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Music, Religion and Politics at Worcester Cathedral, 680-1950 - cover image

Copyright

Richard Newsholme;

Published On

2025-03-17

ISBN

Paperback978-1-80511-453-6
Hardback978-1-80511-454-3
PDF978-1-80511-455-0
HTML978-1-80511-457-4
EPUB978-1-80511-456-7

Language

  • English

Print Length

320 pages (xiv+306)

Dimensions

Paperback156 x 22 x 234 mm(6.14" x 0.87" x 9.21")
Hardback156 x 25 x 234 mm(6.14" x 0.98" x 9.21")

Weight

Paperback610g (21.52oz)
Hardback787g (27.76oz)

Media

Illustrations48
Tables4

OCLC Number

1510683897

THEMA

  • AVM
  • AVLK
  • QRVJ1
  • QRMB31

BISAC

  • MUS020000
  • REL015000
  • REL055020
  • REL003000
  • HIS015000

Keywords

  • Worcester Cathedral
  • British Church History
  • British polyphony
  • Music history
  • Lady Chapel choirs
  • monastic ritual
  • liturgy and architecture
  • cathedral priories
  • cathedral choirs

Music, Religion and Politics at Worcester Cathedral, 680-1950

  • Richard Newsholme (author)
This book provides a comprehensive history of music and liturgy at Worcester Cathedral, from its foundation in the seventh century to the mid-20th century. The author delves into how political shifts, public opinion, and national trends have influenced changes in the cathedral's practices over time, while also highlighting the distinct local dynamics at play.

The book captures the fluctuating significance of liturgy and music across different eras, from the strict, ritualistic practices of Benedictine monks to the rejection of ceremonial traditions by Interregnum Non-Conformists. It traces how the form of worship evolved in response to the beliefs of church leaders, leading to periods of decline and revival in the cathedral’s musical standards. Notably, the study explores Worcester’s role in the development of British polyphony up to the 14th century and the comforting role of the choir during World War I.

With a wealth of surviving Anglo-Saxon charters, medieval liturgical manuscripts, and unique polyphonic fragments, this volume offers rare insights into centuries-old practices. While it focuses on Worcester, the study reflects broader trends in English cathedral history, providing a vital resource for understanding the interplay of music, religion, and politics in the evolution of worship.

Endorsements

Newsholme's meticulously researched study of Worcester Cathedral and its music, musicians, clergy, and liturgical practices combines intensive exploration of documentary sources with thoughtful historical and theological context. It is an invaluable resource that should appeal to anyone interested in the history of English cathedral music.

Prof Joseph Sargent

The University of Alabama

Contributors

Richard Newsholme

(author)

The author is a retired medical practitioner with a longstanding interest in the music and history of Worcester Cathedral. He is fortunate to have been granted extended access to the cathedral library by the librarian, Dr David Morrison, and the Worcester Dean and Chapter.