ACOUSTIC CONSIDERATIONS IN THE FABRICATION AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SEKERE (GOURD RATTLE)

Abstract

The sekere, which is also known as the gourd rattle is a musical instrument of great importance in traditional and secular musical performances, as it is being used to accompany other musical instruments, be it western or traditional, and in its own ensemble of only sekeres. The sound achieved during its performance is however dependent on various factors resulting from the way it is fabricated and performed. In view of the aforementioned, this research thus explores the acoustic considerations in the fabrication of the sekere (gourd rattle), adopting the qualitative research method with data gathered through interviews, library sources, and participant observation among other ethnographic sources. Findings reveal that, the performance technique, performance arena, and the size, type and shape of materials used in fabricating the Sekere affect its sound output. And for a good performance of the instrument to be achieved, acoustic details must be well considered. This research thus concludes that, the choice of materials used in the fabrication of the sekere, is a determinant factor of the sound that will be achieved during the performance of the instrument. On the other hand, a performer of the sekere however, needs to pick the qualities that best suit his intending performance.