What makes a hymn a hymn, and where do they come from? Are hymns specific to denominations, or do such groups modify them in identifiable ways? What happens when a hymn moves from an oral to written context, or from one culture to another? What happens to singers when they sing migrating hymns? Why are Amish hymns sung so slowly? How important is text and music to a hymn? What contributes to the longevity of hymns? What hymns are important to you, and why? These and many other questions will guide this study of hymns and hymnody in their historical, religious, and cultural contexts.

Mary Oyer will lead the classes October 16, 18, 23, 25, 2-3:30 pm at the Goshen College Music Center, Room 153.