As part of the shifting musical scene, a contemporary sound is creeping into the hymns and chants that congregations hear and sing, she said. Such approaches concern David Heller, associate professor of music, chapel music director and university organist at Trinity University, who acknowledged that debate has raged for centuries about how much influence secular music should have over sacred Christian music. While Gregorian, Latin and a capella chants are popular in other parts of the country, classical organ services remain a hit among some San Antonians. Mary Ann Winden, organist at Christ Lutheran Church, said several parishioners have told her they joined her congregation because of the music she plays. Tailoring the musical selections to the spiritual lessons of the day is her goal.
Some people see it as entertainment.
San Antonio jazzman Jim Cullum has developed a Jazz Mass that can be performed for any denomination as a way of viewing spiritual rituals in a new light. A Jazz Mass jolts them out of that. They see it in a new mode because it sounds so different. We bring some passion to the service. At San Fernando Cathedral, a diverse choice of musical styles is offered at seven Masses each weekend, giving each service a distinct personality, said the Rev. David Garcia, cathedral rector.