Drumming is part and parcel of Ghanaian life

Photo: Graham Simmons

Dance and drumming are integral parts of Ghanaian community life, and everybody is expected to join in.

By contrast with African rhythms, Western-style dancing often seems static and wooden. Several dance schools accept foreign students. A good choice is the Asanti Dance Theatre in Cape Coast. The village of Kokrobite is also renowned for its drumming schools.

No-one should underestimate the complexity of African rhythms. Perhaps the most well-known Ghanaian group internationally is the Kusun Ensemble. Founded by group leader Nii Tettey Tetteh, from the Ga region, Kusun includes past members of The National Ballet of Ghana and The Pan African Orchestra. The ensemble has created highly innovative music and dance by fusing bass and lead guitar with African rhythms and traditional Ghanaian instruments.