The Psalms’ Ancient Musicality, Later Musical Reception and Bono’s Psalmic Spirituality

Abstract

The link between the biblical Psalms and musicality is explored in this contribution. The interpretative engagement with texts as much as with music is indicated en route to taking a position on whether an authentic, accurate rendition of the ancient musicality of the Psalms can be recouped. Some instances of reception of the Psalms in classical, rock and electronic music genres are given, with greater attention devoted to influential rock star Bono’s reflection on the role of Psalms and other music in shaping spirituality.

Keywords

• Psalms
• musicality
• spirituality
• Bono