The pastor of a parish will typically have no education in the chant or in music, and he will hire the first music director who walks through the door.
From Richard Morris
The democratic and pedestrian character of the new Mass itself seems to invite the ditties that pass for hymns these days.
You can count on one hand the number of Novus Ordo churches in this country that feature a fully Catholic music program of any quality, consistent with the Roman rite tradition.
Even Catholic parishes today are not wanting for talent. But no serious singer or organist will get anywhere near the typical music program, at least if he wants to retain his self-respect.
The tunes, rhythms, and messages are drawn mainly from secular culture.
Thus the slogan should be reversed: Catholics taught the world what music is supposed to sound like, and, more importantly, what it is supposed to mean.
Participation is easily obtained with Latin chant.
Inaudible prayers, particularly of the Canon, which at first don't seem to have anything to do with music, end up being a very important part of the aesthetic of the traditional structure of the Mass.
There's nothing stupider than bursting into song for seven seconds and then falling silent again.
All you hear Catholics turning out these days are pop versions of the old Protestant anthems.
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