Accra Jazz Academy wraps up with pleasant live performance – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction: A Vibrant Culmination of Jazz Excellence

The third session of the Accra Jazz Academy (AJA), organized by the Ghana Jazz Foundation (GJF) and +233 Jazz Bar & Grill, reached a crescendo with its final live performance on October 26, 2025. Thirty-six young musicians showcased their growth, blending African rhythms with global jazz legacies under the guidance of international tutors. This event, held at Accra’s iconic jazz hub, marked a “passing out rite” for participants, highlighting their dedication to mastering complex arrangements and improvisation. The evening featured a mix of legendary compositions and cultural fusions, underscoring Ghana’s emerging jazz identity.

Analysis: Deep Dive into Jazz Education and Performance

Curriculum Rooted in Jazz Legends

The AJA’s curriculum emphasized studying arrangements by pioneers like Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, and Ghanaian icon Kojo Antwi. Participants explored harmonies, instrumentation, and cultural storytelling, with mentors such as saxophonist Bernard Ayisa leading sessions. The week-long immersion included technical workshops, improvisation drills, and collaborative writing, ensuring both theoretical and practical growth.

Standout Performances: Soloists, Ensembles, and Innovation

Performers showcased versatility across solo, duet, trio, quartet, and full-band formats. Notable moments included a quartet’s improvisational brilliance with guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard—a testament to rigorous rehearsals. A standout rendition of Kojo Antwi’s

FAQ: Your Questions About the Accra Jazz Academy Answered

What is the Accra Jazz Academy?

The Accra Jazz Academy (AJA) is a premier jazz education initiative hosted annually by the Ghana Jazz Foundation (GJF), Thomas Dobler Music, and +233 Jazz Bar & Grill. Now in its third session, the program trains aspiring musicians in jazz theory, improvisation, and performance, blending global standards with African rhythms.

How can I join the Accra Jazz Academy?

Participation in the AJA requires an application and audition process. Musicians must demonstrate proficiency in their instrument, music literacy, and a passion for jazz. The program accepts applicants from across Ghana and beyond, with selection committees evaluating technical and creative potential.

What role did the HEMU collaboration play?

The partnership with Switzerland’s Haute Ecole de Musique (HEMU) expanded the AJA’s reach, with seven top-performing students invited to perform alongside visiting musicians on November 1, 2025. This exchange highlights the program’s commitment to international collaboration and exposure to European jazz traditions.

Are there scholarships available for the next session?

While the article doesn’t specify scholarships, applicants are encouraged to

Sources and Additional Resources

To learn more about the Accra Jazz Academy and Ghana’s jazz scene, explore these resources:

• Ghana Jazz Foundation (GJF): Visit their website or social media for program details and upcoming events.
• +233 Jazz Bar & Grill: A hub for live jazz performances in Accra. Check their schedule for collaborative showcases.
• Haute Ecole de Musique (HEMU): Explore their programs to understand the Swiss collaboration’s cultural impact.
• Life Pulse Daily: Visit the original article for quotes, photos, and firsthand accounts from the 2025 finale.

For aspiring musicians, these links provide insights into gaps in formal jazz education (e.g., improvisation training) and opportunities to connect with local and international jazz communities.