Composition of Anthems: Lessons from Kabarak University Anthem Creation and Experience

Abstract

Anthems play a major role in upholding the motto, mission, and vision of institutions, organisations, and countries all over the world pride in their national anthems. Principles and conscious or unconscious conventions are observed in the creation and interpretation processes of the performance of anthems across many cultures. Therefore, with time, anthems have 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 composing them. This study set out to illuminate historical contexts, philosophies and ideologies that informed the creation of the Kabarak University (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. The authors analyse compositional techniques and textual organisation to establish various musical intersections crucial in shaping the nature, form, style, and textual themes of KABU-anthem. The article discusses the processes of approvals, rehearsals, awareness, commissioning and premiere performances of the KABU anthem; and, finally assesses the level of perception and reception of the KABU anthem by the community of KABU. Besides drawing on crucial information from authors' experiences as composers and musical arts education practitioners, the discussions in the paper were guided by thoughts from related literature and Google survey structured interviews. The paper aims to provoke further discourse and interest in the music composition and songwriting creative processes.