OCTOBER 23rd, 2023 LOCATION: BAHA MAR, NASSAU BAHAMAS
Giveton Gelin
Giveton Gelin, a graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, is a Trumpeter, Composer, and Educator who has rapidly gained recognition in the music world due to his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to his craft. He counts being a Youngarts Finalist in 2017’, Betty Carter Jazz Ahead in 2018’, Letter One Rising Stars in 2019’, DC Jazz Prix in 2020’, and most recently, being an honorary member of The Bahamas National Commission for UNESCO 2023’ as part of his long list of accolades in music. Giveton's accomplishments speak for themselves. He has worked with renowned artists such as Kenny Garret, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Jon Batiste, Roy Hargrove, Nicholas Payton, Bob James, Talib Kweli, Camilla Cabello, Macy Gray, P.J Morton, Gary Bartz, and even subbed for the legendary Wynton Marsalis. Wynton Marsalis, a celebrated trumpeter, composer, and educator, and mentor to Giveton praised his musicianship, stating that "Giveton has a beautiful sound and feel conception about the music. He's definitely an important part of the wave of younger musicians who have the intellect, feeling, and intensity to perpetuate the highest levels of our music." He has also been a part of Grammy-Award-winning albums with celebrated musician Jon Batiste and has made a significant impact on the traditional jazz music scene with his debut album, "True Design."Giveton Gelin's musical journey began in the Bahamas, where he found his calling at Jacaranda House, a cultural hub where he was introduced to jazz music. It was under the mentorship of Adrian D'Aguilar, a renowned Bahamian musician, that Giveton's passion for jazz was nurtured. D'Aguilar's mentorship served as a foundation for Giveton's journey, instilling in him the values of hard work, dedication, and respect for the art form. Gelin's most significant mentor was the late Roy Hargrove, a Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and composer. Hargrove recognized Giveton's exceptional talent and became his mentor. Under Hargrove's tutelage, Giveton deepened his understanding of jazz music's history and tradition and blended various styles and genres, leading to the development of his unique voice as a musician. In a quote about Giveton, Hargrove stated, "I really love Giveton's sound and vocal quality that he has when he plays. He is one of the few players that I have heard that actually sings through the horn." Giveton is a protege of the late Roy Hargrove.
Island Dreamer VOL 1 (12 original tracks)
The Island Dreamer promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing not only Giveton's extraordinary talent and versatility as a trumpeter, composer, and vocalist but also his deep connection to his roots. Born in the Bahamas with influences from both Bahamian and Haitian cultures, Giveton's upbringing formed a profound connection between his life experiences and his artistic expression.
The fusion of Bahamian and Haitian influences serves as the foundation of Giveton's musical DNA, representing the music that deeply resonated with him during his formative years. His music is a reflection of the unique blend of sounds and rhythms that have influenced him, synthesizing all these experiences into a musical narrative.
Island Dreamer VOL 1Â is the first part of a trilogy, a project three years in the making, initiated during the global climate of 2020, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This unique time led Giveton on a transformative journey, ultimately resulting in the completion of the Island Dreamer Project.
VOL 1 pays homage to Giveton's deep connection to the Bahamas by acknowledging the impact of Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the lives of many Bahamians in 2019, including the Haitian communities in Abaco. It also pays homage to the breathtaking Blue Holes found in the Bahamas, with their mystical allure and deep connection to the natural world. These awe-inspiring formations serve as a metaphor for the depths of Giveton's artistic exploration and the exploration of his own cultural identity. Victory is also a notable track with the Bahamas’ Junkanoo Rhythm as the driving force, among other direct references.
”Calling” is the track dedicated to the Haitian Church, the proving grounds for where Giveton played music for the first time and also highlights Haiti’s resilient culture.
Island Dreamer is also a motivational album, pushing people to realize their dreams no matter where they may be geographically or socioeconomically. This album serves as an inspiration to a younger version of myself, encouraging commitment and passion for one's craft and seeing it all the way through.
”Prologue,” dives into the global societal pressures, overcoming depression, and taking claim to the "life you deserve," as written in the lyrics. The last track of the album is "Persevere," with lyrics encouraging young dreamers to "never go too far."
The rhythms found in Haiti and the Bahamas are deeply connected to the African diaspora historically, uniting people from all walks of life. These rhythms carry the spirit of the ancestors, reflecting the resilience and creativity of communities that have preserved these traditions over generations. It connects islands and various parts of the world that share this commonality, creating a global tapestry of cultural expression. From the vibrant sounds of Afro-Cuban music in Cuba to the infectious beats of Afro-Brazilian rhythms in Brazil, from the captivating melodies of Afro-Caribbean music in Trinidad to the soul-stirring grooves of African-American jazz in the United States, the influence and impact of these rhythms can be felt across continents and oceans.
The shared African roots in music create a powerful thread that unites diverse communities and fosters a sense of collective identity. These rhythms transcend geographical boundaries, languages, and cultural differences, resonating with people worldwide who are moved by their infectious energy and emotive power.
Introducing the Island Dreamer Art Collectors Case, an unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of musical history and support young Bahamian artists on their journey to greatness.
Inside this exquisite briefcase, you will discover:
