Descriptive Analysis of Structure and Tradition of Bírípo Musical Instrument among the IIkale and Ilajr People of Ondo State

Abstract

This paper is focused on the descriptive analysis of structure and tradition of Bírípo musical instrument among the Ìkále and Ìlàje people of Ondo State. The dearth of a systematic study on the musical instruments used in Bírípo music and the lack of documentation and research which has threatened the sustenance and preservation of this traditional musical art has necessitated this study. This paper employed an ethnographic fieldwork approach which included participant observation, interviews, and surveys among Ìkále and Ìlàje musicians, instrument makers, and community members, in addition, the measurement, description, and photography of Bírípo musical instruments were taken and analysed. The paper anchored on the material culture theory through analysing musical instruments as tangible representations of cultural values and identity. Findings reveals that Bírípo musical instrument have a strong affinity with the cultural practice of the Ìkále and Ìlàje people, which was shown in the family and daily activities of the people. In addition, the paper highlighted ways whereby Bírípo musical instrument can be preserved adopting but conventional and the new approaches for sustenance and cultural preservation.