Title:
MODERN INTERPRETATIONS OF NKETIA'S AFRICA PIANISM: CONTEMPORARY PERFORMANCES AND ADAPTATIONS

Authors:
Kow Arkhurst, Richmond Amoh-Yeboah and Adjei Dickson William, Ghana

Abstract:
J.H. Kwabena Nketia's idea of African Pianism combines African musical heritage with Western classical methods, resulting in a distinct cultural and musical fusion. This review examines current interpretations and performances of Nketia's African Pianism, emphasizing cultural authenticity, pedagogical consequences, and rhythmic interpretation. The research relies on current literature to explore how pianists from various cultural backgrounds address rhythmic complexity, phrasing, and cultural translation in the compositions of Nketia. Results indicate that cultural closeness significantly influences authentic interpretation, while technological tools, although beneficial for technical accuracy, can occasionally impede cultural spontaneity. The evaluation further examines educational methods related to African Pianism, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and intercultural cooperation. This study seeks to analyze how modern pianists interpret and modify Nketia's African Pianism, examine the effects of these interpretations on the worldwide perception of African musical identity, and investigate the difficulties encountered during performance. The research also seeks to offer perspectives on how experiential learning and multicultural partnerships can improve the authenticity and efficacy of these interpretations. The implications for music education, performance practice, and policy formulation are explored, along with suggestions for incorporating cultural immersion and creative strategies to enhance a comprehensive understanding of African Pianism.