THE Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) honors the memory of Patrick “Gilo” Bernadin, a cultural icon who enriched the Belle Vue and Vieux-Fort communities, as well as the wider Saint Lucian public, through his invaluable contributions to traditional folk culture. The following is a tribute to Gilo, published with the author’s permission.
PATRICK “GILO” BERNADIN
Patrick “Gilo” Bernadin was a multi-talented and phenomenal individual who made a resounding contribution to the development of Belle Vue, Vieux-Fort. As a youth, he proudly represented the community as a cricketer. Using his acting and singing skills, he participated in several talent shows hosted in Belle Vue. Patrick’s most notable contribution was in the area of culture. He served as the prince and king of the Lesparence La Rose Group during his younger days.
Patrick had a powerful and melodious voice. He was well versed in singing and composing La Rose and Kont folk songs. Patrick served as the lead singer for the Belle Vue La Rose Group, Vieux-Fort North La Rose Group and Kwi Folk Band. Patrick was also a member of Orchest Wrangema and Avot Sevis. As a multi-talented musician, he also enjoyed entertaining audiences with the guitar and African drum.
Away from the musical arena, Patrick was an impressively talented master of ceremony at traditional cricket matches, known as Woulélaba, and a famed folk story-teller at wakes and community activities. In 2019, Patrick was awarded the Saint Lucia Medal of Merit (Silver) by the Government of Saint Lucia for his sterling contribution to Music (Folk Culture). Thank you, Patrick, for helping to preserve our rich cultural heritage and contributing towards the advancement of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia.
Kendall Elva