GREGORIAN CHANTS Meaning and
Definition
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Gregorian chants refer to a form of sacred music originating in the medieval period, specifically during the late 8th and early 9th centuries. These chants are attributed to Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great, who was the Pope of the Catholic Church from 590 to 604. The Gregorian chant is named after Pope Gregory because it was believed that he codified and organized the chants, although it is likely that they were already in existence before his time.
Gregorian chants are characterized by their monophonic texture, meaning they consist of a single melodic line without any accompaniment or harmony. These chants are sung in Latin and are predominantly performed a cappella by choirs or individuals, typically in a liturgical setting such as in the Catholic Church.
The melodies of Gregorian chants are often characterized by their haunting and meditative qualities. They have a free-flowing rhythm that follows the natural speech patterns of the Latin text, resulting in a melodic contour that is smooth and expressive. The chants are primarily sung in a modal system, which are a set of scales with specific melodic patterns and intervals.
Gregorian chants have been an integral part of Catholic liturgy for centuries and continue to be performed and appreciated for their sacred and contemplative nature. They hold historical and cultural significance, reflecting the religious traditions and practices of the medieval era. Additionally, Gregorian chants have influenced and inspired many composers and musical styles throughout history.
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A collection originally compiled by Gregory the Great.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GREGORIAN CHANTS
- fregorian chants
- vregorian chants
- bregorian chants
- hregorian chants
- yregorian chants
- tregorian chants
- geegorian chants
- gdegorian chants
- gfegorian chants
- gtegorian chants
- g5egorian chants
- g4egorian chants
- grwgorian chants
- grsgorian chants
- grdgorian chants
- grrgorian chants
- gr4gorian chants
- gr3gorian chants
- greforian chants
- grevorian chants
Etymology of GREGORIAN CHANTS
The word "Gregorian" in "Gregorian chants" refers to Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great. He is credited with organizing and codifying the plainchant melodies used in Christian worship in the Catholic Church. The chants were not actually composed by Pope Gregory I himself, but rather his name became associated with them due to his efforts to standardize and promote their use. The chants were historically known as "plainchant" or "plain song", but with time, they have come to be commonly known as "Gregorian chants" due to this association with Pope Gregory I.
