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Prof. Mellitus Nyongesa WANYAMA

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Staff Information
PERSONAL DETAILS
Designation
Professor, Ethnomusicology and Musicology
Department
Office of the Dean, School of Music and Media
SUMMARY

Mellitus Nyongesa Wanyama is a man of many talents, a full Professor of Music specialising in African Ethnomusicology and African Musicology at Kabarak University, Nakuru, Kenya. He serves as the Founding Dean of the School of Music and Media since August 2015. His exceptional skills in music and his unwavering commitment to education, research, and cultural preservation have earned him accolades and recognition both locally and internationally.

Professor Wanyama is a versatile musician, composer, arranger, choral trainer, choreographer, and adjudicator of music and dance. He has dedicated his life to preserving African music and promoting it globally. For over ten years, he taught Music and Dance courses at Moi University, where he was also the Founder of Music Studies. Before moving to Kabarak University, he served as the Chairman of the Panel that drafted Music courses for the School of Music and Media.

His passion for research and documentation led him to establish Utafiti Foundation Publishers, a Research and Documentation Centre in Eldoret, Kenya. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the centre and serves as its Chief Editor. The foundation provides a platform for researchers and scholars to document and preserve African music, art, and culture.

Professor Wanyama has authored several books, book chapters, and peer-reviewed and refereed journal articles on African music and culture. He has published six books, 18 book chapters, and 50 journal articles. His works have made a significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of African music.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to education, research, culture, and musical arts education in Kenya, Africa, and beyond, Professor Wanyama was awarded the Head of State Commendation (HSC) award in December 2013 by the Fourth President of Kenya, Hon. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, at State House Nairobi. The award was a testament to his commitment to education and research and his relentless efforts to promote and preserve African music and culture.

Professor Wanyama's commitment to preserving and promoting African music has earned him international recognition. During the 2019 Pan African Society for Musical Arts Education (PASMAE) conference in Victoria, Seychelles, he was elected the President of the Pan African Society for Musical Arts Education (PASMAE) from 2019 to 2021. The election was a testament to his leadership skills and dedication to promoting African music and culture.

Professor Wanyama's expertise in music has not gone unnoticed. He holds a Certificate in Education from Mosoriot Teachers College, a Diploma in Education (First Class) from Kisii College, a BA and MPhil from Moi University, and a PhD in Ethnomusicology from the University of Pretoria, South Africa. He has supervised and examined over 30 post-graduate dissertations and is an external examiner at several universities in Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Uganda.

Professor Wanyama has contributed to the growth of music education and research in Africa as an external examiner. He has shared his expertise with students and scholars from different parts of Africa, helping them to achieve their academic goals and promoting the growth of music education in the region.

Professor Wanyama's contribution to African music education and research growth cannot be overstated. His exceptional music skills, dedication to education and research, and commitment to preserving African music and culture have made him a role model to many young musicians and scholars in Africa and beyond. His contributions to music education in Africa have been significant, and his impact can be felt beyond the academic community. He has inspired and mentored numerous scholars, and his passion for African music has led him to create a lasting impact on his students and the communities he serves. He is a true leader in the African music industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

IMPORTANT LINKS
  1. ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mellitus-Wanyama-2 
  2. Orcid Account: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3606-3201  
  3. Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&authuser=2&user=PD2cF2MAAAAJ 
  4. ResearchID: https://researchid.co/rid80736 
  5. Academia.edu: https://kabarak.academia.edu/MellitusWanyama 
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS

2004-2006: UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA (SOUTH AFRICA)

Doctor of Music (DMUS) [With Academic honorary colours] - Research Topic: Form and Content of African Music.

2002-2003: MOI UNIVERSITY

Master of Philosophy: Linguistics and Literature. Research Topic: Aesthetics in African Music

1998-2001: MOI UNIVERSITY

BA Languages and literary studies: Attained 2nd Class Honours (Upper Division)

1999-2000: MANCHESTER (England)

Business Training Limited: Diploma in Business English with Distinction

1990-1992: KISII COLLEGE

Diploma in Music Education (First Class)

1987-1989: MOSORIOT TEACHERS COLLEGE

Certificate in Primary School Education with Distinction

FIELDS OF SPECIALIZATION

Research and leadership in creative and performing arts with emphasis on Music (Musicology and Ethnomusicology, Dance and Music Education), Literary Studies, Development Studies and Cultural/Social/Behavioural Sciences.

