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ABOUT US
More than just a music shop...
At African Musical Instruments, we pride ourselves on offering fair trade, handcrafted instruments made by talented musicians and skilled artisans in Ghana.
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We offer fair prices to our customers around the world, without ever compromising on quality.
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Each purchase directly supports the Ghanaian artisans making the instruments, and helps preserve rich musical traditions that have been passed down for generations.
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Our goal is to provide exceptional, authentic instruments while ensuring those making the instruments benefit fairly.
OUR COMMUNITY PROJECTS
PROTECTING GHANA'S TURTLES
For the past decade, we had been involved in a conservation project aimed at protecting nesting leatherback turtles along the coastline in the Volta region. Our efforts were helping to safeguard these incredible creatures and maintain their natural habitats. Due to certain issues out of our control we have had to put this on pause, but aim to get back to it as soon as possible!
MEET ME THERE AFRICAN HOME LODGE
In 2004, we started building this beautiful eco-lodge in Dzita, located in the Volta Region of Ghana. We have since donated the lodge to the local community, who now run it, with all profits going into projects that benefit Dzita and its surrounding areas. You can learn more about the lodge here or check out reviews on TripAdvisor.
DREAM BIG GHANA NGO
Dream Big Ghana is an NGO that works in tandem with Meet Me There on various initiatives to uplift the local population. The organisation focuses on improving education, healthcare, and sanitation in the area. Learn more about their work here, or donate here; your generous contribution will make a huge difference.
HOW IT ALL STARTED
Hugh Newton
Founder
In 2001, I set out to create a business importing beautiful arts, crafts, and instruments from around the world. I was drawn to the African continent as a melting pot of culture and musical heritage, and from here my vision was to build something meaningful that would support local artisans, allow me to become immersed in different cultures, and give my children the opportunity to know the continent as I do.
I first went to Ghana, exploring the busy local markets in Accra. I started by placing small orders of 6 to 10 drums with different people. Joseph heard that I was placing orders and came to me and said "Look, I’ve got no shop, I'm a new guy on the block, but if you give me a test order I’ll show you what I can do." I did exactly that, and his craftsmanship stood out above the rest. I followed up with a larger order, which he fulfilled beautifully.
Since then, Joseph and I have worked together to bring beautiful, handmade, ethically and sustainably traded drums to the UK and beyond. It has been truly special to me to be able to support and work with him and his family, and those of his team and as it has steadily grown over these past 20 years.
Joseph
Head of Operations in Ghana
After finishing Basic School, I met Hugh while working around the Art Center in Accra. At the time, I was already making drums, so I took the opportunity to show him some of my samples. Hugh was interested and impressed, and from there, a business relationship started to grow, slowly but steadily over time.
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Through this partnership, I’ve been able to sustain my craft, support my family, and provide a stable income. Working with Hugh has not only brought in orders but has also opened up opportunities for growth. It’s meant that myself and the team can refine our skills and connect with a larger audience that values the authenticity and cultural significance of each instrument.
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Being able to turn my passion into a livelihood has been truly fulfilling, and I am enjoying the journey we’ve built together.
THE TEAM IN GHANA!
THE TEAM IN THE UK!
