Impact of Covid-19 On Performing Arts Groups In Ghana: The Story Of Local Brass Band Musicians In Cape Coast

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2021 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 8 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2021

Authors : John-Doe Dordzro

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I3P113

How to Cite?

John-Doe Dordzro, "Impact of Covid-19 On Performing Arts Groups In Ghana: The Story Of Local Brass Band Musicians In Cape Coast," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 8,  no. 3, pp. 87-95, 2021. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I3P113

Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent restrictions on public gatherings in Ghanasuggests the temporary closure of many of the country’s music venues and the termination of live performances in the presence of audiences. There are obvious economic ramifications to such a situation, particularly in less mainstream genres like local brass bands, in which artists depend much more on weekly engagements for their income. Beyond the economic impact, the very removal of regular live performances has adverse impacts on both the musicians and the audience's musical experience is situated in the broader context of cultural experience. Despite the relevance of research such as this, there is no study on the current subject matter in Ghana. Using a phenomenology design, the present study investigated the impact of COVID-19 on local brass band musicians in the Cape Coast metropolis of Ghana. Results revealed that COVID-19 had taken a deep toll on the musicians since the onset of the pandemic. The experiential and in-person nature of the brass band musicians’ job has made it especially difficult to be sustained as many venues have remained closed or on limited operations due to restrictions on public gatherings. In the face of these challenges, it is unfortunate that the local musicians are not able to adopt innovative ways musically in their effort to survive until conditions more conducive to in-person engagement return. It is recommended that a ‘community music center’ be established at the Center for National Culture (CNC) to oversee the affairs of community musicians in general and local brass band musicians in particular.

Keywords:

COVID-19 pandemic, Impact, Performing Arts groups, local brass band, musicians, live musical performance

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