Makarios welcome on Opa Music. You are known as a composer, song-writer, producer, Arranger, Session Musician. Did we miss anything? What else should we add to the list?
No, You did not miss anything. I would probably replace all these titles by one which I think is simpler and also more deserved “I see myself as a good student and nothing more than that.”
You seem to have a special, dare I say, dedicated relationship with your guitar. How did that relationship start? How old were you?
My father gave me a guitar as Christmas present. I was four years old, and I still remember that that like it was yesterday’
To be as good as you have become, you must constantly be learning, practicing, and I believe in your case Teaching. Where does that dedication and enthusiasm come from?
The dedication and enthusiasm come from the passion for the art.
Have all your efforts and sacrifices been worth it so far?
I can’t complain so far, but there are still a lot more things to accomplish
You stand on many people’s shoulders as a musician. Who among them influenced you the most? Who dazzles you now?
It’s a long list. I don’t want to say any names because I don’t want to leave any out. Let just it’s almost every one from the older generation. Check out P”a Blyie Sa” that should give you an idea.
On the “Pou la vie” Album by NYAS, you wrote a song called “Pa Blyie Sa” , a vibrant homage to those guitar players (dead or still living) who came before you. Tell us what prompted you to write that song?
I learned a lot from these guys, and I think of them as true legends. I just felt that I needed to express the sentiment.
Among the current crop of guitar players, some better known than others, who in your opinion, should we pay special attention to?
I think that everyone of them is doing something good and different. In my opinion, I think that guys like Garry Josama, Ralph Conde, Dener Ceide, and many more are doing something special. I also have to mention that I was in Haiti Last year, and I saw so many skilled guitar players that I was speechless.
Away from the stage and the studio, who is Makarios Cesaire?
I’m a family man.
Is it difficult sometimes to leave your family and go on tour? Do you sometimes turn down jobs if they interfere with your family commitments?
No, my family understands what I do. The only thing, I more selective on the kind on a tour that I go to.
In my totally biased opinion, New York All Stars comprised one of the best groups of musicians, Haitian Musicians that could ever be put together. Why do you think the band did not survive? Do you miss NYAS sometimes?
I do miss NYAS; unfortunately, I have no answer to why the band broke-up. I wish they stayed together because too many people, including myself, love the band.
What do you think about a NYAS Reunion Tour?
That sounds interesting.
Who benefit from your playing skills these days? Apart from the more than occasional studio sessions, what are you up to? A little bird told me that there is a solo project in the works. Can you confirm?
Yes, there is a solo project in the works. It should out by year 2007.
Will there be a re-birth of the group DOZ or is the hiatus permanent?
Dozz is still well and alive. You’ll hear soon from Dozz.
What are your thoughts on the Haitian Jazz Movement?
It’s a good thing, especially the way that the public embraces it.
Where do you see Makarios Cesaire in five years? Do you have a Road Map or is your guitar leading you?
Five year from now, I would like to have a P.H.D on what I do best.
Makarios, Thanks for taking the time away from your busy schedule to answer those questions for our members and for your fans where ever they may be because I know they are all over. You are a talented brother and an inspiration to many inspiring Haitian musicians. We wish you continued success and good health.
Thank you.
