Drop-In African Drumming Classes with Isaac Akrong

Play kpanlogo, djembe, gome and other drums, learn technique, and learn songs! Experienced players will be challenged with complex rhythms, and new players will be introduced to simple rhythms.

No previous expeience required - all ages and abilities welcome!

A note about accesibility:

The space is currently in plans for renovations, including the installation of a wheelchair-accessible washroom. Currently, the space has these features:

• stairs leading to front entrance
• no push button entrance
• non-accessible washroom

$10 / general admission

Cash at the door

Drop-ins welcome

Drums provided (come early to ensure your spot!)

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

www.isaacniiakrong.com

Isaac Akrong is an exceptional performer of traditional dance and drumming. Hailing from the Ga people of the coastal belt of Ghana, he was immersed in the traditions of his culture at an early age. His love of traditional music and arts led him to the University of Ghana, School of Performing Arts where he completed an undergraduate degree. Isaac was invited to join the Ghana Dance Ensemble of the Institute of African Studies, Legon, where he continued with his learning and love of traditional music, performing a multitude of different cultural dances.

Isaac holds a master’s degree in dance and a PhD in ethnomusicology from York University. For many years he taught African music and dance at York University, Wesleyan University in Connecticut, and Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania. He has taught all ages, everywhere from Ontario Early Years Centres, elementary and secondary schools, post-secondary, as well as with adults and seniors.

As a choreographer, master drummer, and artistic director, Isaac creates new works as well as maintains traditional music and dance through the African Dance Ensemble. The group has performed all across Ontario, in addition to England and the US. Isaac also founded Humanity in Harmony festival, which ran for three years, bringing together multi-disciplinary artists, academics, and community members in a celebration of our common humanity through the arts.

Isaac has a strong commitment to sharing his knowledge of traditional dance and drumming with the world. As a researcher, he is determined to see Ghanaian music and dance documented for future generations.

“My goal is to propagate the message of African culture and explain everything possible about it. I am building on the knowledge that exists so that people will understand African music and dance more.”

He believes that, as humans, “We sing and dance through our lives on earth and beyond.”

In 2023, with a Board of Directors, Isaac incorporated African Arts Institute, a non-for-profit centre for education, research, and entertainment in African arts. Learn more at www.africanartsinstitute.com

Also check out other Workshops in Belleville, Performances in Belleville, Arts events in Belleville.