KPEDUƉO INSTITUTE OF PERFORMING ARTS, DZOGADZE
(KIPAD)
(KIPAD)
THE 'KIPAD' TEAM
Azagunua, Vodzi O.J. Torgboh (PhD)
Founding Director
Vodzi Oliver Julius Torgboh is an accomplished Ghanaian ordained master drummer, dancer, composer and a dedicated teacher with a unique blend of academic and traditional expertise. Vodzi started performing with Dzogadze Atsyiagbekor basic school troupe and Nana Tongo Gbodzi (shrine) Brekete (music/dance) at his age of five (5). Following in the footsteps of his grandfather (Bosofor, Avi- musician and a priest of Nana Tongo), Vodzi was traditionally ordained as his grandfather's successor, a special music-ritual that underpins and elevate Vodzi's status as Atsrima (Royal/Palace musician and special talking-drum player) and Azagunua (ordained master musician).
Vodzi has a proven track record of hosting/teaching all aspects of African music including drumming, singing, dancing and history to a diverse range of people, including Ghanaians, Danes, and North Americans since 2003. He is the founder and director of the Kpedudo Institute of Performing Arts, Dzogadze (KIPAD), and its annual summer art festival, the KPEDUĐO ZA, which is dedicated to preserving and transmitting indigenous African expressive arts.
Born and raised in the culturally rich community of Dzogadze, in the Volta Region of Ghana, Vodzi holds a significant role as an indigenous knowledge keeper and Hunua (a traditional spiritual leader). He is the founder of Dzogadze Aleawogbe Agbadza Haborbor (music association), and artistic director of Dzogadze Atsyiagbekor Troupe. His deep understanding of his culture is complemented by a strong academic background, including a PhD in Ethnomusicology (2024-2029) from the University of California, Davis, a master’s degree in Dance Ethnology (2021-2023) from the University of Ghana, Legon, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music (2011-2015)from the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana. Vodzi was Teaching Assistant (2016) of Ghanaian Music and Dance Studies/course, and Assistant Instructor (2012-2016) of University of Education, Winneba's African Dance Ensemble. His primary research, expertise and educational interests African mythology, cosmology, history, philosophy, music, dance, and rituals of Vodu (African spirituality) with a scholarship focuses on the Transmission of African Indigenous Knowledge.
C/Inspr. Pascal Mamudu Torgbo
Chairman of the Board of Directors
C/Inspr. Pascal Mamudu Torgbo is a respected and multifaceted leader in Dzogadze, Akatsi South Municipality, Volta Region Ghana, holding several key positions simultaneously. He is a Duty Officer with the National Police Formed Unit at Ghana National Police Headquarters, Accra, while also serving as the acting Hunua (a spiritual leader and herbalist) of Nana Tongo Gbodzi (shrine) in Dzogadze. His influence in traditional arts is further demonstrated by his roles as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Kpedudo Institute of Performing Arts, Dzogadze (KIPAD), acting Chairman for the Ghana Psychic and Traditional Healers Association, Dzogadze Area, and acting Vice Chairman for the Dzogadze Aleawogbe (community music association). Additionally, he is a master musician in Nana Tongo Gbodzi’s Brekete music and dance. His life is a testament to his dedication to public service, cultural preservation, and community leadership.
C/Inspr. Pascal Mamudu Torgbo was born and raised in Dzogadze, where he began his journey with a strong connection to his community's musical heritage. As a young man, he rose to become a master drummer for the renowned Atsyiagbekor group, showcasing his artistry by performing in the Ghana Education Music Festival Competition and touring Ghana with the performance of Dzogadze Atsyiagbekor dance during the “June 4th celebrations” under Ghana’s Fourth Republic President, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings. This early experience instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for the power of traditional arts.
C/Inspr. Torgbo is a revered spiritual leader, herbalist, and a master musician. He is the current acting Hunua of Nana Tongo Gbodzi (shrine), a certified spiritual center officially registered with the Ghana Psychic and Traditional Healers Association under the Ministry of Health. His standing in the traditional healing community is further solidified by his role as the acting Chairman for the Ghana Psychic and Traditional Healers Association, Dzogadze Area, which is comprised of 13 communities.
Parallel to his cultural and community roles, C/Inspr. Torgbo has built a distinguished career in the Ghana Police Service. His extensive service record includes demanding assignments across Ghana, where he has contributed to:
Anti-Armed Robbery Operations at the Central Regional Police Headquarters in Cape Coast and the National Operation Department in Accra, Ghana.
Illicit Drug Operations with the Drug Law Enforcement Unit in Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters in Kumasi, Ghana.
Special Mining Operations as a Crime Investigator in Nadowli, Upper West Region, Ghana.
Counter-Terrorism, Illicit Arms, and Border Operations with the National Counter Terrorism Department in National Police Headquarters, Accra, Ghana.
His professional development also extends internationally, having participated in an official visit to Valencia, Spain, for the CITY PUBLIC SPACE PROJECT in Command and Control, an experience that furthered his knowledge of modern security and public safety.
His profound commitment to the future of his community is at the heart of his leadership. As the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Kpedudo Institute of Performing Arts, Dzogadze (KIPAD), C/Inspr. Torgbo is a driving force behind the organization's mission. His passion for children's education and cultural preservation is instrumental in guiding KIPAD to nurture the next generation of performers and artisans.
C/Inspr. Pascal Mamudu Torgbo's life is a powerful example of a leader who excels in diverse fields by protecting his country through law enforcement while simultaneously enriching his community through spirituality, culture, and education.
Julius Agbenyega Tettevi
Administrator
Julius Tettevi is a dedicated artist and educator with a profound passion for the performing arts. With extensive experience in traditional African music and dance, Julius has showcased his talents at numerous cultural events, festivals, and educational programs. His mastery of traditional drumming rhythms has earned him recognition as a distinguished performer and a respected cultural director.
Julius is the chief founder of the Fafali Dance Ensemble International, a cultural group based in Hatsukorpe, Volta Region, Ghana, and he has led performances throughout Ghana and internationally.
Julius’s unique artistry is evident in his dancing, where he expertly blends expressive movement with powerful storytelling. As a skilled musician, he is known for seamlessly integrating voice, rhythm, and melody to create captivating performances.
Offstage, Julius is a passionate teacher who inspires students of all ages. He uses music and dance as powerful tools for education, empowerment, and cultural preservation, leading workshops, school programs, and community initiatives.
Despite his deep-rooted passion for the arts, Julius holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Through his work, he is committed to inspiring others, promoting cultural appreciation, and ensuring the vibrant spirit of African art thrives for future generations.
CONTACT US
kpedudoinstitute@gmail.com | https://www.kpedudoinstitute.com