WORK EXPERIENCE

June 2018 to Date: Professor of Music (Ethnomusicology and Musicology); and Founding Dean—Kabarak University, School of Music and   Performing Arts

October 2017 to June 2018: Associate Professor and Founding Dean—Kabarak University, School of Music and   Performing Arts

August 2015 to October 2017: Associate Professor and Founding Dean—Kabarak University, School of Music and   Performing Arts (On Sabbatical leave)

February 2013 to October 2017: Associate Professor of Musicology—Moi University, Department of Literature, Theatre and Film Studies

February 2009 to 2013: Senior Lecturer (Music and Dance)—Moi University Department of Literature, Theatre and Film Studies.

2007 – 2009: Part-time Music and Dance Lecturer—University of Eastern Africa, Baraton

2007 – 2010: Part-time Music and Dance Lecturer—Kabarak University

February 2006 to February 2009: Lecturer (Music and Dance)—Moi University, Department of Literature, Theatre and Film Studies

January 2003 to January 2006: Part-time Lecturer (Music and Dance)—Moi University, Department of Literature, Theatre and Film Studies

October 1998 to 2018: Director of Music and Dance—Moi University

 

EXTERNAL EXAMINATION

2015 to date: University of Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA

2017 to 2020: Kyambogo University, UGANDA

2017 to date: Maseno University, KENYA

2022 (May) to date: Ibadan University, NIGERIA

2022 to date: University of Venda, SOUTH AFRICA

2022 to date: Midland State University, ZIMBABWE

2022 to date: University of Zimbabwe, ZIMBABWE

2022 to date: Great University of Zimbabwe, ZIMBABWE

2024 to date: Kenyatta University, KENYA

 

LIST OF PUBLICATIONS

BOOKS                                                                                                                         

  1. Wanyama M. N. and Madimabe, G. M. (Eds.). (2024). African Musicology: Zimbabwean Past, Present and Future. Utafiti Foundation. ISBN: 978-9966-26-332-2.
  2. Wanyama M. N.  (2018). Anthology of Music Compositions and Arrangements for Schools, Colleges and Universities (VOL. 3). Eldoret: Utafiti Foundation. ISBN: 978-9966-26-129-8.
  3. Wanyama M. N.  (2018). Anthology of Music Compositions and Arrangements for Schools, Colleges and Universities (VOL. 2). Eldoret: Utafiti Foundation.  ISBN: 978-9966-26-128-1.
  4. Wanyama M. N.  (2018). Anthology of Music Compositions and Arrangements for Schools, Colleges and Universities (Vol. 1). Eldoret: Utafiti Foundation. ISBN: 978-9966-26-127-4.
  5. Wanyama, M. N., Makobi, T., Mwakiridia, M. & Korir, J. (2015). Alpha Diploma PGDE: Music, Movement and Dance Activities. Nairobi: Kenya Literature Bureau. ISBN978996610188-2.
  6. Serem, D. K., Boit J. M. & Wanyama, M. N. (2013). Understanding Research: A Simplified Form. Eldoret: Utafiti Foundation. ISBN: 978-9966-26-011-6.
  7. Wanyama, M. N.  (2009). Form and Content of African Music: A Case Study of Bukusu Circumcision Music. Saarbruecken. Germany.VDM Verlag Dr. Müller. ISBN: 10: 3639117492.

BOOK CHAPTERS (A)

