what is sacred music

Sacred music is a type of music that is performed or composed for religious use or through religious influence. It is music that is set apart, special, or not for common use. Sacred music is created for the celebration of divine worship and is endowed with a certain holy sincerity of form. It is a necessary and integral part of the solemn liturgy, whose purpose is the glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful. Sacred music is not limited to hymns, but can include a variety of musical practices and techniques that are shared across religious groups. Characteristics of sacred music can include even and smooth rhythms, lack of distracting harmonic movement, and a focus on the teachings of the religion and with God.