In the dusty heart of southern Madagascar, the beko is a revered storytelling tradition. The singer, known as a sairy, dedicates his life to mastering this art form.
No drums beat, no strings hum. It demands only the raw power of the human voice, performed a cappella. Beko often narrates the tale of someone who has passed away or departed from the community. Mimy becomes a sairy and channels this ancient art to remember the scars left by 100 years of French oppression. Mimy paints a stark picture: “They lined us up and made us work in the fields.” In “Beko,” Mimy is not just a singer; he is a griot, a keeper of stories, a weaver of truth. His voice carries the weight of history, the whispers of forgotten ancestors, and the quiet fire of defiance that burns eternally in the Malagasy spirit.
A group of musicians, selected by Mimy Fiaindratovo Manavihare, known as Mimy, showcased their talent live on the stage of Jesuit High School in Beaverton during The Immigrant Story Live concert on September 10, 2022. Mimy, leveraging his extensive musical experience, composed, arranged, and wrote the lyrics for all the songs performed. This event was more than just a concert; it was a vibrant tapestry woven from shared experiences, significant journeys, and joyous laughter. It stood as a testament to the unifying power of music, a force capable of transcending borders and connecting hearts.
Organized as part of Beaverton’s Welcoming Week and generously supported by the City of Beaverton, the program showcased an evening of soulful music and moving storytelling by immigrants in our community.
Additional funding for The Immigrant Story Live was generously provided by the Oregon Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Composed, Arranged and Conducted by Fiaindratovo “Mimy” Manavihare