African Music: A Composition and Analysis of Nyekwo Responsorial Psalm Tune for Catholic Liturgical Celebration in Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Nigeria

Abstract

This work is a vocal African music composition and analysis of a responsorial psalm tune in Efik for the Catholic liturgy in Ikot Ekpene Diocese. The Catholic Church has been using the responsorial psalm in its Liturgy for centuries. These responsorial psalm tunes are either written in Latin or in English in liturgical books such as the Daily Missal. The study is prompted by the fact that there is a dearth of a composition of the responsorial psalm tunes in Efik for use when the liturgy is celebrated. Moreover, it has been observed by these authors that there has not been an in-depth study of a compositional framework that could serve as a guide for composers or researchers on this subject. The descriptive survey and practice-based methods were used for this study. The method of data collection includes oral interviews and internet sources relating to the composition of the responsorial psalms. One psalm tune titled Nyekwo (I Will Sing) is drawn from Psalm 89:2.3-4.26 and 28. R.V.2a for Christmas and used as a sample for the study. The psalm tune is text-driven and structure-driven in nature, with the traditional musical instruments used for accompaniment. This research addresses the lack of information on this musical item of the Mass celebrated in Efik in Ikot Ekpene Diocese. Furthermore, it will provide academic material for scholars who would undertake similar research work on the subject in other regions around the world. It was recommended that a responsorial psalm tune should be simple to foster active participation in the liturgy by the choir and the congregation.