Let a Woman Conduct: Gender Dynamics in Church Choral Ministries within the Baptist Churches of Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The paper addresses women's participation in church choral ministries, focusing on women as conductors. Despite the growing recognition of women leaders, women's involvement in music ministries is often challenged by gender- and tradition-based barriers. The study examines how women overcome these barriers, shape worship styles, and enrich the church's spiritual and musical life. This study employs a qualitative research method, utilising in-depth interviews with 15 women choral conductors, surveys of 30 church music directors across various denominations, and a critical analysis of historical and contemporary literature. Thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data, identifying key themes related to gender dynamics, leadership experiences, and musical influence within church settings. The research is guided by feminist theory, as outlined by Hooks (2000), and ecclesiological theory proposed by Johnson (2015). The paper outlines how women have shaped worship experiences and congregations' spiritual and artistic identity through historical examples, personal narratives, and contemporary practice. By juxtaposing their leadership within the discourses of religion and art, this article pays tribute to women conductors who employ their batons to glorify God and inspire others in the sacred domain of church ministries. The paper concludes that to tap the full potential of women in church music, there needs to be a deconstruction of the gendered barriers that continue to constrain their leadership opportunities. Churches must proactively offer mentorship, professional training, and equal leadership roles for women. Future research should explore the impact of cultural and denominational variations on women's leadership equality in church music, investigate the long-term career trajectories of women conductors, and examine the role of theological education in shaping gender-inclusive music ministries.