Ghanaian gospel musician Joe Mettle has shared valuable insights with attendees of the Band Experience Music Workshop.

The event which was held at Manchester in the United Kingdom brought together musicians and enthusiasts from various genres under one umbrella on June 22, 2024.

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In his address, Joe Mettle highlighted the significance of character in achieving and maintaining success in the music industry.

"Gift is important, but gift itself is not enough. You need to improve on the gift God has already given you. So it's great that you are in the room right now, adding more knowledge, adding more experience from the people that also God has given grace to be able to travel the world and do this amazing thing we call music. I also want to say one other thing, character is also necessary, because gifted as you can be without character, trust me, many people will find it difficult having to work with you," he said while connecting virtually.

He encouraged aspiring musicians to focus not only on honing their musical abilities but also on developing integrity, humility, and a strong work ethic.

“Sometimes the gift will open the door for you, make a way for you to go to a place, but it is only character that will keep you there and keep you running. I understand that sometimes it might look like you are being maltreated or not treated, right. That's a different situation."

"But when you find yourself always having to move, because of how character made you react and everything, maybe you should check it [your character] again. And so as you learn, as you improve, as you grow in your craft, please be mindful that character is what will keep you there even though gift can open the door for you to get to that point.”

Joe Mettle’s message resonated with many participants, inspiring them to strive for excellence both in their craft and in their personal conduct.

Other musicians, producers and seasoned instrumentalists who graced the Manchester event organised by the founder of Sclan Music Foundation, George Addo Jnr, include Joseph Darko Wilson, Opoku Sanaa, Ezekiel Julius, Dave da Musicbox, Kwakes, Annor Yeboah, Kwaku Amoako and Ezekiel Omosebi among others.

The Band Experience Music Workshop aims to provide a platform for learning, networking, and professional growth.

The organisers are also gearing up for its maiden worship night dubbed 'Shachah 2024'.

It is set for Friday, August 2 in Manchester, UK.

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Sclan Music Foundation is a music charity dedicated to championing music education and opportunities for youth.

Their mission is to provide affordable instrumental music lessons and skills development to young children in the North West region of England. With over 90% of our registered members coming from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds in the Manchester area, the organisation aims to improve mental wellness in the community while making music accessible to all.

They offer a diversity of music programming - from instrumental lessons for children receiving free school meals, to major music workshops, fun learning clubs, and performance opportunities through our annual community programs. The group believes that every child should have the chance to engage with music regardless of background or financial means, as these experiences can profoundly impact youth development.

Since 2023, Sclan Music Foundation has provided free music instruction to children in Manchester, engaging hundreds more through hands-on workshops and showcasing performances with the goal is to filling spare time with creative skills that can last a lifetime.