The Unknown Traditional Sound from Ghana * PAST ACTIVITY *

The Unknown Musical Sound from Ghana embodies the rich musical heritage and cultural diversity of the region. Unlike well-known instruments such as the djembe, kora and balafon, there exist a fascinating array of lesser-known instruments that have captivated musicians and ethnomusicologists.

An example is the seraka, a tiny stick percussion instrument that produces its sound from the body and is amplified by a dry seed attached to it. This instrument sounds like a frog. Another intriguing instrument is the seperewa, a harp-like string instrument with 10 or more strings that produce a soothing yet intricate melody.

These unknown instruments from Ghana hold a wealth of untapped musical potential, waiting to be explored and shared with the world. They serve as a testament to the depth and richness of Ghana's musical heritage, inviting musicians and enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in the captivating sounds of this culturally diverse country.

In this workshop, Nana will be showcasing 5 different traditional instruments whose sounds still remain “unknown” to (y)our ears."

For whom ? 

Musicians & non-musicians
Prior knowledge not required

Program outline

• Introduction to the instruments
• Historical background of the instruments
• Theory of the instruments ( playing techniques,modes,scales,keys etc.)
• Performance
• Participants try out of the instruments
• Q & A

The (5) instruments

• Densuom - gourd (calabash) in water that sounds like atalking drum;
• Adweke & seraka - bamboo percussion and small stick percussion that imitates frog croaking sound;
• Seperewa - Ghanaian harp-lute that resembles a small ship;
• Adenkum - hand gourd drum played by women;
• Prenpensiwa - Ghanaian so-called giant bass guitar (a combination of cajon and thumb piano).