The Story of the Hymns and Tunes

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

18444

Title

The Story of the Hymns and Tunes

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume chronicles the history of hymnody, tracing sacred songs from ancient Hebrew psalms and early Christian chants to the revival movements of the 19th and 20th centuries. It explores the spiritual emotion that distinguishes hymns from mere poetry, featuring biographies of composers like Handel, Haydn, and Wesley alongside translations of beloved Welsh hymns. The text offers a reverent look at how music and faith have intertwined across centuries, celebrating both solemn devotion and joyful praise.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled by Theron Brown and Hezekiah Butterworth, *The Story of the Hymns and Tunes* serves as a comprehensive guide to the history and spirit of sacred song. The authors argue that while poetry relies on imagination, hymns are born of devotion, expressing spiritual feelings that philosophy cannot compose. True hymns require a 'music of faith, hope and charity,' acting as the 'incense of a worshipping soul' rather than mere artistic exercises. The narrative traces the evolution of sacred music from ancient Hebrew lyrics, such as the songs of Moses and David, to early Christian chants regulated by St. Hilary and St. Ambrose. It details the transition from plain-song to the majestic Gregorian Chant and the counterpoint of Palestrina, who saved church music from degeneration during the Council of Trent era. The text categorizes hymns into distinct groups, including those of praise, missionary work, suffering, revival, and consolation. Significant attention is given to key figures who shaped global worship, including Isaac Watts, Charles Wesley, John Newton, and Fanny J. Crosby. A substantial portion celebrates Welsh hymnody, highlighting the unique minor mode and emotional depth of composers like William Williams and Thomas Charles. The book also addresses the historical intrusion of secular airs into choirs before they were reformed for sacred use. Throughout, the volume emphasizes that the Divine Spirit must wake the human heart to lyric language, noting that many historic faiths have lost their melody over time. The text includes analyses of specific hymns and the stories behind their creation, such as the humble river-side inspiration for a Welsh hymn of trust. Ultimately, the book presents hymns not just as songs, but as a legacy preserving the devotion of those who sang to God across diverse cultures and eras.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Poetry