Saeed Abbas

Primary Discipline: Music

Areas of Specialty: West African Rhythms

Based in: Freeland
Phone: 360-320-1172
Email: gyenyamemusic@hotmail.com
Website: saeedabbas.com

Biography: Saeed Abbas was born into the Hausa tribe in Ghana, a country of 74 tribes rich in music and dance. Abbas showed prodigious musical talent from childhood and overcame much to pursue his passion. He began teaching in Ghana Public Schools at 16. At 19 he auditioned into Ghana’s prestigious National Dance Ensemble as a master drummer. Abbas traveled the world, teaching and performing for dignitaries before settling on Whidbey Island, where he currently teaches music in the schools. In addition to the drums, Abbas also plays the flute and xylophone. He has performed his music nationally and in 2004, he recorded Gye Nyame. Abbas has made a lifelong study of the music of his country. “Music is my happiness.”

When asked about his approach as a Teaching Artist, Mr. Abbas wrote this: “As a teaching artist I tune into the varying aptitudes of every student. I teach in a methodical, intentional manner. Students gain an understanding of basic African rhythms and they learn about the traditional instruments in the context of Ghanaian history and geography. I tell tribal stories about the rhythms and the songs they are studying. Everyone can learn the rhythms and benefit from drumming. Drumming reduces stress and serves as an emotional outlet. For many children the discipline of music and the cooperative effort of playing in unison is a rare experience. It is a way of developing a feeling of competency and teamwork and is a source of great joy!”

Suitable for Grades: K-12
Preferred Grades: 3-12

Additional Interests/Experience:

• Working with students who are English Language Learners

Next Teaching Artist >