This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Classic Reprint Edition The History and Use of Hymns and Hymn-Tunes by David Breed is an interesting and helpful review of hymnody from its early Christian roots through to the nineteenth century. First published in 1903, this enduring work sheds light on the stories and theological depth behind some of the most beloved hymns across centuries. Breed's book is a comprehensive guide that not only traces the historical progression of hymn tunes and their integral role in worship but also delves into the lives of pivotal hymn writers, revealing the inspiration behind their timeless contributions. Through Breed’s detailed examination, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and spiritual significance of hymns, which have served as a vital role in both individual and church worship throughout history. Perfect for worship leaders, music enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the rich tapestry of Christian hymnody, The History and Use of Hymns and Hymn-Tunes offers a treasure trove of insights into the power of hymns to inspire, comfort, and unite believers. Rediscover the enduring legacy of our great Christian hymns with this classic work, recently reprinted from a copy of the fourth edition, 1903 printing.

Understanding the culture of living with hymnbooks offers new insight into the histories of poetry, literacy, and religious devotion. It stands barely three inches high, a small brick of a book. The pages are skewed a bit, and evidence of a small handprint remains on the worn, cheap leather covers that don’t quite close. The book bears the marks of considerable use. But why—and for whom—was it made? Christopher N. Phillips’s The Hymnal is the first study to reconstruct the practices of reading and using hymnals, which were virtually everywhere in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Isaac Watts invented a small, words-only hymnal at the dawn of the eighteenth century. For the next two hundred years, such hymnals were their owners’ constant companions at home, school, church, and in between. They were children's first books, slaves’ treasured heirlooms, and sources of devotional reading for much of the English-speaking world. Hymnals helped many people learn to memorize poetry and to read; they provided space to record family memories, pass notes in church, and carry everything from railroad tickets to holy cards to business letters. In communities as diverse as African Methodists, Reform Jews, Presbyterians, Methodists, Roman Catholics, and Unitarians, hymnals were integral to religious and literate life. An extended historical treatment of the hymn as a read text and media form, rather than a source used solely for singing, this book traces the lives people lived with hymnals, from obscure schoolchildren to Emily Dickinson. Readers will discover a wealth of connections between reading, education, poetry, and religion in Phillips’s lively accounts of hymnals and their readers.

Collection of 38 hymns and chants widely credited to Martin Luther. Includes piano accompaniment and brief notes about the origin of each hymn.

Hymns are more than beautiful musical compositions; they provide us with a heightened language for praising and speaking to God, all while teaching us theology that reflects both the depth and complexity of Our Lord. Sacred hymns in our day have given way to “fifth-rate poetry set to fourth-rate music,” as C.S. Lewis once remarked. At times, the music used in worship can make us feel as though the culture is usurping the Church rather than being transfigured by it. There is a clear and present need to resurrect those distinctively different songs with a distinctively different vocabulary for people who want to live distinctive lives as followers of Christ. In these pages, Fr. George William Rutler introduces and reflects upon dozens of the greatest hymns written from the earliest years of the Church through the Twentieth Century. The text and composition of each hymn is included, as well as inspiring accounts of their authors and composers, fascinating stories and historical events connected with them, and notes on the significant contributions each one made to theology and music. Fr. Rutler has recovered here a rich musical legacy that will help us to give glory to our God who is Lord of all.

The world's most famous hymn book has been completely revised and now offers the broadest ever range of traditional hymns and modern compositions, from the Psalms to John Bell, Bernadette Farrell and Stuart Townend. Its 847 items have been specially selected for their singability, theological richness and relevance. Organ edition. 2 volume set.