Season of Bari
The season of Bari, from late November lasting until the end of the year, was a depiction of the gossipy news and events displayed by different music and song. The event took place for everyone to see and hear. Probably better to behave, lest ‘secrets’ be broadcast for all to hear!
The Bari is an African style drum (different than Maskarada) constructed with a barrel base and a stretched sheepskin top. Called Tambu in Curacao, Bonaireans called it Bari, after the rum ‘barrel’ used in the making. In addition to the Bari, slaves used a ukulele, guitar and a wiri to broadcast the news. A wiri is a piece of metal with notches played by sliding a stick on top.
Today, as the musicians are brought drinks of rum, the years events are put to song and the musicians playfully banter back and forth while friends and family listen and enjoy.