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Nuna ritual music instruments
Burkina Faso
Ethnic group: Nuna
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Video Excerpt
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This set of instruments consists of eight flutes, three
long drums and two armpit drums. The latter are not used in the ceremonies
during which the masks are brought out. Masks are present in every aspect of
life, in one way or another. They protect individuals and the society, and
serve as privileged intermediaries between humans and the various powers, to
ensure the fertility of the soil and the women.
In traditional societies, life follows a calendar of ceremonies related to
the agricultural cycle, initiation and funerals — ceremonies at which
music must be present. The dry season ends around the month of May, and that
is when certain rites are performed. Their purpose is to regenerate the human
community through participation in the rebirth of vegetation, and thus prepare
for the coming of the new rains. During the days of celebration, there are many
interludes for mask dances accompanied by the instruments seen here. The people
eagerly await them and participate intensely.
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