The name of the Igbo musical genre known as “ogene” comes from the ogene instrument. The music originates in Achi in Enugu State and Awka in Anambra State and is historically linked to the Igbo masquerade cult.
Traditional dance and music are essential components of Igbo culture. They act as a symbol of identification and a common bond between the people. The Southeastern Nigerian Igbo people are gifted with a variety of musical and dance acts that represent their culture to a wider audience. Igbo people have been observed holding traditional music or dance performances in contemporary societies to draw attention to their rich cultural heritage.
Igbo music is increasingly influenced by western instruments, while traditional instruments like the ekwe, udu, and oja continue to serve their full cultural functions.
Ogene instrument is a huge metal bell with a flattish, conical shape. When struck, the iron body vibrates, creating sound. Despite the fact that bells come in different sizes, ogene singers in Igbo society are most often seen using a co-joined pair of hollow, flattened conical bells that are held in one hand and pounded with a short wooden stick to produce a wide range of musical effects.
Each component of the instrument, including the empty interior and the iron bridge connecting the two bells with variously shaped tines, is expertly battered to produce a variety of sounds. The variety of sounds, which can range from sharp percussive clanks to deep, resonant notes, adds to the appeal of ogene music.
Rich call and response songs with themes of marriage, military encounters, and moral repercussions are a staple of Ogene music. The song is used for dedications, birthday parties, praise services, and poetry readings. Three or more males typically perform contemporary ogene music. The music is energizing, joyous, and soulful.
Only the lead ogene bell and the oja are essential for playing ogene music (flute). However, it is common to see a group of musicians playing different instruments, such as the igba and udu. The artists typically carry their instruments while interacting directly with the crowd and deftly moving away from them in keeping with a strange rhythm.
The lead vocalist, who is typically dressed differently from the other performers, sings words that are then repeated by them in chorus. Most of the time, the performers are synchronized using small motions, measured gestures, short glances, spoken commands, and signal patterns played on the ogene.
Dancers are frequently seen swaying to the upbeat beat of ogene music performances. In modern Igbo society, Ejike Obiano (Owelle) and his band are well-known ogene singers.
Watch below:
