African Ensemble

The SOSU African Ensemble is another ethnic ensemble students participate in at Southeastern. This music is characterized by numerous, highly energetic rhythms combining to form a complex whole. The group performs authentic compositions derived from the musical traditions of West Africa. A new African performing group is the UDU DRUM ENSEMBLE which consists of 6 African Udu drums (essentially “clay pots”) that are accompanied by various bells and shakers.

The Instruments

  • Gankogui (iron double bells)
  • Atoke (boat-shaped iron bells)
  • Firikyiwa (iron finger bells)
  • Axaste (gourd rattles)
  • Kagan (small drums)
  • Kidi (medium drums)
  • Sogo (large drums)
  • Atsimevu (master drum)
  • Djun Djun (support drum)
  • Frame Drums (hand-held drums)
  • Donno Drums (talking drums)
  • Djembes (solo drums)
  • Udu Drums (clay drums played with hands & fingers)

The Rhythms and Patterns

  • Gahu
  • Nankasa
  • Mowugola
  • Asafo
  • Husago
  • Sikyi
  • Kete
  • Asaadua
  • Adowa
  • Atsiagbeko
  • Highlife

Udu Drum Ensemble

A new African performing group started in spring 1999 is the UDU DRUM ENSEMBLE which consists of 6 African Udu drums (essentially “clay pots”) that are accompanied by various bells and shakers. Be sure to check out the latest photos and the video of this unusual ethnic ensemble at SOSU.

African & Udu Ensemble Video Clips

Note: The following media files may require special software to allow opening and viewing.