The National Malagasy Fanfare: a monument of historical music in decline

Kings don’t exist anymore in Madagascar. Only the King’s fanfare remains. Here in the heart of the remains of the old Kingdom, one can come and see the National Malagasy Fanfare rehearse every morning. The Fanfare has existed for 200 years. It was originally created to play music during sovereign arrivals and departures. The days when it was a sumptuous kingdom are long gone, though the 37 members of the band remain the property of the Government. All of these men are civil servants and are chosen by competitive examination. The National Malagasy Fanfare is severely under-resourced.