AKONTING Meaning and
Definition
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The akonting is a traditional West African musical instrument primarily used by the Jola people of Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau. It is an ancestor of the American banjo and is categorized as a three-stringed lute.
The akonting consists of a round resonator made from a gourd, covered with animal skin. The neck is made from a single piece of wood, usually carved from the same tree as the resonator, and is attached to the top of the gourd. The tuning pegs, made of wooden dowels, are placed on the top side of the neck.
The three strings of the akonting are usually made from animal gut or nylon, and are tied to a wooden bridge that rests on the animal skin. The strings are raised above the frets, which are made from horsehair or fishing line tied to the neck.
Traditionally, the akonting has been played by Jola griots, or praise singers, during cultural ceremonies, social gatherings, and storytelling. It is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick, producing a distinctive lively and rhythmic sound. The akonting often accompanies both vocal and instrumental melodies, and its versatile capabilities allow players to create a range of tones and melodies.
In recent years, the akonting has gained attention within the global music community, contributing to various genres and collaborations with musicians worldwide, celebrating its rich historical and cultural significance.
Etymology of AKONTING
The word "akonting" is believed to have originated from the Jola people of Senegal and Gambia in West Africa. The Jola people have a rich musical tradition, and the akonting is a unique stringed instrument that is central to their culture. While the exact etymology of the word is not well-documented, it is likely that "akonting" is derived from the Jola language or a related local dialect.
