Lent can be a challenging and perhaps daunting time for musicians. We may feel overwhelmed or unsure of exactly what to do. As we may already know, music can have a strong impact on the Liturgy, and prayer of the congregation. We want to be well prepared and confident when leading the music during Lent, to really capture the essence of the season.
The Church has given us a few instructions and guidelines to complement the penitential and reflective tone of Lent. The omission of the Gloria and Alleluia are probably the most well-known liturgical rules; however, they don’t specifically relate to the music. The only guidance we are given in relation to music is that instruments should only be used to support the singing, and not played as solos. Exceptions to the rules surrounding instruments are made for the more joyful ‘Laetare’ Sunday (Fourth Sunday of Lent).
Whilst these instructions are useful, they don’t provide us with any guidance or suggestions on selecting appropriate music for Lent. Before exploring some ideas, it’s important to keep in mind the importance of congregational singing and participation. It probably wouldn’t be wise to select a new Mass setting and 3-4 new hymns every Sunday, even if they were all relevant and appropriate to the Liturgy.
When considering Mass parts, try to use a simple setting throughout Lent. The chants from the Roman Missal can very easily be learnt and performed with simple accompaniment, or even unaccompanied. If it is not already common practice at your church, try singing the Kyrie eleison (Lord, have mercy). Regarding the Gospel Acclamation, there are 8 options for texts to use before the verse. It would be sensible to choose just one text and musical setting throughout Lent to encourage congregational participation.
You might like to use a more upbeat or joyful Mass setting and Gospel Acclamation for Laetare Sunday.
Inspiration for selecting hymns should be taken from the themes and events in the readings and Gospel of the day. To provide an example, the first Sunday of Lent recounts the original sin and Jesus’ temptation in the desert. It calls to mind prayer and fasting. There are many traditional, modern, and contemporary hymns that would be well suited to this Liturgy. Try to add variety and introduce some new hymns. If the congregation are not confident in singing straight away, they should at least be able to reflect on the lyrics.
Keep in mind there should be more room for silence during Lent. You may decide to omit the recessional hymn on occasion and depart in silence, especially if you have already sung a thanksgiving hymn.
All these efforts to tone down the music will assist the congregation’s focus, prayer, and worship throughout Lent, and heighten the exuberant joy when Easter arrives.
Eric Grella is the Music Formation Facilitator in the Mission Enhancement Team and the Assistant Music Director at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta.
To learn more about how your parish community can strengthen its music ministry, contact Eric via met@parracatholic.org
