The spirit of liturgical music in Malta from the eighteenth century : a critical analysis

Abstract

This dissertation is centred on 1. the historical development of liturgical music in Malta; 2. the music composed since the eighteenth century; 3. the reform that is greatly needed to reach the present ecclesiastical teachings on music in the liturgy without negating the traditional. The research leads to the suggestion that the Commission for Sacred Music, composed of persons really competent in sacred music, should be set up again within the Diocesan Liturgical Commission of Malta in order to watch over the liturgical music performed within the diocese, namely by 1. approving any new or revised liturgical compositions; 2. publishing liturgical hymn books and other large-scaled liturgical music; 3. paying visits to parish choirs and granting permission to other musical groups who request to play in feasts, weddings, funerals and other special occasions; 4. encouraging the execution of past liturgical music through sacred concerts.