MUSIGA Opens Applications for 2026 SheRhythms Festival

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has opened applications for the second edition of the SheRhythms Festival, a platform created to celebrate female musicians and give them more opportunities to grow their careers.

Female artistes who want to be part of this year’s festival have until October 30, 2026, to submit their applications.

The two-day event is set to take place on December 11 and 12 at Alliance Française in Accra.

Before the main festival, MUSIGA will also organise a professional masterclass at the Music Department of the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, Legon. The session will give participating artistes the chance to learn from experienced professionals and gain practical knowledge that can help them navigate the music business.

This year’s edition comes under the theme “Amplifying Her Voice, Elevating Her Art.”

The festival is being organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and the Creative Arts Agency, in partnership with Alliance Française Accra and powered by Benayacom.

MUSIGA President Bessa Simons said SheRhythms is not simply about putting female artistes on stage to perform. The initiative is also intended to help women in music build their careers, showcase their work and connect with people who can contribute to their professional growth.

The festival will also welcome female musicians from outside Ghana, creating room for networking and cultural exchange among artistes from different backgrounds.

Masterclass to focus on career development

One of the major activities lined up for SheRhythms 2026 is the professional masterclass, which will focus on some of the practical issues female artistes face in the music industry.

According to MUSIGA’s 2nd Vice President, Abena Ruthy, the masterclass will cover areas such as performance excellence, music business fundamentals and artist brand development.

The programme will include workshops and panel discussions with industry professionals. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the business side of music, improve their performances and understand how to build and manage their brands.

How female artistes can apply

Female musicians interested in performing at the festival are expected to submit their applications before the October 30 deadline.

Applicants will need to provide a performance portfolio, links to their audio or video performances, an artist biography, as well as a short description of their musical style or genre.

Those selected to perform will receive promotional support, professional stage production and opportunities to network with other artistes and music industry stakeholders.

Through SheRhythms, MUSIGA is seeking to create more visibility and opportunities for women in music while providing them with a platform to showcase their talent and develop professionally.

The 2026 edition will bring together female artistes and music industry players for performances, training, networking and a celebration of the contribution of women to Ghana’s music scene.