Introduction to Psalmody

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The <i>Introduction to Psalmody</i> was published by Cross & Meares in 1723. The psalmody was compiled by John Church, from the church of St. Peter’s. The book’s introduction sought to instruct the reader on the basic principles of music like notes, scales, time, and keys. Beyond that, the psalmody put music and meter to the words of the biblical book of Psalms. These psalms were sung during congregational worship in Reformed Congregations. Until the mid-1800s most Reformed Congregations exclusively sung psalms rather than hymns, making psalmodies ubiquitous in 18th century New England churches.