Article Title
Psalmody, Shape Notes, and Sankey: The Evolution of Protestant American Hymnody in the 19th Century
Publication Date
Spring 2020
Subject Area
Section 3: Build Your Kingdom Here: Faith Communities in a Crisis
Abstract
With improvements in the lyrics, rhythms, emotional appeal, and overall quality of hymns, nineteenth century Protestant American hymnody evolved from crude psalmody to gospel songs with influences from the American frontier, new denominations, and the African-American spiritual. By examining the general trends in Christian singing in the 1800's, a better understanding can be had of the origins of popular church music today.