African Music Traditions

Sounds of Africa

• Early African music developed in various ways across many tribes and later countries
• Modern-day African music traditions show how ancient music evolved over time
• A common feature is the interweaving of rhythmic patterns called polyrhythms

West African Griots

• Griots are skilled musicians and storytellers, traveling between West African villages
• They preserve tribal history, ancestral stories, and traditions through songs
• Their role is crucial in societies where little is documented

Berber Bands of North Africa

• Berbers are indigenous to North Africa
• Their music varies regionally, typically featuring drummers and musicians playing stringed instruments or pipes
• Often perform together at public festivals

Kenyan Maasai Singing

• Maasai people from Kenya and Tanzania are nomadic
• Their music is known for its distinctive vocal style using call-and-response patterns
• Men often sing about courage and hunting while women sing about family and cattle care
• Instruments are not seen as essential, as they traditionally traveled without them.

All Over Africa

• Queen Marimba is a folk hero said to bring music to the African people and develop many instruments still used today