The Chant Section is NPM's newest section, dating only to 2005. Our focus is Gregorian Chant in Latin, as well as vernacular chant inspired by Gregorian Chant. Our interest is in the use of chant in the reformed liturgy of Vatican II, in accord with the Church's high esteem for Gregorian chant and also the Church's belief in active participation, admission of vernacular languages, simplification of the rites, and the pastoral purpose of music in the liturgy.

Our homepage has the following features:

• Programs and Events: Institutes, Workshops, Classes, and Events
• Custos: our newsletter, a "guide" to what is happening in the NPM Chant Section
• Directory of Chant Books and Resources: a Bibliography
• Links: Web Resources for Chant
• FAQ about Gregorian Chant
• Joining the NPM Chant Section
• Contact Us

The first issue of our newsletter, Custos, has just appeared online. Custos is Latin for "guide." In four-line chant notation, the custos is the helpful little note at the end of each line indicating to the singer what the first pitch of the next line is. We hope that our newsletter is a helpful guide, introducing everyone to the NPM Chant Section and guiding interested people into the fascinating treasures of Gregorian Chant.

Tell your friends and colleagues about this new online resource! Come visit this site often!

May God bless our worship and our music making, and may our singing of Gregorian Chant serve to build up the Church of Christ in peace, unity, and love.

pax et bonum,

Fr. Anthony Ruff, OSB
Chair, NPM Chant Section
awruff@csbsju.edu

Copyright 2008 - NPM - All Rights Reserved