Authentic Liturgical Renewal Reform

Sacred Music US • Website for Fr. Weber’s Resources

Fr. David Friel · March 31, 2019

A website exists to disseminate Fr. Samuel Weber’s sacred music resources

Square Notes: The Sacred Music Podcast

Fr. David Friel · March 10, 2019

Dedicated to exploring the teaching and vision of the Church on the topic of liturgical music

Society for Catholic Liturgy Conference 2018

Fr. David Friel · July 15, 2018

To be held 27–29 September 2018, the conference will focus on the legacy of Msgr. Romano Guardini.

The Renewal of Adoremus

Fr. David Friel · December 4, 2016

The “Society for the Renewal of the Sacred Liturgy” is itself experiencing renewal.

New Collection of Propers from GIA

Fr. David Friel · October 2, 2016

The growing market for Mass propers is a sign of promise.

Sacred Music Symposium • “What We Avoid”

I wish we had to time to discuss artwork at the Sacred Music Symposium, but there’s just not enough time. At this year’s conference in June, we will sing an absolutely incredible Magnificat setting by Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599). If you examine the part books, you will notice a marvelous aesthetic desire to avoid the same capital letter—for the sake of beauty. Do you see how the Part Books find a way to avoid repeating the Capital G twice, by using the word “Superius” (which is roughly analogous to “Soprano”)? Breathtaking!

—Jeff Ostrowski

“Abraham” • Guerrero Imitates His Teacher

Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599) studied music with Father Cristóbal de Morales circa 1545. He taught himself the organ. On 3 April 1542 he was engaged as a contralto by Seville Cathedral at an annual salary of 12,000 maravedís. He remained there until 1546, when, at the age of only 17, he was invited—on the recommendation of Father Morales—to become mæstro de capilla of Jaén Cathedral. He was entrusted with the boarding, lodging, and instruction of the six choirboys; but he neglected this duty and was sentenced to be dismissed on 30 August 1548. However, he was absolved and reinstated on 3 November. I think you can see (perhaps) a little homage to his teacher on the word “Abraham.”

—Jeff Ostrowski

Too much music!

Choosing music for the Sacred Music Symposium requires careful consideration. We make sure (always) to have great variety. Because the schedule is so full, there’s never sufficient time to discuss the music fully—indeed, we could easily do a month-long seminar on each piece! For example, last year Dr. Calabrese conducted a setting of the Magnificat by Father Guerrero (d. 1599). It is one of the most magnificent (pardon the pun) pieces ever written, and I wish I had time to point out the brilliant way he syncopates the word “dispersit,” which means “He has scattered” or “He has dispersed.” Superb!

—Jeff Ostrowski