Griots and Griottes: Masters of Words and Music

By Thomas A. Hale

Book Overview

Griots, a uniquely African profession, fulfill a variety of roles as genealogists, historians, spokespersons, diplomats, musicians, teachers, praise singers, and advisors. Telling the story of these remarkable wordsmiths and performers, Thomas A. Hale addresses the nature of their verbal and musical art, the role of female griots, or griottes, how griots and griottes fit into their societies, and what their future might be in Africa and the rest of the world.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0253219612
• ISBN13: 9780253219619
• Release Date: August 2007
• Publisher: Indiana University Press
• Length: 432 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.1" x 9.1"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

The Genius of Music & Stories

"Hale explains the importance and genius of the music and stories told by these unique community leaders in Africa."