Founded in 2012 by a group of classical music enthusiasts, the ICanto vocal ensemble has reached a new milestone with its performance of Bach’s Mass in B Minor.
Over the years, ICanto has established itself as one of the leading vocal ensembles in Madagascar. Under the direction of Fitah Rasendrahasina, the group is built upon a foundation of constant musical excellence.
Renowned for the quality of its a cappella performances, the ensemble is not limited to this style alone. Its repertoire extends to major choral works of Western heritage, while also incorporating traditional music and other genres, showcasing a true artistic diversity.
This commitment was recognized on the international stage in 2022 with a Musical Excellence Award granted by the Spicy Arts Consortium, an honor reflecting the ensemble’s growing visibility beyond Madagascar’s borders.
However, the performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Mass in B Minor (BWV 232) marks a significant step in their journey. Presented at the Saint-Michel Chapel in Amparibe on Friday, June 26, the work brought together an orchestra featuring several of the capital’s finest instrumentalists, with the participation of a Mauritian violist and Ravo Raboanarison on first violin.
Distinguished Interpretation
From the very first measures, the concert captivated the audience. Despite the constraints still facing Malagasy musical life—such as a lack of specialized instruments, limited resources, and demanding production conditions—the ensemble delivered a performance of a level rarely heard on local stages. Several spectators noted that they felt they were attending a concert worthy of major musical capitals.
Under the precise direction of Fitah Rasendrahasina, each movement was conducted with balance, stylistic rigor, and a sense of the work’s architecture. The tempos were handled with confidence, giving momentum to the score without compromising the clarity of the contrapuntal lines or the balance between the choir and the orchestra. The precision of the attacks, the work on nuances, and the cohesion of the ensemble allowed Bach’s work to unfold in all its breadth.
The audience, which turned out in large numbers to fill the chapel, gave the performers a long ovation at the end of the concert. This enthusiastic reception testified to the impact of the performance, which is destined to be remembered as a highlight of Malagasy musical life.
Through this ambitious achievement, ICanto confirms its place in the Malagasy choral landscape and continues its development on the international stage. In an environment where resources remain limited, the ensemble illustrates the ability of a local group to perform works from the great repertoire with a high level of artistic integrity.
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-30 16:50:11 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/art-vocal-icanto-porte-lexcellence-du.html