USIC AND SOUNDS have a strong influence on the way we feel. I’ve never understood the following argument (which I’ve heard with my own ears numerous times while taking part in panel discussions):
All music is equal. We cannot say one music or one style is better than another. We cannot say that a particular style of music is more appropriate for worship. The notion that a certain type of music which developed in Europe over the centuries is “better” for Mass is offensive.
It seems obvious to me that different musical styles have entirely different effects. Listen to the music in this excerpt from Walt Disney’s That Darn Cat (a great movie, by the way!):
Here’s an article about “Life Teen” Masses, which includes many quotes from Dr. William Mahrt of Stanford:
* * 2008 Article on Life Teen Masses [pdf]
I’m not going to comment on the article (it would take forever!) but feel free to do so in the combox if you wish. By the way, many quotes in the article seem to be drawn directly from the Watershed Documentary Sacred, Beautiful, & Universal.
