The retrogression of the hymnal music culture in Ugandan traditional churches. a case study of Anglican church music in Namirembe Diocese

Abstract

This study addressed the retrogression of the hymnal music culture in Uganda's traditional churches, using Anglican church music in Namirembe Diocese as a case study. The study was conducted to examine the retrogression of hymnal music in Namirembe Diocese by tracing its historical development from its establishment and growth to its present state, while seeking to understand the major factors responsible for its decline. Particular attention was given to the changing nature of Anglican worship and the increasing adoption of a permissive Pentecostal approach, including the incorporation of Pentecostal musical practices into Anglican worship. The study further examined the position of music education within Uganda's national education system, the musical background of the clergy, changes in congregational musical participation, technological developments, socioeconomic conditions, and other factors that have influenced the transmission and preservation of hymnal music. The study employed a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through interviews, document analysis, and observation, drawing information from relevant church leaders, clergy, musicians, choristers, congregants, and other participants involved in the practice of hymnal music. The data was analysed thematically to identify recurring patterns and relationships among the factors contributing to the retrogression of hymnal music in the Diocese. The findings revealed that the retrogression of hymnal music is not attributable to a single factor but results from the interaction of several ecclesiastical, educational, social, technological, and cultural factors. The study found that the increasing adoption of a permissive Pentecostal approach has significantly influenced Anglican worship structures and musical practices, contributing to the reduced prominence of the traditional hymnal repertoire. The incorporation of praise-and-worship practices, constantly changing contemporary repertoires, spontaneous singing, amplified instrumentation, and greater emphasis on emotional and bodily expression has created a worship environment in which the systematic teaching, rehearsal, and preservation of traditional hymns receive comparatively less attention. The study also established that limited worship time, inadequate musical formation of clergy and church musicians, weaknesses in the position and support of music education within the national curriculum, socioeconomic limitations, and technological changes have further contributed to the weakening of the hymnal music tradition. The study concludes that the retrogression of hymnal music in Namirembe Diocese reflects a broader transformation in the way Anglican worship is understood, organized, taught, and musically expressed. While contemporary musical approaches have increased accessibility and participation among some congregants, their unbalanced incorporation may weaken the continuity of the Anglican hymnal heritage when systematic musical formation and deliberate preservation are neglected. The study therefore recommends strengthened musical literacy and training for clergy during seminary formation, the establishment of regular musical retreats and training programmes for church choristers, a thoughtful restructuring or consolidation of Anglican liturgical practice to respond to changing generational demands while preserving its musical heritage, and greater attention by the government and relevant educational authorities to the stability and development of music education within Uganda's education system.