National Theatre hosts ‘final concert’ in honour of Isaac Annoh today

Mr Isaac Annoh, the esteemed Director of Music at the National Symphony Orchestra, is set to take his final bow after an illustrious 35-year career at the National Theatre of Ghana.

A special farewell concert scheduled for today, July 11, 2024, will mark the peak of his remarkable tenure, celebrating his dedication, passion and enduring legacy.

The event is expected to begin at 7 p.m., as the venerable maestro, Mr Isaac Annoh, takes the stage for a grand farewell performance.

In 1996, young Annoh obtained a scholarship to England to polish his skills in Music Conducting and Art Administration.

Upon his return to Ghana, Mr Annoh resumed his work with the orchestra until 2003, when he was presented with the opportunity to lead the group as a conductor, a role he embraced despite the challenges. 

With the steadfast support of his dedicated staff and team members, he persevered, driven by a passion to leave a lasting impact. 

Though he faced setbacks along the way, Mr Annoh derives immense satisfaction from the positive influence he has had on numerous budding talents.

"One of my young players held a show recently and everything was superb...I sat back and felt I was leaving the scene but my work has not been in vain," he said. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr Annoh has expertly led the National Orchestra in numerous captivating performances both in Ghana and internationally.

As he prepares to take his final bow, he promises to deliver a special farewell concert that will leave his audience in awe.

 With confidence, he acknowledges the significant legacy he leaves behind but emphasises that his successors' success will depend on their own self-motivation and determination. 

Mr Annoh also takes the opportunity to advocate for greater recognition and appreciation of performing artists, stressing their indispensable contributions to society, on par with those of other professionals.

"A performance of an hour and 45 minutes takes a lot of rehearsal and energy. It is time people recognise the value of the arts because we all have our roles to play.

"When you are happy, we are there...when you are sad, we are there...when you are in between any of these moods, we are there," he stated.

The show will feature performances from the likes of Kennedy Darkwa and Urslar Essel.

The National Symphony Orchestra, one of the three resident groups at the National Theatre, was established with a vital mandate “to provide a premier platform for the creation, publication and performance of Afro-classical music”.