Selecting Hymns for Worship Part III: The Musical Judgement

The Sing to the Lord document (STL 134-136) states:  “[T]his composition [should have] the necessary aesthetic qualities that can bear the weight of the mysteries celebrated in the Liturgy.”  It asks the question: “Is this composition technically, aesthetically, and expressively worthy?”
This judgement requires musical competence. 
If we look at the hymn, “Church of God, Elect and Glorious” chosen as the sending forth for this Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, the birthday of the church, we find this hymn to be artistically sound .  It is set to the HYFRYDOL tune.  The text chosen is based on 1 Peter.  The text was adapted by James E. Seddon (1915-1983). The music was written by Rowland H. Prichard (1811-1887).  This tune written in F major and in three-four time is in a comfortable key and has a dancelike rhythm to it, giving us a feeling of moving forward.  In the middle of the music, there are slurs to connect one phrase to another, to emphasize the text.  It comes to a downward spiraling conclusion.  For these reasons, this music has withstood the test of time. 
Here is the music.
http://bit.ly/2wPHPqu
 
Nevertheless, sufficiency of artistic expression is not the same as musical style.  That is why our parish recognizes various styles of music as an aid to worship.