The Drummers of Burundi

The Drummers of Burundi

The Drummers of Burundi are a percussion ensemble from Burundi that performs as a group rooted in ceremonial tradition. Their performances are associated with births, funerals and coronations of mwami, or kings. In Burundi, drums known as karyenda hold sacred status and symbolise the mwami, fertility and regeneration.

Performance style and instruments

The ensemble uses drums made from hollowed tree trunks covered with animal skins. The central drum is called the Inkiranya. It is accompanied by Amashako drums, which maintain a continuous beat, and Ibishikiso drums, which follow the rhythm set by the Inkiranya. The performance format remains the same as it has for centuries, with techniques and traditions passed down from father to son.

During a performance, the drummers enter while balancing the drums on their heads and singing and playing at the same time. Some additional members carry ornamental spears and shields and lead the procession with dance. The group then performs a series of rhythms, sometimes with song, and leaves in the same way, carrying the drums on their heads while playing.

Career and recordings

The Drummers of Burundi tour internationally from the 1960s. They record three albums: Batimbo (Musiques Et Chants), Live at Real World and The Master Drummers of Burundi. They also appear on Joni Mitchell's The Hissing of Summer Lawns, on Zimbo, the B-side of Echo & the Bunnymen's 12-inch single The Cutter, and on the Def Leppard single "Rocket".

Influence

The group influences artists including Adam and the Ants and Bow Wow Wow. Their drumming also appears in Werner Herzog's film Fitzcarraldo, where it is used as the sound of the bushmen. The ensemble also helps inspire Thomas Brooman to organise the WOMAD festival in 1982, which in turn shapes the development of world music.