a cappella duration: 3:45
About the composer
Sydney Guillaume (b. 1982) originally from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, came to the United States at the age of 11. His compositions have been praised by the Miami Herald as showing “impressive maturity and striking melodic distinction.” In 2004, he was named the Outstanding Graduate for the Department of Music Theory and Composition at the University of Miami Frost School of Music where he received his Bachelor of Music in Composition with emphasis in Media Writing and Production.
Sydney takes great pride in his Haitian roots. He hopes that his music will serve as an ambassador for his country and create an awareness of the beautiful culture that exists amidst the economic and political turmoil. Sydney is an active member of the choral community both as a composer and singer. He has been commissioned by renowned choirs such as The University of Miami Frost Chorale, Seraphic Fire, The Young New Yorkers Chorus, The Miami Children's Chorus, Florida State University Singers, Illinois Wesleyan University Collegiate Choir, and Kokopelli Choir. His music has been performed at ACDA, All-State Choir Conventions and abroad. Sydney resides in Los Angeles, California, where he is also pursuing a career in film music.
About the poet
Gabriel T. Guillaume is Sydney Guillaume’s father. Mr. Guillaume is deeply attached to his family, his native land and culture, and his faith in a living omnipresent God. His poetry is based on Christian inspirations and is an imprint of profound humanism, a privileged source for Sydney and his music. “Wipip!!!” marks Gabriel and Sydney's 10th choral collaboration.
Pronunciation
Vowels
Pure as in Italian with the following exceptions Three vowels are affected when followed by n on - pronounced like on in English word long an - pronounced like en in French word vent en - pronounced like en in English word envy (but more nasal) ou - pronounced like ou in English word you ò - pronounced like o in English word love
Consonants
Pronounced as in English with two needing clarification ch - pronounced like ch in French word chanson g - hard g like in English word good
Practice tracks and a pronunciation guide are posted at the composer’s website: www.sydneyguillaume.com.
Range
Listen to a recording at www.sbmp.com
Performed by the University of Southern California Chamber Singers Christopher Haygood, guest conductor
