In the United States and other countries throughout the world, Jews are observing the High Holy days – ten days that begin with the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah and end with Yom Kippur.
Today I was reading a blog posting by the producer of Speaking of Faith (a U.S. public radio weekly program on religion) about the soundtrack to a episode about the “Days of Awe” another name for the High Holy Days. Producer Colleen Scheck talked about music celebrating the Days of Awe that included a contemporary jazz composition about Rosh Hashanah, a song about a Psalm based on a 1960’s Jamaican reggae trio, and a song sung by a former Hollywood actress turned cantor.
It got me thinking: what’s the role that music plays in religion? Whether the call of the muezzin, hymns at a church, or the cantor in a temple, what is it about music and song that evokes a spiritual feeling in many?
The composer Johann Sebastian Bach said:
“The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.”
What do you think?
You can listen to the music mentioned above here.
Alexandra Abboud has five years experience reporting on the legal and cultural dynamics that shape American society. At America.gov, she manages coverage of cultural diversity, the arts, education and sports. Abboud has also served as a managing editor of the State Department's eJournal USA series, producing internationally circulated publications on innovation and fighting corruption.
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