The Sociological Implications of Awigiri Music on Agbere Community

Abstract

Awigiri music is a genre prevailing within the social milieu among the Ijaw across the Niger Delta area of Nigeria.   Agbere community, one of the several communities that make up the Tarakiri clan of Sagbama Local Government Area in Bayelsa State has been a major group of people who give Awigiri large patronage.  As such there is a need to examine the sociological implications of the music genre within this community where it features in various social occasions, showing its popularity and acceptance.  In this discourse, the writer asserts Awigiri music – in spite of its incorporation of some western musical instruments such as guitars, electric piano, and bass drums, is an hybridized indigenous music, referred to as Izon highlife music and as such remains a traditional genre which reflects the musical idioms of the Ijaw especially in Agbere community.   The method of information gathering is mainly participant observation and the use of related literature.  Within the work, Awigiri music is defined along side traditional music, its form and structure is analyzed; and its sociological implications along side songs that reflect them discussed. In conclusion, the writer opines that Awigiri music possesses both positive and negative social effects; it is a potent tool that can either preserve or eradicate the traditional music forms of the people; and implores, community leaders and government organizations as well as Awigiri musicians to use the music as a viable tool in preserving and sustaining the musical heritage of the Ijaw.