which I also crooned about on my xanga site.
Several years ago I ran across an article at the Academy of Poets' website about Emily Dickinson and Isaac Watts.
It mentioned that people walked out of church services when his hymns were played.
This was a surprise to me since I love these *old*, traditionally-styled hymns. I prefer them over the newer *praise/worship* music. But it got me thinking about how Watt's music and lyrics must have been *new* at one time.
Futhermore, if you read no further than this paragraph, do read or re-read Mrs. Schaeffer's chapter on Music in her book, The Hidden Art of Homemaking. There is a dear story about an opera singer who used her talent to sing with those less talented than she.
At any rate, here is the information about congregational singing long ago....or the lack thereof. Note the sentence *Gradually children and women were admitted....*
From John Wesley's instructions for singing, 1761:
I. Learn these tunes before you learn any others ...
II. Sing them exactly as they are printed here without altering or mending them at all ...
III. Sing All. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can ...
IV. Sing lustily and with a good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength ...
V. Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, that you may not destroy the harmony ...
VI. Sing in Time. Whatever time is sung, be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it ... and take care not to sing too slow ...
VII. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself or any other creature ...
Read more here at John Mark Ministries.
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