Jane R. Akenga

Jane R. Akenga (b. 2000) is a first-year doctoral student in musicology and ethnomusicology, originally from Kenya. She identifies as a sacred music scholar whose research interests explores the intersection of music and religion, particularly within medieval and early Renaissance Catholic traditions. Jane enjoys exploring how theological doctrines—such as Transubstantiation, Mariology, and Hagiography—influenced musical practices and communal rituals, shaping both liturgical soundscapes and devotional life. Jane is especially drawn to the role of music in religious processions, examining how these rituals reveal underlying structures of stratification across class, gender, and ecclesiastical hierarchy.

Beyond her historical focus, Jane is interested in assessing how East African Catholic communities continue to preserve and reinterpret these ancient theological traditions through music and ritual, particularly in celebrations such as Corpus Christi and Marian devotion.

Jane earned her Master of Music in sacred music from Baylor University in May 2025 where she was the recipient of Baylor’s Outstanding Graduate Student award in sacred music. Jane holds a bachelor’s degree in music education and religion from Kenyatta University in Kenya. Beyond studying, Jane is an ecumenical Christian who finds joy in playing hymns and singing soprano in church choirs across diverse congregations.
 

Mus 302L 
Introduction to Western Music