Preserving the legacy of the great bernard woma
The great tree has fallen. The work that Bernard Woma imparted to the world can not be understated. His influence as a performer, educator, entrepreneur, family man and ambassador have been revered in every corner of the world. In his life, he was referred to as a "national treasure of Ghana". In light of his death, we are charged with the quest to honor him and the light that he shared with the world. The Bernard Woma Dagara Music Center 501(c)3 is based in Buffalo, NY and has been created to facilitate this work.
The Dagara Music Center in Ghana, West Africa
The DMC was founded by Mr. Bernard Woma, master Gyil player, drummer and music scholar, in the year 2000 as a means to preserve, promote and perpetuate the teaching and performance of traditional Ghanaian music, dance and arts.
Mission
The Dagara Music Center combines the teaching and promotion of traditional Ghanaian music education, indigenous cultural art in a community-oriented, multicultural space that provides opportunities for artistic development and exchange among diverse communities and peoples.
VISION
The Dagara Music Center seeks to empower local youth and aspiring artists and scholars from around the world by engaging with them through the medium of artistic scholarship and research. All those involved in DMC programming will become better artists, teachers and global citizens.
Values
Professional musical/artistic instruction and performance
Community engagement
Multicultural interactions
Personal and artistic growth
Preservation of indigenous tradition
SAAKUMU Dance Troupe
Since 1997, Saakumu Dance Troupe has been dedicated to introducing new audiences to traditional and contemporary Ghanaian dance and music. Saakumu Dance Troupe is the resident dance company of the DMC. Saakumu is driven by a passion for bringing innovative dances and world music to our audiences through performances in Ghana and abroad.
Ghana
Saakumu is recognized as one of the leading cultural performing troupes in Ghana and is hired to perform at weddings, funerals and corporate functions throughout the country and has entertained many government officials and foreign dignitaries, including the former president, H.E. John Mahama. The Troupe also has also won many regional and national cultural competitions. Members of Saakumu also instruct local children and foreign students in traditional music and dance.
International Tour
Saakumu Dance Troupe began touring Africa and the United States in 2008 in partnership with Griffin Brady and the Slyboots School of Music, Art & Dance. The goal was to expose traditional Ghanaian music and culture and promote holistic cross-cultural experiences. 10-15 permanent members of the Troupe annually represent Ghana and the work of the DMC around the US.
While on tour, Saakumu offers cultural performances, workshops and lectures to universities, public schools, music/dance groups and other cultural and artistic organizations.
SAAKUMU is currently preparing to return to the US for their 15th international tour since 2008. Click below to bring this incredible cultural experience to your school, college, university or venue for the 2022/2023 season!