Western music originates in the Gregorian chant sung in Benedictine monasteries as early as the sixth century. This fascinating book illustrates how this sung liturgy of prayer and praise, faithfully practiced daily in monasteries across Europe, developed into the complex polyphonic music we enjoy today.
After establishing the Benedictine identity of chant, and its origins in the Mass and the Opus Dei, the author reveals the outstanding contributions of Benedictine musicians from the medieval abbey of Cluny to the modern French Abbey of Solesmes. And she explores how Mary, the mother of Jesus, inspired musical works such as the Stabat Mater and the Magnificat, and many hymns still sung today. Throughout, in an engaging, accessible style, Le Mée emphasizes the music as part of the contemplative tradition of the church that encourages order, spirituality, and peace.
