African Bells (Gonkogui)

Originally from Ghana, these two metal bells are joined together as one. They come in many sizes and pitch relationships and can be played with sticks, mallets, or the fingers. Holding the bells with the open end toward the player, the bell can be muted against the stomach after being struck. In African music a bell pattern is repeated which generally defines a short phrase the other players (usually drummers) depend on to keep their own place in the music.
Percussionist Zeva is shown to the right playing the Gonkogui.

Hear the African Bells on 'Water Drum' from 'Rain Trance'.