Documentation of Ijele Masquerade Music and Its Socioreligious Functions in Anambra State

This research documents the musical elements of the Ijele masquerade tradition and examines its socioreligious functions within selected communities in Anambra State, South East Nigeria. The Ijele masquerade is considered one of the most elaborate and sacred Igbo cultural performances, incorporating complex rhythmic patterns, chants, and instrumental music that communicate deeply held spiritual and communal values. Despite its cultural significance, systematic documentation of the music associated with Ijele performances remains limited in academic literature. This study employs an ethnographic research design, involving field observations, audio-visual recordings, and in-depth interviews with masquerade custodians, drummers, and community elders in Awka and Onitsha local government areas. The researcher also reviews available archival materials and recent ethnomusicological studies on masquerade traditions in the South East zone. Data analysis follows qualitative thematic coding to identify recurring musical motifs, performance contexts, and symbolic meanings embedded in the songs and instrumental arrangements. The study aims to produce a preliminary musical transcription and contextual analysis of Ijele performance repertoire. Findings will contribute to the growing body of ethnomusicological documentation of Nigerian intangible cultural heritage and will serve as a resource for music educators, cultural institutions, and community preservation initiatives. Keywords: Ijele masquerade, ethnomusicology, Anambra State, socioreligious functions, documentation.