Ricardo Lafond

Renowned Haitian saxophonist Ricardo Lafond has emerged as a distinctive voice in today’s world of jazz and Caribbean fusion. His captivating performances and lyrical tone reflect both technical mastery and deep cultural roots, earning him recognition on international stages.

Ricardo’s musical journey began in a family steeped in music. He developed a solid foundation through self-study of music theory and early performances with his school’s marching band as a clarinetist. Balancing academics with his growing love for music, Ricardo honed his skills by performing in restaurants across Haiti. A pivotal moment came in 2013 when he met his mentor Thurgot Theodat, who introduced him to the language of jazz and inspired his artistic direction.

Ricardo’s career soon flourished and as a member of the celebrated Haitian group SMS Kreyol, he gain international recognition representing Haiti at the 2017 Astana Expo in Kazakhstan, where he shared the stage with American pianist John Webber. His trajectory continued upward with a featured performance at the Port-au-Prince International Jazz Festival in 2019, presenting the groundbreaking Haiti-Israel Project and collaborating with Acclaimed drummer Yogev Shetrit.

His artistry and charisma have led to collaborations with an impressive rooster of stars. A return to the Jazz Festival in 2021 with SMS Kreyol marked another highlight, showcasing his versatility and prominence within Haiti’s music scene.