Psalms and Prayer: their use in church and synagogue through music and the arts

The Psalms are often referred to as “the heart of the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible” or as John Calvin said, the Psalms represent ‘an anatomy of all parts of the soul, for there is not an emotion of which any one can be conscious that is not here represented as in a mirror.’ Within 150 variations, the Psalms express a wide variety of emotions, from despair, to thanksgiving and confidence in the eventual triumph of God’s purposes...

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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.

  • Start Date: 12 May 2026
    End Date: 09 Jun 2026
    Tue (Daytime): 14:00 - 15:30
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
    Course Code: RC523
    Tutors:  Rachel Montagu
    Full fee £99.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £64.00
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In stock
SKU
235166
Full fee £99.00 Senior fee £79.00 Concession £64.00

What is the course about?

We will first look at a selection of Psalms representative of various types of prayers through the themes of lament, praise, wisdom and royal celebrations before examining the reception of these Psalms in church and synagogue though music and the visual arts.

What will we cover?

We will cover a selection of Psalms from various types of prayers.

  • Introduction to the book of Psalms.
  • Psalms of lament.
  • Psalms of praise.
  • Psalms and liturgy.
  • Royal Psalms.
  • Wisdom Psalms.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

be familiar with the themes and the styles of psalms and prayers.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Anyone is welcome. An openness of mind and a willingness to engage with a variety of views is required.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will use look at texts, iconography and music and will be organised around group discussions and illustrated lectures.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There is no extra cost. You might want to bring a Bible.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Another course on Ancient Languages and Civilisations. Please ask your tutor for advice and suggestions.

Rachel Montagu
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.