WORLD MUSIC DAY, ARTIST CALLS FOR GOVERNMENT FUNDING OF THE INDUSTRY

June 21 every year is observed as World Mu sic Day. The event is celebrated in about 120 countries.

World Music Day which is observed annually on June 21 originated in France in 1982.

Music has existed for as long as mankind has found its voice and quits possibly before.

Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary defines music as a pattern of sounds made by musical instruments, singing or computers or a combination of these intended to give pleasure to people listening to it.

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.

Speaking on the relevance of the event, the chairman, Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, Comrade Emma Agu said the day was initiated to recognize the role music plays in human existence.

Comparing the music of yester-years with the contemporary, Comrade Agu explained that modern artists focused more on the rhythm than the lyrics.

Another artist, Peace Pacefirk, defines music as food for the soul which can heal and give relief from tension.

The artist, while enumerating some challenges facing musicians in the country called on the government to commit more resources to funding the industry.

JULIET UGWU