GENDER IDENTITY: A Force in Igbo Traditional Musical Practices

Right from the genesis of creation, God made them male and female. In the same vein, specific roles are assigned in relation to or in response to such gender distinction, either humanly ascribed or Divine. The type of role to a large extent determines the nature of musical involvement at any given situation. This essay views some of such gender ascribed roles as they concern Igbo traditional society and the type of musical performances associated with each of the roles. It also examines the implications of gender upon music performance in Igbo traditional society.