Sound, Music and Religion.ppt

Sound, Music and Religion The Power of Sound Everywhere One Goes Sounds are everywhere: Church Temple Synagogue Mosque Other Sacred Gatherings. Sounds are in Music Prayer Liturgy Spoken word (read and otherwise) Shouts. Audio Symbols There are three categories: non-verbal music, sound nonconceptual verbal words used in chants and spells (used in the word itself as opposed to the concept the word conveys). conceptual verbal story, myth, rhetoric and doctrine (the written word is an extension of the spoken word. It is an extension of the sound). A word about Speech The speech act is Fragile Impermanent Intimate It is also “unique, engaging a speaker and a listener in a specific existential situation. All that transpires is the formation of words, symbols of sound, stemming from thoughts.” The words fill the space with the power of the sounds. Native Religions by Sam Gill A Closer Examination Nonverbal Nonceptual verbal The Power of Sound An Old Influence a long time ago . . . . . The power of music/sound has been recognized by many including Plato who devotes some space to it in his classic work “The Republic.” He rationalized that rhythm and harmony affect the inner most part of a person and that the desired effect for rhythm and harmony is to produce grace inwardly. He said of music and poetry . . . Platonic words “. . . rhythm and harmony permeate the inner part of the soul more than anything else, affecting it most strongly and bringing it grace, so that if someone is properly educated in music and poetry, it makes him graceful, but if not, the opposite.” Republic 401d-e. What Music Does It sets the mood Music helps the participant to experience a mood or sensation which enhances the worship experience or spirituality. Native Spirit – Pueblo Sunrise When used with lyrics it describes a story or articulates an idea Music often tells a story or an idea. It can be a testimony or it can be a tribute to a god, person or spirit. Mahalia GSH1 Didn’t It Rain It e