The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has partnered with the Accra Symphony Orchestra (ASO) to promote African and Ghanaian music in a more positive way to the international community.
The partnership also aims at bringing cultural and economic benefits to the partners whilst improving the quality of life of the people of Accra through music.
Speaking at the function to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the AMA and ASO, Dr Mensa Otabil, Founder of ASO and General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), stated that the choice of Accra for the project was justified, because it would position ASO as the city’s orchestral and cultural ambassador to the residents of the metropolis.
“It was also to provide the necessary platform for ASO to share its musical experience with Accra residents, including all international Sister City Programmes,” he said.
Dr Otabil explained that ASO would create and implement programmes at parks and event centres within the city, create an incubator for the training and development of classical and opera music for young people and develop and nurture musical talents.
He added that ASO is determined to represent Accra at international musical competitions and to help promote the city as a hub for the arts and culture in Ghana.
Mohammed Adjei Sowah, Mayor of Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), expressed gratitude to Dr Otabil for his vision and for accepting to partner with the city on this exciting journey.
He said the partnership with ASO would also add value “to our international Sister Cities Programme between Accra and cities in the world.”
“Our intention as city authorities is to provide through this partnership, a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy, not only providing green spaces for relaxation, but also good music to provide calm within the hustle of their lives,” he stated.
Mohammed Adjei Sowah added, “This will ultimately contribute to crime reduction in our communities because of the feel good effect and value that community concerts will bring.”
Madam Korkor Amarteifio, Executive Director of ASO, also said the music industry was booming with new talents and successful musicians and the ASO would continue to support the young ones to enable them to sell Ghana through music to the rest of the world.