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Mauritius music and dance form is known as Sega. The Sega music has its origin in Africa. The ravanne, the maravanne or coco, and the triangle are the three vital instruments of this musical form. The Sega dance of Mauritius is performed by female dancers dressed in colorful blouse and skirt.
Mauritius Music
Mauritius music called Sega dates back to the mid 18th century. The music was typical of the African type with rapid, rhythmic and pounding drumbeats. Bobre, Ravane, Maravane or Coco, and Triangle were the original instruments used to play Sega music The bobre is a string instrument. It is no longer used. The ravane is an animal hide pulled tightly over a wooden circular frame. This is made taut by holding over a flame.
The maravane or coco is a hollow dried vegetable or fruit shell filled with nuts or pebbles. It is a percussion instrument. The Triangle is metallic and stuck by a metal rod. Bobre is a traditional string instrument used in Sega music. The Bobre has been replaced by the modern day guitar.
Mauritius Dance
Sega is also a dance form of Mauritius. The dance is performed by girls clad in colorful blouses and swaying skirts. The dance starts with gentle rhythmic swaying of the hips that gradually becomes faster as the music progresses. The movements are sensual and ecstatic. The dance is often accompanied by clapping hands, tinkling spoons, rattling of seeds and rhythmic beats of the ravane.
Mauritius music and dance presents an enticing attraction for all tourists to Mauritius. Most of the restaurants, hotels and resorts arrange for Sega nights in the weekends. Sega is also performed on the sea beaches accompanied by a bonfire.
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