Congregational Song in the Worship of the Church

“One might assume that the subject of music in Christian worship has been, at least, fully researched, reported, argued, and forecast. But the subject will not lie dormant. Music in Christian worship continues to develop, explore, get it wrong, and get it right. Music in Christian worship continues to move forward; so, too, must our scholarship. William Hooper’s research, experience, and insight gathered here deserve a voice in the conversations of researchers, teachers, and practitioners, alike. Pause for a moment: Read. Agree. Disagree. Bill Hooper has something to say.”


—Terry W. York, Professor of Christian Ministry and Church Music, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University





“This volume provides a welcome breadth of coverage from pre-historic religion through to contemporary rock and pop. Hooper’s consideration of music as an integral component of different worshipping traditions helps to showcase the diverse range of roles which music is able to play in Christian devotion and the rich variety of ways in which it can be deployed and understood.”


—Mark Porter, Max-Weber-Kolleg, University of Erfurt





“From the beginning, our human impulse has been to worship God through music. Bill Hooper’s thorough survey of worship practices—from ancient times to current trends—helps us make sense of why we do what we do. Chock full of vital information, Congregational Song in the Worship of the Church will prove to be a helpful resource for many years to come.”


—Rodney Reeves, Senior Pastor, First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, Arkansas





“William Hooper’s Congregational Song in the Worship of the Church is a refreshing update to the study of the ‘song of the church’ and its development through history. Hooper provides the reader with a historical maturation of congregational song to an analysis of contemporary hymnody. His work is a great addition to all students of congregational song.”


—Ed Steele, Professor of Music, Leavell College, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary