F.E.D. - Biography | Las Crónicas de Ava

sábado, 28 de enero de 2012

F.E.D. - Biography

Composer and pianist Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr., or F.E.D, was born and raised in Port-au-Prince Haiti. He began studying the piano at the age of six. By age 15, F.E.D had added the cello to his musical studies. As a cellist, he played in the Mini Orchestra, the Little Chamber Orchestra, and the Holy Trinity Philharmonic Orchestra - the most prestigious orchestra and musical institution in Haiti.

In 1997, F.E.D and two of his violinist friends formed the New Age Trio, which performed at many events and recitals. Three years later, he officially started his solo career when he debuted as a piano and keyboards soloist with the Holy Trinity Modern Orchestra, giving the Haitian public their first look at this talented performer’s original compositions. That same year, F.E.D recorded the soundtrack for the Haitian play, "The Legend of Quisqueya," which paints a picture of Haiti during the time of the Indians.

Soon after, he left Haiti for the United States where he earned a degree in Architecture from the City College of New York's School of Architecture. Because music was such a big part of his childhood, he never abandoned his musical studies. Between his college studies, he composed additional works, performed in local events, and participated in multiple music performance and composition contests. As a result, more people were exposed to his talents.

F.E.D's inspiration comes from his life experiences, his interest in the music of different world civilizations, and, most importantly, the expression of human emotions. His music reveals his passion for the journey of exploration and the enlightenment of discovery. F.E.D's musical sound blends contemporary electronic music, classical music, Haitian folk and konpa music, and other world influences, making for an unexpected and exotic mixture. Underlying every beat of his music is a piece of F.E.D's soul. His dreams and goals are infused into his music which include: continuing to compose music that defies borders and speaks to people of all nations, recording albums, and performing in front of audiences around the world. Central to his vision is a desire to use his music to benefit different humanitarian causes in Haiti and around the world.

Some of the most memorable performances by F.E.D to date include:

• Four concerts as a soloist with the Holy Trinity Modern Orchestra in Haiti from 2000

to 2003

• F.E.D and Friends Live, Florida in 2004

• Night of a Thousand Stars, Louisville, Kentucky in 2005

• The CUNY-Wide Talent Show, New York City in March 2005 (F.E.D won first place)

In August 2006, F.E.D and Friends won two gold medals and two industry awards representing Haiti at the 2006 World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood, California. On December 20th, 2006, F.E.D was awarded the 2006 International Music Award in the Best Composition category for his piece "Reflection," which is featured on the 2006 Music Aid Awards CD. F.E.D also received a presentation Gold Disc from the Music Aid Organization for his work that year. In 2010, he received a special mention from the same organization for being a finalist once again.

His latest concert, F.E.D LIVE - THE NEW YORK PREMIER, was held in December 2007 in New York City and was an enormous success that left the audience asking for more. This concert delivered concrete proof of his relentless desire to push his artistic creations to the highest level.

The composer spent 2009 and 2010 in the studio composing and recording his first album. In December 2011, F.E.D released this much anticipated debut album titled “Awakening”, which he wrote, arranged and produced. Violinist Maestro J, violinist Maureen Manoly, and singer Annelise Collette participated in the project. Tracks include the instantly uplifting “Awakening,” the ethnic “Ascension” which is based on a Yanvalou rhythm, the exotic and nostalgic "Pays Lointain," the konpa flavored "Fantaisie," the sensual “Missing You,” and the powerful and inspiring "The Quest." This project, with its crossover style, captures a variety of moods from the energetic and dramatic to the light and romantic. With its cinematic sound, high energy, and strong memorable melodies, this album is sure to please all music lovers.

Encouraged by the success of this first album, F.E.D is now looking forward to continue presenting his music to many audiences and, to continue composing music that touches hearts and souls of people and defies borders.