Demystifying the Compositional and Performance Elements of Nigerian Vocal Art Music

Abstract

The need to replicate Nigerian musical elements in art music composition is always emphasized in contemporary discourse of ‘Nigeria and issue of compositional identity’. But it appears that the aspect of demystifying its application concepts to up-coming composers or beginners is neglected. Thus, whether the elements are clearly understood in applied-composition sense or not is ignored. Possibly, this could be the basic impediment that limits its wide application among Nigerian vocal art music composers. Hence it is necessary and fundamental to expose, discuss and explain the workability of Nigerian compositional elements employed in vocal art music. In essence, the elements are revealed in order to guide the upcoming Nigerian composers towards adapting them in their compositions. These are demonstrated through analytical methods which are confirmed, proven and elucidated with relevant musical passages from Nigerian vocal art music scores. This paper is significant in provoking and unleashing the creative instincts of young Nigerian composers who may wish to be Nigerian in their vocal art music compositions.