Stories and facts
Ephraim Kɔku Amu (13 September 1899 – 2 January 1995) was a multifaceted Ghanaian composer, musicologist, teacher, and cultural icon. His life and work have left an enduring impact on the musical landscape of Ghana and beyond. This article delves into the remarkable life and contributions of Ephraim Kɔku Amu.
Ephraim Kɔku Amu was born on 13 September 1899 in Peki-Avetile (also known as Abenase) in the Peki Traditional Area of the Volta Region, Ghana. He was affectionately called Kɔku because he was born on a Wednesday, following a Ghanaian naming tradition. His father, Stephen Amuyaa, known as Papa Stefano, was a skilled woodcarver, while his mother was Sarah Akoram Ama.
At the age of six, Amu was baptized by Rev. Rudolf Mallet on 22 October 1899, marking the beginning of his connection to the Christian faith. His early education commenced in May 1906, and by the age of 12, he attended the Peki-Blengo E.P. Boarding Middle School. It was during these formative years that he developed a deep passion for music, sparked by the captivating melodies played on the organ during church collections by his music teacher, Mr. Karl Theodore Ntem.
In 1915, Amu achieved a significant educational milestone by passing the standard 7 School Leaving Certificate examination and the Abetifi Teachers Seminary's Examination. The following year, he embarked on a remarkable journey, walking 150 miles from Peki to Abetifi with two fellow students to pursue teacher-catechist training. During his time at the seminary, Amu's creativity shone through when he crafted a wooden bicycle known as the "Amu cycle," demonstrating his resourcefulness and determination.
In 1919, Amu completed his four-year teacher-catechist training. Upon graduation, he was chosen to deliver a sermon on behalf of his fellow graduates, a tradition at the seminary. The text of his sermon was taken from Matthew 25:40, reflecting his early commitment to serving others and his mastery of both Twi and Ewe languages.
In January 1920, Amu commenced his teaching career at Peki-Blengo E.P. Middle Boarding School. His enthusiasm for music led him to purchase a five-octave Henry Riley folding organ for the school. Despite the challenges of transporting the organ from Koforidua to Peki, Amu's determination prevailed as he carried the instrument on his head throughout the night, arriving at Peki the following morning.
To further hone his musical skills, Amu sought lessons with Rev. Allotey-Pappoe, a Methodist Minister stationed at Peki-Avetile. This period marked the beginning of his remarkable journey as a composer.
Amu's compositions include a wide range of musical pieces, such as "Fare thee well," "Mawɔ dɔ na Yesu," "Nkwagye Dwom," "Dwonto," "Yetu Osa," "Israel Hene," "Onipa da wo ho so," "Yaanom Abibirimma," "Yen Ara Asaase Ni," and "Adawura abo me," among many others. One of his most famous compositions, "Yen Ara Asase Ni," has become a beloved patriotic song in Ghana and is performed at national functions.
Amu's exceptional use of the atenteben, a traditional Ghanaian bamboo flute, played a significant role in promoting and popularizing this instrument throughout the country. His compositions and innovative approach to music education left an indelible mark on Ghana's musical heritage.
Ephraim Kɔku Amu's influence extended beyond music. He was a strong advocate for African culture, language, and attire. His unorthodox actions and ideas were evident during his time at the Presbyterian Mission Seminary in Akropong, where he taught gardening and encouraged the use of night soil to fertilize the college farm, a practice considered taboo at the time.
Amu's commitment to African cultural artifacts and technological inventions led him to introduce bamboo flutes, including odurogyaba, odurogya, and atɛtɛnbɛn. These instruments contributed to the enrichment of African music and cultural heritage.
Throughout his life, Amu continued to challenge conventions, such as wearing African attire with pride and conducting Sunday services in native clothing, despite initial resistance from church authorities.
In 1965, the University of Ghana recognized Ephraim Kɔku Amu's contributions by conferring upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Music, acknowledging his exceptional dedication to music and African culture.
In 1995, the Ephraim Amu Foundation was established in honor of this extraordinary figure. The foundation, launched in 2004, serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and commitment to preserving African cultural heritage.
Ephraim Kɔku Amu's life and work vividly exemplify the profound influence of music, cultural pride, and innovation. His enduring legacy remains a wellspring of inspiration for generations of musicians, educators, and individuals fervently committed to the conservation of African heritage.
