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Gregorian Chant Teaching Methods

Gregorian chant is a method of singing that is historically associated with the Latin-based rites of the Catholic Church. Characterized by a simple range of notes and a regularized pattern of phrasing. Gregorian chant made its appearance in the 9th century and was mainstay of the Catholic Church's sacramental public expression until Mass in the vernacular of the people was encouraged in the 1960s. Justine Ward is known as the creator of a method that was widespread in the United States during the 1920s that used Gregorian chant as part of the musical instruction of young children in Catholic schools.

  1. Ear Training

    • Begin training by familiarizing students with the limited notes and patterns of the Gregorian chant form. A number of different audio and video recordings of Gregorian chant are available for classroom use. Gregorian chant is also called "plainchant." There are a number of books and CDs available that demonstrate the standard chant tones and phrases.Renewed interest in Gregorian chant was aided by the 1980s recording of the "Canto Gregoriano" by the monks of Santo Domingo se Silos, which caught on with the general public and inspired a revival of the music form, according to Adoremos. This updated arrangement of Gregorian chant can be used to motivate secondary level to adult level students.

    Voice Training

    • Lead the students in short, simple phrases using the patterns of Gregorian chant. Add a simple song referring to familiar objects and experiences to encourage the use of Gregorian chant phrasing and note ranges. Later, introduce a short song in English sung completely in Gregorian chant. Repeat as part of the daily lesson plan. If the instruction is part of religious education in Catholic school, choose a liturgical line in Latin, translate and demonstrate how it is sung in Gregorian chant. Have the student repeat the phrasing phonetically.

    Rhythm Training

    • Distribute simple percussion instruments to the students to use to tap out the rhythm of the chant as the music plays. Use a number of different types of instruments to tap out the rhythm of the chant with percussion instruments. Add lengthier chants and demonstration how the phrases are strung together and how they repeat notes and phrasing. Assign students to write their own short chant.

    Whole Body Rhythm Training

    • Use whole body movements to emphasize the rhythms and phrasing of the chant. Emphasize changes in notes with changes in arm movements. Repetition and emphasis on its characteristic pattern helps to reinforce the new method of singing. Increase the complexity of the chanting with analysis of notes and phrasing.

    Unison Singing

    • Gregorian chant was created to be sung in large groups, and this gives the form its character. Repetition in group singing reinforces the concepts learned. Gregorian chant is credited not only with being powerful and spiritual, but also with reducing stress and blood pressure, according to the DailyMail. Encourage students to use Gregorian chant not only for practice but for use in daily stress reduction.

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