Syncopation Struggles: Decoding Rhythmic Challenges in Ghanaian Arts Music
Kow Arkhurst 
, Richmond Amoh-Yeboah & William Adjei Dickson
Issue: Vol.5 No.13 Issue Article 21 pp.2266-2279
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.202451321 | Published online 25th October, 2024
© 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
This study explored the vital role of rhythm in Ghanaian arts and music, focusing on its significance for cultural preservation and education amid globalization challenges. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in Ethnomusicology, the research examined how traditional rhythms are taught and interpreted, with particular emphasis on the role of choir directors. The findings indicate that current interpretive methods may not adequately preserve the authenticity of these rhythms, affecting educational and cultural transmission. The study recommends developing more precise interpretation techniques and an interdisciplinary approach in music education to improve the understanding and preservation of the cultural heritage of Ghana. This research contributes to scholarship by highlighting the cognitive and social dynamics in music education and stressing the urgency of safeguarding cultural authenticity in traditional Ghanaian music practices. Its implications extend beyond academic circles, influencing pedagogical practices in music education worldwide.
Keywords: Ethnomusicology of Ghanaian Arts Music, Rhythm Interpretation, Cultural Heritage Preservation, Music Education, Cognitive Processes in Music
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Kow Arkhurst is an Assistant Lecturer at the Abetifi Presbyterian College of Education, Ghana. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Education and a Master of Philosophy in Music Composition from the University of Education, Winneba (UEW). Additionally, he earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Management Information Systems from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Music from UEW, along with earlier qualifications from Winneba School of Business and Methodist Junior High School in Winneba. In addition to his teaching roles, Kow has served as an Organist at Bethel Methodist Church in Takoradi and currently holds the positions of Music Coordinator and Music Director at Immanuel Methodist Church in Accra.
William Adjei Dickson currently teaches at the Atebubu College of Education, Ghana where he is the Unit Head of the Performing Arts in the Creative Art Department and serves as the Early Grade Coordinator. He holds a Diploma (2001) and a Bachelor’s degree (2002) in Music Education from the University of Education, Winneba, and a Master’s degree in Teacher Education (2013) from the University of Cape Coast. His dedication to music education and innovative teaching methods have significantly impacted his students and the community, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts.
Arkhurst, Kow, Richmond Amoh-Yeboah & William Adjei Dickson . “Syncopation Struggles: Decoding Rhythmic Challenges in Ghanaian Arts Music,” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 5, no.13 (2024): 2266-2279. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.202451321
© 2024 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
