Made to be Played!

If you’ve ever played a djembe you’ll know what fantastic instruments they are. But have you ever played an authentic African djembe? Our collection of Ghanaian djembe drums create an astounding range of sounds, from a soft whisper all the way to a deep and powerful roar.

They are sourced from African Musical Instruments, a wonderful group that works to support a number of African communities and projects.

A short history

Thought to have been invented in the 12th century in West Africa, the djembe drum was traditionally only played by high-class court musicians known as griots for story-telling and relaying historical information to various generations.

Aspiring drummers (djembefolas) must learn both the songs AND the dance moves to the rhythms they wish to perform - they have quite the skillset! These days they perform at all types of cultural events including festivals calling for a good harvest, as well as ceremonies like births, weddings and funerals.

Why choose one of our Ghanaian Djembes?

1. They are sustainably made. The wood used is from a West African Cedar called Tweneboa, which is a fast growing tree. All of the wood used is obtained under license from the Forestry Commission in Ghana.
   
2. They are authentically made. Each piece is handmade by an African drummer and they know their craft. When one of these drums is purchased it helps to promote and further strengthen ancient African music traditions, as well as supporting the musician themselves.
   
   
3. They are hard wearing. The skins used are tough goat skins and have not been bleached or weakened by any other aesthetic process.
   
   
4. They are practical. These drums are lighter than hardwood drums and can be carried easily, which is exactly what you need when you’re on your way to your workshop or next event!
   
   
5. They offer a dynamic range and variety of pitches. Each drum is tuned to offer everything from a gentle whisper to a deep and powerful roar.

How are they made?

A whole team of craftsmen and women work together to produce the drums. Everyone has their job to do at each stage, and everything is done by hand.

First the main drum is crafted from the cedar wood, carved into shape and hollowed out using traditional chisel and axe tools. Traditional Adinkra designs are carved into the base and the edges are sanded before the drums are washed.

The drum hoops are covered in fabric offcuts adorned with bold African prints. Nothing goes to waste! These are added to the drums and top quality rope is threaded through and tuned to perfection.

The goats skins are soaked in water to make them more flexible and folded around a circular board the size of the djembe head and placed on top of the drum. The ropes are carefully pulled over to secure the skin in place, and the excess is cut away.

And there we have it, a fully handmade authentic Ghanaian djembe ready to play!