Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
When 17-year-old Franklin Asumadu walked into Stanhope Elmore High School for the first time in 2023, he carried more than a suitcase from his home in Ghana, he brought a deep love of music and a determination to find his place. Now a senior, Asumadu has become a familiar face in the school’s music scene, playing five instruments: piano, drums, saxophone, lead guitar and bass guitar, while building connections in a new community alongside his mother, two sisters and father in Alabama.
Asumadu’s dream of coming to America was rooted in the opportunity for a better education. Since arriving, he has maintained honor roll status each year, working to keep his grades consistent while balancing his growing involvement in music.
His introduction to the piano came unexpectedly and under pressure. “I was put on the spot to play at a big event, because the musician did not show up,” said Asumadu.
Primarily a bass guitarist at the time, Asumadu had only limited experience with piano and knew just a few chords. Still, the moment sparked something deeper. “I was put on the spot and the thrill of having to ‘improvise’ on the spot with no prior preparation is what kindled my interest to learn more,” said Asumadu.
Rather than relying on prewritten pieces, he began creating music on his own, developing his sound through experimentation. That moment marked the beginning of a passion that would quickly grow. Asumadu first touched a piano in late 2022 and began teaching himself at age 14.
Encouragement from others played a key role in his development. “Every time I played, I felt I did not do enough, or I was not up to the standard of being ‘good’ at piano,” said Asumadu. “I saw myself as a Jack of trades, but master of none. The support I had from my audiences really moved me to strive for improvement.”
“Hearing an old church lady tell me I played beautifully gave me a sense of hope to keep going and keep reaching people with my music talents, in areas where voices could not reach,” said Asumadu.
Over the past three years, Asumadu has continued to grow as a musician, largely self-taught while also refining his skills in the classroom. His piano teacher, Ricky Ashcraft, has worked with him for the past four months and has seen that growth firsthand.
“I have only worked with him since January in piano class, but I cannot say enough good things about him,” said Ashcraft. “Franklin is talented and has the work ethic to go along with his talents. He is a joy to teach. He absorbs information like a sponge and applies it.”
His impact has extended across the entire music program, according to his teachers. “I taught Franklin last year in a guitar class and a beginning band class,” said Will Boartfield, Beginning Band and Guitar teacher at SEHS. “He is an amazing student and I wish I had 75 more just like him. He is very intelligent and musically gifted. He also puts in the time and asks questions that allow me to get much deeper into music theory than I get to with most students. He was learning Alto Saxophone in the beginning band class and in one semester, he went from learning how to put the instrument together, to being ready to play with and hold his own with other Saxophone players with multiple years of experience in the SE concert band. This year he decided to join the drumline in the marching band, and he has excelled in that as well. Franklin has been a huge asset to the entire SE Music department. I feel confident that after he graduates, he will be highly successful in any and all endeavors that he is a part of.”
Community members have also taken notice of Asumadu’s presence and performance. “Seeing and hearing Franklin Asumadu play at the Millbrook Art Mill at the SEHS Art Reception, he commands the entire room with pure artistry. I look forward to seeing what his artistic future holds,” said Danae Morgan, cultural arts and special events director.
Support at home has also been a driving force in Asumadu’s journey. His father, Reverend Frank Asumadu, said music has long been a part of their family’s identity. “I am deeply grateful to God for blessing me with a musically gifted family. My own journey began at a young age singing and playing the drums, and today my wife and two daughters continue that tradition with beautiful singing voices. I am especially amazed by my son Franklin’s musical talent and thankful to God for the abilities he has been given. I am incredibly proud of him and pray that he will develop his musical gifts to their fullest potential while also pursuing his passion for computer science.”
Through instruction and practice, Asumadu has expanded his understanding of music, learning more advanced variations and modes beyond basic chords.
Looking ahead, Asumadu plans to attend Auburn University in the fall, where he intends to study cybersecurity while possibly minoring in music. He hopes to continue performing by joining the marching band and jazz band, while also pursuing soccer.
In 10 years, he envisions himself working as a cybersecurity analyst or chief information security officer, building a stable life while continuing to play music, possibly at a professional level.
As he prepares for graduation, Asumadu remains focused on both his future and the impact he hopes to leave behind. Grounded in perseverance and strengthened by the support of his family, teachers and community, he wants to encourage others to explore their own potential. “Music is music whether you are 6 or 65,” shared Asumadu.
