THE CHOICE OF COSTUME

STREET RHYTHMS
29-10-2016

*THE CHOICE OF COSTUME*

One afternoon, while I surfed the Internet, I came across a popular Ghanaian ensemble performing classical pieces in _Fugu_. On another platform, that same ensemble was performing Ghanaian pieces in Suit.

Many a times, we consider our costume for our performances; but most of us don't consider the relationship of the costume to the performance...  You will need to consider that.

Do you perform with the theme 'Portraying African Heritage' and you sew an Indian-Styled-Costume with African prints? Or you perform in an African ensemble with a long-sleeved-shirt on trousers?

In Ghana, most choirs perform in African prints; but never choose a style :
- because that is the latest in town; or probably, choir 'A' used it recently.
- or because the dressmaker says so; remember that whenever you pick a shirt at the boutique, the sales personnel will always tell you "it is nice on you", just for you to buy it.
Rather make sure your style suits or relates the performance.
Secondarily, you also have to consider how comfortably you can perform your duty on the stage in that costume.

On the blind side, some of us overlook the costume for both the conductor and the organist; some of their costumes aren't professional and discomfort them when performing their duties.

The Choir master's/organist's robe or gown is designed in a way that they can comfortably use their hands; and for that matter, it is unprofessional to conduct or play the organ with any costume that will hinder the movement of your hands.

In our Ghanaian setting, you can't play the African drums when you are in an African cloth (that is having the - 6 to 12 yards - cloth around one shoulder and adjusting it with one hand); you either have to tie it around your neck or around your waist before you can play the drums comfortably.

Probably, some organists and conductors may perform in similar costumes because that was the choice; or probably, some may not even know.

You cannot conduct or play any instrument in a similar costume that may hinder the movement of your hands.

What do you wear during performances?

Kingsley J.E.K Acheampong
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