If you’ve ever run in or watched the Run For The Water race, you’ll have certainly heard the unique sounds of the finish line. Huge drums line the street, played spiritedly in the traditional style of Burundi. The musicians, dressed colorfully in red, green, and white, drum and dance athletically in time to powerful rhythms, ushering tired finishers through the home stretch with joy.
Finish line from 2019 Run For The Water in Austin Texas.
This style of drumming traditionally accompanies celebrations in Burundi. At Run For The Water, the drums’ purpose is two-fold. First, it celebrates the runners’ accomplishments and their gift of clean water through their race registration. Second, it inspires and lifts the spirits of all listeners with their rich tones and joyful rhythms. We can certainly say it is a unique way to end a race, and it is a delight to watch racers come into earshot of the drums and see a smile light their faces as they quicken their pace to the finish line.
The ritual dance of the royal drum, as it is officially called, is a fundamental part of Burundian heritage, culture, and identity. It is listed by UNESCO as a part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Traditional drumming is typically a part of large, celebratory events in Burundi, such as New Year’s, Independence Day, and Inauguration. The drumming is an expression of the joy of the celebration, so they are always part of major events in Burundian life.
A drum group usually has between 10 to 20 participants, with more drums creating better rhythms and a deeper richness of sound. Some of the drums keep a continuous beat, while others match the rhythms created by the central drummer, located in the middle of the line or semi-circle. Some members of the group then perform athletic dances along with the drums. This kind of drumming requires a great deal of memorization - every beat and rhythm set is different and has its own related physical movements. It requires close coordination and attention at a very fast pace.
Traditional Burundian drumming is well known worldwide, with many groups traveling to performances internationally. And there is growing tourism within Burundi as people travel to see traditional drumming and dancing performances.
Gilbert Tuhabonye, co-founder of the Gazelle Foundation at the finish line of Run For The Water 5k, 10-miler and kids K road race benefiting the Gazelle Foundation in downtown Austin, November 2019.
The tradition of drumming is passed down within families, but through formal education as well. Our co-founder Gilbert Tuhabonye, who is originally from Burundi, learned to play the drums growing up, while attending Kibimba School. Many schools in Burundi have long-standing traditions of drumming teams. When he was in the 8th grade, after two years of hard work and practice, Gilbert was finally able to join the school’s travel drumming team. This gave him the opportunity to visit many areas of the country for competitions and performances. Kibimba School was well-known for its drummers, and Gilbert’s team came in second at nationals one year!
At Run For The Water, traditional Burundian drummers have celebrated runners crossing the finish line for over 10 years. Our drummers come from troupes in Houston and Dallas. Though they are far from Burundi physically, they are keeping the tradition alive in the United States and sharing it with people who would not otherwise be able to experience it. And it brings something special and unique to the race to be able to celebrate in true Burundi style!
The joy and expression of Burundian drumming have the power to bring people together from all walks of life, thereby promoting peace and unity. We hope that next time you cross the finish line or hear the royal drums of Burundi, you will feel joy, celebration, and inspiration along with us.
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