Yale Institute of Sacred Music

Yale Institute of Sacred Music

Abbreviation	ISM
Type	Academic Institute
Legal status	Active
Purpose	Interdisciplinary education and scholarship in sacred music, worship, and the arts
Headquarters	New Haven, Connecticut
Location	Yale University
Parent organization	Yale University

The Yale Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) is an interdisciplinary graduate center at Yale University dedicated to the study and practice of sacred music, worship, and the related arts. Originally established with the support of the Lilly Endowment, the institute is known for its unique role in integrating rigorous academic scholarship with practical applications in religious and artistic contexts.

History

The Yale Institute of Sacred Music was founded with the aim of enriching religious and cultural life through the arts. It has evolved to incorporate a broad range of disciplines, including music, religious studies, liturgical studies, and the arts.

Programs

The ISM offers several degree programs in collaboration with other departments and schools at Yale, including the Yale School of Music and Yale Divinity School. These programs typically culminate in degrees such as the Master of Music in Sacred Music, Master of Arts in Religion, or Master of Divinity, with a concentration in liturgical studies or religion and the arts.

Curriculum

The curriculum at ISM is designed to be interdisciplinary, allowing students to explore the connections between theology, music, and the arts. Courses may cover topics such as liturgical history, religious art, musicology, and performance practice, all within the context of sacred traditions.

Facilities

The Institute is housed within Yale University and utilizes various facilities across the campus for its programs, including concert halls, chapels, and libraries.

Notable Events and Publications

The ISM is involved in a number of notable events and publications, including conferences, concerts, and workshops that explore the intersection of music, worship, and the arts. It also contributes to scholarly discourse through its publications.

Affiliations

The Institute maintains affiliations with various academic and artistic organizations, enhancing its reach and impact in the fields of sacred music and the arts.

See Also

• Yale School of Music
• Yale Divinity School
• Religious music
• Liturgical studies