Yoruba Traditional Instrumental Ensemble and Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge reflects the traditional methods unique to a society. The Yoruba people are known for their exuberant cultural heritage, passed down aurally and orally through generations. This is achieved by an indigenous knowledge system, which also fosters their socio-cultural identity. Amongst such system is the Yoruba instrumental ensemble, which reflects their musical (entertainment, panegyric, commemoration) and social (sacred, family, gender) structures. Each ensemble consists of at least the Ìyá-ìlù, omele Abo and Ako instruments. The Ìyá-ìlù leads the music, dance and linguistic communication between the instruments, dancers and audience. The Yoruba indigenous systems of oral traditions, family lineage, apprenticeship and imitation are employed for training the musicians. This study thus examines the musical (melodic, rhythmic) and extra-musical (linguistic, religious, educational, gender) functions of these ensembles and how they facilitate the learning and archiving of Yoruba knowledge systems. A descriptive cum survey methodology was employed and data elicited via oral interviews, observation and bibliographical resources. The study revealed that these traditional ensembles serve as Yoruba musical and cultural knowledge system. It recommended that these alternative knowledge systems, which may be juxtaposed with the Western knowledge systems, can be adopted in the nation’s educational approach towards its globalization.