Bayelsa State Commissioner for Tourism Development, Hon. John Alla has said that music tourism offers a unique way of fostering cultural connections and economic growth, informing that the power of music has been so profound and multifaceted, influencing individuals, communities, and societies in various ways.
Speaking with newsmen after attending the wake keep of late Mrs. Ayi Jenakumo, 83, at Ogulagha, a coastal community in Burutu Local Government Area in Delta state in the company of the House of Representatives Member, representing Bayelsa West Federal Constituency, RT. Hon. (Dr.) Fred Agbedi, Hon. Alla maintained that music tourism has the power to transform destinations, enriching local cultures, and lives of visitors and residents alike
He reiterated that music and dance play a significant role in destination marketing and branding, stating that destination’s stories are best told through music and dance, which convey the rich history and cultural heritage of destinations.
“By incorporating music and dance into destination marketing strategy, our tourism destinations in the Niger Delta region could create unique and memorable identities that would enhance our visitors’ experience, while promoting cultural understanding between tourists and the locals. Music tourism offers a unique way to experience destinations, fostering cultural connection and economic growth,” Hon. Alla said.
He explained that traditional music evokes emotions, creating a sense of connection to tourist destinations, pointing out that Ijaw traditional music tells enriching stories about the Ijaw cultural heritage, showcasing our cultural diversity, distinguishing the Ijaw traditions from others, while creating a unique identity and lively atmosphere that always enhance the visitor experience.
“Creating immersive, unique, and memorable experiences through our traditional music makes our destinations more memorable. When we combine our traditional music and dance, we create a unique destination brand. Local music enhances repeat visits to our destinations.
“Telling a destination’s story through music and dance conveys our history and cultural significance. Traditional music connects us to local communities by way of promoting their culture and traditions, facilitating cultural exchange, while promoting understanding and appreciation between the tourists and the host community.
“Through hosting events and festivals, we celebrate traditional music and dance, attracting more visitors. Our traditional music is a powerful tool to showcase local talents with a view to promoting creativity. Music tourism has significant economic, cultural, and social worth, generating revenue from ticket sales, accommodations, and local spending, which go a long way in supporting jobs in music industry, hospitality, and related sectors.
“Music tourism promotes and preserves local music heritage and traditions, enhancing destination’s image and identity. Through music associations, we foster community pride and involvement in music events.
Music attracts new visitors, diversifying tourists’ experiences, driving investment in venues, infrastructure, and amenities. It brings people together to promote social connections and inclusivity.
“It provides a platform for artistic expression and creativity, offering opportunities for music education and skill-building, facilitating cultural exchange. Music tourism has the power to transform tourist destinations. The power of music is profound and multifaceted, influencing individuals, communities, and societies in various ways, including
Music evokes emotions, creating a universal language that triggers memories and nostalgia that connects us to our past. Music preserves and promotes cultural heritage, traditions, and values. It has healing properties, which reduces stress, anxiety, and pain. Music inspires and motivates, driving creativity and personal growth. Traditional music conveys messages, tells stories, and shares experiences about destinations, reflecting individuality, and allowing self-expression and personal growth.
“Music helps to document history, preserving moments and events. Music transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, promoting global understanding. Music generates revenue, supporting industries and economies. Music’s power is undeniable, making it an integral part of human experience, culture, and society,” Hon. Alla explained.
Dignitaries that who graced the occasion include: the Member, representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon (Dr.) Fred Agbedi, Chairman, Bayelsa State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Dein Benadoumene, the Leader, Wind of Progress Forum-Worldwide, Hon. Berry Negerese, Former Commissioner, Bayelsa West, Chief Augustine Lugbeinwei, Chairman, PDP Ward 11, Ekeremor LGA, Mr. Tarasele Peres, Promoter, Bomadi Beach Carnival Club/Chairman, Nigeria Minifootball Association (NMA), Delta State, Chief Donbraye Ebi, the Councilor, representing Ekeremor Ward 11, in the Legislative Assembly, Hon. Bonny Collins.
