The Baoule of the Ivory Coast

Around 1730, warfare with the Ashanti of the Gold Coast drove the Baoule people to the Ivory Coast. Since settling there, the Baoule have developed a distinct music and dance culture for ceremonies honoring the gods and for secular enjoyment. In his liner notes, Donald Thurow provides extensive historical information and descriptions of instruments and ceremonies. He explains, “A rhythmic beat and a vocal chorus are a part of every folktale, and music without dancing is virtually non-existant (sic).”