Maasai Music

Blog 188

The Maasai tribe, renowned for their rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and distinctive way of life, also boasts a captivating musical tradition deeply ingrained in their daily rituals and ceremonies. Originating from the East African region, primarily Kenya and Tanzania, the Maasai people have nurtured a musical legacy that reflects their connection to nature, their spirituality, and their communal identity.

Vocals play a crucial role in Maasai music, with singing being an integral part of everyday life. Maasai songs are sung in a call-and-response style, with one person leading the melody and others joining in to create rich harmonies. These songs are used to tell stories, pass down traditions, and express emotions ranging from joy and celebration to sorrow and lamentation.

In addition to their ceremonial music, the Maasai also have a tradition of “ngoma” or dance. Maasai dances are characterized by their energetic movements, intricate footwork, and colorful attire. Dancers often wear elaborate beaded jewelry and garments adorned with traditional patterns and symbols that reflect their cultural identity.

Maasai music and dance are not just forms of entertainment but are deeply intertwined with the social, spiritual, and cultural fabric of Maasai society. They are used to mark significant milestones such as births, weddings, and rites of passage, as well as to communicate with the spirit world and honor their ancestors.

Our guest blog post writer:                                                                                         Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

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Maasai Music and Dance

Blog 183

When the Maasai people sing or dance, they don’t use any instruments. With the exception of some tracks that feature big horns, all of their music is vocal. Their songs have a chorus of singers rendering rhythms while the melody is sung by the olaranyani, or song leader. Usually, the person with the best voice for that song is the olaranyani. When olaranyani begins to sing a line or a song’s title (namba), the entire group applauds with a single, unanimity call. While the Masai jump and dance, the beads that the men and women wear also produce a jingling sound. Ladies sing tunes, recite lullabies, and sing praises to their sons.

The rainy season is when people sing and dance the most, and it’s also a good time to commemorate life milestones like marriage and circumcision. This involves flirting and usually happens around the manyattas.

While there are many variations among Maasai dances, most share certain characteristics. Singers usually form a line and each member jumps as high as they can at a time. The warriors can dance for hours on end, and they all try to dance for as long as they can. Maasai dance is fun since it’s very easygoing. Some dancers focus intently on the singing, dancing, and music, while others only chuckle. A few warriors may stop dancing in the middle to chat with their friends.

Photos courtesy of Bibin Ezhuplackal

Our guest blog post writer:

Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

The Maasai Community Performing Arts

Blog 181

The Maasai tribe of East Africa boasts a rich tradition of performing arts deeply intertwined with their cultural identity and daily life. Dance holds a central place in their rituals, celebrations, and rites of passage. Maasai dances are characterized by rhythmic movements, vigorous jumps, and intricate footwork, often accompanied by chanting and the rhythmic beat of drums made from animal skins. Warriors adorned in traditional attire, beaded jewelry, and intricate headdresses perform mesmerizing dances that showcase their agility, strength, and unity as a community.

The dances of the Maasai often tell stories of their history, legends, and values, preserving their heritage through oral tradition and movement. Each dance holds symbolic significance, representing aspects of their nomadic lifestyle, spiritual beliefs, or connections to nature and animals.

Additionally, the Maasai are renowned for their vocal music, consisting of harmonious melodies and call-and-response patterns. Singing is a communal activity, with men, women, and children joining together in melodic chants during various ceremonies and gatherings.

Overall, Maasai performing arts serve as a vibrant expression of their cultural pride, solidarity, and resilience, embodying the spirit of a people deeply rooted in tradition yet adaptable to change.

Intercultural Theatre: Capoeira

Blog 173

Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art, skillfully fuses dance, acrobatics, music, and ritualistic movements. Its inception dates back to the 16th century, emerging amongst enslaved Africans in Brazil as a means of self-defense and cultural expression, deeply rooted in the African diaspora.

At the core of capoeira is a rhythmic interchange between practitioners, termed “capoeiristas,” engaging in a dance-like exchange within a circular space known as a “roda.” Movements within this practice involve fluid kicks, sweeps, and acrobatics, resulting in a visually captivating and agile performance. The distinctive element of capoeira lies in its integration of music, produced by traditional instruments such as the berimbau, atabaque, and pandeiro. This musical component not only dictates the game’s tempo but also communicates the participants’ energy and spirit.

Capoeira transcends mere physical exercise; it encapsulates a diverse cultural legacy, fostering community and camaraderie. The philosophy of capoeira promotes values like respect, discipline, and mutual understanding, underscoring the significance of collaboration over competition. Practitioners not only enhance their physical abilities but also develop a profound appreciation for Brazilian history and African customs.

Kulning : The Ancient Herding Calls of the North

Blog 167

Kulning, from the Nordic region, began as a way for women to communicate with their cattle using a mix of high and low pitches. This Nordic tradition shows how important cultures are today. It reminds us to honor where we come from, understand our origins, and embrace their significance. It’s important to appreciate the worth of everything we encounter along our path, whether it relates to tradition, culture, or our ancestry.

The technique of kulning involves a series of vocalizations that create a unique and entrancing sound. The herders utilize their voices to produce melodic patterns, often imitating the natural environment around them. The high frequencies of kulning are well-suited for cutting through the ambient noise of the mountains and forests, allowing the herder’s call to reach the ears of the grazing animals even from afar. This traditional practice has been passed down through generations, preserving not only a functional aspect of herding but also a cultural heritage that connects people to the landscapes they inhabit.

Apart from its practical use, kulning has become an art form and a way to safeguard culture.  Contemporary musicians and performers incorporate this traditional singing style in modern compositions to celebrate and revive the cultural legacy of Nordic herding communities. As a result, kulning continues to echo through both the pastures and the cultural tapestry of the Nordic regions, providing a unique glimpse into the intersection of nature, tradition, and human expression.

