Hymns are songs of praise. In this course we will consider how the singing and composition of hymns have evolved and changed over the past centuries. We will be guided through a progression of hymns and hymn singing dating all the way back to early chants. We will review our present day variety, and trace how these songs came to be.

About the instructor: Ralph Alderfer

Ralph Alderfer received his bachelor’s degree in music education from Eastern Mennonite University and his master’s degree in music from the University of Iowa. Additionally he completed a church and music study at Westminister Choir College. Ralph taught choral music at Iowa Mennonite School for three years, and at Dock Mennonite Academy for 19 years. He has spent more than 25 years directing the Franconia Lancaster Choral Singers. He and his wife, Doris Kolb, are residents of Souderton Mennonite Homes.