Description
Ranpono is a rhythmic and energetic piece reflecting the cooperation and motivation of workers during the Haitian Ranpono. The text portrays laborers gathering before sunrise to accomplish community tasks. As the day moves along, they encourage each other to work toward completion. The final section is marked by a jubilant declaration of the day’s end that reflects the true meaning of community. “Truly indeed, Ranpono brings life! With many hands the load is light.”
Translation of Haitian Creole text:
[ Yele maoulo! ]
The conch shells are sounding,
The roosters haven’t crowed yet,
The sun hasn’t risen yet,
The workers are on their feet!
Ranpono has begun!
Laborers, let’s put our hands together,
Let’s join together,
The work has begun!
Little by little, the bird makes its nest.
My brothers, my sisters,
Join together, let’s move forward!
Heads together, in harmony,
We will come to see the navel of an ant.
With perseverance, we will see the navel of an ant.
The load that you bear on your head falls on your shoulders…
Click Here for complete text and English translation
Click Here Traducción al Español
Recordings
Ranpono recording 1:
Powell High School Singers
Jim Kennedy, conductor.
Ranpono recording #2:
Blue Valley Northwest Chamber Singers
Kevin Coker, Conductor.
March 2016
Perusal Score
Performance Videos
Practice Tracks