Left to Right: Sabine Jean, Kethlise Jean, Tyiesha Jean,                       Top (left to right): Brianna Etienne, Emmaline Etienne,
                                            Christina Jean                                                                                               Anastasia Etienne, AmyLisa Christophe
                                                                                                                                   Bottom (left to right): Jennifer Jourdan, Fiola Etienne

                Tonel Lakay takes pride in its performers which include drummers, dancers, poets, singers, and instrumentalists.  We would like to share quotes from our performers explaining what this organization means to them, and what draws them to the Father Dempsey Center every Saturday.    

                     AmyLisa Michelle Christophe

             Hello! I joined Tonel Lakay when I was 4, and now I am 10 years old. 
    I like to come to Tonel Lakay because I learn Haitian history and dance. In
    the first half hour of dance class I learn to play the drums.  I love making friends
    at dance class, and dancing with them at different places.  My favorite dance is the
    “djoumba”, the dance of the Earth.

                           From left to right: John Baptiste, Ricardo Jean, Marvin Gaspard,             From left to right: Ricardo Jean, Marvin Gaspard, Joseph R. Jean, Jr.,
                           Joseph R. Jean, Jr.                                                                                           Gladys Christophe, Leonard Etienne

                                   Joseph R. Jean, Jr.

        I am now 17 soon to be 18 years old. I joined Tonel Lakay when I was about 7 or 8 years old.  I am the son of Marie Edith Jean.  Tonel Lakay has taught me to be proud of my heritage and background. We’ve gone through a lot for our independence. We have been taught differently from what Haiti is known to be. Knowing that my country was the 1^st Black nation to gain its independence is something to be very proud of and it set an example for others to follow.  As one of Master Drummer Frisner Augustin’s top students, I feel its my job to teach my peers how to play the drums.  I am able to use the knowledge that I gain from Tonel Lakay in my everyday life.  For example, I play the drums for my church. I’ve been invited once more, by Master Drummer Frisner Augustin, to play the drums at the Children’s museum in Long Island.  I love the group, its here to stay, and I will always be a part. 

Join Us !    Welcome     Marie Edith Jean   Timeline    What do we do?    Executive Board      Meet the 1st Generation  

   Performers     Master Drummer Frisner Augustin    In the News...     Events

Become a member    Contact Us