By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Renowned German music expert Stephan Flore is currently in Sierra Leone as part of a musical development initiative sponsored by the Senior Expert Service (SES), a German non-governmental organization. Invited by the Bo School and the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, Flore is actively training a newly formed female music group alongside the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) military band.
In an exclusive interview with Premier News on Thursday, May 22, 2025, Flore expressed enthusiasm for his mission in Sierra Leone.
“Ballanta applied for me through the SES. This is a non-governmental organization in Germany that sends experts around the world. I’m really happy to be here helping this female group. It is a great new opportunity for the ladies of this country,” he stated.
Flore highlighted the importance of empowering women through music and encouraged more female musicians to join the initiative. “They are really doing well, and it’s a big pleasure for me to work with them,” he added.
His primary focus is enriching the group’s musical understanding, introducing new compositions such as Promenade and Happy Tune, structured in multiple movements. He noted the emotional depth of blues music, stating, “I must not tell an African what blues music is—it comes from your soul.”
Flore’s deep connection to Sierra Leone spans 16 years, with multiple visits since 2009. He recalled adopting a Sierra Leonean girl 13 years ago, emphasizing his personal bond with the country.
During his current visit, Flore trained the Bo School boys’ band in preparation for their thanksgiving ceremony, marking his first engagement in the southern city. In Freetown, his schedule includes morning sessions with the RSLAF military band and afternoon training with the female group at Ballanta. His work has been facilitated by Lt. Colonel Isaac Kamara, whom he praised for his logistical support and dedication.
A passionate advocate for musical exchange, Flore integrates Western classical music with contemporary styles, introducing students to works by Bach, Handel, and other classical composers. His goal is to provide a holistic musical education, covering genres from baroque to modern pop.
“My hope is that they’ll apply this knowledge—focusing on dynamics, articulation, tuning, and other musical elements,” he explained, emphasizing the crucial technique of tonguing. “The tongue is the only part of your body that can move fast enough. Training this is hard, but essential.”
Flore has worked extensively across Africa, including in Ghana, where he trained the Police Band. He believes successful collaboration between modern and traditional musicians hinges on mutual respect and shared learning experiences.
“With the right training, these musicians can find common ground,” he said. “They just need the opportunity to explore and master both worlds.”
As he continues his engagement in Sierra Leone, Flore remains committed to advancing musical education, fostering gender inclusion in the arts, and strengthening the country’s music ecosystem through international partnerships.