Some of Augustine’s comments also show a preference for the measured tones of rational discourse (music with words) rather than music that arouses the passions (music without words). As classical music developed, the influence of Platonic ideas of temperance and control and the church’s focus on music as meditation became the dominant aesthetic. I love Bach, but I don’t use him as a perpetual reference mark for what is appropriate music for a Christian to play or listen to.
I’m reading the Psalms very closely right now and love the brashness, the noise of them, especially the psalms of distress and the ones that call for justice. And there are more than a few references to sexuality throughout…which of course really rev my engine.
grant
Feb 06 2008
02:48 pm
Thanks Kirstin. That’s an excellent example.
Some of Augustine’s comments also show a preference for the measured tones of rational discourse (music with words) rather than music that arouses the passions (music without words). As classical music developed, the influence of Platonic ideas of temperance and control and the church’s focus on music as meditation became the dominant aesthetic. I love Bach, but I don’t use him as a perpetual reference mark for what is appropriate music for a Christian to play or listen to.
I’m reading the Psalms very closely right now and love the brashness, the noise of them, especially the psalms of distress and the ones that call for justice. And there are more than a few references to sexuality throughout…which of course really rev my engine.