Introduction to early Christian music

Early Christian music up until the fifth century was heavily influenced by the Jewish Liturgy. The early Christians took part in the religious ceremonies of the synagogue by joining in the singing with the Jews. Chanting played a vital role in Jewish ceremonies and was adapted by the Christian church. Chanting in the early Christian church refers to the singing of psalms and canticles. These chants were sang in a particular way. Below are some characteristics of early Christian chants.

Some characteristics of early Christian chants:

1. Monophonic. Consisted of single melodic lines without accompaniment.

2. Transmitted Orally.

3. Freestyle. The melodies lacked a fixed structure.

4. Syllabic. Each syllable is sung to one or more notes of the melody.

5. Antiphonal. Chants sang alternately.

References

Apel, W. (1960).Harvard dictionary of music. Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard University Press.

Wellesz, E. (1955) Early Christian Music. In Hughes, D.A (Ed.), The new oxford history of music II early medieval music up to 1300 (pp.1-7).London. Oxford University Press.