Learning about Gregorian Chant

Format: Audio CD
Produced by: The Monastic Choir of the Abbey of Saint Peter, Solesmes
 

This CD is a magnificent learning tool for anyone interested in Gregorian chant, the music "specially suited to the Roman liturgy (which) should be given pride of place in liturgical services." [Sacrosanctum concilium (Vatican Council II) 1963]

Offering chants sung with superb skill by the Monks' Choir at Solesmes Abbey, under the direction of Dom Jean Clarie, the recording is an informative overview of not only the history of Gregorian chant, but also its proper place in today's liturgy. Explanatory texts by Dom Daniel Saulnier (translated from the French by Jeremy Llewellyn) are read by Sarah Moule between complete selections of chant from various Solesmes recordings.

The CD Learning about Gregorian Chant: Its History & Its Musical Forms (time: about 70 minutes) would make an effective meditative seminar for a retreat, day of recollection, or music workshop, as well as a perfect addition to a parish or seminary library. It is also very useful as an individual tool to delve into the wonders of this truly liturgical music. With clear singing, wonderful acoutics and helpful explanations, this CD can be an effective introduction to chant as the ultimate Traditional Music for the Contemporary Church!

Contents:

• The History of Gregorian Chant
  1. Gloria II with ringing of bells
  2. Ambrosian Gloria
  3. Antiphon: In mandatis & Psalm 111
  4. Psalm 110
  5. Psalm 111
      
• The Gregorian Musical Forms
  • The Proper of the Mass
    6. Introit: Nos autem
    7. Gradual: Concupivit
    8. Alleluia: Pascha nostrum
    9. Offertory: Lætentur
    10. Communion: Pascha nostrum
         
  • The Ordinary of the Mass
    11. Kyrie III
    12. Gloria IX
    13. Sanctus XVIII
    14. Agnus Dei XVIII
         
  • The Divine Office
    15. Antiphon: Dixit Dominus & Psalm 109
    16. Antiphon: Si offers & Magnificat
    17. Response: Credo
    18. Hymn: Lucis creator
         
• Conclusion
  19. Hymn: Salve festa dies