Link between Hebrew and Gregorian chant
explored in Ave Maria College course
The Jewish roots of Christianity have gotten a lot of press lately, but one often-overlooked element is music. Ave Maria College and the Association of Hebrew Catholics are co-sponsoring a non-credit course exploring the link between ancient Hebrew liturgical chant and Gregorian plainsong.
Calvert Shenk, co-editor of the Adoremus Hymnal and organist and music director for Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, Michigan, will conduct the course, “Chanting the Word of God, from Synagogue to Ecclesia.”
According to Shenk, “There has been much speculation about possible connections between ancient Hebrew liturgical chant and the origins of Gregorian plainsong. We will explore common musical elements and look for fundamental relationships between the two genres.”
The course provides an exciting opportunity to share in the rich legacy of both Jewish and Catholic musical traditions. Course sessions will take place from 9 am to 12 noon on three Saturdays, July 10, 17 and 24, 2004