Ogene is the most important piece of metal instrument in Igbo music. Ogene was originally made from bronze, but are now made from common metals in recent years. Modern Ogene made from metal is lighter compared to earlier designs from bronze. Ogene is shaped like elongated bell that comes in single or double. It is hit by a stick to produce different tunes. Ogene has historically been made by the Igbos from the eastern part of Nigeria.
Decades ago, information were sent across town by ogene. The town criers went from village to village and town to town beating the the ogene to get attention and delivering messages at the same time. Sound of ogene early in the morning usually means that there is something very important which requires the attention of the whole community summoning men and women, young and old to assemble in the towns central square for various announcements.
The most important use of Ogene is in Igbo traditional dances. It comes in various sizes, gives the dancers cue on when to change dance steps and tempo. It is common all over Igboland to see masquerades and various dancing group dance to the tune of ogene sound. Sometimes it is used in conjuction with other musical instruments. Ogene sound enriches dances, songs, religious and secular ceremonies throughout Igboland.