Coptic Hymnology – Diploma

1. Course Objective: 

The Coptic Church has a very rich heritage in her annual and seasonal hymns. While the hymn lyrics talk to the intellect, its music speaks directly to the spirit. The melodies differ from season to another and from occasion to the next, painting the atmosphere with the spirit of the season. 

When contemplating, one might discover that the melody within a particular hymn describes the dogma of the church illustrated by a tone change at specific word(s) to describe the meaning. 

The basis for the melodies are mainly the annual hymns which will only vary in the events that are related to the salvation. Therefore, melodies start changing with the advent season starting the month of Kiahk followed by festal tunes for Nativity and Epiphany after which the Lenten season starts with all its ascetic and repenting driven melodies. After the forty days of lent, The Lord Entry into Jerusalem utilizes the tune of the feast of the cross which weaves both joyful and mournful tunes into a single unique melody. During Holy Week which follows, the church uses the mournful tune to express the agony and bitterness of sin which led to the cross. Then comes Resurrection with all its glorious and joyful hymns announcing the victory over death and eternal life.

Although, currently melismatic and long hymns are mastered by cantors and deacons, all liturgical responses in the Coptic Church are meant to be prayed by the entire congregation irrespective of age and gender.

Unfortunately, the history of a lot of the hymns that are currently being practiced was not documented and is not completely known. For this reason, efforts have been made at different levels in the Coptic church, to preserve those treasures not only as part of our Coptic identity but also as unique means for worship, particularly when properly understood.

Learning Outcomes:

This module contains 15 hours of recordings from first year of High Institute of Coptic Studies, available only for students to stream and/or download at their convenience. Lyrics for the hymns will also be provided in Coptic with corresponding translation.

An allocated tutor will be electronically reachable for any questions or concerns. Video teleconferences can be organized when needed.

The students will be expected to spend 15 more hours of self education, based on practicing the hymns, visiting relevant sites and searching references.Tests will be administered to students on predetermined dates to submit their recording of the requested hymns highlighted in the test to the tutor by the deadline.

Assessment:

Two term exams to evaluate satisfactory learning of the hymns, understanding the theoretical explanation and the musical principles. 

Prerequisites:

GCSE certificate, high school or equivalent certificate. 

Delivery Method: 

The course will be delivered entirely online through a learning management system. All lectures are delivered by Zoom. Participants will have access to recorded lecture videos, reading materials, and discussion forum on the course website.

Duration: October 2025-June 2026

Diploma: 

Upon successful completion of the course and passing the final exam, participants will receive  the TEACH certificate in Coptic Music and Hymnology. The Certificate will only be received upon completion and passing of the two term exams.