Description
Anthems play a major role in upholding the motto, mission and vision of institutions. Organizations, countries all over the world pride in their national anthems because of the national identity, history, ideologies, philosophy, patriotism, and ideals that they espouse on behalf of the country, institution or organization that begets them. Anthems have over the years therefore become not just national emblems but rather very special patriotic music compositions that have demanded deep thought processes, reflection and careful consideration of specific procedures and techniques in the methods of composing them. It is in the light of the foregoing discussions that this study sets out to: illuminate historical contexts, philosophies and ideologies that informed creation of Kabarak University (abbreviated herein as KABU) anthem; examine the role played by key stakeholders and players; articulate institutional and academic dynamics, shared experiences, team spirit, negotiations and consensus that dictated and guided the creative process of KABU-anthem project. In addition, the authors analyze compositional techniques and textual organization to establish various musical intersections that were crucial in shaping the nature, form, style and textual themes of KABU-anthem. It is the authors’ hope that this paper will not only add an extra voice to already existing literature on anthems, but it will be an invaluable resource for a wide range of music composers and arrangers in Kenya, Africa and beyond. In addition, it is hoped that the discussions will provoke further discourse and interest in the music composition and song writing creative processes.
