Definition

1. Noun:
   • Genre of music composed for performance as part of religious ceremonies: "Church music" refers to a category of music specifically written and performed during Christian worship services or other religious rites within a church setting. It is music intended for a sacred, liturgical purpose.

Usage

• "Church music" is an uncountable noun used to describe the general tradition or body of music for worship. It is typically used in a formal or academic context when discussing musical history, genres, or religious practices.
• Example:
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Examples

• Noun:
  • The choir specializes in performing traditional church music.
  • Bach composed some of the most famous church music of the Baroque era.
  • The use of instruments in church music has evolved over the centuries.

Advanced Usage

• "To perform/sing church music": To execute or vocalize music from this sacred genre.
  • The ensemble was invited to perform church music at the cathedral.
• "Tradition of church music": Refers to the historical and stylistic lineage of sacred music within a denomination or culture.
  • The Anglican tradition of church music is particularly rich.
• "Composer of church music": A musician who creates works for liturgical use.
  • Palestrina is renowned as a great composer of church music.

Variants and Related Words

• Sacred music (n): A broader term encompassing all music of a religious nature, not limited to Christian church services. "Church music" is a subset of sacred music.
• Liturgical music (n): Music that is an integral part of a formal religious liturgy or ritual. This is often synonymous with "church music."
• Choral music (n): Music written for a choir, which often includes but is not limited to church music.
• Hymnody (n): The singing or composition of hymns, which is a central part of much church music.
• Plainsong / Gregorian chant (n): Specific, ancient forms of monophonic church music.

Synonyms

• Sacred music: Music with religious intent.
• Liturgical music: Music for formal worship services.
• Religious music: A general term for music associated with faith.

Related Phrases

• Church music director: The person responsible for overseeing the musical program of a church.
  • The church music director selected the hymns for the Easter service.
• Church music ministry: The organized effort within a church community involving musical worship.
  • She volunteers for the church music ministry.

Noun

1. genre of music composed for performance as part of religious ceremonies