Psalmi ante sacrificium and the origin of the introit
Joseph Dyer
ABSTRACT The biography of Pope Celestine I (422–32) in the first edition Liber pontificalis (c.530) credits him with introducing singing ‘psalmi ante sacrificium’ at Mass. Several decades later, second added that these psalms were sung ‘antephanatim ex omnibus’. Since early ninth century, statements have been interpreted to mean introduced introit chant, a conclusion challenged for time about twenty-five years ago. new interpretation passage proposed did not introduce introit, but responsorial psalm between (two) readings An analysis terminology used Celestine's biography, especially word sacrificium , indicates author most likely intend attribute introduction which was certainly existence by sixth century. presence processional solea certain churches Rome and North Adriatic littoral architectural accommodations being made entrance procession fifth Psalmic texts form basis repertoire, non-psalmic introits give every indication post-dating those drawn from Psalter.
Plainsong & Medieval Music