Join us on the lawn of Folsom Tavern for our socially distanced* concert series this October. As part of our re-imagined American Independence Festival, this concert series invites guests to enjoy the talents of excellent local musicians who are not only wonderful performers, but also stewards of musical culture, history, and traditional folkways. Second in our series is master percussionist, dancer, and teacher, Theophilus Nii Martey. Originally from Ghana, West Africa and now living in Manchester, NH, Theo is a master of West African drumming and dance, a heritage that has many subtle variations in rhythmic patterns, dance styles, and costumes all specific to a wide diversity of tribal groups from the region. Theo started his drumming and dancing studies in Bukom Accra, Ghana at the age of 6, working under the wing of master drummers and dancers. As a young man, he journeyed to London, England and Australia where he studied with other master artists. Since moving to Manchester, he has founded the Akwaaba Drum and Dance Ensemble. The Akwaaba Ensemble’s energetic and engaging performances are a reflection of their name, which means ‘welcome’ in the Twi language of Ghana. They bring West African 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 Concerts on the Lawn music series is presented through a grant from New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, sponsorship from Newburyport Bank, and in partnership with the Exeter Area YMCA. Advanced registration is required for this event. Rain date, Sunday, October 11. *For the safety of guests, performers, and museum staff/volunteers, COVID procedures and protocols are strictly enforced and clearly stated on the event registration page.