Very traditional. Use in customary functions to make unique rhythm. Is the talking drum of choice to praise certain traditional rulers and chiefs. Favourite in ancient gelede musical tunes. It is the drum of choice among forest hunters of the past. Used when a member of society of hunters or member of other traditional society passed away.
Agere and Apesin drum are very related. The two drums are usually found in the same drum family. Apesin is used when portability is required - that is, when there is a need to move about with the drum. Whereas, Agere drumming is done in sitting position for ease as the drum has no strap handle like Apesi drum and can be heavy depending on the size.
Agere and Apesin drummers just like Bata and Dundun drummers came to be due to their lineage. This means the unique skill of Agere and Apesin drumming is passed on from generation to generation. Agere and Apesin drummers could trace their lineage to hunting and blacksmithing - the art of forging iron metal into shapes to make carving, hunting and farm tools such as knife, calabash carving shear, hoe, cutlass, trap, axe and so on. Blacksmithing is also used to make bell and aro, a musical instrument mentioned earlier under sekere.
A typical Agere or Apesin drummer knows how to use this drum to eulogize any Yoruba native according to their lineage and ancestral root. Also, these heritage drums are used to make proverb and idiomatic expression.
Agere is made from all natural materials.