Ghana: Tamale Youth Choir wins Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Composers Competition

The contest, held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology on 5 April, formed part of the 25th enstoolment anniversary celebrations of the 16th monarch of the Asante Kingdom. It was held under the auspices of the princess consort of the Ashanti Kingdom Otumfuo-Yere Julia Osei Tutu, in collaboration with the Royal Image Group of Companies and Kumasi Evangel Choir.

The choral group, a non-denominational ensemble from the Northern Region of Ghana, bested six other competing choirs including Tarkwa Crusaders Choir, Tema Mass Choir, Bantama Youth Choir, Obuasi Heralds Choir, Kasoa Youth Choir and Amammereso Youth Choir.

The performance, in Dagbani, Twi, and English, comprised renditions of works by composer and executive director of the choir Samuel Dowaana Mensah, behind a portfolio of more than 300 compositions. Thematically, the performance emphasised the King’s wisdom, integrity, and fairness.

As contest champions, the Tamale Youth Choir received ₵30 000 (about $2 200) on top of the ₵10 000 awarded to all participating groups. The group also received an extra ₵10 000 from UNIJAY Fashions CEO Janet Abobigu. The second-placed Obuasi Heralds Choir also received an extra ₵30 000.

“Tamale Youth Choir wishes to express its profound gratitude to God, to everyone who has supported the choir thus far and to the organisers of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Composers Competition,” the group said following their big night. “We are most grateful to HRM Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and his wife for such a glory bestowed on us. To all who prayed for the choir and supported the choir, we are grateful and will always cherish your support.”

Speaking at the event, Lady Julia said: “Hearty congratulations and thanks to the organisers of this special event for uniting talented music makers and choirs nationwide. The beautiful songs and voices make this day truly special. My heartfelt gratitude to all the composers, your compositions are all special and will be etched in our minds and stay on the tip of our tongues for years to come, they are a true testament to your talent and dedication. All your compositions beautifully honour 25 years of Otumfuo’s rule and I urge you to continue creating beautiful music for our beloved country.”

Royal Image Group CEO Mr Amankwaa Agyeman added: “Music is a strong way to show our culture and tradition and today, we have the opportunity to see the talent and creativity of our composers. On this important day, I suggest that the Otumfuo Composers Competition should happen every year. This will not only give the composers the chance to show their skills but also help keep our musical traditions alive for the future.”