Description
Abstract
Choral music provides an opportunity for artistic growth, music education, enjoyment, community and identity formation. In the last 15 years, there has been a rise in the formation of choral groups especially in Nairobi, which has in many ways contributed to the aforesaid parameters. This research focused on the choral groups in Nairobi with the hope of providing information on why choral groups are being formed, why some replicate and also what helps some stay intact. The study sought to: find out the drive behind formation of choral groups; find out reasons why some choral groups replicate/form splinter groups and identify the challenges encountered by choral ensembles in Nairobi. The study was conducted in Nairobi region. The study population included choral directors and choral groups and the members of the choral groups. Purposive sampling, simple random and snowballing sampling technique yielded respondents for the study. Data collection instruments included interviews and focus group discussions. The study urges choral directors to share their vision and mission of the group to members and to also help members understand why they join choral groups. Finally, some of the recommendations that were given to choral groups and the directors for better development of choral groups were: holding choral workshops to nurture more female choral directors, ensuring the group’s mission and vision is clear to every member and to also have performances often not for competition, but to enjoy the music together.
Key Words: Formation, Replication, Choral Music
