The role of music educators in the documentation and preservation of Ebira traditional music

Abstract

Because of its transient nature, traditional music is one of the most susceptible forms. But as traditional Nigerian societies are advancing, the understanding of indigenous cultural heritage consumed by society has decreased substantially. In evolving cultures, such as the Ebira culture, the traditional musical heritage is becoming irrelevant and a victim of changing societies by default due to failures in effective documentation and archiving of the traditional music. This paper interrogates such challenges by looking at Ebira traditional music documentation and archiving. It also highlights the significant contributions music departments in Nigerian Colleges of Education can make towards ensuring the preservation and documentation of Ebira traditional music for future generations. This study employs a combination of historical, interview and participant observation methods. Secondary data were sourced from journals, internet and books. In the light of the challenges facing traditional music in many societies particularly the Ebira society, documenting and archiving traditional Ebira music for teaching and learning are the best ways to preserve such diminishing heritage practice. The study and performance of traditional music of the host community in all colleges and universities should be introduced, including the Federal College of Education Okene located in Ebira land; it should be made mandatory that the students should research, study and perform Ebira traditional music. This would go a long way to project and preserve the music as well as foster a cordial relationship between the Ebiras and the Department of Music.