In Ghana, the village is a social and cultural unit. Music is a large part of everyday life. Three main types of music are enjoyed in Ghanaian villages: Ethnic or traditional music, normally played during festivals and at funerals; "highlife" music, which is a blend of traditional and "imported" music; and choral music, which is performed in concert halls, churches, schools and colleges.

All community members, young and old, participate in the major ceremonies, the most frequent of which are funeral celebrations, typically lasting several days. Attendance at funerals is normally expected from everyone in the village and expenditure on funerals is a substantial part of the household budget. The Ancestors (Nananom) -- senior family members that are no longer living -- remain active in village life, supporting the well-being of the family.