VC Donates State-of-the-Art Musical Instruments to SPA Pop Band
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, has honored her promise to provide brand new musical equipment to the Pop Band at the Department of Music in the School of Performing Arts.
Following the band’s brilliant performance at the 2022 end-of-year party for Senior Members, using rented musical instruments, Prof. Amfo pledged Management’s support for the band by procuring a set of musical instruments for them.
During the unveiling and handing-over ceremony held at the Great Hall, Prof. Amfo stated Management’s pleasure in providing state-of-the-art musical equipment, which demonstrates the University’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities to aid in the teaching and learning of music at the School of Performing Arts.
She elaborated that while the School’s Pop Ensemble has impressed audiences with their talent, equipment issues have hindered their progress.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that 'In response, Management has invested a substantial GHS712,000 in top-tier equipment to support the Department's needs. Today, I am thrilled to announce the culmination of this investment with the unveiling of these instruments and equipment. I am excited to introduce the range of advanced instruments designed to elevate the band's performances.'
'Among the new additions are the Behringer Wing mixer, one of the top 10 digital mixing consoles globally, and the Mackie 1400-watt stage monitors, the latest in monitor technology. Other new instruments include the Yamaha mMc 88, Roland Juno DS, Yamaha PSR sx900 keyboard and a comprehensive selection of SHURE microphones, along with a Wharfedale passive double 18-inch subwoofer, among others. When we say "state-of-the-art," we truly mean it,’’ she disclosed.
Prof. Amfo mentioned that the new equipment will enable the band to deliver exceptional performances without relying on ‘‘borrowed gear’’ and encouraged faculty, staff and students to maintain the equipment for future generations.
‘With this new set of equipment, our band will no longer rely on rented or borrowed gear. This advancement will ensure they can consistently deliver exceptional music to our University community and beyond,’ she added.
The VC further charged the students ‘to make the most of these resources to push boundaries, explore new sounds and leave your mark on the music world. Remember, music has the power to unite, inspire and transform.’
Ag. Dean of the School, Prof. Awo Mana Asiedu thanked Management for the overwhelming contribution towards the School. Prof. Asiedu emphasised that the School is contributing significantly to the music scene in the country, listing some of the bands formed by Alumni of the University.
She was overjoyed to know that the faculty would now have the equipment to teach with.
Outgoing Provost of the College of the Humanities, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori urged Management to continue with its support in nurturing talented students in the arts space.
In earlier comments, Dr. Elizier Ameyaw-Buronyah, Director of the Public Affairs Directorate, echoed the importance of the ceremony as it is a demonstration of Management’s efforts to enhance the experience of both teachers and students. Dr. Ameyaw-Buronyah recounted the journey in acquiring the musical instruments and thanked the Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo-led Management for the support.
The event, which saw exhilarating musical performances by current students and bands formed by alumni of the School, such as the Kwanpa, Adaha, Deedew and Nkyinkyim Bands, was an indication of the many talents being groomed at the School.
This donation by the Vice-Chancellor ties in with the various strategic priorities contained in the newly launched strategic plan and will enhance the teaching and learning of music at the University.
