Voita is a family affair – and in this family, preserving the legacy of Maloya music is the mission. Votia is led by the powerful voice of Marie-Claude Philéas Lambert, daughter of Gramoun Lélé, a key figure in Maloya’s revival after French authorities tried to ban it in the 1970s. Her mother came from a well-known musical family in Madagascar. Raised in these traditions and having toured with her father until his passing in 2004, Marie-Claude formed Votia with her husband, children, and close friends. They perform her original songs in Malagasy and Creole, blending rich vocal harmonies, polyrhythmic percussion, with the essential influences that the tradition holds. Rhythmic, earthy, soaring, dreamlike, powerful, awakening and presence, dance in the memory of generations of life, lived with the earth, for the earth. Take the opportunity to participate in Votias’ workshop during the festival!
Photo Eric Garault