Celestial Music?

The book Celestial Music? explores the interplay between European religious music and spirituality, examining its evolution through various historical periods.

In Celestial Music?, the late Wilfrid Mellers explores the profound relationship between European religious music and the spiritual experience it evokes. Through a series of insightful essays, he reflects on masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the modern era, including influential composers like Hildegard of Bingen, J.S. Bach, and Stravinsky. Mellers, despite identifying as a non-believer, contemplates how music can express the numinous, connecting deeply with listeners who appreciate its exploration of life's ultimate questions.

The book is structured into five distinct sections, each addressing pivotal periods in the evolution of religious music. These sections delve into themes such as the Ages of Christian Faith, the Renaissance's resurgence, and the philosophical implications of music in relation to religion. Mellers argues that music confronting existential themes offers richer experiences than those that shy away from them, making a compelling case for the enduring power of religious music.

With a wealth of musical examples, Celestial Music? not only examines the technical aspects of these compositions but also situates them within broader social, political, and philosophical contexts. Mellers invites readers to consider what constitutes religious music and its role in addressing fundamental human concerns, ultimately enriching their understanding of the genre's significance throughout history.