Hymnology
Coptic Chant
Hymnology
Learn the ancient chants of the Coptic Church — the hymns that carry the words of the liturgy through the centuries.
The Treasure of Coptic Chant
Coptic hymnology is one of the oldest continuous musical traditions in the world. Passed down by ear from cantor to cantor for centuries, some of its melodies are believed to reach back to the temple chant of ancient Egypt, now baptised into the praise of Christ. To learn the hymns is to learn to pray with the whole Church across time.
Our hymns follow the seasons of the Church year — the joyful Shaanin of Palm Sunday, the mournful Adam and Watos tunes of Holy Week, the triumphant Paschal praises. Each melody carries doctrine: the music itself teaches the faith.
Learning Together
In our weekly classes we teach the annual cycle of hymns, the responses of the Liturgy, and the use of the cymbals (naqus) and triangle. Beginners and experienced deacons learn side by side. No musical background is needed — only a willing heart and a love for the praise of God.
“Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the psaltery and harp.”
Classes meet weekly (see the schedule). Boys and young men preparing to serve in the deacon's rank are especially encouraged to join, but all are welcome.