Among the Adadi, music remains at the heart of sociability: through remarkable vocal and instrumental techniques (musical bow, guimbard, gong and drum), it enables them to share their sorrows and joys, in the intimate and collective sphere.
The Atauro island has around 10,000 inhabitants, divided into three ethno-linguistic groups, of which only the Adadi (around 2,000 people) have preserved a varied musical practice, despite the fact that it (and their language) is in serious danger of extinction. This music, recorded between 2019 and 2023 as part of a collaborative project with the inhabitants, has never been published before.
The music gives rhythm to the walks to the fields, and enhances the harvest of palm wine morning and evening. It often brings tears to the eyes, but softens sadness and intensifies joy at celebrations that include all age groups and genders.
Despite an abrupt interruption in transmission in 1974 by Christian missionaries, certain forbidden ritual songs are still remembered.
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