The articles here deal with liturgical music. Two topics receive special attention: the curiously negative role that musical instruments play in ancient cult music and the development of ecclesiastical song in early Christianity. The first series of articles treats classical Greek ethical notions of instruments, the status of instruments in Temple and Synagogue, and the absence of instruments from early Christian and medieval church music. The next parts trace the psalmody and hymnody of the Christian tradition, from its roots in Judaism to the origins of Gregorian chant in 7th-century Rome. Throughout, the writings of the Christian Church fathers such as Augustine, Ambrose, Basil and John Chrysostom underpin the author's analysis and presentation.

About the Author
James McKinnon formerly University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, USA

Reviews
' ..if any journal arrives with an article by [James McKinnon] , I turn to it first, knowing that he will deal with absolute clarity with matters that are often shrouded in hypotheses....An extremely useful compilation.' Early Music Review, No. 47 '...a serious student of either liturgical history or the early chant tradition will find this collection to be very valuable.' Worship, Vol. 73, No. 5 '...both knowledgeable and enjoyable...this is a good, solid, and intriguing book recommended to church musicians as well as to musical and church history enthusiasts who would like to delve deeper into provocative and fascinating questions.' Pastoral Music



Book Information
ISBN 9780860786887
Author James McKinnon
Format Hardback
Page Count 320
Imprint Variorum
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 680g