Tooltip Categories Musically Specific Illuminated Manuscript Terms

A book containing the Book of Psalms to be used for daily devotions.

Also known as Gregorian chant, this refers to the body of single-line melody sacred music used in public ceremonies. Plainsong could be decorated with flourishes and miniatures.

A collection of chants or hymns sung during Mass for public, communal devotion. The name derives from the Latin word gradus meaning step as the practice of singing the verse responses on the steps of a raised pulpit.

A large format service book containing the parts of the Mass to be sung by the choir in cathedrals or churches. Music manuscripts were bound in large volumes so the entire choir could gather around the books to sing.

A book containing the sung portion of the Divine Office.