Musical Traditions and Performance Practices of the Ajé Festival in Ile-Ife: Continuity and Contemporary Adaptation

Abstract

This study examines the history, performance practices, and development of music used in the Ajé Festival from the pre-colonial period to the present. It considers how these sacred musical traditions have survived despite challenges such as Christian missionary influence, Western education, urbanisation, the growth of popular music, and the introduction of foreign musical instruments. The study uses a qualitative ethnomusicological approach, including historical analysis, visual documentation, study of musical instruments, and transcription of selected vocal performances. It also examines the structure and functions of the festival's music. The findings show that the festival has maintained its essential African musical identity through the use of indigenous instruments such as dùndún, bàtá, ìgbìn, agogo, and ṣẹ̀kẹ̀rẹ̀ . Other important features include speech-like tonal patterns, call-and-response, praise poetry (oríkì), and oral transmission through apprenticeship and family lineages. The study concludes that modern developments, including digital media, broadcasting, and cultural tourism, have increased the visibility of the Ajé Festival without destroying its cultural identity. The festival therefore demonstrates how Yoruba sacred musical traditions can adapt to modern society while preserving their cultural and religious heritage.