The gungonga is a closed hourglass-shaped drum used by the Kassena. It can be compared with the dondon of the Ashanti and the lung bla of the Dagomba. The gungonga is a double-skin cylindrical drum that is struck with a stick. The drum is hung across the shoulder with a strap. The pitch can be changed by pressing down the straps, which hold the two membranes together, with the arm under the armpit. This tightens both membranes and produces a higher sound when the instrument is struck. The gungonga drum is used to accompany dances and songs.
The gungonga can differ in size and length from village to village and depending on the musician's preference. It is usually 50 cm in length and has a diameter of 20 cm.
© RMCA/Dominik PHYFFEROEN