Anglican Cathedral Music

Description

Discover the enduring appeal of Anglican cathedral music in this one-week summer school in the heart of Utrecht. This inspiring programme invites participants to explore the rich tradition of Anglican Cathedral Music from multiple perspectives: musical, liturgical, theological, educational and performative. 

The course offers a balanced mix of lectures, masterclasses and workshops and examines the interplay between theory and practice – from Anglican psalm chant to contemporary choral works. The programme’s central themes include the relationship between cathedral music and liturgy, choral education for both choristers and adult singers, the experience of singers and participants, diversity and inclusivity, and the role of liturgical music in the 21st century. 

Additional topics covered in the course include the history of Anglican cathedral music and contemporary practice in England and the Netherlands, choir school traditions, and English organs. Daily sessions are led by leading scholars and musicians from England and the Netherlands who specialise in Anglican cathedral music, liturgy, theology, heritage and spirituality. 

Choral evensong in one of Utrecht’s cathedrals is a highlight of the week, as it gives participants the opportunity to experience Anglican cathedral music and liturgy in practice. The course also includes an excursion to the Museum Catharijneconvent, where students will explore religious art and its relation to cathedral liturgy.

In addition to academic and musical training, the programme offers social activities that encourage exchange and collaboration among participants. By the end of the course, students will have gained a broad overview of the major themes, practices and current issues in Anglican cathedral music. 

The course is taught at the introductory level of a master’s curriculum. Advanced bachelor’s students are also welcome to apply. Students may be expected to read in advance for the course.​ More information about the programme and lecturers will be provided in the day-to-day schedule, which will be uploaded as soon as possible.

The Anglican Cathedral Music Summer School welcomes students of music or theology, researchers, clergy, theologians and musicians to reflect on the enduring resonance of sacred music.

Lecturers

The lecturers’ names will be announced soon.

Target audience

• Students of music, musicology, theology, cultural studies or religious studies interested in Anglican cathedral music.
• Clergy and theologians interested in Anglican cathedral music.
• Singers, conductors and organists interested in Anglican cathedral music.

Aim of the course

Upon completing the course:

• The student will become familiar with central aspects of Anglican cathedral music and liturgy, both in theory and in practice.
• The student will be able to reflect on Anglican cathedral music within the broader fields of music, liturgical and ritual studies, education and cultural heritage.
• The student will be able to undertake further independent exploratory studies of specific aspects of Anglican cathedral music.
• The student will develop an understanding of the interaction between sacred music, rituals, liturgy and space. 

Study load

The course will have 6 contact hours per day. About 20 hours of preparatory self-study will be required of students.

Tags

• music
• Liturgy
• Anglican
• Cathedral Music
• Choral Music
• Evensong
• Cathedral
• Education
• Organ