Jazz Small Ensembles: Leake West African Drumming Ensemble

In this ensemble, students learn to play traditional instruments for two popular rhythms from the Ewe people of Southern Ghana: Gahu (a funky groove in 2/4) and Agbekor (a warrior dance in 12/8). They also create new arrangements using traditional songs adapted to student’s primary instruments. The class incorporates Leake’s Harmonic Time method that comprises stepping to the beat (ankle bells), bell patterns (sticks), and the voice to internalize musical time, groove and mathematics. 

Watch Performer-Produced Livestream from Eben Jordan Ensemble Room

Jerry Leake, Coach
Maude Bastien-Desilets
Noah Mark
Chris Ferrari
William Stark
Michael Gerace