This seminar on 'The Jerusalem Temple Song in the Cantillation of Psalms 136 and 137' with speaker David Mitchell (Pro-Cathedral, Brussels) is hosted by The Oxford Psalm Network. This talk aims to identify the musical values of the Masoretic te'amim (cantillation marks) of Psalm 136 by a process of inductive reasoning. Musical values are identified for each of the te'amim in Psalm 136, so that it can be sung. Reference and comparison is also made to Psalm 137.
This talk is part of the 'New Perspectives on the Psalms: A Series of Public Lectures'.
Well I heard there was a secret chord,
That David played, and it pleased the Lord
(Leonard Cohen, ‘Hallelujah’)
The Oxford Psalms Network is pleased to announce a series of public lectures on the Psalms bringing into conversation contemporary artists, illustrators and musicians with speakers from a range of academic disciplines, including theology, literature, music and art. From the rich tradition of rabbinic commentary through the exegesis of the Church Fathers to contemporary popular song, the Psalms have always been at the core of Judaeo-Christian culture and belief. Lectures will cover topics from the earliest evidence for the singing of the Psalms in ancient Hebrew, Greek and Latin, through medieval and early Modern translations into English, French, German and other languages and intersections with other cultures and faiths, to modern responses in visual culture and music.
All lectures will take place at 6.15pm (arrival from 6.00) in the Ursell Room, Pusey House, St Giles, Oxford, followed by a drinks’ reception.
This is a public event – all are welcome!
The Oxford Psalms Network
Contact email: psalms@torch.ox.ac.uk
Audience: Open to all