I grew up in a culture where Rastafarianism and Christianity were the two major belief systems. One thing unique to both is the drumming that is present in their gatherings. There is no church without some good drumming, neither is there a Rasta meeting without the pounding of the kete drum. No doubt, drumming is the heartbeat of these gatherings, and it is absolutely no different in Ghana. Ghana’s traditional drumming is a very important part of its culture.
Drumming for Ghanaians serves as a powerful medium of communication, expression, and storytelling. It is seasoned with a rich history that is rooted in its many ethnic groups. Drumming for the Ghanaian people is not all about music, it’s also about history, religion and the song of the people.
The rhythms of Ghanaian drums provide a backdrop for various dances while preserving legacy and tradition. This article explores the significance of Ghana’s traditional drumming, its various styles, instruments, and its enduring role in modern Ghanaian society.
Historical Origins of Ghana's Traditional Drumming
Ghana’s traditional drumming has been the heartbeat of the culture for centuries. Certain ethnic groups like the Akan and the Ga have decided that drumming is a way of life. The Ghanaian people have found use for drumming that goes beyond music. They have used them to send messages across distances. In their brilliancy, Ghanaians have used drums to mimic human speech for various reasons. The talking drum is one prime example among these musical instruments.
The Ga people were prime practitioners of this use of drumming. They developed intricate drum languages to send warnings, summon gatherings, or announce significant events such as births, deaths, or wars. In Northern Ghana, the Ga people have also depended on drums to chronicle their history. This oral tradition ensured the preservation of Ghanaian history and folklore long before the advent of written records.
Types of Traditional Drums in Ghana
Ghana is furnished with an array of traditional drums. Each of these masterpieces comes with a unique design that differs in sound and the way it is recognized in the culture. Some of Ghana’s most popular drums include:
Djembe: This drum is not originally from Ghana, but Ghanaians have adopted it as if it were their own. The djembe has become a popular drum in the country due to its versatile sound and wide range of tones. It is commonly used in contemporary performances and workshops.
Atumpan: Known as the “talking drum” of the Akan people, the atumpan is a set of two large drums played with curved sticks. It is essential in royal ceremonies and storytelling.
Kpanlogo: A drum associated with the Ga people, the kpanlogo is central to the lively kpanlogo dance, a popular form of entertainment and celebration.
Fontomfrom: This drum ensemble is used by the Akan during traditional ceremonies, especially to honor chiefs and dignitaries. The fontomfrom drum is known for producing deep and resonant sounds.
Gome: This is a box-shaped drum that is played by sitting on it. This instrument is popular among the Ga people, who often use it in their social gatherings and events.
When it comes to cultural context, each drum has its special place. When they come together, they form a melody that bonds as much as the Ghanaian people.
Drumming as a Form of Communication
Ghana’s traditional drums can mimic human speech in the most natural ways. Talented drummers will use them to imitate the Twi and Ewe languages in the most authentic fashions. They vary the pitch and the rhythms of their beats to achieve a sounds that is comparable to human language.
This unique ability allowed drums to serve as essential tools in pre-colonial Ghana, enabling communities to send messages quickly across great distances. Drumming was also used to accompany oral storytelling, with rhythms adding drama and emotion to the narratives.
The Spiritual Significance of Drumming
Like Jamaican Rastafarians, traditional drumming is deeply mixed with spirituality in Ghana. In fact, Jamaican Rastas got their culture from Ghana. Drums are considered sacred instruments, often associated with deities and ancestors.
For example, during libation rituals, drumming is used to honor ancestors and request their guidance. Drums play a special role in many festivals and events in Ghanaian communities. They are used to celebrate unity and divine love that caters to spiritual renewal.
Some people believe that drums can heal the sick, ward off evil spirits, and bring rain in drought conditions. Because of this, drummers are recognized very highly in Ghanaian society.
When Ghana's Traditional Drumming Meets Dance
In Ghana, wherever drumming is going on, you can be sure that dance will also be there. In any drumming environment, the rhythm of the drum will inspire every move of the dancer, creating a bond between the drum and the dance moves.
When traditional dances are in question, you can be sure that a drummer will always be on hand. They are there specifically to beat rhythm to the motion of the dance floor. Traditional dances such as the Adowa, Kete, and Agbadza rely heavily on drum accompaniment, with each rhythm corresponding to a specific set of steps or gestures.
Everyone gets involved in dancing activities. Even little babies love to rock to the beat of the drums. Communities use drums to celebrate their achievements, from harvests to weddings and festivals. This combination of rhythm and dance is also used in storytelling exercises. Dancers interpret the rhythms and express their emotions to display a particular narrative.
The Role of Ghana's Traditionial Drumming in Modern Music
Ghana’s traditional drumming is also a big influence in modern music, such as highlife and Afrobeats. Even though it remains the essence of its culture, artists incorporate traditional rhythms into their modern compositions. This creates a beautiful blend of the new and the old in fine style.
One prime example is how Highlife music mixes Western instruments with traditional African rhythms. This most definitely includes Ghanaian drums, which add flavor to the melodies. Afrobeat, on the other hand, has drawn inspiration from drumming. The end result is music that resonates with both local people and visitors.
You can also find Ghanaian drumming beyond African borders. Ghanaian drummers can often be found at international events like festivals and workshops. This global exposure has helped to preserve the country’s drumming traditions and elevate them to even greater heights.
The Role of Drummers in Society
A drummer is a prized possession for the Ghanaian people. After all, they are the ones who add life to events and rhythm to dances. Drummers are like custodians of culture and history. They undergo rigorous training, often starting as apprentices to master drummers. This training helps them master their skillsets and prepares them for the very special role of a drummer in Ghana.
There can be no events without drummers. If you find an event without a drummer, you would have attended an empty event because most people follow the rhythm of the drumbeats. Their important role in Ghana’s sacred events makes drummers even more special to these West African people.
Challenges and Preservation Efforts for Ghana's Traditional Drumming
Amidst the gravity of Ghanaian traditional drummers, they face challenges. Urbanization has been a major threat, where modern influences seek to rid Ghana’s drumming tradition. Western music has also been a culprit. Younger generations are less willing to learn traditional drumming because of their newfound love of modern Western sounds.
These challenges, however, have not stopped the rhythm of the beat. Organizations have stepped forward to preserve the rich heritage of Ghanaian drumming traditions. There have been education campaigns by schools and cultural centers to promote this sacred part of Ghana. The Pan African Theatre Festival is a gem in this regard. It is a festival where Ghanaian drumming is a major showcase. The National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC) also helps by celebrating Ghana’s artistic traditions.
Conclusion
Traditional drumming has been a part of Ghana since history began. It is woven into their music and daily stories. They use it in almost everything they do, from festivals to weddings, and even in their churches. You just can’t separate Ghanaians from their drums. Despite the challenges they face, they continue moving to the heartbeat of their nation and dancing to the soundwaves that keep them alive.
Ghana’s traditional drumming has even breached the borders of mainland Africa. You can find it playing in distant lands where the diaspora have made their temporary homes. One thing is certain: drumming will always be a part of the Ghanaian people.
