Chant: History, Spirituality, Practice

Presenter: Barbara Swanson:  (note: unfortunately we missed recording the first few minutes of the presentation)

    Most faith traditions use chanting to elevate human utterance, connect with the transcendent, effect personal transformation, and give meaning to spiritual journey. The often simple, sometimes formulaic melodies of chant provide a unique and powerful way to enter into spiritual practice. Looking briefly at two of the world’s chanting traditions, Christian and Jewish, provides insight into how and why chant has been used to give meaning to spiritual life.