The Macalester African Music Ensemble performs traditional African music using a variety of authentic African instruments. These instruments include a wide variety of drums as well as Gyil (xylophones), Atenteben (flutes), various bells and rattles, mbiras and gourds.

The ensemble performs music reflecting a wide variety of social occasions or situations in Africa. These include songs used during ceremonies such as coming of age ceremonies, funerals, music associated with royalty, music that makes social commentary, children's music, social dances, as well as entertainment.

The ensemble is a forty-piece group directed by Sowah Mensah, ethnomusicologist, composer and a master drummer from Ghana in West Africa.

The ensemble has performed for various audiences. In Minnesota, the ensemble has performed at the University of Minnesota, Mankato State University, St. Cloud State University, Carleton College, St. Olaf College, Gustavus Adolphus, and many primary and secondary schools. The ensemble has also played at several churches and community centers, such as the Landmark Center, and on several occasions for Minnesota Public Radio. In the surrounding area, the ensemble has been welcomed at the Universities of Wisconsin at Stout and River Falls. The Ensemble has toured Michigan, Iowa, Wyoming, South Dakota, and just last year held a series of performances in Seattle, WA.

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