THE
KPANOUHOUN or Tambourine
The kpanouhoun or tambourine is an instrument that belongs to the category of idiophones. It can be heard played by the Fon and Goun ethnic groups as well as by the Mina and Yoruba throughout the southern part of Benin.
Our current research does not allow us to state with any precision how the instrument originated. However, it is considered one of the rare instruments to be played exclusively by women. It is played during customary marriage ceremonies to lead a new bride to her husband's house or to accompany the dowry or agban when it is handed over to the wife's family. A group of women including the sisters, aunts and other friends of the bridegroom play the kpanouhoun as the melodic and rhythmic Background to vocal music. The instrument, often accompanied by a single or double gong, can also be used in other secular ceremonies like funerals or popular celebrations.
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