Wishbook Grant 2024: The Gift of Drums!

We are excited to announce that Balafon West African Dance Ensemble was recently selected as a recipient of the Pittsburgh Foundation Wishbook Grant! This incredible support will enable us to purchase new drums and instruments, empowering us to continue sharing the vibrant traditions and culture of West Africa with our community.

The Heartbeat of West African Music: Doundouns

At the core of West African music lies the doundoun, a set of drums that serves as the rhythmic foundation for both music and dance. The full doundoun set consists of three drums:

• Doundounba: The largest bass drum, providing deep, resonant tones.
• Sangban: A mid-sized drum with dynamic tones, often played with sticks while dancing.
• Kikine: The smallest drum, offering sharp, high-pitched accents.

Each drum is made from natural goat or calf skins, which require ongoing care to maintain their tone and avoid damage. These instruments not only shape the rhythmic structure but also add layers of texture to the music when paired with supporting sounds like bells.

Enhancing Our Ensemble’s Impact

With the addition of these new instruments, we will:

• Expand Learning Opportunities: Dancers will have the chance to practice more complex core rhythms, further enriching their skills.
• Collaborate with More Drummers: By providing high-quality instruments, we can work with drummers who may not have personal sets or the means to transport them.
• Create a Fuller Sound: Supporting instruments like bells enhance the doundoun’s foundational beats, providing a richer musical experience.

Gratitude and Vision

This grant represents more than just funding—it’s an investment in preserving and sharing West African culture. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Pittsburgh Foundation for recognizing the importance of our mission. These new drums will not only enhance our performances but also deepen the connections we forge through music and dance.

Stay tuned as we put these instruments to use in upcoming workshops, performances, and community events. If you are interested in making an investment into Balafon as well we are always accepting donations! We can’t wait to share the powerful rhythms and stories that these drums will bring to life.

Thank you for being part of our journey!