PROJECT AKOMA NTOSO
made possible by a grant from the Indian Prairie Educational Foundation

AKOMA NTOSO is a Ghanaian (Akan) symbol that means “linked hearts” and represents understanding and agreement. The purpose of this project is to create an environment for high school students to develop connections through the study and performance of percussion music from cultures of West Africa (Mali, Guinea, Cote D’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo and Benin).

Project Akoma Ntoso expands and deepens students’ understanding of music and culture by providing students the opportunity to make music in a traditional-style African ensemble, perform for peers and the community at large, respond through discussions on how West African culture relates to them, and connecting to other cultures and customs be performing music in new ways.

KEY OBJECTIVES TO PROJECT AKOMA NTOSO
Multicultural Musicing
Creative Thinking
Communication
Global Citizenship
Respect & Appreciation
Reflection
Improvisation
Deep Connections
Diversity

Project Akoma Ntoso is a part of the curricular percussion courses, the Waubonsie Valley Percussion Ensemble, and the Waubonsie Valley World Beat ensemble. Performances can be heard at the various percussion performances throughout the year.

Media Highlights from Project Akoma Ntoso

For more information about the Indian Prairie Educational Foundation, please visit www.ipef204.org.