Mellitus Wanyama

Form and Content of African Music: a Case Study of Bukusu Circumcision Music Mellitus Wanyama

Technological products, growth of urban centres, emergence of industries and the widespread of deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS have led to remarkable adjustments in the social behaviour and other ways of life in African communities. These adjustments have strained socio-cultural patterns of African traditional ceremonies leading to a shift in the form, content, significance and performance of music in such ceremonies. This work investigates the form and content of African music as exemplified by Bukusu circumcision music, in Kenya. The dilemma and problem in the Bukusu community focuses on striking a balance between the traditional and modern perspectives in the organization and performance of the music. The author identifies, investigates and explains various forms, meanings and functions of Bukusu circumcision music against the backdrop of modernity. This documentation is an evaluation model of the past, present and future perspectives of African traditional music(s). The book is highly recommended for scholars, students and researchers in ethnomusicology, African music, music education, and methodology in socio-cultural studies at universities and other tertiary institutions.