X-raying the compositional elements inherent in four compositions of Samuel Nehemiah Bumneme Ojukwu through analysis

Abstract

The art of composition is an approach to creative writing which brings out a synthesis of musical ideas, motifs and sonorities to get at that which ordinarily may not be realizable. Personal life, personal friendship, the ups and downs of joy, happiness and depression, play important roles in any compositional output. Many elements come to play in a given composition which serves as a driving force to send signals in accordance with the intentions of a composer. The quintessential African harmonic, developmental and textural-structural idioms are elements of indigenous musical practices that are often evident in the Nigerian art musical creativity. However, it has been observed that the growing composers of the Nigerian art music seem to have neglected these fundamental musical values and properties that make African/Nigerian art musical compositions unique. Sir Samuel Nehemiah ‘Bumneme Ojukwu, a prolific composer has buttressed immensely on these fundamental materials/elements which make his compositions outstanding and unique. This paper attempts to dissect through analysis such fundamental compositional materials/elements evident in his compositions under the following sub-headings: a) introductory use of the xylophone; b) the solo sections; c) the use of ostinato; d) the use of tonal shift. This research seeks to bring out the beauty of African. The four selected compositions include: a) Ma Ekele (But thanks) b) Atula Egwu (Be not afraid) c) Teta (Awake) d) Nanurinu Onu (Rejoice in the Lord alway).