Introduction to Sacred Music

Instructor Information 

Matthew Williams

mwilliams@gregorythegreatacademy.org

Course Description 

Students will learn the types and place of sacred music in the Church, as well as a general overview of the history sacred music, reading Gregorian Chant. Classroom instruction will also incorporate music of the Divine Office and other ceremonies of the Roman Rite. 

Promoting the use of music in the work of evangelization is an essential element to the program, and so the philosophy of church music and its influence on our culture is discussed through the study of both the theological and moral importance of good musical forms based on writings of popes, church fathers, theologians and philosophers. 

Course Work

The Introduction to Sacred Music Course consists of 15 online lessons (listed below) which include approximately one hour each of in-class and subsequent outside work. Assignments include reading, quizzes, online lectures, instructional videos demonstrating the skill of Gregorian Chant, recording yourself and uploading files to the Pontifex website, and other tasks given by the instructor. 

Grading 

Grading is based on the scoring of four equal parts, described below: 

1/4 - In Class Quiz Scores

1/4 - Discussion Forum Participating 

1/4 - Recording and Skill Demonstration 

1/4 - Final Exam 

Class Schedule 

1. What is Sacred Music
2. The Types of Sacred Music 
3. The Place of Sacred Music Part 1: The Mass Ordinary 
4. The Place of Sacred Music Part 2: The Mass Proper 
5. The Place of Sacred Music Part 3: The Divine Office 
6. Repertoire and Memorization Lesson: Three Gregorian Chants Everyone Should Know 
7. Introduction to Gregorian Chant and its Development 
8. Polyphony - Its Origin and Great Composers 
9. Psalmody 
10. Protestant Influences on Catholic Music 
11. The Organ 
12. Reading Chant Lesson 1
13. Reading Chant Lesson 2
14. Reading Chant Lesson 3
15. Reading Chant Lesson 4

Proprietary Interest Policy:

Faculty are permitted to refer to notable past work and achievements (including publications and educational activities not offered by Pontifex University, and even those offered for personal profit) in their published biography on the Pontifex website and course promotions. In the context of educational activities undertaken for Pontifex University, including videos, live or recorded, teachers, can recommend or bring to the attention such work for students (even if for personal profit, for example, books or podcasts) but only with approval by Pontifex University and when it is related to the teaching purpose of the class.  An instructor’s related work will be noted in the syllabus as appropriate.  Instructors may use their own materials as required in their courses and learning events as long as the materials are appropriate for the particular learning event.

Failure to comply with this policy will result in a warning or administration modification of course materials. Violations of this policy should be reported to the Provost.