The Akwaaba Traditional African Drum and Dance Ensemble was formed in 2002 by Theo Martey, bringing together a group of friends who have been playing music, drumming and dancing together for many years in Ghana and the United States.The Akwaaba Ensemble's energetic and engaging performances are a reflection of their name, which means 'welcome' in the Twi language of the Ashanti tribe of Ghana. At each performance the Ensemble brings West African "Highlife Music", drumming and dance to vivid life, holding sway with the rich and subtle rhythmic patterns and styles specific to different tribal groups of West Africa. The Ensemble has toured internationally and performed in the United States, Mexico, Canada, Ireland and United Kingdom. During our tours, we taught and gave workshops to students in dozens of schools around the globe, We now resides in Manchester New Hampshire doing residencies in the schools, Drumming and Dancing workshop in the community, collaborating and performing with other musicians.