Handmade Wood Djembe Drum, "Sankofa"
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The outlines of a cross and an arched bird holding an egg in its beak, represent Sankofa, and Adinkra symbol suggesting that the values of the past need to be revived in the present. Djembe drums originated in the country of Benin, but the instrument has since been incorporated into the music of neighboring lands. Ernestina Oppong elaborates contours inspired by rhythm, making this a wonderful decorative accent for any home.
Oppong combines a passion for carving with music, resulting in traditional instruments with contemporary flair. "Tweneboah," a kind of hardwood, provides the body for the drum; its golden tone highlighting the engaging designs. Oppong applies shoe and mansion polish to enhance the wood's smooth, radiant appearance. Iron rod rings are attached to the mouth of the drum and wrapped with cotton to prevent rusting. Through these rings nylon ropes are double-woven, securely fastening the goatskin to the wood.
To play, sit on the edge of a chair with ankles crossed, the top of the drum fitting neatly between the knees as the base of the drum rests behind the heels. This way the drum is angled away from the player. Sitting up straight with hands resting on the drum's playing surface, the wrists should become flat and this is the position to create the standard djembe sounds. Djembes produce three basic sounds: bass, tone, and slap.
BASS: With the hand flat and fingers together, place the hand at the dimension of two fists above the center of the playing surface. Allow the hand to strike and bounce back to the original position above the center.
TONE: This is the high-pitched sound produced by striking the top surface nearest the edge with firmly placed fingers.
SLAP: Strike the playing surface's edge first with the heel of the hand, and then allow the fingers to naturally bounce down towards the drum's center.
- 8.28 kgs
- 18.3 lbs
- 58 cm H x 35 cm Diam.
- 22.75" H x 13.75" Diam.
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Customer Reviews
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Toni
Verified Reviewer
08/17/2022
"Wall Decor"
I love this picture. It looks beautiful in my frame.
Best Uses
- Wall decor
Purchased Item:
Ama II, Handmade Threadwork Art of Young African Girl with Bowl
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Rich from Delaware
Verified Reviewer
07/27/2022
"Beautiful Art"
Carefully executed. Brilliant colors.A great gift
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Gift Occasion:
- This was a gift for: Neice
- Occasion: 'just because'
Linda
Verified Reviewer
07/07/2022
"Ghana Musician"
Beautiful unique piece. Very happy w/it
Purchased Item:
Guitar Player, Handcrafted African Threadwork Art with Music Theme
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Sonia
Verified Reviewer
10/30/2021
"Beautiful large mask"
This is a gorgeous piece. I didnt realize it was so big. It is a great addition to my decor.
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Akan Afterlife, African Wood Mask
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Nii
Verified Reviewer
07/18/2021
"Oware"
I am proposing to myself, Love,do I feel like a game of Oware?I do...
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Crested Oware, African Sese Wood Oware Board Game from Ghana
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Sharon
Verified Reviewer
04/28/2021
"Fine work of art- 5star"
I bought this along with 3 other drums. Each is beautifully made and finished. Highly recommend.
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