Theology of Music

[dmu3tem]

I note that some people are calling for the composition of more new high quality pieces of music for the liturgy. If so, why not come along to meetings of the SSG composers group, where compositional techniques and new creative ideas are freely discussed and exchanged? For further details as to meetings see the composers section of the SSG website. Why not also contribute your technical knowledge to the 'Tips for composing and arranging music' thread. After all, the difference between a fine and a mediocre composition often lies not so much in the quality of the basic musical ideas, but in the techniques by which they are presented. In this respect every 'great' composer started off as beginner.

On a slightly different matter it is worth noting the considerable obstacles placed in the way of composing, let alone disseminating and publishing new music by the law on copyright, especially as regards liturgical texts and their translations. For further discussion of this see the relevant 'copyright' threads on this discussion forum.

Thomas Muir

[Dot]

After all, the difference between a fine and a mediocre composition often lies not so much in the quality of the basic musical ideas, but in the techniques by which they are presented.

Part of me agrees and another part of me disagrees with this statement.
I think there must be an intrinsic quality in the basic musical ideas before one invests the effort in making the musical arrangement. There must also be a good marriage between text and music. But I agree that the musical arrangement can add great impact, as can good musicians in its delivery!

I took a very flimsy arrangement along to the last CG meeting and had it beefed up by my friends there. I have now committed their ideas to paper, but how do I convey them when I come to present this piece single-handedly at the next planning meeting of our parish music group? Some people think it's OK to give a new song the nod on the basis of just hearing the tune, and I've always believed you need to present it in the context of its harmonisation. What do you think - does a good piece of music shine out in spite of the technique of its presentation?

I agree wholeheartedly with Thomas that the value of Composers' Group lies in the live exchange and development of ideas, and I do wish we could get more people along. How should we attract them?

Dot

[MaryR]

What do you think - does a good piece of music shine out in spite of the technique of its presentation?

I have only very little knowledge of music theory and, until quite recently, I would judge a song simply on its melody. Now I've a slightly better understanding of harmonisation, I find that what I thought was a quite a pretty tune can be transformed into a stunning piece of music by the addition of good harmonies. In other words, if it's been written for piano, then I'd rather hear the whole piece and not just the tune. I accept that presenting at a meeting can be a bit more difficult if it's a piece that's been arranged for voices, or several instruments, unless everyone present can sing and/or play.

As a member of the music planning group who will listen to your presentation, Dot, what I'll be listening for, first of all, are the words - how do these connect me either with the readings, or with the part of the Mass for which the piece is suggested? If the piece is SATB, then you can't present it in all its glory, because we simply don't have enough good sight singers to do that at our meeting, but there's an element of trust here. I know you're a good musician and so, if the words are right, I'd be prepared to take a suggestion of yours on trust. I don't think there's any need to 'present' in the way you suggest to a group who knows you and knows your abilities. You know our limitations as a choir, and you know what we're trying to achieve musically in our parish. Those things will, I'm sure, be reflected in your piece.

Do what you can in terms of presentation with the resources that are available, and trust us to trust you.