Power and prestige through music in Tsongaland

Journal/Book: Human Relations. 1974; 27: 235-246.

Abstract: Outlines the role of communal music in the social institutions of the Tsonga of Mozambique and Northern Transvaal. Competitive team dancing, girls' initiation rites, and boys' circumcision rites are described. Musical performances are shown to mirror social stratification, and various musical practices appear to reflect occupational roles, rivalries, and social allegiances. The acquisition of the power and prestige of the chief hinges in some cases upon innovative musical behavior and musical diffusion.

Note: role of communal music in social institutions; Tsonga of Mozambique & Northern Transvaal

Keyword(s): Africa ; music

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