Song texts as instruments of communication in “Alaga Iduro” and “Alaga Ijokoo” musical performances during engagement ceremonies

Abstract

Alaga (Iduro and Ijokoo) are masters of Yoruba traditional marriage ceremonies. Through various musical performances, they conduct Yoruba traditional marriage ceremonies. The article notates and examines song texts as instruments of communication in Alaga (Iduro and Ijoko) musical performances. During traditional ceremonies may be integrated with events, either to set the mood for actions or to provide an outlet for expressing the feelings they generate. Masters of marriage ceremonies, through songs reveal various stages of nuptial performances. The article concludes by analyzing the import of the Alaga song texts to Yoruba marriage rites.

Keywords: Song texts, Instruments of communication, Musical performances, Engagement ceremonies, Alaga