Linguistic Meaning in Anlo-Ewe Drum Patterns of Agbadza
This musical rhythm workshop will discuss the drum language of the Ewe speaking people of the Volta Region of Ghana. This linguistic dimension of drumming is part of the ancient tradition handed down from one master drummer to another master drummer. Historically, Agbadza was war performance music. Traditional drummers not only play complicated rhythmic patterns, but they also articulate poetry, historical texts, and religious formulas thru the drumming. This workshop will demonstrate the linguistic elements of both the traditional rhythmic and tonal patterns which add a rich layer to meaning of the Agbadza drum music.