Markus Schwartz

Markus Schwartz is one of the most influential voices in contemporary Haitian percussiona master of vodou rhythms, a cultural bridge‑builder, and a key figure in the dialogue between Haiti, jazz, and the global Afro‑diasporic soundscape. Based in the United States since his youth, he has dedicated his life to studying, preserving, and reimagining the rhythmic traditions of Haiti.

Trained by master drummers, Markus developed a deep understanding of sacred rhythms such as yanvalou, kongo, petwo, rada, nago, and banda. His approach blends respect for ancestral knowledge with a creative impulse that pushes these traditions into new musical territories. His work is not merely preservation — it is transformation, exploration, and renewal.

With his acclaimed project Lakou Brooklyn, Markus creates a sonic universe where vodou drumming meets jazz harmony, electric guitars, horns, and the urban textures of New York. This fusion positions him as a pioneer of contemporary Creole innovation, crafting a sound that is spiritual, modern, and deeply rooted.

He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Monvelyno Alexis, Jean Caze, Paul Beaubrun, Jowee Omicil, Bonga, Andrew Cyrille, and many others from the New York jazz scene. His playing is known for its clarity, emotional depth, and ability to carry tradition into new creative spaces.

Today, Markus Schwartz is recognized as a leading ambassador of Haitian drumming, a musician whose work expands Haiti’s presence within global jazz and Afro‑diasporic music while honoring the spiritual and historical power of the drum.