FIKIRA

AFRO-FUSION

Live Performance & Cultural Residencies

/Expanding Horizons Through Malagasy Afro-Jazz

THE OPPORTUNITY: ENRICHING LOCAL CULTURAL LIFE

Clatsop Community College and the PAC are vibrant hubs for local arts. Fikira builds on that strong foundation by introducing a rare, mind-expanding dimension to the region: authentic Malagasy Afro-jazz. Led by composer Mimy Manavihare, the ensemble weaves Madagascar’s ancient banaike polyrhythms and beko vocal traditions into high-energy modern arrangements—offering students and residents a captivating, non-political moment of shared discovery.

Fikira is a world-class Afro-jazz ensemble dedicated to bringing the rare, intricate musical traditions of Madagascar to global stages.

Led by bandleader, composer, and percussionist Mimy Manavihare, the group features an exceptional lineup of versatile multi-instrumentalists, educator and composer.

Pianist Uziel Colón
Trumpet player Sam Dechenne
Bassist David Rajaonary

Together, Fikira transforms deep oral history, complex rhythm structures, and traditional Malagasy heritage into an unforgettable, high-energy live experience.

Who are we?

PROPOSED RESIDENCY STRUCTURE

Community Concert & Cultural Circle

This single, immersive event features an intimate "circle" setup where audiences sit in close proximity around the ensemble, breaking down traditional stage barriers to unite students, faculty, and local residents in a shared artistic space. Designed as a flexible, low-friction event, it easily adapts to campus or PAC facilities while delivering a deeply welcoming cultural experience for all ages.

Integrated Cultural Dialogue

By seamlessly weaving live performance with open Q&A and storytelling, the event invites attendees to explore Malagasy heritage and oral traditions directly with the artists. This interactive framework offers rich interdisciplinary value—connecting naturally with humanities and general education interests without requiring any prior musical background.

Rooted in Tradition, Boundless in Sound

Fikira brings powerhouse musicianship and captivating stage presence to every event. We engage audiences with an extraordinary, high-energy live show that leaves a lasting impression.
Recent highlights include featured showcase sets at Oregon State University’s PRAx (Big Fish Festival) and headline appearances at Christo’s Jazz Lounge.
The ensemble's upcoming physical vinyl release, BEKO, further cements our commitment to preserving and evolving traditional Malagasy roots.

Let’s create something memorable

Every space and community is different, so we’d love to connect with you directly to talk through dates, brainstorm the best room setup for the circle concert, and answer any questions you might have.

Reach out to Mimy to start the
conversation at:

510-459-5964
mimyfikira@gmail.com

fikiramusic.com