  1. Ndonye, M., Wanyama, M. (2023). Kenyan Media Industry: Digitize or Disappear. In: Akpan, U.S. (eds) African Media Space and Globalization. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-35060-32
  2. Wanyama, M.N. (2015). The Meaning and Significance of Research in the Performing Arts: The African Context. In Okong’o, J. B., Mbogo, F. and Waliaula, S. (Eds.). In Theatre Arts Education: Approaches in Kenya. Nairobi: The Jomo Kenyatta Foundation. pp. 205 -215.
  3. Masasabi, A., & Wanyama, M. N. (2014). Arrangement and Composition of     African Melodies: A Study of Litungu Music of the Bukusu Community. In Singing A Nation: 50 Years of Music in Kenya. In Akuno, E. A. (Ed.). Emak Music Services. pp. 39 - 62. ISBN: 9966 -7028-5-7.
  4. Wanyama, M. N., & Okong’o, J. B. (2011). Confronting AIDS through Popular Music Cultures   in Kenya: A Study of Princes Jully’s “Dunia Mbaya,” Jack Nyadundo’s “Ukimwi” and Oduor Odhialo’s “Nyakomollo.” In The Culture of AIDS in Africa: Hope and Healing Through Music and the Arts.  Barz, G. and Cohen, J. (eds.). Oxford University Press. pp. 268 – 282.  ISBN: 9780-0-19-974448-0.
  5. Wanyama, M. N. (2011). The Impact of Popular Music Messages and Performance on HIV/AIDS Control among the Youth in Kenya. In Interpreting and Appropriating Choral Music: Echoes of African Scholars. Wanyama, M. N. and Shitandi, W. O. (eds.). Saarbruecken, Germany. VDM Verlag Dr. Müller. pp.  101 – 115. ISBN: 978-3-639-36690-7.
  6. Wanyama, M. N. (2011). Dance as a Means of Cultural Identity: A Case of the    Bukusu Kamabeka Dance.  In Mekism and Knowledge Sharing of the Musical Arts of Africa: A book of General Reading in Honour of Professor Meki Nzewi. Onyiuke Y. S., Idamoyibo, I. O. and Agu, D.C.C. (Eds.). Nimo.  Anambra State, Nigeria: Rex Charles & Patrick Ltd. pp. 165 – 170. ISBN: 978-978-50539-4-3.
  7. Wanyama, M. N., & Omolo-Ongati, R. A. (2010). A Biography of Thomas Wasonga Ogola (1954 - ) In Biographies of Kenyan Musicians, Volume 1. pp. 175 – 197. A publication of Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC), Nairobi: Government Printer.  ISBN 978-9966-21-025-8.
  8. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). A Biography of Habel Kifoto (1949 -) In Biographies of     Kenyan Musicians, Volume 1. pp. 89 – 101. A publication of the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC), Nairobi: Government Printer.   ISBN 978-9966-21-025-8.
  9. Wanyama, M. N., Atoh, F.O., Kemoli, A. M., Ngala, F.B.J.A., & Odwar, H. A. (2010). Moi and Music Performance in Public and Private Universities: The Case of Nairobi, Moi, Egerton, Kabarak, Kenyatta and Maseno Universities, Kenya. In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel  T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 53-70. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  10. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Traditional African Music Instruments and Regional Cultural Festivals in Kenya. In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 173 – 177. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  11. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Kenya Music Festival: Growth and Impact on Music Development             in Kenya during the Nyayo Era. In Music in Kenya: Development, Management,             Composition and Performance Music in Kenya - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 46 - 52. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  12. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). The Growth of Gospel Music in Kenya during the Nyayo Era. In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University.  pp. 29 – 36. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  13. Wanyama M. N. (2006) ‘The Philosophy of art reflected in African Music: A comparative analysis of Western and African Aesthetic Perspectives.’ In Centering on African Practice in Musical Arts Education. Peer Reviewed Proceedings of 2005 PASMAE Conference at Maputo, Mozambique, 5-6 July 2005.  Stellenbosch: African Minds – Compress. Edited by Minette Mans. pp. 17 – 30. ISBN: 1-920051-49-X.
  14. Wanyama, M. N. (2005). ‘How not to criticize, Analyze and Appreciate African Music: A case of Bukusu Music.’ In Refocusing Indigenous Music in Music Education. Proceedings of The East African Symposium on Music Education. Held at Kenyatta University-Kenya. ISBN: 9966-7028-2-2. pp. 35-39.
  15. Wanyama, M. N. & Okong’o, J. B. (2005). ‘Linking Music Making to Musical Arts   Education in Africa: A Case Study of Zairean Music.’ In Emerging solutions for Musical arts Education in Africa. Proceedings of 2003 PASMAE conference at Kisumu- Kenya. Edited by Anri Herbst. pp. 327 – 337. ISBN: 1-920051-11-2.

BOOK CHAPTERS (B) - Encyclopaedia Entries

  1. Wanyama, M. N. (2019). “Bango” (pp.60-61). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.
  2. Wanyama, M. N. (2019). “Isukuti” (pp.304-307). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). In: The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the    World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.
  3. Wanyama, M. N. (2019). “Litungu” (pp.362-365). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). In: The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.
  4. Wanyama, M. N. (2019). “Mwomboko” (pp.444-447). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). In: The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.
  5. Wanyama, M. N. (2019) “Omutibo” (pp. 460-462). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). In: The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.
  6. Wanyama, M. N. (2019). “Rumba” (pp.490-499). In Heidi F., Horn, D., Shepherd J. & Kielich, G. (2019). In: The Encyclopaedia of Popular Music of the    World (EPMOW). Bloomsbury Publishing.

