elan parle

élan parlé is a Trinidad-based music ensemble that blends Caribbean rhythms with global music influences to create Caribbean/World fusion.Using freewheeling improvisation over carefully crafted compositions, élan parlé brings a contemporary jazz perspective to the musical and cultural traditions of Trinidad and Tobago.The Vision for the group is reflected in the band’s name élan parlé, artistically interpreted to mean “Spirited Conversations.”“These Spirited Conversations are often spoken in a Caribbean dialect, discussing World issues, but from a Caribbean perspective.”Since the band’s formation in 2000, they have independently produced, recorded and released five CD albums namely Tribal Voices, Caribbean Renaissance, Songs for Wayne, “5” The Ming-Toy Project and most recently Wejouvaynation.They have also produced music for other artistes through their Production Company Parlemusik.In 2002, the Kindred Spirits collaborative CD featuring elan parle garnered five nominations and received two Sunshine Music Awards.In 2004, élan parlé’s leader and keyboardist Ming, received a COTT nomination for Jazz/World Music Composer of the Year 2004.Throughout the years, the group has played numerous concerts both at home and throughout the Caribbean.Select PerformancesIn 2002, and again in 2003, the group performed at the Annual We Beat Festival Jazz night.In 2003, the group performed at the Grenada Spice Jazz Festival, as well as the St Kitts Music Festival.In 2004, élan parlé played the St Vincent Blues Fest as well as our own San Fernando Jazz Festival.In 2005, élan parlé played their own sold-out concert at The Central Bank Auditorium as well as performances at the Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan and Jazz Festival.2006 saw the group performing at the 2006 edition of the Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan and Jazz Festival, opening for renowned jazz trumpeter Terrance Blanchard and singer Vanessa Rubin.