Dr. John-Doe Yao Dordzro is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Music and Dance at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. With a robust academic background and extensive experience in music education, Dr. Dordzro is dedicated to advancing the field of music pedagogy and fostering a deep appreciation for Ghanaian music and culture.Dr. Dordzro earned his Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of Cape Coast in 2017, where he focused on the impact of rehearsal strategies employed by Ghanaian basic school band directors on students' performance. His research highlights the importance of effective teaching methods in enhancing musical skills and performance outcomes among young musicians. He also holds a Master of Philosophy in Music Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Ghanaian Language, both from the same
institution.
In addition to his academic qualifications, Dr. Dordzro has a Diploma in Education, which equips him with pedagogical strategies to effectively teach and assess music students at various educational levels. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the integration of cultural heritage into music education, promoting social justice and multiculturalism within the curriculum.
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Dordzro has taught a wide range of courses, including Research Methods, Applied Music (Wind
Instruments), and Music in African Cultures. He is also actively involved in supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, guiding students in their academic and professional development.
Dr. Dordzro's research interests are diverse, encompassing instrumental music pedagogy, community music, and the intersection of music with health and gender issues. He is particularly interested in research that challenges colonial legacies in education while promoting indigenous
knowledge systems and sustainable cultural practices. He has presented his findings at numerous national and international conferences, contributing to the global discourse on music education and cultural practices. His recent publications include articles in prestigious journals that explore various aspects of music education in Ghana and beyond. His publications include: Adaptation of indigenous approaches to Music Pedagogy, The incorporation of trumpet in borborbor dance of the Ewe people, Impact of Covid-19 on performing arts groups in Ghana, The indigenization of European military music and popular culture, Ghanaian collegiate music students who play brass instruments’ music education experiences at the pre-tertiary level, Impact of Ghanaian school band instructors’ rehearsal strategies on students’ performance, influences on basic school band pupils’ instrument choices, and Basic school head teachers’ perceptions on the role of school Music among others.
In recognition of his contributions to the field, Dr. Dordzro has received several awards and grants, including a University of Michigan Presidential Fellowship, the North-West University International Teaching Week Fellowship in South Africa and multiple Erasmus+ mobility grants for teaching. He is also a member of several professional organizations, including the International Society for Music Education (ISME), Pan African Society for Music Arts Education (PASMAE), and the Ghana Music Teachers Association (GMTA).
Beyond his academic responsibilities, Dr. Dordzro is actively involved in community music initiatives and serves as a music director for various church choirs and bands. He is passionate about using music as a tool for social change and cultural expression, striving to create inclusive and engaging musical experiences for all. Dr. Dordzro's commitment to excellence in music education and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians make him a valuable asset to the University of Cape Coast and the broader educational community.
