Contemporary attitudes towards music in South African Protestant churches

Abstract

This dissertation examines the attitudes of people regarding the worship music that is being used in South African Protestant churches during the last decade of the twentieth century. The research is aimed at the man-in-the-pew to identify general trends across a variety of denominations. 4920 questionnaires were sent to 980 churches countrywide and completed anonymously. Questions are divided into three categories: personal information, church related, personal opinions. Every question has space for comments. Chapter one is a general discussion on people's opinions and attitudes and the aim and method used. Chapter two is an historical synopsis. Chapter three is an analysis of the questionnaire including hypotheses, graphs, results and comments. Chapter four, the conclusion, identifies general trends regarding formality and informality, choirs and music groups, background music, traditional versus contemporary, education and influence of leaders, the need for policies, use of media and instruments. Proposals are suggested.