The doundounba, sangban and kensedeni (collectively known as the doundouns; Engl.: bass drums) come originally from one specific region of Upper Guinea called Hamana, where they are traditionally played as a set of three, with one person playing each instrument. The proper materials from these countries give the instruments their traditional and therefore typical sound. We hand select and import such professional instruments directly from Guinea (Doundouns: Category 1).

In modern times doundouns are also produced in other West African countries (Ghana and Senegal for example). These countries do not have the same types of wood as found in Guinea, and the instruments are therefore not qualitative comparable. They are however far easier to produce, and cost significantly less. Such instruments can be found in Doundouns: Category 2. They are suitable for those on a budget, but are still seeking hand made instruments from natural products.

All our instruments and accessories can be inspected in Berlin. Please contact us to arrange an appointment.

We offer only hand made instruments, using only natural products, and every one a unique piece. We do not believe that machine produced instruments of this sort, or those made from artificial materials can be compared to the sound of a true, hand made instrument from West Africa.