Switzerland and Ghana are deepening their cultural and educational cooperation through music, as both countries partner to empower young artists and promote cross-cultural understanding.
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, the Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana, Benin, and Togo hosted The Ghana Experience, an interdisciplinary concert in Accra that brought together Swiss and Ghanaian musicians in a unique fusion of jazz, classical, and traditional West African music.
The concert marked the climax of a collaboration between Switzerland’s Haute École de Musique (HEMU) and Ghana’s Accra Jazz Academy (AJA), under the Ghana Jazz Foundation. The project focuses on mentorship, musical innovation, and international exposure for young artists.
Head of Jazz at HEMU and Artistic Director of AJA, Thomas Dobler, said the initiative represents more than a musical exchange, describing it as a tool for youth empowerment and global connection.
“We’re not just teaching music — we’re equipping young artists with the skills, networks, and global perspective they need to explore the world and build their futures through their artistry,” he said.
The event featured joint performances from Swiss and Ghanaian musicians, including Thomas Dobler on vibraphone, Alex Tseh and Lucas Doe on traditional Ghanaian instruments, and vocalists Gaiane Gantier, Maxine Vulliet, and Raphaël Descotes. A string ensemble and traditional percussionists added rich layers of sound that celebrated both musical traditions.
Organisers say The Ghana Experience demonstrates how culture can foster peace, innovation, and opportunity in a time of global division. It offers participating students international experience, professional mentorship, and the chance to perform on global stages.
Supported by DGES (Vaud), Fondation Culturelle HEMU-CL, and the Ghana Jazz Foundation, the project is being described as a model for sustainable cultural diplomacy.
“The collaboration embodies the spirit of cultural diplomacy at its finest,” Mr. Dobler said, adding that it shows what can be achieved when nations invest in their youth and shared humanity.
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