Modeling the Total Man in Traditional Farming Practice: A Spartial-Dramatic Analysis of Folkloric Farming Songs

Abstract

There are numerous forms of education in Africa societies with many deeply rooted in traditional vocations. A reassessment of the dramatic elements of some inspirational music in traditional farming practice reveals a continuous and emphatic value added technique in occupational farming. One of the least documented to date is nofiofio; employed as a stress free, work-play group farming technique known for speed and efficiency. This rejuvenated ancient guide employs dramatic techniques driven by instructive moral folk music. Findings reveal that nofiofio encourages occupational discipline, family cohesion and social bond toward occupational engagements. Although such folk music is no longer used in cotemporary farming practice but newer forms of youth music have. A reflection on their uses in the past has risen in recent times. Nofiofio in particular encouraged moral and strong character building among the youth population involved in traditional farming. This paper analyses the dramatic content of this popular farming music in Edo State of Nigeria for planting and harvesting. The study shows a structured and efficient matrix for time management, motivation and increased output.

Keywords: Education, Africa, Oral Tradition, Nofiofio, and Folk music.