The Ceremonial Significance Of African Drums

The Ceremonial Significance Of African Drums

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African drums play a huge part in the various ceremonies that take place in Africa. In our society, we generally think of drums as being a form of music that provides entertainment value. However, the Africans use them for ceremonial purposes, as they commonly play them during funerals and various times of celebration. In their culture, drums are much more than just instruments.

It would take a person many years to study all of the ceremonial purposes for which the African culture uses drums. However, we can easily see the various ways in which the instruments of Africa have become popular in many forms of music.

The West Africans originally brought ceremonial drums to the Caribbean. When you listen to Caribbean music you can hear the bongos, Bata and conga. Salsa music is easily recognizable by the sound of the conga, and it originated in Central Africa. Bongos are heard in the music of Eastern, Western and Central Africa. Anyone who is familiar with reggae music will be able to note the sound of the Bata, and this originated in Nigeria.

There is a lot of religious significance placed on the Bata in the African and Caribbean cultures. Just like many religions have a symbolic and sacred meaning for the crucifix, the Bata is a common appearance at many ceremonial gatherings. In the beginning, this drum was renowned as the drum of royalty. However, with the passing of time it came to be that the Bata was the way to bring forth communication from the spirits.

The talking drum is highly intriguing, and this is perhaps why you will see it in the plot of most movies that take place in Africa. As the story goes, the talking drum makes sounds that are based upon a tonal language. The Africans have managed to take communication to a whole new level in this manner, and it is highly complex.

Ceremonial African drums have a unique sound that comes from multiple rhythms being played at once. This results in an exciting sound that is referred to as polyrhythm. This is precisely that sound that has made African music so appealing to the masses, and it has brought about a widespread interest in these instruments. Some will even consider it as a hobby. Bongos and djembes are easily purchased now, and many have come to love the experience of taking part in a drum circle. The experience of making communal music is very unique, and one that many have come to seek and enjoy.

Of course, these drums are known for bringing about movement. Those who dance along are lead by the music of the drums. There are traditional patterns that will be played according to the event. For example, there are certain drum patterns that are played for weddings, and when a child is born the beat that is played is determined by whether the baby is a boy or a girl. No matter what, if there is an event that is important to African people there will always be the presence of African drums.


Copyright (c) 2011 Joe Maldonado

About the Author:
Pick your preferred one from dozens of different types of African Drums available with all the accessories that go along with them. Hint: If you can't find it in here, you won't find it anywhere!



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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