The Accra Metropolitan Assembly ( AMA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Accra Symphony Orchestra (ASO) to position the latter as the City’s Orchestra and cultural ambassador.
With the agreement, the orchestra is expected to be more accessible to and entertain residents Accra.
Per the MOU signed Thursday, the AMA would provide the necessary platform for the ASO to share its musical experience with residents in Accra and feature ASO in all relevant international sister city programmes.
The ASO on its part would create and implement programmes at parks and event centres within the city as well as train the youth and citizens in classical and opera music with the view to nurture and develop musical talents.
As part of its obligations, ASO will represent the city of Accra at international musical competitions, tours and recordings and to help promote the city as a hub for arts and culture in the world.
Notwithstanding both the AMA and ASO will maintain their own separate and unique mandates and missions. Also, the cooperation between them shall not be construed to mean the creation of a distinct entity.
Chief Executive Officer of the AMA, Mohammed Adjei Sowah, who signed the MOU on behalf of the Assembly on Wednesday, said the partnership is mutually beneficial adding that the Assembly would support the orchestra to promote the city of Accra.
He reiterated that it is the intention of the AMA to provide a unique opportunity for city dwellers to enjoy the city by not only providing green spaces for relaxation but also, good music to provide some calm within the hustle and bustle of their daily lives .
He disclosed that the Assembly will will next year construct a Central park with a theatre to serve as an entertainment centre for residents .
“Next year God willing, we are going to see major transformation in the city of Accra …We are going to see a massive change in the City of Accra where we are going to have an Accra Central park with a theatre for all of us to come and play and enjoy ,” he said.
Madam Korkor Amarteifio, Executive Director of ASO, was grateful for the support and assured that the ASO would represent the city and position it as cultural metropolis of international standard and was hopeful to create new audiences and musicians.
Dr. Mensah Otabil, founder of the Orchestra, said ASO is committed to western classical orchestra music, operatic music as well as reinterpreting African music in the orchestra style.
“We want to make the city of Accra a major center for the expression of music and we trust that this collaboration will help to make Accra a great and wonderful place to be,” he said.
By AMA|3news.com|Ghana