PDF Download • 1954 “Bragers Hymnal”—Accompaniment Edition (131 pages)
We have scanned this extremely rare hymnal, granted Imprimatur by Francis Cardinal Spellman on 15 February 1954.
Articles
“Reform of the Reform” • Eight Lies We Were Told
We should evaluate things based on their merit.
Musical Notation for New EF Prefaces
Facilitating the chanting of the seven prefaces permitted by “Quo magis”
“Homily for Sexagesima Sunday” (EF) • Father Valentine Young, OFM
I had the good fortune of being assigned to the same mission field twice: the first time in 1956 when I was first ordained.
Ben Shapiro Teaches His Audience Music Theory!
Also included: “Can amateurs sing polyphony?”
Looking for a Good Lenten Devotion? Try the Seven Sorrows Rosary
Learn about the amazing promises attached to this venerable devotion.
“Homily for Septuagesima Sunday” (EF) • Father Valentine Young, OFM
I don’t know whether all of you will agree with me when I say: “life is not fair”—but I would imagine older people would agree.
A Lesson in Chant from the Late Fr. Foster
My personal encounter with him left a strong impression, which I will share here.
Music Conference at the Vatican
The theme for this virtual conference will be “Church and Music: Texts and Contexts”
Alleluia, Dulce Carmen – sing it while you can!
A hymn for the last week before Septuagesima, or in the weeks leading up to Lent. Squeeze in all the Alleluias you can before they’re put on ice.
Quick Vocal Tip: Breathe on Cutoffs
This simple breathing hack could bring new life to your choir’s sound.
Making Sacraments Available amidst Adversity
WWII Chaplain recognized for his heroic ministry after the sinking of the USS Indianapolis
Glaring Omission from Post-Vatican II Lectionary
In the 1980s, Father Valentine wrote to a Vatican Congregation in Rome about this omission. It still hasn’t been fixed.
(Ladies Singing Low) • “Adding Fifths Above”
Under Covid-19, certain “pre-conciliar” practices have been mandated by the same bishops who previously declared such things to be evil.
PDF Download • “Mass Propers For Sundays And Holydays Set To Simple Melodies” (429 pages)
In 1947, this book was given a double “Imprimatur” by Cardinal Spellman, Archbishop of New York.
Hidden Gem: Salvum Fac Populum Tuum (Bruckner)
This little-known, accessible motet could serve as your choir’s introduction to the thrilling sonic world of Anton Bruckner.
Landmark Documentary on the Renewal of Sacred Music
A documentary on the work of Paul Jerberg — one of the most important voices on sacred music in the Church today
Thou Hast Saved the Good Wine until Now
Reflections on the communion chant for the Second Sunday after Epiphany
“Homily for the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany” (EF) • Father Valentine Young, OFM
Why have I been so blessed, and spared such hardships?
Lies, Lies, Lies
“Narrative lies” cannot exist without a storyteller.
What Color Is B-Flat? Life as a Musician with Synesthesia
Musicians rely on hearing. Hearing is a sense. Synesthesia makes the senses cross over. And that’s where the fun begins….
Catholic Choirmasters • Never Fall For This!
Statements so appalling, egregious, and atrocious they must be corrected…
PDF Download • “Essential Liturgical Chart”
I’ve never spent as much time creating a Liturgical Chart as I did for this one.
PDF Download • “Blessing of Epiphany Water”
An 18-page PDF for the Solemn Blessing of Water on the Eve of the Epiphany.
Here’s a New Year’s Resolution: Tell Strangers What You Do
A recent encounter made me realize what can happen when we discuss church music with others.