CHORISTERS’ PERCEPTION, PRACTICES, AND STYLES ADOPTED IN MUSICAL KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AMONG MAINLINE AND PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigated the disparity in styles, practices, and choristers’ perception of musical knowledge transfer among mainline and Pentecostal churches in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Specifically, the work seeks to ascertain choristers’ perceptions of musical knowledge transfer and examine the disparities in practices and styles involved in the transfer of musical knowledge among Mainline and Pentecostal churches. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select a total of 367 choristers across Mainline and Pentecostal churches. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the relevant data. This was further subjected to face validity and reliability tests using the split-half method. A Cronbach Alpha value of 0.8>α≤0.7 attested to the instrument’s reliability. Frequency distribution, mean, and analysis of variance, were the inferential analytical tools used for the study. Results indicate that choristers perceived the transfer of musical knowledge as possible, provided directors are musically certified (x=4.43). Mainline 202 Choristers’ Perception, Practices, and Styles Adopted in Musical Knowledge churches had learned of hymns (x=2.89) as the most practiced area of musical learning while Pentecostals dwelt more on contemporary music learning (x=2.82). Significant differences existed in the mean ratings of the perception of choristers on music education across churches (F=7.009). Conclusively, there is a need for the development of music styles and practices suitable for effective teaching and learning of church music. It is strongly recommended that instructors, directors, and choristers be musically trained, knowledgeable, and skillful for the overall success of the transfer of musical knowledge.