"Music making is generally organized as a social event. Public performances, therefore, take place on social occasions- that is, on occasions when members of a group or a community come together for the enjoyment of leisure, for recreational activities, or for the performance of a rite, ceremony, festival, or any kind of collective activity."(V)
Santeria music and dance is typically practiced in a collectivist manner. Dances are traditionally linear or circular, however new, modern styles have emerged. These frenzied performances often lead to the trance of the dancer. They are believed to become possessed by the spirit of a supernatural being.(I)
Music is incorporated into almost all religious ceremonies. One of the most common instruments is the bata drum. It is used "during the sacred initiation ceremonies or ceremonies for saints' birthdays: the iya or mother, which is the biggest; the medium-sized itotele; and the okonkolo, which is the smallest one and has the highest tone. These drums are given food offerings because each one contains a numen or semigod which has a magical secret, ana, which may not be revealed by those who construct and play them."(I)
Bembe celebrations are planned for the sole purpose of entertainment and fun. During these times, bata drums are not allowed to be played. Musicians play guiros or abwes ( instruments made from gourds) instead. Performers typically use iron bells called agogos as well.(I)
