Balangy players, Sierra Leone, West Africa
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Balangy players, Sierra Leone, West Africa
Group of native balangy players, Sierra Leone, West Africa. Date: circa 1920
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14405212
© Mary Evans / Pharcide
Instrument Instruments Leone Musician Musicians Natives Player Players Primitive Sierra Xylophone Musical
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a group of native Balangy players from Sierra Leone, West Africa, in the early 1920s. The Balangy people, also known as the Mende, are an ethnic group residing primarily in Sierra Leone and Liberia. They are renowned for their rich cultural heritage, particularly their music, which plays a significant role in their social and spiritual lives. In this image, a group of Balangy musicians are seen gathered together, each holding a traditional xylophone, their faces expressing deep concentration as they prepare to perform. The xylophone, an essential instrument in Balangy music, is made from wooden bars attached to a resonating box, which are struck with mallets to produce melodic tones. The Balangy people have a long-standing tradition of music, which is often used to tell stories, celebrate important milestones, and communicate messages. Music is an integral part of their social fabric, and these musicians are keeping this tradition alive. Despite the passage of time and the influence of modern music, the Balangy people continue to preserve their cultural heritage through music. This photograph serves as a reminder of the rich musical history of the Balangy people and the importance of preserving cultural traditions. The image is a poignant snapshot of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the lives of these musicians and their community. The raw beauty of the scene is enhanced by the natural surroundings, with the lush greenery and the warm sunlight filtering through the trees, creating a serene and idyllic atmosphere.
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