American Roots Concert Series: ShiDaa

Ghanaian drumming and dance instruction 

ShiDaa plays traditional West African rhythms and dance songs. West African rhythms are the roots of much of American jazz. The group uses authentic traditional instruments such as Kpanlogo hand drums, talking drum, brevet, shakers, cowbell, large dun duns, small kagons, sticks, African xylophone, and voice to produce high energy rhythms. Director Saeed Abbas is a Certified Master Drummer and Flautist by the Ghana Ministry of Culture. Saeed Abbas has performed in many places in the world starting with his time with Ghana’s top performing group the National Dance Ensemble as their top drummer and is considered one of Ghana’s best talking drum performers. Additional ShiDaa members include Joe Horzak, Michael McLaskey, Mark Perschbacher, Chris Skinner, Mary Leone, Lia Rocheleau, Shannon Pickens and Allison Springer. 

Dance workshop leader, Eric Mensah Papoose, is a master of Ghanaian dance. He performed and taught with Ghana’s prestigious National Dance Theater in many countries. 

Listen to ShiDaa on YouTube!

Washington State Parks Folk & Traditional Arts Program is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact FolkArts@parks.wa.gov or (360) 701-7923 at least 14 days prior to the event. For more information, please visit https://parks.wa.gov/folk-and-traditional-arts-program.