Lesson 1: The 8 Church Modes

We will begin with the tonal characteristics defining each church mode, and learn how to use these to discern to which mode a chant belongs. We will observe certain melodic phrases and cadences which are associated with particular modes, and touch upon the traditional moods of the modes. We will also take note of some limitations of modal theory, with examples of specific chants which exhibit tonal ambiguity or which change modes.
 

Lesson 2: Chant, the Vehicle of the Word

In chant, certain pitches are structural, while other pitches serve to more or less adorn the structural pitches. Once you learn to identify these, you will find it easier to sing a chant according to its unique musical form: as the vehicle of the word. We will continue this treatment by exploring the relationship of spoken word to sung word, discerning characteristics of our natural speech pattern which can be integrated into the singing of chant. Included will be practice exercises which can be used at home alone, or with a choir. Last, we will touch upon the important role of silence within singing chant.

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Lesson 3: Psalm Tones

The psalm tones are the oldest form of Gregorian chant which has been handed down to us. The skill of singing of them is vital to any singer who aspires to a musical fluency with primacy upon the text. In this lesson we will inspect how psalm tones work: intonation, flex, mediant, termination, and antiphonal singing. We will touch upon different systems of psalm tones and “pointing”, and observe the modal relationship of psalm tones to their respective antiphons. Finally, we will apply this knowledge by “pointing” a psalm text of our own!

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Lesson 4: The Liturgy of the Hours

The Liturgy of the Hours (or Divine Office) employs many different forms of chant: psalmody, hymns, and antiphons, and serves as an excellent framework for the study of chant. This lesson will touch on the unique nature of this form of liturgy, in which the Church responds to the call to “pray unceasingly”. Vespers (also known as evening prayer, or evensong in the Anglican tradition), is an ancient prayer tradition which may be celebrated communally, in song. We will take a look at the various elements of a sung Vespers, and some practical resources for the singing of the Liturgy of the Hours. 

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Lesson 5: Communal Dimension of Chant

We will begin this final session with some key considerations for the singing of chant as a group. Then, Level II will culminate in a group singing of Vespers via Zoom. Our Vespers will draw from texts sung in Latin and in English, and utilize a variety of psalm tone systems and pointing, all of which will have been examined as a part of the lessons in this course. Each student will have opportunity to take leadership singing a portion of our Vespers. 

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Lesson 6: Private One Hour Lesson

The instructor and student will focus on the singing technique and artistry of an antiphon and psalm text which will be sung during our Vespers, or another chant selected by the you. This lesson will also be opportunity for you to touch upon any additional questions not covered during the course.