Group.

A vocal and percussion ensemble, Desandann celebrates and preserves the rich legacy of Haitian cultural traditions in Cuba. The ensemble grew out of a request by members of the Association of Haitian Residents and Cubans of Haitian descent (see Haiti in Cuba) to research and compile traditional Haitian music. In a short time they have gained national and international recognition.

Between 1795 and 1805 30,000 Haitians emigrated to eastern Cuba with another wave occurring from 1920-1940 and yet another in the 1980s. Today, estimates of the Haitian population in Cuba range from 300,000 on up to 1 million. Each wave of immigrants had its own distinct characteristics and brought with them the strong musical and dance traditions, their religion, customs, rituals and cultural habits on their journey from Haiti to Cuba. With information gathered from generations of Haitian immigrants, Desandann promotes and performs music of Haitian origin, especially "La Cancionistica", music which has been enriched by elements of other Creole speaking Caribbean countries.

They have presented their work extensively in Cuba through participation in the 3rd Festivals of Choruses and the Caribbean Festival, regional activities linked to the Association of Haitian Residents and Descendants of Haiti, radio programs, as well as to international audiences.

Desandann is composed of ten multi-faceted musicians who sing as well as play a variety of percussion instruments. Emilia Diaz Chavez, the director of the group, is a graduate of the Choral Division of Cuba's National School of Art and hold a Masters in Musical Education. She is the director of the Chorus of Camaguey and teaches throughout the province of Camaguey. Desandann's repertoire consists of a wide range of choral arrangements with percussion accompaniment including Choucoune, a Haitian merengue, Gran Toumobile a Creole Mazurka, and Doudou Moin, a Martinique merengue.