examination of pre- and post-Vatican II music for the Roman Catholic liturgy

The Second Vatican Council of 1962-1965 initiated the translation of the Roman Catholic liturgy into languages other than Latin, spurring numerous ethnic musical settings which have seemingly departed from the unitive nature of a universal Latin liturgy. Following an examination of the musical history of the Latin liturgy, this document examines the changes introduced into music for the Roman Catholic liturgy after Vatican II, discussing how different parishes have subsequently incorporated the teachings of the Council with regard to music for the liturgy. The study then addresses specific post-Vatican II musical settings for the liturgy through an analysis of examples from different cultural backgrounds and a discussion of their positive usage and unifying effects within Catholic communities, in order to demonstrate that through their inclusion of diverse musical and cultural styles united with fidelity to Church teaching, post- Vatican II settings can continue the Church's catholic (universal) mission.