Musicologist urges Ghanaians to use music to enhance peace and unity

Cape Coast, July 10, GNA - Dr Paul Kwami, Music Director of 'Fisk University Jubilee Singers" in Nashville-Tennessee, on Monday stressed the need to use music to enhance peace and unity in the country. He noted that music played a vital role in peace building and should therefore be promoted at all levels in the country.

Dr Kwami a US-based Ghanaian made the call when the choir participated in "Negro Spiritual Music" organised as part of activities marking Ghana's Golden Jubilee celebration at Cape Coast Castle. The group that is visiting Ghana for the first time participated in the programme jointly organized by Ghana Golden Jubilee Planning Committee, United States Department of State and Public Affairs Division of University of Cape Coast (UCC).

Ms Dehab Ghebreh, Cultural Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, said participation of the group in the celebrations would enhance partnership and bilateral relations between both countries.

Mr Jeff Teye Onyame Senior Assistant Registrar in- charge of Public Affairs at UCC commended the group for the partnership with the university's Music Department adding, " the visit would enhance relations between the two universities."

Fisk University was the first black university to be established after the Emancipation by American Missionary Association in 1866 for freed slaves and the choir was set up in 1871 to raise money to support the school.

The group which laid foundation for jazz, blues, country and rock music, treated the audience to 14 inspirational songs that included, "Hold on", " My soul's been anchored in the Lord", "Our Father", "Down by the riverside", " Rockin' Jerusalem", and "Kekeli Tso Kekeli Me", a song in Ewe.

They arrived in the country last Tuesday and expected to leave for US on Friday, July 13.