Gambei ("the broken wall") is a Dagbamba funeral practice of punching a hole in the zoŋ of a yidana creating a second way in and out of their home. For the family of the deceased, it represents disobedience and a sense of freedom, especially for the children who no longer feel responsible for the reprimands of the family head as a result of their absence.[1]

During funeral rituals where Kambon-waa is to be performed in the compound of the yidana, the musicians are only allowed to enter and exit the house in a single file through the gambei playing chakowili. While still outside, or after they have regathered in a circle inside the compound do they resume playing other rhythms.[2]

References

  1. ↑ Haas, Karl J. (2007). Kambon-waa: Warrior Music of Dagbon. Tufts University.
  2. ↑ Drucker-Brown, Susan (1975). Ritual Aspects of the Mamprusi Kingship. Afrika-Studiecentrum. ISBN 978-90-70110-00-0.
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