Overview

Sound Theology: Pipe Organ Power Plays among Protestants, Pulpits, Professors, and Peers surveys the liturgical soundscape during and after the Reformation with regard to the use of instruments in worship in general, and the (dis)use of the pipe organ specifically. Why were some sounds considered sacred, and others profane? The book tells the story of first-generation reformers' approaches to shaping their new Reformed worship services in regard to music, and the resulting debates, power plays, and ultimate compromises. Sound Theology also examines second-generation Protestants' affirmations, adaptations, and reversals. Sound Theology: A Reader is a companion volume of curated primary source material. Together, Sound Theology's two volumes tell a little-known, but colorful and foundational story that shaped Reformed worship for centuries to come.

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9781666710076

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Reviews

"""An illuminating study of a dramatic, intense, and instructive chapter in the history of Protestant church music, one shaped by strongly worded theological opinions and clashes among and between ecclesial and civic leaders. It is a gift to have new access in the English language to insights from the protagonists involved in these Dutch controversies, and to receive this invitation to pause and consider the remarkable power and influence of music in the Christian life."" --John D. Witvliet, director, Calvin Institute of Christian Worship ""Randall Engle explores Reformed liturgical theology through a seemingly narrow lens--that of the pipe organ. Narrow, perhaps. Deep, without a doubt. By tracing the controversy of the use of the pipe organ in Calvinist lands, Engle demonstrates how abstract theological tenets fare when exposed to ecclesial and political realities--replete with sparks and explosions! When the dust settles, readers will walk away with a more visceral and grounded conception of early Reformed liturgical theology."" --Martin Tel, director of music, Princeton Theological Seminary ""Based on thorough investigation of printed and archival resources, Sound Theology presents the reader with a new perspective on the European Reformation history. With his new book, Randall Engle shows us that music and musical instruments were at the heart of Protestant worship."" --John Exalto, assistant professor of theory and history of education, University of Groningen"

Author Information

Randall Dean Engle is pastor of the North Hills Christian Reformed Church of Troy, Michigan, and professor of religious studies and director of Christianity studies at Oakland University, Auburn Hills, Michigan.

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