How do I make old hymns sound new and exciting?
Catholic hymns connect us to a rich spiritual heritage, but with a few thoughtful techniques, they can also feel fresh and dynamic in every Mass. Here are five ways to bring more vibrancy to hymn singing in the Catholic liturgy.
1. Add a Soaring Descant
Adding a high countermelody, or descant, to hymns can lift the congregation’s spirits, especially during final verses. Drawing from a centuries-old practice, descants add an extra layer of beauty and can give the hymn’s message a feeling of transcendence. This approach also creates a memorable close to a hymn, encouraging fuller and more heartfelt participation.
2. Reimagine Traditional Harmonies
Standard hymn harmonizations are dependable, but a slight change in the harmony—whether it’s borrowing a progression from Bach or introducing a subtle modal shift—can deepen the hymn’s emotional tone. This approach is particularly powerful for organists trained in improvisation, allowing them to express the text’s mood and meaning in ways that touch the heart and soul.
3. Use Interludes and Preludes to Set the Tone
Brief organ interludes, preludes, and postludes provide an excellent way to emphasize the hymn’s message. Tailoring these segments to the hymn's mood can give the congregation a few extra moments for contemplation or build excitement before the hymn begins. Short, adaptable compositions can also help organists of various skill levels create beautiful musical introductions that draw people into worship.
4. Vary Textures for Interest
Using techniques like canon (round) singing, splitting verses between schola or choir and congregation, or layering voices can keep hymns engaging. These variations invite different sections of the congregation into active participation, making each verse feel distinct. Choirs or scholas can take on more intricate verses, allowing congregants to listen, reflect, and connect more deeply to the liturgical moment.
5. Curate a Meaningful Musical Experience
Selecting the right musical elements for each part of the Mass involves more than just picking familiar hymns. An organist or music director is like an artist with a palette of sounds, choosing harmonizations, descants, and interludes that best serve each liturgy. This thoughtfulness brings out the inherent meaning in the hymns and makes Mass more engaging for all.
With these methods, Catholic hymns become not just music but a shared experience that draws everyone closer to the heart of the Mass. Whether you’re an experienced musician or still learning, these steps can help infuse each hymn with vitality, making worship more resonant and memorable for the whole parish.
Sacred Music Library offers a curated collection of resources to help you get started.