It seems to be believed that rhythmic chorales could bring more freshness and momentum to hymn singing in the Estonian language than isometric chorales. This study examines how the replacing of isometric chorales with rhythmic chorales fits with the rhythm of Estonian, and whether there could be alternative ways to sing more vigorously besides restoring the rhythm of the presumably original German tunes from the 16th–18th centuries. In order to consider prosodic idiomaticism, an analytical method is introduced to measure the compatibility of the rhythm of the Estonian text with that of the chorale melody. In the quest for more vigorous singing, an artistic research approach is used. This study shows that the isometric chorale is significantly better suited to the rhythm of the Estonian language than the rhythmic chorale. An unaccompanied monodic performance style emerges from this study (narrative style) by using isometric chorale scores, but without forcing equal rhythmical values on to each syllable. The rhythm of the chanting arises almost exclusively from the prosodic rhythm of Estonian. It reveals a new kind of chorale experience, which has a much more efficient flow of the musical/textual storyline as well as greater completeness, with no less vigour than that pursued by the so-called rhythmic chorale.

Center of Excellence for Estonian Studies

Republic of Estonia, Ministry of Culture

Eesti Vabariik, Kultuuriministeerium

European Regional Development Fund