Listen Now:

 

Location:

Sainte-Anne, Guadeloupe
North America

Contributors:

Jonah Marks
Bridget Ehrman-Solberg

---

Gwoka
Guadeloupe is an overseas region of France located in the Caribbean. Despite the French affiliation, the archipelago maintains its own distinct culture and traditions including music. Gwoka or ‘Big Drum’ refers to both a local style of music and the group of hand drums that are used. The origins date back to the 17th century, but it is still heard around the island today, including this group that was preparing for the upcoming Carnival.