JOURNAL ARTICLES

  1. Wanyama, M. N., & Shitandi, W. O. (2023) Composition of Anthems: Lessons from Kabarak University Anthem Creation and Experience. Musicology Online, 12(1), 27-46. https://doi.org/10.58721/amo.v12i1.225
  2. Kirui, A. K. Wanyama, M. N., & Shitandi, W. O.  (2022). Disruptive innovation: exploring the impact of skiza tunes on the Kenyan music industry. Journal of music and creative arts, 1(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.51317/jmca.v1i1.297
  3. Mbogo, R. W., & Wanyama, M. N. (2018). Enhancing Relevance in Education through a Contextually Designed Curriculum. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 5(11), 621-630.
  4. Muhoro, P.M., & Wanyama, M. N. (2017). Psycho-Therapeutic Concerns in Performance Arts and Community Development in Africa. Kabarak Journal of Research & Innovation, 5(1). pp. 129-134.  ISSN: N 2305-784X
  5. Monte, E. P., Wanyama M. N., & Kiguru, D. W. (2016). Challenges and Innovations in Africanising Music in the Classroom: A Kenyan Experience. In Kabarak Journal of Research & Innovation. 4(2). pp. 93-101. ISSN: N 2305-784X
  6. Wahome, M., Egesa, O., & Wanyama, M. N. (2015) Entrenching Quality Assurance Culture Through Graduate Tracer Studies in East Africa: Lessons Learnt, Challenges and Prospects from MUtrace. International Journal of Education Learning and Development 3(2),15-24. ISSN 2054-6297 (Print), ISSN 2054-6300 (Online).
  7. Shitandi, W.  & Wanyama, M. N. (2015) The Challenges of Application of African Traditional dance for Contemporary Educational Relevance. In Pan-African Journal of Musical Arts Education (JMAE), 1(1). ISSN 2201-6333.
  8. Shitandi, W.O., Makobi, S., & Wanyama, M. N. (2014) Taifa Muziki (TMzi): Changing Choral Soundscape in Kenya through Engaged Musicianship. Kenya Journal of Musical Arts (KAMAE), 2. ISSN: 2306-0549.
  9. Wanyama M., & Egesah O. B. (2015) Ethnography and Ethno-music of Babukusu Traditional Male Circumcision; Messaging, Symbolism and Rationale. In Sociology and Anthropology 3(1): 6-18, 2015. Horizon Publishing Corporation.
  10. Egesah O. B., Wanyama M., & V. Muange (2014). The Relevance of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Modern Times: Evidence from Babukusu Male Circumcision. In Sociology and Anthropology 2(7): 273-283. Horizon Publishing Corporation.
  11. Misaro, J., Wanyama, M.N., Jonyo, F., Birech, J. & Kiboro, C.N. (2014). Collateral Strategies for Poverty Reduction in Kenya: Prospects and Challenges. In Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development, 5(12).
  12. Sinyei, C. J. M., & Wanyama M. N. (2013). Competencies of Early Childhood Education Teachers to Implement the Music and Movement Curriculum in Eldoret Municipality, Kenya. Journal of Kenya Association of Music and Arts Education (KAMAE). ISSN:2306-0549.  
  13. Wanyama, M. N.  (2012). Researching on Kenyan Traditional Music and DanceToday: Methodology and Ethical Issues Revisited, Muziki Journal of Music Research in Africa, 9(2), 1-8. ISSN: 1812-5980 (Print) 1753-593x (Online).
  14. Wanyama, M. N., & Shitubi, I. W. (2012).  Emergent Issues Regarding ‘African Traditional Dance’ and ‘African Contemporary and Dance’: A Discourse on the Current Theory and Practice of ‘African Dance’ Criticism and Choreography. In International Journal of Current Research, 4(3), 225 – 228. ISSN: 0975-833X.
  15. Shitubi, I. W. & Wanyama, M. N. (2012) Music, Movement and Drama in Early Childhood Education: An Assessment of the Moi University Case. In International Journal of Current Research, 4(3), 225 – 228. ISSN: 0975-833X.
  16. Sinyei, C. J. M., & Wanyama M. N. (2012). An Assessment of the Availability of Resources to Facilitate Early Childhood Music and Movement Curriculum Implementation in Eldoret Municipality, Kenya. Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research and Policy Studies (JETERAPS). ISSN: 2141-6990.
  17. Sinyei, C. J. M., & Wanyama M. N. (2012). Provision of In-Service Training to Early Childhood Music and Movement Curriculum Teachers in Eldoret Municipality, Kenya. Research Journal in Organizational Psychology and Educational Studies (RJOPES). ISSN:  2276-8475. 
  18. Sinyei, C. J. M. & Wanyama M. N. (2012). Dealing with the Prevailing Attitudes and Challenges for Effective Implementation of Early Childhood Music and Movement Curriculum in Eldoret Municipality, Kenya. Research Journal in Organizational   Psychology and Educational Studies (RJOPES). ISSN: 2276-8475.
  19. Wanyama, M. N. (2007) ‘Policy and Implementation: A Case of Music Copyright Laws in Kenya.’ In the Journal of Music Research in Africa – MUZIKI (formally known as Ars Nova) 27 – 47. ISSN 1812-5980.
  20. Wanyama, M. N. (2006). Music education: an unexploited goldmine in Kenya. International Journal of Community Music, 4, 10-20. Proceedings of Music and Lifelong Learning Symposium of April 14-16, 2005: University of Wisconsin-Madison, U.S.A. Edited by Chelcy Boules and Debbie Rohwer. ISSN: 1550-7327.

