Gregorian Rhythm Wars • “Disputed Questions” (16 Nov 2022)
A few further thoughts on what ways of singing chant are “allowed.”
“Is it not true that prohibiting or suspecting the extraordinary form can only be inspired by the demon who desires our suffocation and spiritual death?” —The Vatican’s chief liturgist from 2014-2021; interview with Edw. Pentin (23-Sep-2019)
A few further thoughts on what ways of singing chant are “allowed.”
“Does it make more sense to judge later manuscripts in light of the oldest sources, or to judge the oldest sources in light of later manuscripts?” —Patrick Williams
Including a few brief responses to Professor Charles Weaver.
Preparing this blog, I discovered interesting snippets about the hymn, the composer, the translator, and even the poet who penned these lines in Latin!
Ostrowski, wishing to avoid fussiness, may justifiably refuse this invitation. But to argue, as he has, that these signs and the prayerful and aesthetic movements they embody are “illicit” is just wildly off the mark.
The second half of today’s article answers questions submitted by Mr. Matthew Frederes.
Mr. Williams, today I challenge you (please) to provide direct responses for two questions.
Why declare that rhythmic signs are permitted if alteration of any kind is unacceptable? It doesn’t make any sense…
I will not insult your intelligence by telling you what I suspect happened.
Including two (2) documents translated into English for the first time!
“Missa Back-To-The-Future” (a recent OCP offering) isn’t part of the treasury mandated by Vatican II; nor do I belong on the basketball court with Michael Jordan.
Tom died suddenly on 24 October 2022 (a month shy of his 67th birthday) at his home in Charlotte.
“We have a number of quotations from medieval writers in support of proportional rhythm…” —Patrick Williams
“Mr. Ostrowski apparently wants to lock this door, install a deadbolt, and throw away both keys!” —Patrick Williams
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