Ogene
Traditional music and dance are indispensable parts of the Igbo culture. They serve as a mark of identity and a unifying factor that binds the people together. The Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria are endowed with various music performances and dances that portray their culture to a broader society. In modern societies, Igbo people have been seen to hold traditional music shows or dance performances to remind the world of their cultural richness.
Despite the emerging influence of western instruments in Igbo music, traditional musical instruments like ekwe, udu and oja still serve their full cultural purposes. On today’s Saturday Small Chops, we discuss the ogene music, its accompanying instrument and dance form.
Ogene is a style of Igbo music that derives its name from the ogene instrument. Historically, the music is associated with the Igbo masquerade cult and can be traced to Achi in Enugu State and Awka in Anambra State.
Ogene instrument is a large metal bell, with a flattish, conical shape that generates sound from the vibration of the iron body when struck. While there are various sizes of the bell, the most frequently seen amongst ogene singers in the Igbo society is a co-joined pair of hollow flattened conical bells held in one hand and struck with a short wooden stick to achieve a wide variety of sonic effects. All parts of the instrument, including the hollow interior and the iron bridge tying the two differently tined bells together, are skillfully beaten to generate different sounds. The sounds could range from sharp percussive clanks to deep, resonant notes which makes ogene music enjoyable.
Read Also: Indigenous Musical Instruments Across Major Tribes in Nigeria
Ogene music encompasses rich call and response songs exploring themes of marriage, military encounters and moral impacts. The song serves praise functions, birthday celebrations, dedications and poetry presentations. Contemporary ogene music is usually played by three or more men. The music is exciting, joyful and appealing to the soul. To play ogene music, only two instruments are vital; the lead ogene bell itself and the oja (flute). However, it is normal to find an ensemble of various other instruments such as the igba, and udu. The performers usually carry their instruments, directly engaging with listeners and skillfully moving away from the audience with mysterious synchronization.
The lead singer, usually differently dressed produces phrases which are then repeated in chorus by other performers. The performers are mostly coordinated through subtle gestures, calculated movements, quick looks, vocal exhortations and signal patterns played on the ogene.
During ogene music performance, dancers are usually seen vibrating to the joyful rhythm of the song. Ejike Obiano (Owelle) and his band is a notable ogene singer in contemporary Igbo society.
Ever watched an ogene music or dance performance? Please share your favorite fun moment with us.