THE MUSIC OF THE DANCE: A STUDY OF MUSIC AND DANCE IN AFRICAN CULTURE

Abstract

The continent of Africa is rich in music and dance. They are both enshrined in the cultural milieu of the African people. The paper therefore examines the concept of Music and Dance in African society, discussing several definitions of dance as postulated by scholars in the field. Using the bibliography method of inquisition the paper explores the dimensions by which music and dance influence specific aspects of the daily lives of the people as the functions of the dance is highlighted and discussed. Through an interpretative lens, the paper discusses the interrelationship of music and dance, and how the thin line of distinction is seen in efforts to explain their similarities and differences. Ultimately, the paper provides a framework towards a better understanding of music and dance as a phenomenon in Africa.