Gendered Musicking Among: the Ebira People of Kogi State, Nigeria

The Ebira people view women as the weaker sex. Women are barred from touching and playing certain musical instruments. This study investigates the Ebira people and their musicality. It assesses the basis for such restrictions in the light of the possible benefits to the community if they were removed. In this study, we relied on data gathered through oral interviews, personal observation, and a review of relevant literature. The findings reveal that out of the twelve musical instruments in Ebiraland, women perform only on one which makes up 8% of the total ensembles in the area. It was also observed that of the seven musical ensembles in Ebiraland, women play instruments in two, that is, 29%. This disparity can be attributed to spiritual and masquerading activities. If women, who are more numerous, are discouraged from participating in Ebira art forms, those forms will dwindle. It is recommended that gender politics should be avoided for the sake of cultural advancement.