Ghana Tourism Authority to promote indigenous music internationally

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is working with traditional authorities and technocrats to re-package indigenous music to boost its appeal to international tourists.

Mr. Ekow Sampson, Ashanti Regional Director of the Authority, said the goal was to maximize the nation’s share of the global music tourism market.

He expressed dismay that most indigenous African music had become almost extinct due to the emergence of contemporary Western music – made popular because of the advancement in technology.

Mr. Sampson, addressing a regional choral festival organized by the GTA in Kumasi on Tuesday, said there should not be any doubt that the nation through research and backed by the needed investment could revive indigenous music to make it more attractive to tourists.

He encouraged the formation of choral music clubs in schools to inspire the youth to be patriotic and self-disciplined.

Amammreso Youth Choir won the festival scoring 77.5 points and for its prize, received GH¢1,000.00 and a certificate.

The runner-up, Church of Christ Choral Music Group, took home GH¢500.00 and a certificate with 66.5 points.

The two groups would represent Ashanti Region at the National Choral Music Festival to be held in Kumasi in November.

Mr. Samuel Adjei, Director of the Kumasi Centre for National Culture, advised them to regularly practice to make the region proud in national event.

Source: GNA