George Mensah Essilfie
George Mensah Essilfie (GME) is an iconic Ghanaian composer, music educator, digital artist, and mentor. He is the founder of SingAfriChoral, a non-profit Arts organization committed to preserving and promoting African Art Choral music. His musical journey began as a composer at the age of 9.
- In 1994, his exceptional talent garnered him a remarkable achievement. This recognition came because of his participation in a competition co-organized by the World Peace Prayer and the United Nations. GME's composition, titled "May Peace Prevail," was selected as the winning entry out of the 500 participants from around the world.
- In 1996, the British Council awarded him a scholarship to attend the Easter music school for Music educators in the U.K., organized by the British Choral Institute.
- From 2003 to 2005, he was the music director for "Osagyefo," an African Theatre company based in Luton, UK.
- In 2019, George Mensah Essilfie (GME) was selected as one of the 32 composers worldwide for the esteemed 32 Bright Clouds project. Renowned pianist Yael Weiss curated and performed this project. On January 24, 2019, the World Premiere of 32 Bright Clouds took place in Washington DC. Representing Ghana, GME showcased his piano composition titled "Hope for the Shackled." This piece incorporates African traditional music elements and is inspired by Beethoven's Sonata No. 16 in G major, Op. 31 No. 1. GME dedicated the composition to individuals with psychotic disorders.
- From 2009 to 2022, he served as the Music Director for Ghanaian United Methodist Church Choirs in North America.
GME has had the privilege of studying under distinguished professors in music composition: Prof. George Dor (at UEW, Ghana now at University of Mississippi), Prof. John Carter (TLS at Capital University, OH), and Prof. Joseph Baber (University of Kentucky). His musicality is greatly influenced by his elder siblings, Dr. Rexford Justice Essilfie (FL, USA), and Harvey Essilfie of blessed memory.
GME's exceptional contributions in this field are evidenced by the formation of the prestigious Winneba Youth Choir, which has received numerous awards and accolades. One of GME's distinguishing traits lies in his adept use of an intercultural approach in his music compositions. Having resided in the Caribbean, the U.K., and the USA, GME draws upon his rich experiences to expertly fuse Western art and traditional Ghanaian music elements. This innovative fusion exemplifies his artistic exploration and commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Due to his significant contributions to the realm of Ghanaian choral Art music and his unwavering dedication to mentoring emerging artists, he has earned deep admiration and wielded considerable influence within the industry.
"Osee Yee Kpanlogo" from " Songs of Akotam."
Community Action
"Music for a Cause: OTOMFO CONCERT Makes Impact at Accra Psychiatric Hospital"
In 2015, on August 9th, as part of Tesano Baptist Church's 40th-anniversary celebration, the "OTOMFO CONCERT" was organized to showcase sacred Ghanaian art choral music and folk song arrangements by GME. The concert featured the Tesano Baptist Church Choir, Harmonious Chorale, Wesleyan Symphonic Choir, Accra Youth Choir, and African Youth Choir.
The concert raised GHC 6000.00, which was donated to the Accra Psychiatric Hospital to renovate a bathroom in the Male Observation Ward. On August 11th, 2015, led by Rev. Kweku Hazel from the Tesano Baptist Church, the donation was presented to the hospital.
MU-MENT
MUMENT (MUSIC + Mental Health) is an initiative by SingAfriChoral. It aims to amplify the organization's voice through music and support the mental health sector in providing the best care for patients.
Join GME in promoting mental health support in our communities. Let's make a positive impact together! Here are some ways to get involved:
- Volunteer your time
- Donate in cash or kind
- Spread awareness through music collaboration with GME & SingAfriChoral
"Nyimpa Nkotum" - Featuring Dynamic Youth Choir