Lol ... not today :-)
I have truly enjoyed the posts to this thread. They resurrect memories from my former parish. The new 'light in the loafers' pastor, had a penchant for anything less than orthodox, especially the music. We already had two choral groups when he arrived - a contemporary group that 'performed' at the 9am 'Family' Mass and the staid 'choir' that sang at the 11am Mass. Preferring the choir, I always attended the latter where I enjoyed the more traditional hymns. Many of the young families preferred the 9 o'clock and some absolutely loved the more contemporary music. Father gave the contemporary group, 'pride of place' during high holy days. I recall one Christmas Vigil Mass where Father smiled broadly when a 2 year old child jumped up on the pew and began 'boogeying' to the contemporary music.
Thank you all for your contributions to this thread. Here is mine.
Aside from the liturgical chants, the hymns sung during the Maronite Divine Liturgy are quite old and limited. Like the chants, they are sung to a similar musical form. The most recognized Maronite hymns are 'O Bread of Life' and 'The Lord is My Shepherd'. The Maronites are not into innovation and Father is occasionally challenged to 'update' the music by those Maronites who have attended the Latin NO Mass. He smiles and reminds them of their roots. Bless him! (and thank you for not introducing these novelties into our liturgy.
A "liturgical dancer" in the making. *rolls eyes*