How do I learn Chant Mass Settings

[Junebug999]

Hi there, how do I learn to pronounce correctly?

And, we use Chant Mass Settings during Advent and Lent?

Do we also use them for other Holy Days, Feasts, etc.?

 

[ConstantineTG]

I believe there is training for Cantors. We were discussing this earlier, and subdeacon said that Cantors oftentimes more knowledgeable than the priest in the Liturgy, because of all the songs he has to learn, when to sing them, the tones, etc. Of course this is an Eastern Catholic setting, but it should be the same for RC. There is training for those. They are also informal ways to learn, like the internet. But if you are really serious about this and would use this often, its worth inquiring into formal training.

For Roman Catholics, chanting can be used all the time. At my current RC parish, the priest chants most of the Mass. In fact, the last time I attended there he chants more than the first time he came into parish. I guess he practices the other parts he is not familiar with.

 

[MarkThompson]

Hi there, how do I learn to pronounce correctly?

There are good recordings of all eighteen customary chant settings of the Ordinary here. And here’s a quick guide to reading square notes (chant notation), with a page on pronunciation towards the end. If you have any other questions, I’m happy to answer them.

And, we use Chant Mass Settings during Advent and Lent?

Do we also use them for other Holy Days, Feasts, etc.?

You can use chant settings, or not. There is no requirement either way.

 

[NPC]

There are good recordings of all eighteen customary chant settings of the Ordinary here. And here’s a quick guide to reading square notes (chant notation), with a page on pronunciation towards the end. If you have any other questions, I’m happy to answer them.

You can use chant settings, or not. There is no requirement either way.

I’d heartily second the Antoinedanielmass link - I’ve found it to be an excellent resource, especially for members of the choir who find it difficult to follow the chant notation (therefore, I second your other link as well!). The first link also has a number of sister sites which are equally good - I find renegoupil.org excellent for learning the propers for the Extraordinary Form.

 

[corsair]

Junebug,
Try this site musicasacra.com/ordinary/

Cheers

 

[PabloPira]

Nothing beats a good teacher, but if self instruction is the only way, try this:

sanctamissa.org/en/music/books-and-articles-on-sacred-music/text-book-of-gregorian-chant.pdf

As any good book should, this one starts from the very basics. If you go through all the graded lessons it is likely that you will succeed at sight-reading square notes.

Actually, it is got all you need. It will teach you how to read square notes, how to pronounce your vowels to get that really neat “Solesmes” sound, how to breathe and even how to move your hand while conducting.

And old book, but a good one.

JP