The Great Works of Sacred Music

By: Charles Edward McGuire, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Charles Edward McGuire

Western classical music is one of humanity's most sublime artistic traditions. This musical language - encompassing genres from symphonic and instrumental music to choral works and opera - was created through the meeting of art and faith.

The lineage of sacred works produced some of the greatest masterpieces in Western art and created the foundation of the Western musical canon. This phenomenal tradition includes works of genius such as:

• Josquin des Prez's Ave Maria, gratia plena, an exquisite polyphonic motet
• Monteverdi's Vespro della Beata Virgini, whose vocal pyrotechnics evoke the immensity of heaven
• Mozart's Requiem, the final composition of the classical master

Beginning with medieval chant, discover how its single musical line evolved into polyphony (music with multiple simultaneous melodies). You'll also learn how the religious reformations of the 16th century compelled composers to create new musical genres and to make religious texts more intelligible. Additionally, observe how 17th-century composers blended sacred styles with genres such as opera, producing music of dramatic and unforgettable beauty.

As a fascinating counterpoint to the music itself, you'll explore the sociological background of its writing and performance. Sacred works were often commissioned by important clerical and aristocratic patrons, and composers were challenged to write music that was not only religiously edifying but also entertaining and publically successful. Over time, sacred music moved beyond church walls to become appreciated in secular venues as autonomous works of art.

You'll hear stunning musical excerpts covering over 1,200 years of music, from medieval chant to the massive sacred works of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2015 The Great Courses (P)2015 The Teaching Company, LLC

A worthwhile series, even if it sound like it was recorded on a potato...

The audio quality is atrocious, but the subject and the speaker are engaging and interesting to listen to, and make the experience worthwhile.

Educational and Insightful

For me this book was most educational and insightful. I learned much! Very well done.

Enlightening and Enjoyable

Any additional comments?

Although some of the musical analysis was beyond my complete understanding, I enjoyed it and learned. Beyond that, the history, background and excerpts were most enjoyable. The professor was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and I found his occasional singing to illustrate a point just fine. Well worth my time and one I will probably listen to again.

Excellent foundation course

This is an excellent series of lectures which covers the evolution of western sacred music. Those with a musical background likely will have an easy time grasping the content of the lectures. However, those with less musical knowledge can use these lectures as a foundation for further exploration.

Lovely Overview of Sacred Performed Music

Overall, I thought this was a lovely overview of the sacred music topic. I thought the first section was the hardest for me to be engaged with, but once he started examining in depth works I have seen performed (and some I haven't) I loved it. And the beautiful ending section on Christmas music I saved for December!

My only complaint is that I thought he would be covering more hymns and every day sacred music. After he got past the medieval music, he really focused on pieces by Mozart, Handel and the like, which I am familiar with from the concert hall -- as opposed to pieces I would have known as a churchgoer.