Creating Music, The Local Way!

Warm greetings to you, friends. Happy Sunday! I hope all is well with you and yours.

Music is a universal language, and I want to believe that there's no one who doesn't love music. Music is food for the soul, a balm to the weary and a delight to the happy folks.

Music doesn't just spring up by itself, it is created using various types of musical instruments. Each of these musical instruments produces different individual sound, but when played together in harmony, they create music.

Here in my region, South Eastern Nigeria, there are different types of local musical instruments which are used to create music. It's almost impossible to find them missing in any traditional dance troupe, band groups and worship centers.

Ichaka or Shekere - Gourd vessel rattle.

This colorful instrument called Ichaka is
very simple but powerful. It serves as an accompaniment to other musical instruments. When played, it produces a sweet rattling sound. This is one of my favorite musical instruments and I often play it in the church.

Udu - Pottery drum.

This instrument is the heart of the local instruments, for with it, traditional music is incomplete. Although it's a very fragile
instrument, it's bass sound adds vibrancy, flavor and life to the music being created.

Ekwe

Ekwe serves as both a musical instrument and an instrument for communication. It comes in various sizes, and the size depends on the event.

Small Ekwe

Conga drum.

Alo Gong

I've come to appreciate these instruments as they remind me of my root and the rich musical traditions that shape my identity. My culture my pride. Proudly African. 🥰

Thank you for reading.

Author's Photos

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