Tsapiky: UNESCO-Recognized Music and the Soul of Southwest Madagascar
In 2025, UNESCO officially inscribed tsapiky, the vibrant musical tradition of southwest Madagascar, on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Announced during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, this recognition places tsapiky alongside other Malagasy cultural treasures such as hira gasy, kabary, and the art of the Zafimaniry, highlighting its importance on a global scale.
Originating in the Toliara region and surrounding areas, tsapiky has long been a central part of everyday life. Its fast, energetic rhythms are performed at weddings, funerals, festivals, and community events, uniting generations and creating shared experiences that balance celebration, memory, and even trance-like emotional expression.
Tsapiky is a living cultural heritage that reflects the vitality, social cohesion, and identity of the people of Madagascar’s south.
The sound of tsapiky uniquely blends tradition and modernity. Electric guitars and drums merge with local instruments like the kabosy (small guitar) and marovany (stringed box instrument), creating performances that are both raw and emotionally powerful. Over the decades, this style has inspired prominent Malagasy artists and influenced genres ranging from rock to rap, while remaining deeply rooted in ceremonial and social life.
Transmission of tsapiky is informal yet enduring: young musicians learn by listening, observing, and playing alongside elders and local ensembles. This intergenerational practice ensures that tsapiky continues to thrive, supported by community orchestras and cultural associations, which help preserve its heritage while allowing it to evolve.
For travelers, experiencing tsapiky is an invitation to engage responsibly with Madagascar’s living culture.
Tsapiky is a gateway into the heart of Malagasy life, offering a deep connection to the country’s traditions, community, and enduring creative spirit.
