Zorkie Nelson is a master percussionist, traditional flute player, and vocalist specializing in the musical traditions of Ghana. Born into a family of musicians in Accra, Ghana, he began studying music at seven and comes from a lineage of West African master drummers.

A founding member of the Pan African Orchestra, Zorkie toured the United States, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. His work includes Wynton Marsalis’s 2006 Congo Square tour and performances with the Ghana National Dance Ensemble.

Now based in Upstate New York, Zorkie leads his ensemble Gballoi and continues to perform and teach traditional West African music and dance. At the 2026 Sharon Springs Dance Festival, he leads African Drumming for Kids, Adult African Drumming, and Adult African Dance with dancers.