Music in the Balance

by Frank Garlock, Kurt Woetzel

Two music experts, Frank Garlock and Kurt Woetzel, use the teachings of Scripture and results of human communication research to destroy the myth that music is amoral. Well researched but easily understandable, Music in the Balance progresses logically through a wide range of important issues, from why we study music to the distinctive elements of Christ-honoring music.

Genres: Music, Christian

204 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Christa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Horrific. Filled with logical fallacies, libel, misquotations and poor Scriptural applications. The book pushes towards environmental (musical) determinism and adds music standards to the Gospel.

Not a good read.

[Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second of three books I read on CCM music and why it's bad for the church and home. Even though I don't agree with premise that "CCM is always bad", I thought they used the best arguments in the friendliest way without repeating too much of the same thing. It might possibly even get someone who is into CCM to second guess their music selection if they were questioning it.

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A logical discussion on whether or not music is amoral and what makes it good or bad if it isn't. I would suggest this book to anyone wanting to know why CCM is unsuccessful in its attempt to make Christian music attractive to the World.

[Ashton Harat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible book! Breaks down from a Biblical and logical standpoint why a para-traditional mindset is key for music in today’s church. The “new song” concept and the thoughts about melody, harmony, and rhythm, and their relation to various aspects of human existence are incredible.

[Josh]

I appreciated the scholarship and study put into this book. One of its main purposes is to prove that music is not amoral, and it starts with the premise that contemporary Christian music is bad. It presents many arguments, some strong and some weak. One of the best arguments has a couple main points.
1. The melody of music effects a person's spirit, the harmony affects his soul, and the rhythm affects his body.
2. For the Christian, any preoccupation with the body is sensual.
3. Music that is primarily rhythm is sensual, and should be avoided by the Christian.

This book strengthened my desire to be discerning in what music I listen to.

[Jesse · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why don't the stars go negative?

[Joel Hammett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Biblical. Balanced. Good. Needed.

[Rachael Marsceau · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well, that took me long enough! I regret to say this book didn't do much for me.