Akans

It is not possible to discuss and explore the language of Akan without talking about the people who speak and use it, the Akans.

The language is bound to the people. It is a living and breathing language that shapes the people and it, them. It manifests itself in proverbs, stories, dance, music, practices and a sense of belonging - in short culture.

In dance and music, it is transformed from vocals through drumming, to that of public broadcast and Morse code -long before it was 'invented'!  In fact, who is to say it did not form the basis of Morse when it was created.

The drumming and the expressions of the dancers in the clip below are not just what they may appear at first glance. This is not just dance but communication between the drummers, dancers and audience. For new comers, its its called 'Fontomfrom'.  You will note from the dance and the guestures that its all about communications and language and not dance at all! Enjoy!