Led by Kofi Donkor, Sankofa Drum Circle will take students on a journey through the rhythmic and oral tradition of West African drumming and culture. Sankofa means “going back to the roots” in the Twi language from Ghana. The spirit of Sankofa, and this class, is to promote personal and community awareness through this art form steeped in West African cultural values and tradition.
Students will meet weekly to explore the rhythmic patterns and meaning of traditional west African drumming and story. We will use this form to create a bridge to our contemporary understanding of ensemble hand drumming and strengthen ties in our own communities.
Students who come as strangers are guaranteed to leave as life-long friends with a shared passion for this form of musical expression!
Semester Information
The class is appropriate for ages 12+ & adults.
Class Overview
Kofi will teach students the basics of hand drumming from breathing, positioning to perfecting bass tones, high tones and slap tones. Students will learn to lead the circle and be led, regardless of their knowledge of drumming. All drums will be provided but students are encouraged to bring their own if they would like!
Kofi uses African call and response technique with singing, improvisation and storytelling developed over the many years of his global teaching practice. This technique and skills-building is interspersed with lessons about the history and culture of African Drumming in a four part polyrhythm called Kpanlogo from his native land Ghana, West Africa.
There will be an informal showcase for friends and family at the last class.
Fees & Registration
Tuition & Fees:
• Class fee – $450
• Registration fee – $20
Sankofa is not offered this Fall. If you would like to reserve your spot for Spring, please reach out to Claudia Knafo at musicprogram@riverarts.org for more infomation.