Régis Gizavo
Malagasy accordionist who brought music rooted in Toliara traditions to international audiences.
- Years
- 1959–2017
- Country
- Madagascar
- Instrument
- Accordion, voice
Régis Gizavo was an accordionist and singer from Toliara in southwestern Madagascar. He grew up around his father's instrument and developed his playing at local dances and celebrations. His music drew on Malagasy traditions and sounds heard from elsewhere in southern Africa. Winning the 1990 RFI Découvertes prize opened the way to a wider career in Europe.
On the 2012 album Ilakake he brought together songs rooted in his home region and a range of contemporary influences. In 2015 he appeared at the Berlin Philharmonie on Accordion Night alongside Vincent Peirani and other accordionists. His voice and accordion carried Malagasy musical traditions to international audiences and into new collaborations.
Selected works, recordings and publications
- Ilakake2012
A 2012 album connecting music from his home region with contemporary styles.
Release / publisherAlbum · 2012
Publication source - Jazz at Berlin Philharmonic IV – Accordion Night2015
Live recording with accordionists from several musical traditions.
Release / publisherLive album · 2015
Publication source
Biography source RFI Découvertes laureate list Film press kit and composer profile