Janny Flow urges promotion of traditional music and dance to sustain heritage

Accra- Traditional Ghanaian musician and dancer Janet Quaye was known by her stage name as “Janny Flow” has urged the massive promotion of Ghana traditional music and dance to help sustain our cultural heritage.

According to Janny Flow, who has been performing since age 15, at festivals and events across the country; westerners were often mesmerized by traditional music and dance and were eager to learn more about the origins of the different forms of dances including Kpanlogo, Agbadza, Adowa, Baawa, just to mention a few.

She opined that traditional music and dance formed a significant fulcrum of Ghana’s culture and the government, among other music stakeholders, had to preserve it for future generations.

“We ought to pay massive attention to traditional music because it is the cornerstone of our ancestral heritage. Artistes who pursue indigenous music/dance ought to be encouraged because most of us don’t do this for fame, but for the love of our country and culture.

“I always feel a high level of excitement when I perform for the audiences, especially for westerners who seem to have a better appreciation for our traditional music/dance than the youth of today.

“I believe that our rich traditions and culture make us unique and different from other African countries, and we must safeguard for future generations.

“The future of traditional music looks very promising because most of my colleagues often get invited to showcase authentic traditional drumming and dancing at festivals all over the world, and this should tell you how much our culture is being appreciated,” she said.

She added that it would be wonderful if the Ghanaian government could create an outreach program that aims to re-educate our youth on the importance of cultural preservation, reenergizing the youth to take an interest in our traditional music and dance.

Quaye has performed around Ghana and has been featured on numerous traditional music projects with groups such as Tesaa Cultural Group, Bukom Ensemble, Shidaa Cultural Group, etc.

Source: Ghana News Agency