On April 29, 2025, the courtyard of the Department of Music at the University of Ghana, Legon, resonated with live music as the Bannerman-Bentil Music Foundation, led by acclaimed guitarist and composer Mr. Alfred Kari Bannerman, donated a suite of professional musical instruments to the department.
The donation includes:
- Roland Fantom X keyboard
- Tama acoustic drum kit
- Bass and lead guitars
- Professional microphones
- Traditional Ghanaian drums
- kologo instruments
- Combo amplifiers, a mixer board, speakers, and cables
An excited student during the live band session that followed noted that “This gift will help shape the next generation of musical talent right here in Ghana.
Professor Awo Mana Asiedu, the acting Dean of the School of Performing Arts, praised the initiative:
“This is something I hope we can build on—not just money or movement, but also expertise. Mr. Bannerman has many years of experience that our students can benefit from.”
Reflecting emotionally on the gesture, Mr. Bannerman said that
“This is about passing on to the next generation… There’s a special energy the youth have when they play music.”
He dedicated the donation to the memory of his father and maternal uncles, all pianists, and noted that the event marks the beginning of more support through the foundation.
Head of the Department of Music, Dr. Amakye-Boateng expressed gratitude, describing the gesture as timely and impactful for student learning.
The event concluded with exciting performances by the Department’s Pop Ensemble and the Local Dimension Band, led by Aaron Bebe Sukura.
