There is a melodic refrain sung by the congregation, while the cantor sings the psalm text, moving forward with the simple, repetitive melody according to cues in the text - usually “points” which look like accent marks or boldface lettering. However, many continue to use a simple chant style, presented in most missalettes. Some parishes tend toward using a fully scored version that works like a modern-day song. Finally, point out the many songs in our typical hymnal that are based on the psalms or challenge the students to discover them.Īn easy way to chant is to follow the format used in the Responsorial Psalm at Mass. Let them see how the Responsorial Psalm at Mass consists of a refrain and verses, like our modern music. Discuss how the translations from the original Hebrew to Latin and English might have affected the flow and musicality. Help them understand that these were originally composed as songs, so when we read the psalms, we are actually reading lyrics. Here are some ways to start:īefore teaching students how to sing the psalms, instruct them as to why we sing them. ![]() If you aren’t as musically inclined, don’t let that stop you. If you have training or skills in music, you can easily start chanting the psalms with your class. By teaching our students to chant the psalms, we simultaneously give the gift of Scripture and the gift of chant, a vital element of our Catholic faith. The psalms made much more sense as songs than as chapters of a book.Īs catechists we have an opportunity to provide our students with this same experience. It was easier to read than the written music I had learned, and I found myself reflecting on the words in the Scripture much more deeply than when I simply read them. After a few tries, it made a lot of sense. I looked at the book and stumbled along with the voices that sang the Scripture in profoundly simple unison. ![]() Students were welcome to join the monks for daily Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours. ![]() Years ago I joined a handful of students in the choir of the Benedictine monastery that sat at the top of the hill of my college campus. The psalms, themselves, are a testament to the power and history of music and prayer. Some of the richest encouragement, praise, thanksgiving, history, lament, and petition can be found in the oldest recorded songs of our faith. When in need, there will always be an answer in the psalms.
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