Ghana Tourist Authority collaborates with Ministry to revive choral music

The Ghana Tourist Authority (GTA) is collaborating with the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Culture to revive choral music, which is said to be declining steadily in the Ghanaian society.

Choral music had over the years helped to engender good moral values, social cohesion and preserve the cultural norms and identity of the people.

Mr Ekow Sampson, Ashanti Regional Manager of the GTA, indicated that as part of the collaboration, the two institutions would organise series of programmes including competitions, music fairs and documentaries to whip-up the enthusiasm of choral music among people.

He was addressing the closing ceremony of the maiden Regional Choral Choir Competition at the Centre for National Culture in Kumasi on Monday.

Ammamreso Youth Choir won the event with 63 points and received a cash prize of GH¢1,000 and certificates.

Kumasi Methodist Diocesan Singing Band had 59 points to place second receiving GH¢500 and certificates, whilst Musama Disco Christo Church Choir placed third with 57 points taking GH¢250 and certificates.

The programme was held under the auspices of the GTA. It serves as a prelude to the National Choral Festival slated for Accra in February, this year.

Mr Sampson said choral music is unique and could be used for economic and tourist benefits when taken seriously.

He urged the winners to train hard for the upcoming event in Accra, saying the competition had been instituted by the GTA to serve the nation’s interest.

Source: GNA