During the twentieth century, the number of Christians in Africa grew from an estimated 4 million to more than 300 million. One of the forces that has propelled the church's remarkable growth is its liturgical music, which has been heavily influenced by indigenous musical traditions. This rewarding book takes readers "inside the music" for the first time. By examining the central role of indigenous music in promoting Christianity and in giving voice to local theologies, the authors seek to energize conversations between music, culture, and the church. Furthermore, they extract useful lessons for fostering faith communities around the globe.

Illustrations

Preface

Acknowledgments

1 Beginnings: Music in the African Church

Roberta R. King

2 Music Culture: Euro-American Christianity

Roberta R. King

3 Music Culture: African Life

Jean Ngoya Kidula

4 Encounters: What Happens to Music when People Meet

James R. Krabill

5 Church Music in the Life of African Christian Communities

Thomas Oduro

6 Making and Managing Music in African Christian Life

Jean Ngoya Kidula

7 Bible: Lex Canendi, Lex Credendi

Roberta R. King

8 Global Church: Lessons from Africa

Roberta R. King

Appendix: Electronic Sources

Notes

Bibliography

Glossary

List of Contributors

Index