“Pɛrpl Greyps”: Kodzi In 3re Beatz

Abstract

This study explores musical composition within contemporary theatre to rejuvenate traditional musical legacies and challenge established artistic structures. Grounded in Ghana’s rich cultural diversity and inspired by the concept of sankɔfa (cultural return to roots), the research endeavours to craft artistic expressions reflective of Ghanaian heritage. Employing Artistic Research within the Arts-Based Research (ABR) framework, this study develops ‘Pɛrpl Greyps,’ a ‘programmatic visual’ music inspired by indigenous storytelling traditions. The composition aims to revitalise Ghanaian-Akan-Mfantse folklore (Kodzi) by integrating traditional rhythms, avant-garde techniques, and visual arts. A customised compositional framework is also devised to promote Ghanaian unity (nkabom). Integrating traditional Ghanaian rhythms into ‘Pɛrpl Greyps’ enriches its authenticity, while exploration of avant-garde techniques further revitalises Ghanaian ‘art’ music. The composition incorporates looping, aleatory, and eclecticism techniques enhanced by narrative art and music technology. The research employs auditory, visual, and ecological elements to shape musical concepts, emphasising the importance of documenting and analysing musical compositions. Recommendations include exploring traditional Ghanaian rhythmic resources, integrating diverse musical materials, and refining custom compositional structures with contemporary techniques and technology. Through this exploration, ‘Pɛrpl Greyps’ demonstrates the transformative power of music and art in celebrating cultural heritage, fostering unity, and facilitating shared experiences in a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.