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Bendre
Burkina Faso
Ethnic group: Mossi
2000
Canadian Museum of Civilization
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The bendre is made from a large calabash that
has been hollowed out. After the top is cut open, it is covered with an animal
skin that is held in place with leather straps. A leather cover protects the
skin, the centre of which is coated with a resinous product. The most noble
of all instruments, the bendre has always been reserved for the court
of the emperor and the leaders of the provinces. It is responsible for
recalling the heroic deeds of the dynasties and the virtues of the Mossi
people. The drum reminds the chief that he must be impartial, modest and
brave. The entire Mossi mosaic is found in the bendre, which is an
instrument of social cohesion.
This instrument is exclusive to the benda guild, whose mission,
since time immemorial, has been to play during all official acts of the
court and to illustrate those acts. Only members of the benda caste
who are initiated know the language of the bendre. The language must
be learned and is transmitted from father to son. When they are young boys
learn simple rhythms, which they practise and put to the test by playing in
public on market days.
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