Archdiocese of Hyderabad Hosts Inspiring Liturgical Music Workshop

Hyderabad, August 26, 2024: The Archdiocese of Hyderabad organized a workshop on Liturgical Music, inaugurated by His Eminence Cardinal Poola Anthony, Archbishop of Hyderabad on 24 August at HASSS Centre, Secunderabad. The workshop aimed at enhancing the role of music in the Eucharistic celebrations and brought together experts in liturgical music and sacred music norms. 

Cardinal Poola Anthony delivered a keynote address on the significance of music in liturgy. He emphasized the importance of such workshops in fostering a deeper understanding of the role of music in worship. 

Fr. Joe Sebastian, SJ, founder and Director of Kaladharshan, provided an overview of the evolution of Telugu liturgical music since Vatican II. He highlighted the contributions of Amruthavani Communications Centre, which has recorded liturgical songs for over 50 years. 

Rev. Dr. Ravi Shekhar, SJ and Rev. Dr. M Anand Andrew, Professor of Liturgy at St. John's Seminary served as key resource persons alongside Mr. Michael Peria, lay resource person and Director of HAC. The sessions focused on the musical aspects of hymns and guided participants on how to preserve the sacred nature of the liturgy. The general aspects of sacred music and the role of choir members were discussed offering practical advice to choir masters, members, and musicians. 

The workshop was organized under the leadership of Fr. G. Arogya Swamy, Director of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, with support from Fr. Victor Emmanuel, Archdiocesan Procurator, and Fr. Madanu Anthony, HASSS Director. Fr. Pappula Sudhakar, Director of Amruthavani played a key role, with the RVA Telugu service team documenting the event.

By Catholic Connect Reporter