HISTORICLE OVERVIEW OF MUSIC IN IGBO LAND

Abstract

History is key in determining the bearing of growth and development in any society, arts and all areas of human activities/events. In all the societies of the world, musical practices, like other forms of artistic expression represent an integral part of the total cultural fabric of the people. It is so interwoven with work, play, social ceremonial and religious activities that to isolate one phase from its role in the total life of the people is difficult. The development of any society, depends largely on the level of peace, love and unity among its habitants. Music has been identified as one of the instruments that brings about peace love and unity in any society. This paper explored the Igbo society in terms of its location in the nation’s geopolitical zones, traced their descendant origin and history of some ancient cities. The history of Igbo-land, functions and usefulness of their music in everyday life and culture of the people, constitute the focus of this paper. The study is a qualitative one carried out within the framework of exploring literature, oral interview and direct participant observation.