Church music in the “The History of Ukrainian Literature” by Mykhailo Hrushevsky

Abstract

The fundamental multivolume work “The History of Ukrainian Literature”
by Mykhailo Hrushevsky as an important source of information about church
music (singing, bell-ringing, malleting, sound of pipe organs) is examined. A great
wealth of factual material from folklore, written literature, epos, Christian folk
poetry, legends and polemic works is interpreted and introduced in the scientific
circulation. The systematized information distinguishes the long-standing presence
of church music of different denominations in Ukraine, its functions, the mastery of
it’s performers, etc. The concentration of clerically musical imagery in Ukrainian
art is highlighted. The writers’ activity drew attention to the need to adhere to the
church regulations, to conduct daily church services thoroughly. The available facts
confirm the exceptional development of vocal and instrumental church music, its
various functions, show the high spirituality of Ukrainians, their contribution to
the world treasury of culture.
Keywords: Mykhailo Hrushevsky, “The History of Ukrainian Literature”,
church service, church music, functions, singing, semantrons, bells, bell-ringing,
malleting, sound of pipe organs