1 African Traditional Music African music entails the collective musical traditions of Africa's indigenous peoples. One singer (soloist) or a small group of singers (chorus) sings a line, and the full group (chorus) makes a reply (typically a predetermined refrain) in alternating fashion with the "lead singer" like a "musical conversation." In Africa, music from Africa is an integral component of daily life. It plays a role in rituals and celebrations of all types (Merriam, 1974). Songs are often sung at a person's birth, coming-of-age celebration, wedding, and funeral. The ill are cured, rain is brought, and sacred dances are performed with them. Many Africans think of music as a channel to the hereafter. Everyone contributes to the vibrant musical culture of the town. The things that matter most to the well-being of the people are inextricably linked to music. African music features various instruments, each with its distinct purpose, including xylophones, human voices, rattles, drums, shakers, melodic bows, and harps. Xylophone: The xylophone's primary function in an orchestra is that of a supporting special effects instrument. The xylophone's sound isn't particularly loud; therefore, it won't be able to overpower a full orchestra. The human voice: provides the vocal music as the main instrument. Rattles: Rattles can serve multiple purposes in a musical composition, including but not limited to reinforcing the underlying rhythm, adding a melodic line, and signaling through imitation of spoken languages. Drums were played to accompany song and dance performances as well as for work and intervillage communication. Among a community, drummers are often held in the highest regard. 2 Shakers: they may invoke the dead in religious rituals or bring attention to the words and deeds of notable figures. In rock and other popular styles, shakers are typically employed in place of or in addition to the ride cymbal to create the ride pattern. Musical bow: A stringed instrument is played using a bow, which is a taut rod covered in hair (often horse-tail hair) and rosin (to facilitate friction). A musical instrument produces sound when a vibrating object is pushed across a vibrating surface (often strings). Harps: In Africa, harps are the most common type of stringed instrument. They are low-key instruments typically played alongside a vocalist or poet (13:15). 3 References https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kaoay8wDlDM Merriam, A. P. (1974). The Music of Africa.
