XLII. For the same reason, I am against the introduction of violins
into churches. St. Thomas, in the place I before cited, objects to
the admitting any kind of instruments in the church; and the reason
he gives for the objection is, that the sensible delight which the
instrumental music occasions, hinders devotion. But it is not easy
to reconcile this reasoning, with what the saint says in another
place, to wit, that the delight perceived by the air, excites weak
spirits to devotion; and he, in the same place, approves of the use
of musical instruments in synagogues, because the Jews being a hard
and carnal people, there is a necessity for having recourse to such
means, to provoke and stir them to piety. At least then for people of
this stamp, musical instruments in churches would be very serviceable;
and there being a great many of that disposition who frequent
churches; consequently, the instruments would be found exceedingly
useful. Besides, I can’t comprehend, how the sensible delight which
instrumental music occasions, should induce to devotion those who on
account of their hardness are little disposed to it, and obstruct it in
those whose hearts are more inclined to divine worship.
XLIII. I acknowledge and confess, that it is much more easy for me to
misunderstand St. Thomas, than for St. Thomas to advance any thing
that is wrong: but after all, the universal practice of the whole
church authorizes the use of instruments; and the only difficulty or
disagreement, seems to rest in the choice of them. I for my own part
think, that violins are improper in that sacred theatre; their shrill
notes, although harmonious, are still shrill, and excite a puerile
vivacity in our spirits, very different from that decent attention,
which is due to the majesty of mysteries; and especially in these
times, when those who compose for violins, studiously write their music
so high, that he who is to execute it, can scarce forbear striking the
bridge of the instrument with his fingers.
XLIV. There are many other instruments much fitter to be used in
churches than violins, their tones being much more respectful and
grave; such as the harp, the violincello, and the harpsichord; neither
would the inconvenience of the want of trebles in the instruments be
felt, by leaving out the violins, but rather, the music by the omission
would appear more majestic, which is what is most required in churches.
The organ is an admirable instrument; or, to speak more properly, many
instruments comprized in one. It is true, that the organists, when
they are so disposed, can make a sort of pipe and tabor of it; and it
is also true, that this disposition seems to come upon them pretty
frequently.