FRGUA22 SEC UNESCO - Workshop GWO-KA

On Monday afternoon we visited a local enthusiast and propagator of gwo-ka musical style, Joel Séjour in his workplace. He is not only the fan of the gwo-ka music but he himself makes traditional drums – tambour ka. First, he told us about the history of the music, how this style was developed and who were its founders. He taught us about 7 different music rhythms – TOUMBLAC, GRAJ, LEWOZ, WOULE, KALADJA, PABJAMBEL, MENDE. Joel explained us that each rhythm had different meaning and was played in different occasions. We all tried to play the drum ka according to his instructions. He also traditional songs for us and we could see how he loved them. Later he showed us 2 different processes of making the tambours. One was by hollowing out the hole in the wood and another was by making pieces as for the barrels. When this is ready, he makes the top part of leather and joins two parts by ropes. He explained us that he finds the wood himself for his drums. Finally he showed us other traditional percissions and played gwo-ka style on them too. 

We all enjoyed the workshop because we all could join and play the drums and learn about typical music. For continental participants it was extraordinary experience to visit the local manufacturer.