The story and sounds of the talking master drums of the Ashanti. In observance of the Peace Corps 50th year celebration, James Acheampong, the chief drum maker at the Centre for National Culture of Ghana (Kumasi) crafted a specially commissioned set of Fontomfrom drums–the drums that symbolize the rank and status of chiefs, announce the opening of parliament, and have the capability of speech. Now part of the permanent collection of the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, the drums will be heard at key points during the 50th-year celebration at U-M. Sponsors: African Studies Center; Office of the Senior Vice Provost.