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The World of Music book cover
The World of Music, 5/e
David Willoughby

American Religious Music Traditions

Chapter Overview

 

Chapter 5 American Religious Music Traditions

From psalm singing in Colonial times to the contemporary popular religious music of today

The emphasis in religious music is on mainstream influences that have, throughout the history of the United States, affected a large majority of Americans. Among the topics discussed in this chapter are psalm singing and singing schools, hymns by Billings, Watts, and Wesley; shape-note singing and singing schools; camp meeting and revival hymns; spirituals and black gospel music; and contemporary Christian and gospel music. The chapter discusses current American religious music, including that which is derived from secular musical styles and techniques and may be outgrowths of the revival movement.

Goals for Listening

  • Describe melodic character
  • Describe melodic patterns
  • Recognize interpretation and embellishment
  • Describe rhythmic impulse
  • Recognize chord progressions
  • Notice changes in loudness
  • Describe differences in vocal and instrumental tone qualities
  • Identify basic elements of musical structure
  • Identify cadences
  • Identify phrase patterns