Introduction
Understanding this tradition
Byzantine chanting refers to a monodic liturgical tradition linked to the Byzantine rite churches. The Greek, Arabic, Slavic, Romanian, Georgian and other worlds have developed distinct ways of singing, however: to gather them under a single label should not erase this plurality.
First listening
Three things to hear
- Distinguish the line of the singer and the bumblebee held by the choir.
- Compare a Greek, Arabic or Slavic tradition without prioritizing them.
- Observe the relationship between melodic formula and punctuation of the text.
History and transmission
The repertoire was formed in the Byzantine Empire from ancient Jewish and Christian heritages, and then transmitted through notation systems and singing schools. In some traditions, polyphonic singing has developed; in others, monodies and bumblebees remain central.
What does it look like?
Vocal or echo or fashion, alternating between soloist and choir, holding an ison in Greek practice. The language, the party and the local school profoundly alter the sound color.
Where and why are we listening?
These songs accompany the office and follow the religious calendar. The long vigils of Mount Athos are not equivalent to an isolated excerpt on an album. The meaning of the text and the ritual gesture guide the form.
Artists, works and albums
Three listening doors
Each button opens a search targeted on an external platform. Orabel does not read, copy and host any audio files.
Mystères byzantins
Divna Ljubojević
A Serbian choir giving access to several pages of the Orthodox repertoire.Byzantine Hymns
Greek Byzantine Choir
To listen to the continuity of the monodies and the l ́ison.Lost Voices of Hagia Sophia
Cappella Romana
A reconstitution that explores the relationship between singing and monumental acoustics.Listen and transmit with respect
Do not confuse all orthodox music with the only serious Russian song. The repertoire is alive, linguistically and regionally very diverse.
Sources