Musical Instruments’ African-Based Studies: The Application of the Afro-Brazilian Knowledge to Study Non-African-based Musical Instruments

Abstract

In the last two decades, the Brazilian music scenario has been marked by an increasingly academic-oriented interest in studying and applying musical knowledge stemming from African-heritage. Institutions and researchers from Salvador city hold an important role in the development and dissemination of this type of knowledge. Accordingly, this article’s general aim is to discuss possible implications of the application of African-based musical knowledge in the study of non-African-based instruments, focusing on the Soteropolitan context. This paper has four specific aims to support the general purpose: 1) To present the Salvador city and the main historical and social elements related to musical contexts; 2) To present some publications which employed African-based musical knowledge for the development of musical competences related to non-African-based musical instruments; 3) To analyze these materials from a music education perspective; and 4) To integrate the examinations with broader social discussions. Pursuing these aims, the current study applies a qualitative document analysis as its methodological approach to acquire the data, examine the materials and develop the knowledge which will support the proposed reflections. Despite the municipal orientation, it is expected that the promotion of a deep understanding of a local phenomenon can influence broader sectors of music education.