'Impressive in its scope... will provide instruction and delight to a wide range of readers.'Calvin Stapert, Professor of Music, Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan Tim Dowley traces the story of Christian music from its earliest Jewish origins, through the Renaissance, Reformation and up to the present day, discussing various liturgical traditions as well as non-liturgical sacred music. He also covers the fascinating story of hymns and sacred songs, and Christian expressions in modern jazz, folk, rock and pop. This comprehensive book ranges widely, with specialist chapters on Christian music worldwide, and covers such varied topics as Christmas carols, the music of Handel and Bach, spirituals and the blues, medieval polyphony, Hildegard of Bingen and contemporary Christian music. 'A beautiful book with many fascinating insights.'Sir David Willcocks CBE, MC 'For anyone with an interest in Christian culture . . . not only music enthusiasts.'The Tablet 'Demonstrates just how rich, wide and varied has been the music and song of Christians of all kinds over the centuries.'Irish Catholic