Description
The djembe can produce a wide variety of sounds, making it an extremely versatile drum. The drum is very loud, allowing it to be heard clearly as a solo instrument over a large percussion ensemble. The Malinké people say that a skilled drummer is one who “can make the djembe talk”, meaning that the player can tell an emotional story (the Malinké never used the djembe as a signaling drum). The drum is made from goat skin, wood, rope and 3 iron rings.
SYMBOL #1 Nyame is the Twi word for god, and the Adinkra symbol “Gye Nyame” means “I Fear None Except God”. The symbol has adopted a different use and meaning in today’s Akan culture due to the influence of Christianity.
#2 The Nkyinkyim is an Adinkra symbol that represents the twists and turns of life’s journey:
