Customer Reviews

Luther's Liturgical Music: Principles and Implications (Lutheran Quarterly Books)

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This is an absolutely excellent study of Luther's philosophy and theology of music and its use to proclaim the Gospel of Christ. It is extremely well researched, engagingly presented, and filled with wonderful insights. The title might be a bit misleading since this is not merely a study of Luther's use of liturgical music, but rather a comprehensive overview of the role of music in Martin Luther's theology and pastoral practice. The book is packed with information. This book will rightly take its place as one of the most definitive treatments of this subject, more or less neglected in much of Luther studies in English. Put this book together with the Lutheran Confessions and you have a very well rounded vision for church life and confession in the Lutheran Reformation tradition. Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord

As a Lutheran church musician, I found this book fascinating and informative. Many of us have favorite hymns, and love singing in worship, but I think we may have forgotten that for Luther music was a means to teach and reinforce Christians' understanding of Scripture.

I don't think that one need be Lutheran to appreciate this book, however some references will be unfamiliar to those who have not studied music.