Music Communication in Christian University Chapel Services: A Case Study of Daystar University-Athi River Campus

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if music, as a channel of communication, was being employed in Christian University chapel services such that it contributes positively to the whole worship experience. The research took place at Daystar University's Athi River Campus which is located outside of Nairobi, Kenya. To explore the use of music as a channel of communication at Athi River chapel services, the study adopted a qualitative approach, using a descriptive format and the case study method. Participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions were employed to obtain data from students and staff at Athi River campus. The findings revealed that there existed barriers emanating from the communication source (the facilitators), channel (chapel music), and external sources that hindered the effectiveness of music as a channel of communication in worship services. A number of recommendations regarding the use of music as a channel of communication in chapel worship have been given. These include laying out objectives for chapel music, identification of primary and secondary audiences at chapel services, use of teaching aids in the teaching of songs, liaison between singers and instrumentalists, and the establishment of one faculty and one non-teaching staff worship team, in addition to the student worship team already in existence. This study serves as an aid to facilitators of chapel music, in preparation for and actual leading of music for worship.