Abstract
The author answers the question "What is Moravian music?" with an accurate survey of the full spectrum of Moravian music in light of this basic principle: Moravian music, past and present, is grounded and rooted, grows and bears fruit, within and for the worship of the Savior. Beginning with a review of attempts to document and research Moravian music, Knouse explains the development of the Moravian musical tradition from the eighteenth century to the present according to a framework of six priniciple tenets: congregational hymn-singing and the Singstunde; the composition of original music for festivals and special occasions; organ music as accompaniment to the hymns; brass music; the general use of instruments in the Collegium musicum, or "music of the community"; and the importance of music education. Moravian music, comprised of these principle tenets, is viewed as a worship tool in which focus is placed on the Savior and the church community, not individual talents. In this way, music becomes another aspect of "liturgisch leben", the attempt by Moravians to live a liturgical life pleasing to God
