Sacred music : a historical overview

Abstract

This dissertation will examine the development of sacred music throughout the ages, starting with what were the musical influences which brought music to be included in the worship of the Christian communities. The development of this music is observed parallel to the important phases of the history of the Church and to the philosophical writings on music by thinkers, Church authorities and theorists throughout the centuries. The most important composers in this field, past and present, together with their best works are mentioned as well as the influence of religion on their compositions. A separate section is dedicated to Maltese composers. The dissertation unfolds the great richness of the repertoire, which unfortunately is unknown of, or not given due appreciation.