Meet Joel Sevordzi, the 12-year-old drummer captivating Agbozume

At just 12, Joel Sevordzi is already drumming with the confidence of a seasoned performer, captivating audiences across his community in Ghana’s Volta Region.

In Agbozume, a community renowned for its Kente weaving, Joel has already found his rhythm and he found it early. His passion for drumming began at eight.

Four years later, Joel is becoming a familiar face behind the drums, performing at church services, weddings and funerals and sharing his talent with members of his community.

His journey began at the age of eight, when he started paying close attention to the drumming of his teacher, Brother Caleb.

Joel would sit beside him, observing every stroke and punch. Brother Caleb’s performances inspired the young drummer to pick up the craft.

“I get excited and encouraged to play the drums when I see people playing. I perform at funerals and church services too,” Joel said.

Brother Caleb recalls how the young boy’s interest grew.

“All this started when I was young. He would sit beside me, learning from what was happening, the strokes, the punches and all those things. From there, he put it all together, and his talent just developed,” he said.

Today, Joel is no longer just the boy sitting beside the drummer. He takes his place behind the drums at important occasions in his community.

His father, Pastor Israel Sevordzi, has also played an important role in nurturing his son’s ability. He believes Joel’s talent is a gift from God and supports him as he continues to develop it.

Joel’s talent has also become part of the community’s rhythm, with his absence behind the drums noticeable during Sunday services.

For a child his age, however, the drums are not the only thing on his mind.

Joel dreams of becoming either a doctor or a police officer in the future.

For now, he lets his hands do the talking.

By Beatrice Sowah