Byzantine chant is a traditional form of Christian liturgical music originating in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It features melodic, monophonic singing with roots in ancient Greek music and influences from Jewish and early Christian worship practices. Uncover the historical and contemporary role of Byzantine chant while exploring the relationship between music and spirituality with Dr. Jessica Suchy-Pilalis and student performers in the chorus at Crane School of Music in Potsdam, New York.
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The Origin and Purpose of Byzantine Chant | Spotlight
Grades 6-12
Uncover the relationship between music and spirituality through exploring the ancient tradition of Byzantine chant. Students will use skills in music literacy to examine the piece “Kanon of St. Kosmas for the Nativity of Christ,” as performed by the chorus at Crane School of Music in Potsdam, New York. They will use historical and cultural context clues to unravel the meaning and intention of Byzantine chant, while considering what its role in the world looks like today through the insight of Dr. Jessica Suchy-Pilalis.
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