Each has developed parallel to the other while being united in the the Catholic liturgy. Throughout the ages, Catholic doctrine has influenced the expression of sacred music and, in turn, sacred music has been an integral part of worship in Catholic celebrations. Articles will examine specific musical works and composers of the Church, as well as past and present liturgical uses of sacred music, and the practice of music as a ministry within the Church. Musical masterpieces rooted in Roman Catholicism, including Johann Sebastian Bach's Mass in B Minor and Johannes Brahms' German Requiem will be discussed. Articles will also present biographical information on composers such as Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Franz Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and others whose works are considered significant contributions to the music repertoire of the Church.
Scripture can also serve as a point of reference.
Clearly, numerous references to sung worship in the psalms and sacred canticles serve as a meaningful basis for understanding the close connection between music and sacred ritual of the Church. Let them praise his name in the festive dance, let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp . . . Music as a traditional form of worship within the Church is found not only in scripture, but also through an observance of the lives of the Church's holy saints. St. Cecilia is regarded as the patroness of church music because of her diligence in singing divine praises, often times combining instrumental music with vocal music. So, too, did St. Charles Borromeo favor prayer through music.