Music is an essential part of our culture and traditions in this part of the world. Nigerian music, dressing and foods are second to none in the world. One of the things that make our music stand out is the drum. There are different types of drum been played by different ethnic groups. Popular among the Yoruba tribe is ‘Gangan’ which is referred to as ‘Talking Drum’. This type of drum is also native to the Ashanti tribe of Ghana, West Africa.
Talking drum is a percussion instrument shaped like an hour-glass. Talking drum is made from leather (hides and skin). It has two smooth surfaces (drum heads) at both ends of the drum which is beaten with a curved-like stick. The drum has a handle, it has a wooden carved body and leather tension cords. The cords run down length-wise of the smooth surfaces. Some drums, especially the big ones have brass bells attached to it. This particular type of talking drum is used for special occasions.
This drum is referred to as talking drum because it sounds like the humming sound of human when played. This is done by squeezing the cords between the arms and then beaten. When it is beaten, it makes pitchy sound which can be translated by those who understand it. The drum can be used to pass messages especially proverbial sayings. It repeats exactly what is meant to say. It is used in coronations. A king’s ceremony is not complete without the talking drum in Yoruba land. It is also played during other ceremonies like traditional wedding, naming and burial ceremonies.
The drum also has its presence in churches nowadays; it is one of the several musical instruments used by worshippers of God. Musical band and local musicians cannot do without this drum. It is a percussion instrument through which they are been heard. In Yoruba land, the drummers of ganganare referred to as ‘Ayan’. As there is a royal lineage, there is also Ayanlineage. Those who belong to this lineage are drummers by birth. They all master the beating of the drum.
Have you ever seen the Alaafin of Oyo in a joyful mood when the talking drum is been played? Especially when his drummers sing his praise. His royal majesty understood the significance of ‘gangan’ than anyone else.