Stephen F. Austin State University
Sing a New Song: Analyzing A Cappella Arrangements of Contemporary Worship Music
Abstract
dc:description.abstract<p>Music is indispensable to Christian worship services, and pop/rock-influenced contemporary worship music (CWM) serves an important role in modern worship. This thesis explores strategies for arranging CWM for a cappella settings by comparing the originals with two a cappella arrangements: one intended for group performance and the other for congregational worship. This will be accomplished through examining the following five songs: “Hymn of Heaven,” “Raise a Hallelujah,” “Build Your Kingdom Here,” “Psalm 34 (Taste and See),” and “Battle Belongs.” Analysis of elements such as form, texture, harmony, and rhythm reveals many arranging techniques. The songs are categorized by the level to which the arrangements differ from the original. Comparing the arrangements reveals which techniques may produce which type of arrangement. The analyses also highlight techniques employed by performance groups extending beyond what is available for congregational worship. These findings underscore the creative potential and flexibility available for a cappella arrangements.</p>
Degree
thesis:*- Name thesis:degree_name
- Master of Music
- Level thesis:degree_level
- Thesis
- Discipline thesis:degree_discipline
- School of Music
- Year dc:date.available
- 2024
Author and committee
dc:creator, dc:contributor.*- Author dc:creator
-
- Cox, Ashley S.
- Contributors dc:contributor
-
- Dr. Samantha Inman
- Dr. Stephen Lias
- Dr. Scott LaGraff
Subjects
dc:subject × 10Identifiers
dc:identifier.*- Repository record dc:identifier
- https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/etds/587
- OAI identifier oai:identifier
- oai:scholarworks.sfasu.edu:etds-1632