Rwanda's Must-Try Traditional Dance Experiences

Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is famous for its lovely views and gorilla trips. It is also known for its rich culture, like music and dance. These have been a key part of life in Rwanda for many years. They help keep the nation's past, values, and tales alive. Here, we will see what makes Rwanda's music and dance special. We will look at the history, culture, and role they play in Africa.

Things that make musical and traditional dance in Rwanda unique

All About Music And Dance In Rwanda You Probably Do Not Know

Music and dance are key parts of African parties and customs. In most villages, people sang and danced for nearly every event. For example, they marked weddings, naming babies, harvests, births, deaths, and visits with loved ones. Families and groups joined in to enjoy these moments by sharing food, drinks, games, and tales.

In Rwanda, music and dance bring much joy to both visitors and locals. Tourism plays a big role in making these shows popular and in high demand. Many hotels and lodges host local dancers to entertain guests, often in the late day or night.

A traditional Rwandan dance ensemble typically consists of dancers and a musical group comprising approximately 5 to 7 members who deliver melodious tunes that deeply resonate with the audience.

Some Of The Famous Traditional Dances In Rwanda

The Intore Dance of Warriors

The word "Intore" comes from the Kinyarwanda language. It means "Leaders" or "the Chosen Ones." This dance is important in Rwanda's culture. Men with great strength and character are picked and trained. They learn the ways and manners needed to serve the King, called the Mwami. Watching this dance fills people with awe.

But Intore is not only a dance. It tells stories. It shows how they got ready for fights, talked about hunts, and marked their victories. All three Rwandan tribes take part in this dance. Today, crowds join in by clapping to the beat of the drums. This shared moment lifts the dancers' spirits, helping them move with great energy and joy.

A tribe in Rwanda performs traditional intore dance to celebrate the birth of an endangered mountain gorilla 

The Umushayayo/ Umushangiriro

This Rwandan dance is called the women's dance. It stands out in Africa because it is gentler and softer than the men's dance. Women move slowly, showing grace, warmth, and charm. The dance highlights the beauty of African women. It is inspired by the movements of Ankole cattle.

The Dance of Courtship/ Ukurambagiza

Until they marry, single women can join in this dance. It is also called the Dance of Fiancés (Ukurambagiza). Their steps and moves help show their beauty. Parts of the dance remind one of how birds, like the Grey Crested Crane, perform courtship dances with elegance and charm.

The Harvest/ Umuganura

In these events, people come together to mark the first crops of the year. They meet to share the food they have grown, enjoy big meals, and drink local brews. Women dress in bright clothes and join happy dances to thank the higher power for the rich harvest. It is also a time to give good wishes for the seeds to be planted next season.  

These are just a few of the many dances done in Rwanda. The old musical tools used for these shows include the Inanga (like a guitar), Ingoma (a drum), Umuduli (a one-string bow-like tool), and Amakondera (a horn). With these sounds, you will surely be charmed by the rich music of Rwanda.

Traditional Music In Rwanda

In the late 1990s, new stars, like Jean-Paul Samputu in Canada, came into view. But for years, Rwandan-Belgian Cécile Kayirebwa was likely the best-known traditional singer from Rwanda around the world. Over time, Rwanda's traditional music has also reached global stages.

While Rwandan music has changed, the old songs still hold great value to the people. Visitors to Rwanda will hear the beats of drums and strings from instruments like ingoma, inanga, umuduli, iningiri, and icyembe. Watching live dancing and hearing these rich sounds is a must for anyone.

Rwanda’s old music is still shifting and taking in more sounds from the West. For example, newer tools are often played with the old ones listed earlier. Plus, all Rwandans share the same music roots, along with their language, ways, and beliefs. Unlike much of Africa, Rwanda’s music shows the nation as a whole and is not tied to one group or area.

Musical traditions in Rwanda - A rich and diverse blend 

Unique instruments - The Sound of Tradition

Many folk songs and dances use old-style tools. These tools are made by hand, with things found nearby. They mean a lot to the people of Rwanda.

• Inanga: The inanga is the best-known tool for Rwandan songs. It looks like a small harp or lyre. It is made from cow skin and special wood. Other tools for songs include the icyembe (a music box), umuduli (a one-string bow), and iningiri (like a small violin).
• Ikembe: A thumb piano that makes sharp beats when its bits of metal are pressed.
• Iningiri: A bamboo flute. It makes rare and deep sounds for old stories and shows.
• Amakondera: Small drums played in groups. They make tricky beats and rhythms.

The presence of these instruments in Rwandan music sets it apart from other African musical traditions and contributes to the unique character of Rwandan music and dance.

Traditional Dances In Rwanda FAQs

Where can tourists watch traditional Rwandan dances?

Visitors can see dances at:

• Kigali Cultural Village: Shows of Rwandan life and art.
• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (near Volcanoes National Park): Locals perform for guests.
• Big events: Like Umuganura (Thanksgiving fest) or Kwita Izina (Naming baby gorillas).

Are there opportunities to learn traditional Rwandan dances?

Some places and groups let tourists join dance lessons to try Intore or Umushagiriro. It’s a fun way to feel the culture.

How is traditional dance passed down in Rwanda?

Older people teach dance by showing and telling. Families and groups pass it on so kids learn both the moves and their meaning.

Are traditional dances performed during weddings in Rwanda?

Yes, dances are key in Rwandan weddings. They bless couples, show joy, and entertain with lively steps.

What should I wear if I’m participating in a Rwandan dance?

Tourists don’t need to dress traditionally, but comfy clothes are best. Rwandan dancers wear:

• Men: Grass skirts, headgear, and carry spears for Intore dance.
• Women: Long dresses (Imishanana) for Umushagiriro.

Are traditional Rwandan dances performed for tourists or only during ceremonies?

Both! Traditional dances are performed for tourists at cultural centers and villages, as well as during ceremonies like weddings, naming ceremonies, or national holidays.

Conclusion

Music and dance in Rwanda are gifts to all, showing joy, strength, and the deep culture of this land. As you hear the songs and see the dancers move, you take a trip that ties you to the heart of Rwanda, giving you a calm and happy time.

Feel the wonder of Rwandan ways and learn why these dances matter. To begin, plan your trip to Rwanda and get a Rwanda eVisa on our site, Rwanda Immigration Services. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy the rich world of song and dance in Rwanda.