Ngoma music

Ngoma (also ng'oma or ing'oma) is a Swahili term with many connotations that encompasse music, dance, and instruments. In Tanzania ngoma also refers to events, both life-changing events such as the first menstruation, the birth or passing of a loved one, as well as events such as celebrations, rituals, or competitions. In traditional societies, Ngoma was the primary form of music and dance throughout the Great Lakes and Southern Africa. Today it is a musical genre in Tanzania, deemed an official musical form by the National Arts Council (BASATA - Baraza la Sanaa la Taifa). In Tanzania, it is common throughout the country, performed, taught, and studied in schools and universities. The national academy for ngoma is the Bagamoyo Arts and Cultural Institute, which has produced many ngoma musicians and dancers.