This form of artistic expression from Nordic cultural tradition really makes an imprint today and it shows how cultures, and its ethnicity is relevant today. 

Some inspiring practitioners of kulning,  Jonna Jinton & Maria Misgeld is a must watch for those who wish to hear these spellbinding sounds of kulning. 

Jonna Jinton                                    https://youtu.be/RNjrUz1sgxQ?si=YQxl8nAp3_EdDM31

Maria Misgeld https://youtu.be/ez77t_caGds?si=7fKxvgMHlHVJZ96h

Heritage and Intercultural Collaborations

ASF founders Gianni and JyO share in this podcast about their heritage and how that influences them to explore the various Intercultural theatre forms.

We invite you to be part of this journey as a performing artist to share your work and aspirations.

Heritage and Intercultural Collaborations:

Blog 160

As co-founders of ASF with Kerala heritage, both JyO and I, Gianni, found ourselves deeply engaged in our Harvest festival, Onam, which typically falls towards the end of August. We deeply appreciate our connection to our heritage as it not only defines our identity but also keeps us firmly grounded. This experience ignited a discussion on ASF’s vision for Intercultural theatre. We must acknowledge that our genuine appreciation for our own cultural roots serves as an inspiring starting point to explore diverse intercultural traditions.

Our vision revolves around the exploration of traditional performances, beginning within India and eventually extending to neighboring South-East Asian countries that share Indian cultural origins but have evolved into unique local expressions. As we embark on this journey in the coming year, we extend an invitation to you to join us in listening to our podcast where we share our reflections and the inspiration we draw from our heritage and the world of Intercultural Theatre.

Intercultural Theatre : Commedia dell’arte (cont’d)

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It’s Theatrical style and enduring appeal :

Central to commedia dell’arte is its hallmark improvisation, wherein actors entwine their enactments with a broad scenario outline. They adapt their movements and dialogues based on audience responses and interactions. This fluid technique necessitates exceptional physicality, impeccable timing, and a profound comprehension of character dynamics. Through intricate physical gestures, animated slapstick, and clever wordplay, actors engage in an enchanting choreography of humour that overcomes linguistic and cultural barriers.

Its significance in the world of theatre and entertainment :

The influence of commedia dell’arte stretches far beyond its historical genesis. It has etched an everlasting impression on contemporary comedic and theatrical traditions, shaping the progression of physical humour, masked theatrics, and character-driven narratives. Its legacy endures in modern entertainment, embodying the timeless potency of laughter and the limitless innovation of human imagination.

The colourful and iconic characters:

Harlequin, a vibrant trickster in patchwork attire, dazzles with acrobatics, his mischievous spirit igniting chaos and laughter. Pantalone, the wealthy merchant draped in opulence, hatches cunning plots that often backfire, portraying the folly of greed. Columbina, the winsome maid in her elegant simplicity, steers the narratives with wit, juggling admirers and adding a touch of cunning charm. Harlequin’s nimble escapades evade Pantalone’s clutches in an uproarious scene, guided by Columbina’s quick thinking.

Intercultural Theatre: Commedia dell’arte

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The universal appeal of humour transcends time and language barriers. Commedia dell’arte exemplifies this magnificently as a vibrant and impactful form of Italian theatrical entertainment. Emergent during the 16th century, it remains a captivating embodiment of impromptu creativity and an enduring comedic spirit. Originating in the lively streets of Renaissance Italy, this genre is marked by its distinct use of stock characters, lively physical performances, and hilarious wit.

At its heart, commedia dell’arte is a dynamic fusion of preplanned scenarios and spontaneous interactions. The actors, often known as “players,” depict recurring classic personas, each adorned with amplified traits and recognizable masks. Among them are the clever Harlequin, the boastful Captain, and the enamored Columbina. These characters stand as timeless channels for satire and social commentary, granting artists the means to reflect on societal norms and human oddities through exaggerated portrayals.

Share stories or anecdotes about famous actors, writers, or directors who were inspired by or involved in commedia dell’arte. This can make the topic feel more relatable and show its enduring influence.

Renowned British actor Rowan Atkinson, celebrated for his beloved character Mr. Bean, found creative resonance in commedia dell’arte’s physical humor and expressive actions. Likewise, Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini seamlessly integrated commedia dell’arte elements, infusing his creations with its lively essence. Playwright Carlo Goldoni, a revered figure, transformed the genre by crafting comedies with distinct characters, leaving an enduring mark. These notable figures illuminate the enduring impact of commedia dell’arte on contemporary comedy and theater, a testament to its timeless influence.

Highlight the colorful and iconic characters like Harlequin, Pantalone, and Columbina. Describe their distinctive traits, costumes, and roles within the performances. Use vivid anecdotes to make these characters come alive.

Kabuki Performance Techniques

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The Kabuki performance is characterized by a plethora of captivating performance techniques. These performance techniques, among others, contribute to the captivating and visually stunning nature of Kabuki theatre, making it a cherished cultural art form that continues to enthrall audiences worldwide.

Actors use choreographed movements in this performance which includes :

Tachimawari: A stage combat technique which uses swords or choreographed fighting.

Roppo: Movement that simulates walking or running which is usually paired with upbeat drums.

Ningyoburi: This technique was inspired from Bunraku, Japanese puppet theatre where one actor is controlling another’s movements as a puppeteer.

Hikinuki: A technique that involves changing one’s costume behind screens onstage, often in sync with music, adding excitement and surprise to the narrative.

These remarkable techniques, interwoven with tradition and skill, contribute to the timeless appeal of Kabuki theatre. The art form continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its grandeur, beauty, and the sheer magic of its performances.

References:

https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/kabuki-theatre-00163

Kabuki Categories|Guide to Kabuki