Through drumming and dancing during school assemblies, residencies, workshops and public performances, Charles promotes multiculturalism and unity while offering students a fun, social and physical activity.

Charles incorporates a variety of activities into his educational programs depending on the length desired. Students could be introduced to Africa using maps and photos and discussions about African culture and fashions may occur.

Traditional African dance movements were often drawn from observations of the external world – for example, watching the animals, the elements (water, earth, wind and fire) and everyday movements of people.

It is very athletic and high energy and teach how to move every part of the body to the rhythm. Students warm up with basic African movements and learn an authentic African dance.

Drumming is an essential component of African dance. The energy of the drums forms a triad of music, dance and song which is very important in African Tradition. There is a certain heartbeat you feel when you connect with the rhythm of the drums.

African rhythm activities use traditional instruments – Zinli drum, Beoun Beoun drum, Kpawle drum, Djembe drums, cascagnetes, gongs, balafon, talking drum, and water percussion. If resources are available, students can create their own instruments.

In Benin, the people speak French and Fon, an African language. Learning simple words, numbers, and phrases in those languages and a welcome song and good-bye song in French could also be part of the presentation.

Inquire about Charles Ahovissi & Hwendo teaching at your school.

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