Pope Saint Paul VI (3 April 1969): “Although the text of the Roman Gradual—at least that which concerns the singing—has not been changed, the Entrance antiphons and Communions antiphons have been revised for Masses without singing.”
Obedience to the Church, and respect for Tradition is paramount in Sacred Music, as well as subjugation to the Liturgy. Was GR (1974) “The” Critical Edition? An incessant or insatiable thirst for variety and novelty is a vicious symptom of our modern age.
By March 1596 Marenzio had arrived in Poland. In October of that year, he directed a Mass he’d written in the form of an “echo.”
“. . . zealous to keep the traditions of our forefathers, ever trying . . . boldly to restore any which might have been forgotten in the course of the ages.” —Preface to the Vatican Edition
The Vatican Edition, as well as St. Gregory’s work were both a Cento built on tradition to unify the Church. Semiological editions are archaic reversions. A close look at the Puer Natus Est in both forms is offered.
“Our hymnbooks know nothing of such a treasure as this, and give us pages of poor sentiment in doggerel lines by some tenth-rate modern versifier.” —Father Fortescue
What bishops need to know!
It seems to me that our responsibility of teaching the Faith through music is much more serious than is commonly perceived.
“Transcriptions are best done by those who both sing & conduct and enjoy studying minute neumatic details & problems—all this while making sure that the horizontal musical line of each song is their main musical concern.” —R. John Blackley
NEW CD from the Saint Paul’s Choir School, Harvard Square with the Sophia Music Group label
“One person I spoke to frequently—although I never met him…” (?)
If we destroy our mental health, we will be no good to anybody.
Let St. Augustine’s wisdom guide you through the most important season for Church musicians.
The word “Alleluia” changes to: “Praise be to Thee, O Lord, King of eternal glory.”
I’m much more comfortable in a baritone’s range than a soprano’s range!
If an hour at the keyboard is an hour well-spent, how much more an hour of silent prayer before Our Lord present in the Most Blessed Sacrament? If fifteen minutes of score study is a productive use of my time, how much more a daily rosary for the intentions of my family and friends?
