EarlyMusicNews.Org

“The Gregorian Association was founded in 1870 (as The London Gregorian Choral Association) to promote the singing of Gregorian Chant to English texts, and to overcome the prejudice which existed against doing so. This purpose is still part of the work of the Association, but more recently its policy has increased in scope, so that the it is now fully oecumenical, and promotes and uses the chant in Latin as well as Modern English and that of the Book of Common Prayer. The Association is now 130 years old; during this time it has sung and taught the chant as a living witness to the enduring value and beauty of the "true music of the church". Directors of Music have included Sir John Stainer, Francis Burgess, Arthur Clarke and Professor David Hiley.

The chant is music of great variety, from simple recitation to complex, melismatic melodies requiring the vocal skills of trained cantors. Much of the chant repertory continues to be sung by monastic communities, who have no special musical training, and is easily within the capabilities of parish choirs today, especially when limited numbers preclude singing in harmony. It is functional music, designed to serve the needs of the Church's liturgy; it is also widely regarded for its 'timeless' character. The Gregorian Association works to educate the public about this vast treasury of song for the enrichment of worship. It is not permanently based anywhere, but rather its members meet in different places throughout the year for a variety of events.

• Study Days for Parish Church Choirs, ending with a service
• Evening Classes in London
• RSCM and other Festivals
• A wide variety of venues, from Cathedral to Country Church
• A Newsletter publishes forthcoming Gregorian Association events, and other events of interest to members”

Visit website for more information. (ed.)

Category: Ensembles/Performers/Associations/Societies / Societies/Associations

Added on: Dec 28, 2011 | Hits: 145