The Burundian Drum. A Symbol of Culture, Religion and Royalty
The Burundian drum is an important aspect of the country's cultural heritage. It is not just a musical instrument, but also a symbol of religion and royalty. Made from a hollowed-out piece of tree trunk and covered with ox or cow skin, the drum is played with sticks and produces unique rhythms that differentiate it from the drums of neighboring Rwanda.
In ancient times, Burundi's drums were considered sacred objects that were used only for ritual purposes. They were reserved for use by ritualists and played only on special occasions such as coronations and sovereign funerals. They were also used to keep rhythm with the regular cycle of the seasons, which ensured the prosperity of the herds and fields.
The term "ingoma" in Burundi has a wide semantic field, referring to percussion drum, ritual drum, dynastic drum, power (royalty or otherwise), reign, government, era, and even a particular country (kingdom). No one in Burundi could manufacture a drum or have one made without a formal order from the king, who alone had the privilege of owning the drums and having them played for himself.
The drum sanctuaries in Burundi were properties owned by the mainly Hutu lineages who held the privilege of manufacturing, playing, and keeping the drums. These Abatimbo drummers were "those who hit hard" and were likely a remnant of the ancient organization of Hutu principalities before the Tutsi conquest of the country. Each sanctuary had a sacred drum enthroned, surrounded by its attendants, the ingendanyi drums, and a set of drums that played for them.
One of the most important drums in Burundi was the karyenda, which had semi-divine status and was the main symbol of the country and its Mwami (King). The Mwami was said to interpret the beatings of the karyenda into rules for the kingdom. The palladium karyenda drum was brought out from its sanctuary on rare occasions, particularly during the umuganuro rites that celebrated the sowing of sorghum. The rukinzo, the second most important drum, accompanied the Mwami wherever he went.
The old families who were wardens of the drums have tried to keep the ancient African musical traditions alive. Some have had great success in popularizing it around the world, such as the Royal Drummers of Burundi, and L. Ndoricimpa and C. Guillet, who recorded Les tambours du Burundi (The Drums of Burundi) in 1983.
Despite many upheavals, the drums have remained popular and are still revered. Nowadays, the drum is reserved for national celebrations and distinguished guests. The ancient lineages of drummers have kept their art alive and continue to pass it on to future generations, ensuring that the Burundian drum remains an important symbol of the country's culture, religion, and royalty.
Pictures from tourisme.gov.bi