Meaning In Music, Culture And Theology

"Meaning In Music, Culture And Theology" is an academic book based on four years of intensive research at Kenyatta University in Kenya as well as at the universities of Mainz and Hildesheim in Germany. The author, Shitandi W. Ol'leka, explores the central role of music, particularly African Christian hymnody, in spiritual development and sociocultural expression. The book highlights the often-overlooked theological significance of African church music and investigates the interrelationships between music, culture, and theology. By analyzing the hymnody of the Legio Maria Church (Jolejo) in Kenya, it demonstrates how singing hymns strengthens community and fosters faith both individually and collectively. This book is aimed at ethnomusicologists, theologians, church leaders, music directors, cultural policymakers, music educators, as well as students of music and religion at universities and other educational institutions.