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Back in JSS(Junior Secondary School), the sound from this drum often meant it was time for assembly, break, or a change of lessons. Before school bells and sirens became common, many schools used this instead.
This is a pair of Atumpan, popularly known as the talking drums. It is a traditional Ghanaian/Abibiman(Afrikan) musical instrument used mainly in Akan music ensembles. Beyond music, it also served as a powerful means of communication.
In the past, linguists used the Atumpan to communicate with audiences through rhythmic African poetry. Because many African languages are tonal, the drums were tuned to match the language itself, with one producing a low "doh" and the other a high "soh." Together, they could convey messages through rhythm and pitch.
The Atumpan is more than an instrument. It represents our history, language, identity, and culture. As technology continues to evolve, drum language is one part of our heritage we should never lose.
Pristine..
Authentic…
For those who grew up in Abibiman(Afrika), what did your school use to signal assembly, break time, or the end of lessons?
And for those in the diaspora or elsewhere in the world, what did your schools use? Have you ever seen or heard the Atumpan before? I'd love to hear your experiences.
Ohenenana, Nnemkadi and 2 others2 Comments-
@Abibitumi_Ahemfie Hope I can get a group to come around with it.. I’ll begin to make make some calls
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37,180
Abibitumi Points
We need them at the conference!!
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