Commentary: Music: Church Songs of the 1850's to the 1950's
Music! Such an emotional thing. Various generations have gravitated to much different forms– partly because of the development of music theory, partly because of cultural influences, partly because of differences in theological interpretations. I was brought up in the 1940’s and 1950’s–yes, I am “old”. Being raised the conservative wing of the Restoration music in a very rural congregation, my church music was formed in the blue backed hymn book edited by L.O. Sanderson and named Christian Hymns No. 2.
Below is a chart depicting the song books used by Christian groups with the most popular songs listed. It is interesting to me that we sang ALL of songs listed in my little congregation whether they were popular in the Presbyterian or Baptist churches.
In the meantime the popular culture was ahead of the churches in the type of music that was popular. The next chart show the most popular songs in the U.S. by decade. Notice how the type of song and the music lags in popularity in the churches compared to the culture. Just wait. It will catch to a large extent. The next chart shows how popular music migrated to the churches
I still prefer the old hymns, especially in A Cappella.
It seems that music genres can be used to describe different eras in any culture that produce lyrics and melodies. I also enjoy the older hymn lyrics and rhythms, as well. A cappella is really wonderful if those singing know and use the parts for harmony, or in my case could produce the notes. In earlier times, some ministers would write a song to accompany his sermons; these were very blessed and talented individuals. I still thank God for their efforts.
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