PUBLISHED MUSIC WORKS

  1. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Mimi ni Mzalendo (Composed in 1999). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 290 -299.  ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  2. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Mashujaa (Composed in 2000). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru:  Kabarak University. pp. 405 – 410.  ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  3. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Uzalendo (Composed in 1996). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 541 – 550. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  4. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Yelele (Composed in 2000) In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance- A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 581 – 585.   ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  5. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Twawapongeza Wakulima Wote (Composed in 2000). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 673 – 678. ISBN 978-9966-023-    00-1.   
  6. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Wakulima Wote (Composed in 1999). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 692 – 698.  ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  7. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Twasambaza Habari (Composed in 1999). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 804 – 809. ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  8. Wanyama, M. N. (2010). Furaha Tele Tele (Composed in 2010). In Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi.Nakuru: Kabarak University. pp. 853 – 859.  ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.  
CONFERENCES & INVITED PRESENTATIONS

5th to 9th July 2021: PASMAE Conference in Lusaka, Zambia.

29th June to 5nd July 2019: PASMAE Conference in Victoria, Seychelles.

11th to 12th October, 2018: Kabarak University 8th International Conference from at Kabarak, Nakuru, Kenya.

5th to 6th October 2017: Kabarak University 7th International Conference from at Kabarak, Nakuru, Kenya.

29th June to 2nd July 2017: PASMAE Conference in Mbabane, Swaziland.

13th to 15th July 2016: Kabarak University 6th International Conference from at Kabarak, Nakuru, Kenya.

July 2015: Kabarak University 5th International Conference at Kabarak, Nakuru, Kenya.

29th July to1st August 2013: PASMAE Conference in Kampala, Uganda.

2009: Music and Lifelong Learning Symposium 2009: Hanze University of Applied    Sciences, Groningen Prince Claus Conservatoire, The Netherlands.

22nd to 27th July 2007: PASMAE Conference in Lilongwe, Malawi.

14th to 16th April, 2005: Music and Lifelong Learning Symposium, University of Wisconsin-Madison, U.S.A.

5th to 11th July 2003: PASMAE Conference in Kisumu, Kenya.

HONORS, PRIZE AND AWARDS

FUNDING

  1. August 2017: Initiated a collaboration between Sound Creations Company in Nairobi and Kabarak University School of Music and Performing Arts to mount and teach a Sound Engineering holiday short course annually during the April, August, and December holidays. The programme earns Kabarak University a substantial amount of income per session.

AWARDS

  1. December 2013: Awarded Head of State Commendation (HSC) award, by H.E. The Fourth President of Kenya, Hon. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, at State House Nairobi, for exemplary service in Education, Research, Culture and Musical Arts Education in Kenya, Africa and beyond.
  2. August 2001:  Presidential Music Award and Certificate of exemplary performance in music and promotion of music standards in Kenya by the third   President of Kenya: President Daniel T. Moi at State House Nairobi.
  3. 25th April 2006: Awarded Academic Honorary Colors for Exemplary Performance in My Doctoral Studies at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHED PROJECTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

