Psalmodie

Psalmodie, or psalmody, is the practice of singing the psalms in public worship. It typically involves using metrical translations that fit musical tunes, enabling congregational participation. While psalms are the biblical hymns attributed to authors such as David, psalmody may also include chant or musical settings of canticles and related biblical verses.

The term psalmodie is most closely associated with traditions that place a strong emphasis on congregational singing of the psalms. In many languages the term reflects the broader practice of using a psalter—the collection of psalms arranged for singing in worship—and the musical settings that accompany the text. Over time, psalmodie has incorporated both simple vernacular metrical versions for the congregation and more elaborate musical settings for choir and organ.

Historically, psalm singing has roots in ancient Jewish worship and early Christian liturgy. In the medieval and early modern periods, various traditions developed distinct repertoires and methods. The Reformation popularized congregational psalm singing in many Protestant churches, notably through metrical psalters such as those produced for Genevan, Scottish, and English worship. In Anglican and some Protestant communities, psalmody remains a central element of worship alongside hymns and canticles. Catholic and Orthodox traditions also employ the psalter within liturgical prayer and the Divine Office, though often with chant or antiphonal singing rather than full congregational metrical singing.

Today, psalmodie continues in many denominations with a range of approaches—from robust congregational singing of metrical psalms to more formal, chant-based practices and modern psalm settings. It remains a foundational element of how many communities encounter the biblical psalms in worship.