Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Ephraim Amu

He was an iconic Ghanaian composer, educator, and cultural figure, who made a significant impact on Ghana’s cultural landscape.

The man Dr. Ephraim Amu, was born in Peki in 1899, he was not only a teacher but also a devout Presbyterian and father of five.

One of his most notable contributions to Ghanaian culture is the composition of the unofficial national anthem of Ghana, “Yen Ara Asaase ni” in 1931, which is popularly sung in Twi, with its original version “Amɛwo dziƒɛ yĩgba,” presented in Ewe in 1929. It has also been translated into Ga.

Initially written for school children to mark Empire Day, the song gained widespread recognition well before Ghana’s independence in 1957.

In an interview with RGGNEWS, Dr. Amu’s daughter, Dr. Misonu Amu, fondly recalled her father’s musical talents and strict Presbyterian upbringing.

“I remember whenever he came home, he would play the piano, and we would sing along,” she said.

The University of Ghana honoured Dr. Amu with an honorary doctorate, and a tribute was held in his honour at the National Theatre in 1994, shortly before his passing in January 1995 at the age of 96. Ephraim Amu commands a prided place in Ghana, as father of Ghanaian art music.

A Historian, Professor Nana Essilfie Conduah, lamented the lack of recognition Dr. Amu has received.

Prof. Conduah attributed the disconnection with Ghanaian identity among the youth to a distortion in the educational system and a lack of understanding of music.

He stressed that Dr. Amu’s legacy should serve as a reminder of the values and aspirations of Ghana’s forefathers.

Despite challenges, Dr. Ephraim Amu’s legacy endures.

His willingness to learn and adapt, as demonstrated by his mastery of the Twi language and compositions such as “Akwabadwom” and “Abibirimma,” cements his place as a guardian of Ghanaian music and culture.