A sodina is a type of woodwind instrument often used in Malagasy music and belongs to the aerophone group of instruments. It is similar to a flute and is usually made from bamboo, lightwood, plastic, or reed. The size of a sodina depends on the region where it is played.
Sodinas from Madagascar typically have between three and six evenly spaced holes. These instruments can be played alone or with other instruments, often accompanied by multiple flutes and a large drum.
Research by music experts suggests that the sodina originated in Southeast Asian islands, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. In these regions, the bamboo version of the instrument is called "suling" in Malay.
Rakoto Frah is widely regarded as the greatest sodina player of the 20th century. Today, many performers continue this tradition, including Rakoto Frah Zanany (Rakoto Frah Junior), who is Rakoto Frah’s son; Seta Ramaroson, a well-known jazz saxophonist; and Nicolas Vatomanga, a saxophonist and respected jazz musician.
Discography
- 1988: Flute Master of Madagascar by Globestyle
- 1988: Souffles de Vie by Musikela
- 1989: The Art of Rakoto Frah and Randafison Sylvestre by JVC
- 2004: Introducing Vakoka: The Malagasy All Stars by World Music Network
Rakoto Frah and Nicolas Vatomanga
- 2000: Chants et Danses en Imerina by Arion
- 2001: Madagascar: Pays Merina by Arion