GOME

Gome

The Gome (go-may) is the oldest musical type performed by the Coastal Ga people of Ghana.The dance-druming was introduced in Ghana by Fishermen who came back from islands in the Gulf of Guinea. Papa Nii Amoo His nephew, Kwaku Nii Noona, popularized the dance in the 19th century. Only old fishermen performed the dance. The Early Days The young weren't allowed to go on fishing expeditions.


Age isn't a requirement. Everyone, young and old, male or female  is encouraged to join. Today, it is Performed on all occasions: Funerals, marriage, and wedding ceremonies, festivals and visits of the central government.


The Gome drum is a fundamental solo and ensemble drum among the Ga and Ashanti's of Ghana. This drum  is hand crafted out of solid Odum, a tropical Ghanaian  hardwood, with a solid frame, thick cow skin head, and floating inside frame adjusted by using a metal press. 


The drum is played on its side, with the drummer sitting on top, using both hands and the heels of the feet as well as it palms of the hand to execute the rythm. The Gome produced thick warm tones, striking slaps, and healthy bass.It gives richer sound and long life, it overall dimension are  +/- 20" square head, with upright height of +/- 22".