Gregorian Chant: The Joys of Singing

Above all the course focuses on singing the music of Gregorian chant, giving you the chance to discover some of the historical and meditative aspects along the way. Originating in late 7th Century Rome, and notated in the 9th Century, Gregorian chant is a traditional, unaccompanied vocal music that illustrates the sacred texts of the Western Christian Church. Following a simple structure inspired by the original shorter Benedictine Hour services, you'll work towards a final performance of a meditative sequence of chant on the subjects of 'Sing', 'Light', and 'Mother'. The course will use the traditional printed Gregorian notation which will be fully explained.

On this course, you will explore chant notation and performance, Gregorian Chant in Latin, together with simple recitations in English and look at examples of Chant for the Mass and for the daily Monastic service.

By the end of this course, you will:

• Read and sing the chant from modern printed chant notation
• Recognise early 9th/10th century chant notations and some later mediaeval notations.
• Sing a number of original Gregorian chants from the Mass

• Deliver together with others the straightforward music of the Office.

   

In fitting with the earliest methods of sharing Gregorian chant, teaching is principally in groups through practical singing and recitation in Latin and in English. 

This course is targeted at all levels; singers and non-singers; beginners and experienced; and those with interests in the history of music and cultural history. 

Singing experience is welcome though not necessary; previous participants who haven't considered themselves to be singers have been surprised and enjoyed themselves by simply joining in. An acquaintance with choral society or church choir singing in Latin is an advantage; and experience of using chant is naturally helpful.

No preparation is required. All participants will receive a booklet containing all music to be used at the start of the course.