World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, is an annual celebration on June 21st that promotes the power of music and its universal language. The day encourages musicians of all genres to perform in public spaces, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for the masses to enjoy music globally. Composers, crooners and music fans from around the world come together to perform and enjoy different genres of music on this special day.
● World Music Day 2023 Theme
This year’s theme of the celebration is unknown. However, the previous year’s theme “Music on the Intersections” is still valid. This theme was about finding and appreciating music at the intersectional level. It was chosen to highlight the power of music to bring people together from different cultures and backgrounds. Music can be a powerful force for social change, and the theme of “Music on the intersections” was a way to celebrate this power.
● World Music Day History
World Music Day, sometimes called Fête de la Musique, emanated in 1982 in France, Paris. The concept was birthed by Jack Lang a French Minister of Culture at the time along with songwriter Maurice Fleuret and a radio producer who was also known to be a music journalist. On June 21st, the summer solstice, performers and music enthusiasts took to the streets, parks, and various public spaces to celebrate music. The purpose was to facilitate musical diversity, encourage apprentice musicians, and foster a sense of community through the universal language of music. Over the years, World Music Day has dispersed globally, with a multitude from various cultures and backgrounds camaraderie to share and enjoy the power of music.
● Significance of the Day
It is a transnational celebration that holds immense significance as a day set aside for the universal language of music, promoting peace, unity, and cultural diversity, something which plays a substantial role in everybody’s life. Around the world musicians from all genres and backgrounds share their passion and talent through concerts, street performances, and events worldwide.
In Ghana, Charterhouse the organisers of the annual Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs) will hold the National Music Summit at La Palm Beach Hotel to provide a platform for key stakeholders in the music space to deliberate on issues bothering the craft.
T
he summit will also see the presentation of the VGMA Titan Award to honour distinguished industry stalwarts. Additionally, there will be inductions into the Ghana Music Awards Hall of Fame.
Another venue for the celebration in Ghana is the campus of the African University College of Communications (AUCC). The specialised Communications college in partnership with Pan African Heritage Museum is holding an event in honour of legendary Laureate Agya Koo Nimo with the Baobab Lifetime Achievement Award.
Here’s why World Music Day is considered significant for several reasons:
● Celebration of Music
World Music Day is a global celebration of music in all its forms and genres. It emphasises the universal language of music, transcending cultural, linguistic, and geographic boundaries. It provides an opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to come together and appreciate the power of music.
● Promotion of Cultural Diversity
Music is deeply rooted in culture, and World Music Day highlights the importance of cultural diversity. It encourages the exploration and appreciation of different musical traditions, styles, and instruments from around the world. It promotes understanding, respect, and tolerance among various communities by showcasing the richness of global musical heritage.
● Free and accessible music
The essence of World Music Day lies in its accessibility. Performances are often free, and the music is accessible to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status. This allows people who may not typically have access to live music events to enjoy and participate in the celebration.
● It Boosts Music Industry
World Music Day provides a forum for both established and arising performers to exhibit their talent. It creates opportunities for artists to reach new audiences, gain exposure, and connect with music lovers. The event often includes free concerts and performances, which can attract larger audiences and contribute to the growth of the music industry.
● Community Engagement
World Music Day enables community involvement and participation. It brings people together in public spaces, parks, streets, and concert venues to share the joy of music. The event fosters a sense of belonging, unity, and camaraderie among individuals who may have different backgrounds and interests but are united by their love for music.
● Music education and awareness
World Music Day raises awareness about the significance of music education and its positive effect on people and society as a whole. It highlights the usefulness of learning and appreciating music, both for personal development and cultural enrichment.
World Music Day is important because it hails the power of music to surpass boundaries, unite communities, foster cultural appreciation, and bring joy to people’s lives.
