the sound of tradition:''diane's voice brings rwanda folk songs to life at weddings and celebrations''

 In Rwanda, music is the pulse that beats through the vain of every celebration, and tradional somgs hold a sacred place in the heard of the country's culture life. whether it's a wedding, a baptism, ora community gathering, Rwandan folk music weaves the faric of the events, connecting people to their history, their ancestors, and one another. from the rhythmic hum of the intore dances to the powerful harmonies of umushagiriro, the music serves as both a source of joy and a deep reminder of the country’s cultural heritage.                                                                                                                                                   Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Diane, a prominent Rwandan traditional singer whose voice has become synonymous with the country’s vibrant musical traditions. Diane is known for her performances at weddings and other significant cultural events, where her music captures the essence of Rwanda’s rich history and storytelling traditions.

The Role of Traditional Music in Rwandan Weddings

In Rwandan culture, weddings are not just private affairs but communal events, where the entire village often comes together to celebrate the union of two people. Traditional music plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the occasion, often intertwining with dances and chants that echo the history of Rwandan society. It is through song that the joy of the day is shared, and the values of love, unity, and community are reinforced                                                                                                                                              Diane's voice is a key presence at many Rwandan weddings. Her performances are a blend of old and new, where she honors the songs of the past while infusing them with a contemporary sensibility that resonates with younger audiences. “In Rwanda, music is not just entertainment—it is the heartbeat of our celebrations,” Diane tells me as we sit in her studio, surrounded by the rhythmic instruments she often uses in her performances.

“Weddings are one of the most important events in a person’s life here, and the music that accompanies these ceremonies is meant to reflect the joy of the moment and the solemnity of the commitment. Traditional songs such as umugoroba or indirimbo z’ubukwe (wedding songs) carry so much meaning. They speak of hope, unity, and the blessings of the ancestors.”

Songs That Bind Generations

Rwandan wedding music is often characterized by its powerful call-and-response style, where the bride and groom are serenaded with songs that symbolize their new journey together. Some of these songs are centuries old, passed down through oral tradition and family lineages. These songs are not merely about celebration; they also serve as wisdom passed from one generation to the next.

Diane explains how traditional songs at weddings, such as indirimbo z’ubukwe, contain messages that are relevant not just to the couple, but to the community at large. "These songs celebrate the coming together of two families, and they carry with them the knowledge and blessings of our ancestors," she says. "They are reminders of our values—respect, loyalty, and the importance of community. These songs are a way of sharing these values with the younger generation.” 

                                                                                    One traditional wedding song, Ijambo ry’umugeni, sung during the bride’s procession, is a particularly moving piece. The lyrics are often about the bride leaving her family and beginning a new life with her husband. It’s a moment of mixed emotions: the joy of the union, and the bittersweet sadness of parting. Diane describes how her performances of these songs bring out a deep connection between the couple and their families.

"At weddings, when I sing Ijambo ry’umugeni, I can see the emotional effect it has on everyone. The bride’s family often gets teary-eyed, and there is a sense of nostalgia for the past, but also a hope for the future. It is a moment where everyone feels connected—not just to the bride and groom, but to the history of their families and their people."                                                     

     

While traditional Rwandan music is still deeply ingrained in weddings and cultural celebrations, Diane notes that the way these songs are performed and received has evolved in recent years. With the rise of modern music, some have feared that traditional songs might fade into the background at contemporary weddings, replaced by more globalized music. However, Diane sees this as an opportunity to bridge the gap between generations, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary influences to make these songs accessible to all.

“There’s no doubt that the younger generation is drawn to modern music, especially as the globalized world influences our tastes,” Diane acknowledges. “But I also see a growing interest in our traditional music, especially when we mix it with contemporary sounds. It’s all about making these songs relevant today while keeping the essence intact.”

For example, at a recent wedding she performed at, Diane used a mix of traditional intore drumming rhythms with modern instruments like the keyboard and electric guitar. The result was a vibrant performance that brought both older and younger guests to their feet.

“Young people may not always be familiar with the older songs,” Diane says. “But when you present them in a way that speaks to their current tastes, they become engaged, and that’s how we keep this tradition alive.”

Diane’s Personal Journey in Music

Diane’s journey into traditional Rwandan music began in her childhood, surrounded by the sounds of intore drummers and singers at family gatherings. Growing up in a rural village, she was immersed in the customs and ceremonies that defined her community. But it wasn’t until her teenage years that she decided to pursue music professionally.

“I always loved singing, and I grew up surrounded by musicians. My parents encouraged me, but it wasn’t until I joined a local choir at 16 that I realized how much of a connection I had to this music. It wasn’t just about the singing—it was about telling stories, about sharing the values and experiences of our people,” Diane explains.

Her decision to become a professional singer was influenced by the powerful impact that music had on her own life. “When I perform, it’s not just about the notes or the lyrics—it’s about feeling the music in your bones. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. I want people to feel that, especially at weddings and celebrations.”  

As we wrap up our conversation, I ask Diane about the future of traditional Rwandan music and its place in the country’s rapidly changing cultural landscape. Her response is optimistic.

“The future is bright for traditional music in Rwanda,” Diane says with conviction. “More young people are beginning to appreciate the depth of our culture. They may not always understand the language of the old songs, but they understand the feeling. Our music is part of our identity, and as long as we continue to celebrate it and share it, it will always be a part of us.”

Diane's own commitment to keeping Rwandan traditional music alive through her performances at weddings and other events serves as a reminder that while the world may change, certain traditions—like music—will continue to bring us together, generation after generation.

Diane is a renowned traditional singer from Rwanda who has performed at countless weddings, cultural festivals, and community events across the country. Known for her powerful voice and ability to blend traditional music with contemporary sounds, Diane is dedicated to preserving and promoting Rwandan folk music. Her performances have earned her a loyal following, and she continues to inspire audiences with her passion for music and culture.https://www.instagram.com/dianeshilo1?igsh=Ynlrem85ajJrZnh2                                                

                 https://gloriaingabire.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-sound-of-traditiondianes-voice.html

By: Gloria ingabire