Ghana: Citi TV goes on search for young keyboardists

The contest, which premiered on 16 August, will reward the winner with a cash prize of $1 600 and “seeks to encourage healthy competition and mental development through arts,” a statement sent to Music In Africa says.

The judges of the competition include veteran producer Zapp Mallet, bandleader and multi-instrumentalist Kwame Yeboah, broadcaster and singer Kokui Selormey, classical pianist Alfred Addaquay, and producer and music therapist Mawuyrami Ocloo.

The judges are currently in the process of shortlisting 10 finalists from more than 300 entries. This will be followed by weekly evictions until the ultimate winner is revealed. The contestants will be evaluated on their expertise with notes, timing, passion and music interpretation.

“There is a lot of potential for the children to become great musicians,” Ocloo said. “From melodic and stylistic interpretations and presentation, the competition is on and assuredly the best is yet to come.

"There is definitely more room for improvement given the candid comments, advice and guidance. I encourage parents, teachers, family and friends to support these children. I believe that as the competition progresses the bar will only go higher.”

Meanwhile, Zapp Mallet has called for the reintroduction of music in the country’s basic school curriculum, saying that it will facilitate cognitive development in children.

“Clinical and psychological tests have proven that music plays an important part in the development of a child to the extent that when you put music to learning, they grab it faster,” Mallet said.

Keyboard Idol airs Saturdays at 7pm GMT on Citi TV.