Accra: Professor Mark-Millas Fish, an Associate Professor of Music at the University of Education, Winneba, has called on young individuals to prioritize their education while pursuing careers in music. He emphasized that education plays a crucial role in creating opportunities and advancing any craft within the music industry, much like other professional fields.
According to Ghana News Agency, Prof Fish shared these insights during an interview at a concert organized by Bigshots GH at the Department of Music, School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana. As a founder-member of Bigshots GH, Prof Fish highlighted the band's mission to change the perception that band musicians are typically school dropouts or individuals with low societal standing. Instead, the band comprises members with extensive academic qualifications such as Bachelors, Masters, and PhDs.
Prof Fish explained that the band's vision is to serve as ambassadors for Ghanaian music, intertwining education with creativity and service. The band has performed internationally in countries like the Netherlands and Germany and aspires to project Ghana's image globally through their music, which revives cultural values and indigenous rhymes at risk of fading due to technological advancements.
After 17 years of existence, Bigshots GH remains dedicated to sustaining moral and cultural values vital for guiding the youth. The band began as a student group at the University of Ghana in 2008 and made its first public appearance on 'Bands Alive,' a competition organized by TV3, where they were eliminated early.
Dr Stephen Kojo Sackey, the special guest and Ambassador for Trade and Commerce to Africa for the Federation of Aboriginal Nations of the Americas (FANA), also spoke at the concert. He encouraged tackling the low spirit of volunteerism among the youth and highlighted FANA's commitment to cultural place-making, tourism, and equitable economic progress.
Dr Sackey stressed the significance of the arts in peacebuilding and sustainable development, noting that high-life music is more than a sound-it's a testament to resilience and community. He praised Bigshots GH as cultural diplomats whose talent fosters unity, healing, and inspiration, and emphasized the arts as a cornerstone of societal progress.
In recognition of his ambassadorial efforts and civic contributions, Dr Sackey was honored with a citation by the Department, celebrating his dedication to promoting global welfare and community harmony.
