By Sola Omoniyi Omoyajowo
Gracing its environs with an appealing sense of aesthetics, the Lagos State polytechnic could play no better host to the various sculptures making home on its ground. From the main entrance of the school, you are welcomed by well sculpted statures, down to the Department of Arts and Design where many of the sculptures are erected.
Drums are a very essential member of the percussion group of musical instruments. They are normally played by beating with the hand, or with one or two sticks with or without padding, just like the one erected at the front gate of Lagos State University of Science and Technology to welcome students, lecturers, and visitors to the school compound.
Depending on the class of drum and the type of sound expected, various sticks can be used. They could be wooden sticks, brushes or even sticks with a soft beater of felt on the end. On the surface, they appear like instruments that are solely used for music and eventually, entertainment and for evoking happiness.
However, there’s more to drums, especially within African culture and tradition. African drums have a unique and more profound symbolic meaning when compared with western music, a perfect example is that of the one at Lagos State University of Science and Technology gate, which simply means, welcome.
Traditionally, these drums represent the soul of the community they’re found in. They are used for celebrating ceremonial events and rituals within the community. They are also employed as tourist attractions in various African countries, promoting and exhibiting African heritage and culture.
Drumming dates back to thousands of years ago. Before people developed the drum set we know today, they were already using other percussion instruments. Historians believe that human beings used to beat on objects and bodies or stomped on the ground to produce musical sounds. Producing sound was useful for both communications and as an accompaniment for dancing. It moved people’s minds and hearts during events and religious ceremonies. The ancient desire for rhythm developed over time to the modern drum kits we have today.
Diverse moods and messages are conveyed by the brilliant sculptors who happen to be, at some time students of the Lagos State Polytechnic. As task required in acquiring a certification in this field, they are required to sculpt a statue erected at a specific location within the polytechnic’ wall.
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