with the youth at camp.
Alongside him is Paul Beaubrun, son of the founders of the legendary band Boukman Eksperyans, a member of our board of directors and of Arcade Fire. When he plays for the young campers, the message is crystal clear: this music was born here, and it can take you anywhere. A Haitian like them, he performs on the world’s biggest stages; with practice and discipline, they too can get there one day.
Paul also arrived with his hands full: two guitars generously donated by Gibson, for which KANPE and all the young campers extend their warmest thanks. A gift that will allow them to keep practicing, long after camp ends, the instrument that fascinates them so.
In a region where opportunities to play an instrument are rare, every session counts. The youth learn notes, of course, but also confidence, listening and the pride of creating together. And seeing artists of this calibre at work, at home, in the Central Plateau: that’s the kind of memory that never fades.
