The Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) joins the people of Saint Lucia in recognition of the loss of another great folk cultural hero – Joseph Rameau Poleon. He died on July 22, 2024, at the age of 95, after a period of illness.
Joseph Rameau Poleon will be remembered and celebrated for his enduring and selfless contributions to the preservation, promotion and development of the folk music traditions of Saint Lucia. His performed with many of the great musicians of Saint Lucia and his music has been released on local and international compilations of folk music.
Joseph Rameau Poleon will be remembered and celebrated for his enduring and selfless contributions to the preservation, promotion and development of the folk music traditions of Saint Lucia. His performed with many of the great musicians of Saint Lucia and his music has been released on local and international compilations of folk music.
At the age of 15, Rameau was given his first violin, with his uncle being his first teacher, and his first note was the key of G. Rameau grew a passion and gift for music. Through continuous practice and natural ability, Joseph Rameau Poleon became a full- blown violinist.
Rameau played at dances in his father’s dance hall and also played during La Rose and other local festivals. He formed the Rameau Poleon Band in 1979 comprising six musicians playing the cuatro, banjo, violin, guitar and chak-chak [shak-shak]. In 1979, he joined with now deceased Eric Adley to form the Mount Gallion Band, which focused on composing songs specially geared at promoting traditional dances, such as the Kwadwil [Quadrille] and Waltz. The band frequently performed at Lawòz, La Magwit festivities, Jounen Kwéyòl and other national celebrations.
Rameau’s exceptional musical talents brought him to locations beyond the shores of Saint Lucia. He performed on many occasions with other Saint Lucian musicians including the “Queen of Culture”, Dame Marie Selipha “Sesenne” Descartes. Among his notable international engagements was his sterling performance at the Barns of the Wolf Trap Preforming Centre in Washington, USA.
Founding Director of the FRC Msgr. Patrick Anthony remembers Rameau as “the grandfather of the violin instrument in Saint Lucia who inspired the formation of numerous folk music bands. What Rameau did with his violin for folk music is equivalent to Sessenne’s contributions in song”
Rameau has won the title of Best Violinist twice. In 1996, he was awarded the Les Piton Medal for his outstanding contribution to culture. In 2000, he received the Saint Lucia Medal of Merit (Silver) for his meritorious contribution to the folk arts. In 2015, he received an MBE (Member of the British Empire) for his sterling contribution to the arts. Rameau was recognized as a National Cultural Hero by the FRC in 2013, and in 2018, was awarded the title of “Cultural Icon” by the Cultural Development Foundation.
When asked about music he would often remark, “Music is in my head and when I go to sleep, I can hear the song coming out”.
The Msgr. Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC), is honored to acclaim the tremendous contribution of Mr. Joseph Rameau Poleon to the cultural development of Saint Lucia. We extend sincere condolences to his family, the Belle View community and the cultural community of Saint Lucia on his passing.