Liberia Association of Gospel Musical Artists (LAGMA) over the weekend held a one-day workshop for members of the association in Monrovia.
Speaking at the workshop, the Pastor of the Faith and Deliverance Ministry, Rev. Paye Bagnon, challenged Liberian Gospel musicians to build their capacity professionally, academically and financially to transform the development of the sector.
Rev. Bagnon stated that it is unfortunate that Liberian Gospel musicians can promote foreign Gospel music rather than promote Liberian Gospel music during praise and worship time at churches and other occasions across the country.
According to him, Liberian Gospel musicians should strive to meet up with international standards for the global market.
He underscored that professionalism and competency should be enhanced at all levels to encourage major investment in the sector.
Rev. Bagnon emphasized that developing the capacity of Liberian Gospel musicians is crucial for development of Gospel music in Liberia.
In a related development, the Director for Banking at Ecobank Liberia, Mark W. Nimely, said banking is critical for any venture and Liberian Gospel musicians should put in place an appropriate financial system.
Director Nimely stated that the bank has different packages of saving that members of LAGMA can take advantage of to ensure sound financial system in their musical career.
He asserted that sound financial management has a long way go in the Gospel musical industry to help transform Liberia’s Gospel music.
Meanwhile, the President of LAGMA, Ambassador Miracle A. Kettor, said LAGMA will hold its annual award in December 2023.
Ambassador Kettor stated that the award will hold surprise for members of the association.
She noted that over the past ten years LAGMA’s award was put to a halt, but this annual award night will reactivate the program again.
She maintained that the proceeds that will be generated from the award night will be used to purchase land to build LAGMA’s headquarters.
Ambassador Kettor explained that the development of LAGMA is critical, and LAGMA will partner with other institutions to help promote Liberian Gospel music on social media platforms to ensure that artists benefit from their labor.