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Sacred Music in Secular Society Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)

Sacred Music in Secular Society By Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)

Sacred Music in Secular Society by Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)


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New RRP £39.99
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Summary

Sacred Music in Secular Society is a new and challenging work asking why Christian sacred music is now appealing afresh to a wide and varied audience, both religious and secular. Blending scholarship, theological reflection and interviews with some of the greatest musicians and spiritual leaders of our day.

Sacred Music in Secular Society Summary

Sacred Music in Secular Society by Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)

If music has ever given you 'a glimpse of something beyond the horizons of our materialism or our contemporary values' (James MacMillan), then you will find this book essential reading. Sacred Music in Secular Society is a new and challenging work asking why Christian sacred music is now appealing afresh to a wide and varied audience, both religious and secular. Jonathan Arnold offers unique insights as a professional singer of sacred music in liturgical and concert settings worldwide, as an ordained Anglican priest and as a senior research fellow. Blending scholarship, theological reflection and interviews with some of the greatest musicians and spiritual leaders of our day, including James MacMillan and Rowan Williams, Arnold suggests that the intrinsically theological and spiritual nature of sacred music remains an immense attraction particularly in secular society. Intended by the composer and inspired by religious intentions this theological and spiritual heart reflects our inherent need to express our humanity and search for the mystical or the transcendent. Offering a unique examination of the relationship between sacred music and secular society, this book will appeal to readers interested in contemporary spirituality, Christianity, music, worship, faith and society, whether believers or not, including theologians, musicians and sociologists.

Sacred Music in Secular Society Reviews

'As both a sacred musician and a scholar of historical theology, Jonathan Arnold is uniquely qualified to write this lucid and informed book. He tackles one of the most mysterious and fascinating questions in the area of theology and the arts: what is it about music that still appeals so vividly to modern people's sense of the spiritual? He explores this question in an engaging, open, accessible and enthusiastic way, bringing his own insights into conversation with some of the best-known composers, performers and theorists of sacred music at work today.' Ben Quash, King's College London, UK 'Jonathan Arnold explores the phenomenon of sacred music as a potent force, whether heard in its liturgical setting or the concert hall, to lead us beyond ourselves to the transcendent and the numinous. His thought-provoking survey draws upon the experience of those who create sacred music as composers or performers, whether as people of profound, uncertain or no faith, providing rich insights into the compelling mysteries and beauties of this treasure trove of music.' John Scott, Organist and Director of Music, St Thomas Church, New York City, USA 'An intriguing, fresh look at the existence and role of music and its sublime effect. What is it that is so special about sacred music?' Ralph Allwood, Director, Eton Choral Courses 'A valuable contribution to the study of sacred music in our world today.' Stephen Layton, Trinity College, Cambridge, UK '...stimulating and through the various interviews, offers many insights into the place of Sacred Music in Secular Society.' Music and Liturgy 'Something concurs between music and the spirit. This book offers a series of vistas upon that concurrence. It also contains some heartfelt expressions of thankfulness for it, and is likely to leave the reader adding his or her own.' Church Times

About Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)

Jonathan Arnold is Chaplain and Senior Research Fellow at Worcester College, Oxford. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, holds a Ph.D. from King's College, London and is author of Dean John Colet of St. Paul's: Humanism and Reform in Early Tudor England (London: I.B. Tauris, 2007) and The Great Humanists: An Introduction (London: I.B. Tauris, 2011). He is a former member of St. Paul's Cathedral Choir and has performed as a soloist with many leading British and European orchestras and has sung with many fine vocal ensembles, including The Tallis Scholars and Polyphony. He was a regular member of The Sixteen for many years, travelling all over the world and appearing on many recordings and broadcasts.

Table of Contents

Introduction; Part I The Practice of Sacred Music; Chapter 1 Composers - Midwives of Faith; Chapter 2 The Performers I: Within the Context of Religious Worship; Chapter 3 The Performers II: Outside the Context of Religious Worship; Part II The Reception of Sacred Music; Chapter 4 Who is Listening?; Chapter 5 Sacred Music: Culture and Society; Chapter 6 What is the Future of Sacred Music?; conclusion Conclusion;

Additional information

GOR010586772
9781409451716
1409451712
Sacred Music in Secular Society by Jonathan Arnold (University of Georgia, Athens, USA)
Used - Very Good
Paperback
Taylor & Francis Ltd
20140228
188
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

Customer Reviews - Sacred Music in Secular Society