Flashcard 1: The cry of a baby is the first rhythmic sound of life, and the cry is accompanied by movement and the sound of the child’s parents welcome into this world. At the same time, this child’s cry can acknowledge the agony for our ancestors. It can also be a cry of protest towards uncertainty..perhaps the cruelty of the world. Music and Dance are connected to the cultural identity of the African. However, it has been partially tainted by the slave trade of the past.
Flashcard 2: The Cape Coast and Elmina slave fortresses and dungeons say and tell it all. It is a history never to be forgotten - the experience of what our ancestors went through in the hands of the slave traders and fellow Africans …. the inhumane treatment became daily routines for profit. It is a very sad period of our history. The question is how did all this came about? Hmmmmmmm.......
Flashcard 3: The sense of being together with the Witness Tree Institute brings out of me encouraging words and unity, as we push and trade ideas together. The warm feelings for one another lifted my spirits, and helped connect me again with my past. This will never be forgotten - That feeling of unity with my strangers through ancestors
Flashcard 4: Donkor Nsuo is also known as Slave River. It is the sight where captured Africans were given the last bath on the continent before being stolen to the new world. The place says it all, and one cannot hold back his feelings.
Flashcard 5: The legend Agya Koo Nimo offers wisdom in his musical treats; it is essential to connect to our roots. The sound of the African drums is a major part of our culture, and that sound is expressed in diverse ways. Such expressions have given a vivid answer to the questions of the past. Never and never again.
By Cidi-Ocloo Gershon
Professor of Music at Accra College of Education