  1. 2024 17th to 23rd February: Visited the University of Ibaban, Nigeria, for further discussions in respect of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) already signed between the University of Ibadan and Kabarak University, Kenya. I attended and contributed to the to the PhD defence seminar in the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan.
  2. 2019: Elected the 8th President of the Pan African Society for Musical Arts Education (PASMAE) for a period of two years (2019–2021).
  3. 2019: Co-ordination of the Kabarak University School of Music and Performing curriculum review in collaboration with Prof. Wendy Ralph, a senior Fulbright Scholar from Berklee College of Music, Boston, USA.
  4. 2017: Co-ordination of the Kabarak University Anthem Project.
  5. 2015 November: Through Utafiti Foundation, in collaboration with Moi University, organized and coordinated the Sixth International Utafiti Foundation Music Workshop in Eldoret, Kenya.
  6. 2014 November: Through Utafiti Foundation, in collaboration with Moi University, we organized and coordinated the Fifth International Utafiti Foundation Music Workshop in Eldoret, Kenya.
  7. 2014 March to 2015 June: Appointed by H. E. Daniel Arap Moi (the Chancellor of Kabarak University) as Chair of the Panel of Music Specialists Designing Curriculum for Kabarak University School of Music and Performing Arts.
  8. 2013 November: Through Utafiti Foundation, in collaboration with Moi University, we organized and coordinated The Fourth International Utafiti Foundation Music Workshop in Eldoret, Kenya.
  9. 2013 June: coordinated a Fulbright scholarship program in which a visiting Fulbright scholar, Dr. Diana Nixon, from Indiana University, donated 20 Music textbooks to Moi University.
  10. 2013 March: Sourced, received and handed over a donation of 50 music textbooks from Syracuse Greater School of Music to Moi University. The books were donated by Jean Macleod – The Founder of the school.
  11. 2012 November: Through Utafiti Foundation, in collaboration with Moi University, we organized and coordinated the Third International Utafiti Foundation Music Workshop in Eldoret, Kenya.
  12. 2012 August: Initiated Collaboration between Moi University, School of Arts; Embakasi Administration Police Training College; Indiana University School of Music; and Utafiti Foundation Research and Documentation Centre with a purpose of enhancing musical arts education training and exchange programs between Indiana University and Moi University. As a result, a contingent of senior officers from Embakasi Police Training College led by Senior Superintendent Charles Njoka travelled to Indiana on 20th September, 2012 to sign a memorandum of understanding.
  13. 2012 April to August: Co-ordinated and taught the first Certificate and Diploma in Music Students mainly from Embakasi Administration Police Training College in Nairobi. The students graduated in December, 2012.
  14. 2011, Between 27st November and 3rd December: Through Utafiti Foundation, in collaboration with Moi University, organized and co-ordinated The Second International Choral Music Workshop with the theme:  Nurturing Creative Potential in Choral and Instrumental Music for Service to Humanity. Forty members of the Administration Police (Kenya) attended.  Ten of them joined Moi University in March 2012 to take Music courses at certificate, Diploma and Degree levels. 
  15. 2011: Lead Editor of a Kabarak University Book Project - Music in Kenya: Development, Management, Composition and Performance - A Tribute to Daniel T. Arap Moi. Nakuru: Kabarak University.  ISBN 978-9966-023-00-1.
  16. 2010, Between 21st and 28th November: Through Utafiti Foundation organized and co-ordinated The First International Choral Music Workshop with the theme: Interpreting and Appropriating Choral Music: Echoes of African Scholars. Eminent music scholars, namely: Professor Jean Kidula and Professor Mitos Andaya – all from University of Georgia at Athens, USA. During the workshop, Moi University Music courses ranging from Certificate, diploma, to Degree levels were launched. 
  17. 2010, 5 to 13 November: Facilitated and organised the Launch of Africa Now! A Festival of Indigenous Theater and Performing Arts in Africa. During the Launch, Dr. Gordon Bronitsky of Bronitsky and Associates was the Fulbright Scholar Guest speaker. The US Embassy and the US Government sponsored him.
  18. 2010, January: Founded Utafiti Foundation: Research and Documentation Center – A voluntary and charitable organization that seeks opportunities to serve art-based students, scholars, researchers, writers and performing artists through innovative solutions. Utafiti Foundation is officially registered in Kenya under Section 10 of the Societies Act: Registration number – 34182. 
  19. 2010: Designed, co-ordinated and launched the Moi University music curriculum at certificate, diploma, and Degree levels.
  20. 2010: Produced a musical video Production – Mwanasiasa (The Politician) – that highlights the double-speak and disconnect between what the politicians in Kenya say and what             they do. It was a fourth-year Musical Theater Project that I supervised, recorded and performed with my student – James Macharia.
  21. 2009, September: Edited and Wrote Foreword to RISEN: From Jamestown to the White House by Anthony M. McDonald Sr. Published by A S & J Publishing Group, St Louise, MO, USA in 2009. Published on 18th January, 2010. ISBN 978-0-615-34513-0.
  22. 2009, 3 to 4 August: Facilitated a Music Education Workshop for Teachers and Pupils at Kamanzi, Kenya in Collaboration with Marion Bregande (USA) and Jean MacLeod (USA).
  23. 2008, 7th December: Presented the Moi University choir for a joint Christmas carol music performance with Kabarak University, Nakuru, Kenya.
  24. 2008 13th to 17th November: Presented the Moi University choir for a joint Christmas carol music performance with Makerere University at Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
  25. 2006 – 2007: Video production: worked on a video production, ending up with the first Moi University DVD featuring the Moi University Anthem. The DVD, which features sceneries in most Moi University campuses, is currently deposited in the archival section in the Margret Thatcher Library at Moi University, main campus.
  26. 2007: Performed the Moi University Anthem that I composed in 2005. The Anthem was approved by the then Moi University Chancellor, Professor Bethwell, A. Ogot in 2006 after being presented to the Council and Senate. In 2007, it was written in staff notation and recorded in audio and video form.
  27. 2007: Participation in “Lifelong learning and employability” seminar in Groningen, in the Netherlands; at Prince Claus Conservatoire of Music. Proceedings were published on a DVD Film Show: “Dialogue in Music.”
  28. 2006: Informant for “The Protection and Promotion of Musical Diversity.” A study carried out for UNESCO by the International Council. Principal Investigator – Richard Letts.
POSTGRADUATE SUPERVISION
Masters Level:
  1. MAELO MICHAEL WANYONYI (SSC/PGL/04/05): Style and Meaning in Funeral Oratory: The Case of Bukusu Khuswala Kumuse.
  2. JANE SINYEI MWONGA (EDU/PGC/08/04): Implementation of the 8:4:4 Secondary School Music Curriculum in Kenya: A Survey of Selected Schools in Rift Valley Province.
  3. FREDRICK MONANTI NYAMBANE: The Gusii Worldview: Analysis of Discourses from Selected Song Texts.
  4. KIPYEGON AMON KIRUI (GMMC/M/2132/09/16): The Impact of the Digitalization of the Music Industry on the Socio-Economic Status of Gospel Artists in Kenya. 
  5. ERIC NDEGE KIDIAVAI (GMC/M/0957/08/16): Misrepresentation of Luhya Musical Expressions in Kenya Music Festivals Folksong Arrangements: An Analysis of Selected Choral Art Music (On-going).

