The Gregorian Chant Manual: of the Catholic Music Hour

A practical method oj integrating the study oj Gregorian Chant and modern music, the teaching procedure in accordance with approved educational thought. This Gregorian Manual offers a study of practical ways of putting into effect the instruction of Pope Pius X as given in his Motu Proprio for a more extensive use of Chant in the services of the Church. It is well recognized that in striving for this great ideal the procedure must go beyond instruction of the adult congregation. Hence, the emphasis in this manual is directed toward the establishment of a practical method of teaching chant to school children. The plan and pedagogy, therefore, are in consonance with modern educational thought, and the instruction in Gregorian chant parallels the instruction in modern music. This manual serves two main functions: first, as a guide to research and study in the field of Gregorian chant in modern education, and second, as a guide for the teacher in actual classroom procedure. The Gregorian Manual accompanies The Catholic Music Hour, First Book to the Fifth Book inclusive, intended for pupils in the elementary grades. It offers detailed directions for teaching the various chants according to their designation as Rote, Observation, Reading, and Study Chants. The Catholic Music Hour defines its purposes under the following five main objectives: First, that music shall make the child happier and more sensitive to beauty and, as a socializing force, shall enable him to adjust himself more sympathetically to his environment. Second, that the material and plan of study shall offer exploratory opportunities in which the teacher and parents may discover the latent possibilities and interests of the child, and in which the child will find himself musically. Third, that this organized experience shall set up influences which will serve the child as recreational, cultural, avocational, and vocational guidance in the development of his ultimate relationship with music. Fourth, that through much experience in hearing and singing the Church's official music, the child may come to love and appreciate Gregorian chant as the ideal instrument for private and common prayer, and the adequate musical expression of the soul's relationship with God. Fifth, that all the child's contacts with music may be stepping-stones to the greater love of God and neighbor.