Music and rituals in Igbo traditional society

Abstract

Music as a cultural indicator is loved by people especially the Igbo traditional society. Apart from entertainment, music serves other purposes in various organisations and social institutions. Music is indispensable from rituals in Igbo traditional society. It is through rituals that Igbo traditional society speaks to the object of worship which may be the Supreme Being, ancestors or the divinities. The symbols of their forefathers are no more recognised nor do people try to contemplate on them as it was in years past. The music and rituals are no more what they used to be in the past in that they are no more observed by the young generations. The impact of globalization is telling much on their traditional lives. Igbo music is being neglected by the youths and this has culminated to less respect for ancestors, shrines and holy places. The study adopted survey design using structured interviews as method of data collection. This study attempts to contribute in the restoration of some traditions in Igbo society which are now left to die away due to missionary activities and culture contact with other forces of acculturation.