THESIS EXAMINATION

  1. NJUGUNA AGNES MUTHONI (SSC/PGK/29/2005) - Usemezano Katika Grafiti: Mfano wa Chuo Kikuu cha Moi.
  2. MOCHO, S. JOY (EDU/PGC/110/2002) - Syntactic Errors Exhibited by Secondary School Learners of Kiswahili: A Study of Idakho First Language Speakers.
  3. OPANDE NILSON ISAAC (SSC/PGK/08/05) - Uchanganuzi wa Viimarishi na Hali Pragmatiki Katika Mofosintaksia ya Kigusii.
  4. ROTICH ALEXANDER KIPKEMBOI (SSC/PGK/ 05/01) - Nyimbo za Watoto wa Shule za Chekechea na za Msingi Katika Manispaa ya Bomet: Uchunguzi wa Kiuamilifu.
  5. KIPNG’ETICH KIRUI (EDU/PGCM/06) - The Implementation of the Physical Education Curriculum in Secondary Schools: A Case of Bomet District, Rift Valley Province, Kenya.
  6. ANGELA SAWE (SASS/PGK/034/05) - Uamilifu wa Lugha Katika Vita Dhidi ya Ukimwi.
  7. MUNYEKENYE MOSES MUHOHO (SASS/PGK/05/08) - Uchunguzi wa Diskosi ya Kisiasa Nchini Kenya: 2008 - 2009.
  8. KHUMBO NEWA (HRD/PGC/06/12 MSC) - Stakeholders Perceptions on Efficacy of Public Relations Officers in Government Ministries: A Multiple Case Study of Selected Government Ministries in Malawi.
  9. RASALANAVHO K. L.  (04383257University of Pretoria) - Exploring the Original Creative Arts Production of Grade 2 and 3 Learners in Contemporary Cultural Practices.
  10. HELLEN NAFULA MALILO (EDU/PGCM/046/08) - Challenge of Teaching the Expanded Kiswahili Syllabus in Secondary Schools: A Study of Selected Secondary Schools in Trans-Nzoia West District, Kenya.
PhD Level:
  1. JANE SINYEI MWONGA (EDU/D.Phil.CM/09/09): The Place of Music in Early Childhood Education in Kenya:  Theory, Policy, and Practice.
  2. RICHARD MAITE SIGILAI (EDU/DPhil.A/1024/11): Influence of Principal Leadership on School Climate in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya.
  3. ISAAC WASWA SHITUBI (EDU/DPHIL/CM/O2/12): Influence of Instructional Methods on Practical Musicianship: A Study of Secondary Schools in Bungoma County.
  4. JOYCE MUDENGANI MOCHERE (GDM/M/1654/09/16): Kenyan Music Curriculum and Careers in the 21st Century: A Study of Selected Secondary Schools in Nakuru and Nairobi Counties.

