Saint Dunstan's Plainsong Psalter: The Psalms Of David And The Canticles Pointed And Set To The Ancient Gregorian And British Tones Together With The Order For Matins And Evensong

by John Charles Connely (Editor)

The St. Dunstan's Plainsong Psalter is the culmination of three full years of research, compilation, and proofreading. It is the first traditional English plainchant publication to be in print for many decades. Moreover, it is the first publication of its kind to include all elements necessary for the recitation of the Daily Offices of the classic Book of Common Prayeraccording to the ancient Gregorian chant tradition. Saint Dunstan's Plainsong Psalter was produced jointly by Western Rite Orthodox and traditional Anglican scholars and editors, and it may also be of interest to Roman Catholics (especially of the "Anglican Use") as well as by Protestants who appreciate the classic English biblical texts and the plainchant tradition.

Genres: Reference, Christianity, Music

508 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought a copy of Saint Dunstan's Plainsong Psalter around the time of the pandemic; but it was only in 2023, in a season of personal bitterness, that I finally taught myself to chant (with the help of the wonderful recordings posted online by Tim Smith) and began using it seriously. As I write this review, I have been saying or singing the psalter in a complete two-week cycle for over a year. My practice of the Daily Office now includes the ancient restored elements and the order for Compline this volume provides. The accompanying essays have deepened my understanding and appreciation of the Office, and I have read each of them multiple times.

Offering the psalms as much time as I can afford has been the most enriching spiritual practice of my life. Saint Dunstan's Plainsong Psalter, which I carry around just about everywhere, has been formative to me this last year, and I expect it will remain so. I have the hardback version, and the pages are a little stained from use, but the binding has held up well so far, and I will not begrudge the money if it ever needs to be replaced.

[Vincent · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has singularly changed the way I approached prayer and worship in my daily practice. I am astounded on how rich are the historical traditions of chanting the Psalms; plainchant! If you are in a prayer or worship rut, and if you're thinking you need something new to help you, try going back to very old! I'm glad I did.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my view, THE great Anglican psalter. It’s a fantastic resource if you’d like to learn plainsong chant, especially with Gregorian and Sarum tones. Highly recommended!