THESIS EXAMINATION

 

  1. TOM MICHAEL MBOYA (SASS/DPHIL/14/06 - Moi University, Kenya) - Romancing the Troubled Tribe: Okatch Biggy and the Luo of the 1990s.
  2. WILFRED N. MARUBE (HRD/DPHIL/015/10 - Moi University, Kenya) - Communication Initiatives Used for Water and Sanitation Programmes in Informal Settlements in Nairobi County, Kenya.
  3. MUGANDANI V.  (12307468 - University of Pretoria, South Africa) - Jangwa Music and Musical Performance by the Manyika People of Zimbabwe.
  4. MAGDALENA PETRONELLA JANSEN VAN RENSBURG (12307468 - University of Pretoria, South Africa) - Investigating the Music Literacy Conundrum in a South African Secondary School.
  5. MARIO MAXWELL MÜLLER (19012037 - University of Venda, South Africa) - The Correlation between Music Aptitude and Mathematical Achievements of Students - a case Study of six individual students from a High School in Johannesburg, South Africa.
  6. PHINEAS MAGWATI - (M070730 - Great Zimbabwe University) - Economic Sustainability Through Indigenous Heritage: A Karanga Cultural Musical Arts Community Project.
  7. GERHARDUS CORNELIUS POTGIETER (u13379543, University of Pretoria, South Africa) - Exploring breathwork paradigms of South African singing education lecturers.

 

 

MEMBERSHIP / ASSOCIATION

 October 2011 to date:  Member, Society for Ethnomusicology (USA). REG. NO: 2012- 1037

2005 to date:  Member, Kenya Oral Literature Association (KOLA).

May 2014 to date: Member, of International Society of Music and Medicine.

2013 to date: Member, of International Society of Music Education (ISME).

July 2003 to date: Member, of the Pan-African Society of Music Educators (PASMAE).

June 2017 to date:  Member, International Council for Traditional Music (ICTM).

October 2015: Appointed to the Kenyan Selection Panel of DAAD Annual Scholarships for PhD studies in Germany.

April 2006 to date: Representative for the New York-based International Repertory of Music Literature (RILM): East Africa Chapter.

July 2017 to July 2019: President-Elect, Pan-African Society of Music Educators (PASMAE)

November 2017 to date: Member of St. Monica Catholic Church – Section 58 Parish.

July 2019 to July 2021: President, Pan-African Society of Music Educators (PASMAE).

 

EDITORIAL PANEL MEMBERSHIP

August 2016 to date:  Editor in Chief, Journal of African Musicology Online (AMO). ISSN 1994 -7712.

2016 to date: Member, Science Publishing Group.

2014 to date: Editorial Board Member, Pan African Society of Musical Arts Education (JMAE). ISSN 2309 – 9240.

2013 to date: Editorial Board Member, African Journal of Education, Science and Technology (AJEST). ISSN 2312-6655.

January, 2010 to date – Chief Editor, Founder and Executive Director of Utafiti Foundation (UF): Research and Documentation Center (www.utafitifoundation.com)  – A voluntary and charitable organization whose main objective is to seek opportunities to serve academic writers, researchers, writers and performing artistes training and publishing.

January 2010 to date – Consultant and author, Kenya Literature Bureau (KLB).

June 2021 to date - Editor in Chief – The University Journal – Journal of Doctoral Association of East Africa (DAEA).

2018 to 2022 – Editor in Chief – Kabarak Journal of Research and Innovation (KJRI).

Journal Articles Review

2016 to date – Reviewer: International Journal of Academic Studies (IJAS).

Our Moral Code

As members of Kabarak University family, we purpose at all times and in all places, to set apart in one’s heart, Jesus as Lord. (1 Peter 3:15)